Cherish the Serene Charm of Thunderbird Resort in Binangonan, Rizal

 Imagine a retreat where the weight of deadlines, city chaos, and daily grind fades away—a place where serenity takes center stage. Nestled in the lush, hilly terrain of Binangonan, Rizal, Thunderbird Resort offers a luxurious yet harmonious escape for those who yearn to pause and recharge.

My visit to Thunderbird Resort wasn't just a getaway; it was a perfect culmination of my Rizal Challenge Travel. Invited by my beloved The Pillar Publication - URS Binangonan family as a guest speaker for a seminar, I found myself immersed in this peaceful haven, aptly nicknamed "sosyal na bangin."

First Impressions: A Sight to Behold

As you approach the resort, the stunning scenery immediately captivates you. The panoramic view from the main entrance reveals sprawling green landscapes, a perfectly manicured golf course, and a serene pond. The elegance of Thunderbird Resort isn’t in its grandeur but in its subtle sophistication—a testament to its reputation as a sought-after destination for family bonding, team-building, and solo retreats.

A Warm Welcome

From the moment we stepped into the resort's lobby, the staff's warm hospitality made us feel at home. Their genuine smiles and attentive service set the tone for the rest of our stay.

Accommodations That Breathe Peace

The resort’s accommodations are a blend of classic design and modern comfort. The two-story structures house rooms that radiate tranquility, with calming interiors and views that inspire relaxation. It felt as if the very walls were whispering peace and harmony.

Dive Into Leisure

The resort’s crystal-clear swimming pool was irresistible. Adjacent to it, the Jacuzzi became a social hub where guests mingled and shared laughter. Of course, my companions and I couldn’t resist diving in, letting the refreshing water wash away the fatigue of our travels.

Connected in Paradise

For digital natives like me, unlimited Wi-Fi access was a delightful bonus. Whether I was catching up on social media, replying to blog comments, or indulging in YouTube videos, staying connected amidst this serene escape added a modern touch to the experience.

A Culinary Delight

Dinner was a shared celebration of flavors. The resort’s delectable dishes, served in portions meant for sharing, fostered camaraderie and a sense of community at our table. Each bite was a reminder that food tastes better when shared with good company.

A Reflection on Contentment

As my stay came to an end, I realized that life’s true luxuries are not in material possessions but in moments of genuine connection and experiences that nourish the soul. Thunderbird Resort provided more than just a lavish escape; it was a space for inspiration and gratitude—a motivation to embrace simplicity while savoring life’s blessings.

A Promise to Return

Walking away, I couldn’t help but steal one last glance at the stunning landscape. With a heart full of joy and a mind brimming with memories, I made a silent promise to return. Thunderbird Resort isn’t just a place; it’s an experience that leaves an indelible mark, one you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

If you’re looking for a tranquil retreat that balances luxury and serenity, Thunderbird Resort in Binangonan, Rizal, is your perfect destination.

Making Memories in Antipolo City: Fun Team Outing at Cattleya Resort

Team outings are always a great way to bond and unwind, and our recent trip to Cattleya Resort in Antipolo City was no exception! This team-building experience turned out to be a day filled with laughter, delicious food, fun activities, and unforgettable memories that brought us closer as teammates.  

 A Vibrant Escape 

As this was our first time visiting Cattleya Resort, excitement filled the air as we arrived. Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Antipolo, the resort welcomed us with its vibrant, tranquil ambiance. The scenic surroundings instantly made us feel like we had escaped the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Fun and Games

The day was packed with activities that allowed us to unleash our competitive yet playful sides. From classic team-building games to some spontaneous fun in the pool, every moment was a mix of laughter and friendly competition. There’s something about bonding through games that strengthens connections beyond the workplace.

Karaoke, Drinks, and Food Galore

No Filipino gathering is complete without karaoke, and we made sure to bring the house down with our singing! Whether we were belting out our favorite hits or just cheering for our teammates, the karaoke sessions brought us closer and created some hilarious memories.

Of course, no outing is complete without great food. We indulged in a feast that included sinigang na baboy, perfectly grilled BBQ, and other hearty dishes that kept us fueled for the day. To cap it off, a few drinks added a celebratory touch to our outing, making the day even more special.

Unwinding in Antipolo

The serene environment of Antipolo and the well-maintained amenities of Cattleya Resort gave us the perfect backdrop to relax and connect. Whether it was lounging by the pool or simply chatting under the shade of the trees, every moment was cherished.

The Importance of Team Bonding

This outing wasn’t just about fun; it was about creating lasting memories and strengthening our camaraderie. Away from our usual work routines, we had the chance to see each other in a new light, share personal stories, and build relationships that go beyond the workplace.

A Day to Remember

Our team outing at Cattleya Resort in Antipolo City was truly a day well spent. From the fun games and karaoke to the delicious food and shared laughter, it reminded us of the importance of balance—working hard but also taking time to celebrate and enjoy life together.

If you’re looking for a venue that combines fun, relaxation, and team bonding, Cattleya Resort is a great choice. It gave us more than just a break; it gave us memories we’ll carry for years to come.

  🎥 WATCH THE VLOG:

Here’s to more adventures and team outings in the future! 🌴🎉

A Weekend to Remember: Team Building at Cattleya Resort, Antipolo City

This weekend was nothing short of amazing! 🌴🍖 Our team headed to the scenic Cattleya Resort in Antipolo City for a fun-filled team-building experience that brought us closer together. Nestled in the hills of Antipolo, just a short 30-minute drive from Metro Manila but will take  3 hours due to congested traffic in  Ortigas Extension, the resort offered the perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

The highlight of the day? A classic Filipino-style boodle fight! We dined together with no utensils, sharing not just food but laughter and stories. The resort’s lush surroundings and serene vibe provided the ideal backdrop for our bonding activities. Whether it was diving into the pool, playing team games, or simply relaxing in nature, every moment was memorable.

Cattleya Resort is not just a venue; it’s an experience. Located at Bo. Colaique, Sitio Ibabaw, Brgy. San Roque, it’s the perfect spot for birthdays, reunions, weddings, or, like in our case, a team-building getaway. Affordable, exclusive, and surrounded by greenery, it’s a slice of paradise you’ll want to revisit.

Watch my latest vlog to catch the laughs, the food, and the heartwarming camaraderie. Hit play and let’s relive the weekend vibes together! 🎥✨

🎥 WATCH THE VLOG:

The Legend of Bernardo Carpio: An Investigative Dive into Filipino Folklore.

 The legend of Bernardo Carpio has captivated Filipinos for centuries, symbolizing strength, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the nation. Rooted in the lore of the pre-colonial Philippines, Bernardo Carpio is depicted as a giant of extraordinary strength, tasked with holding apart two massive rocks in the mountains of Montalban (now Rizal) to prevent devastation. This tale, blending myth and reality, serves as both a cultural artifact and a source of intrigue for generations.

This investigative journalism project by students of the University of Rizal System delves into the enigma of Bernardo Carpio. By piecing together oral histories, documented accounts, and local folklore, the students uncover the layers of this legend. Interviews with historians reveal the possible historical influences behind the myth, such as the resistance movements against colonial powers. At the same time, locals share their stories and beliefs, keeping the legend alive within their communities.

Exploring key sites tied to Bernardo Carpio, such as the Montalban Gorge and the Wawa Dam, the students immerse themselves in the cultural and geographical settings of the tale. These places, with their breathtaking natural beauty and symbolic significance, serve as both a backdrop and a testament to the enduring legacy of the legend. The exploration reveals how these locations have become both a source of pride and a mystery for the locals, blending history and spirituality.

The legend of Bernardo Carpio is more than just a story; it’s a reflection of Filipino values and resilience. It inspires countless interpretations, from its allegorical representation of colonial resistance to its spiritual significance. As the students analyze its cultural impact, they also highlight how such legends preserve the nation’s identity and instill a sense of community among Filipinos.

Through this investigative journey, the students of the University of Rizal System invite us to appreciate the rich tapestry of Filipino folklore. The legend of Bernardo Carpio, with its mix of myth and history, stands as a timeless reminder of the power of storytelling in preserving culture and inspiring generations. Whether as a symbol of strength or a fascinating mystery, Bernardo Carpio continues to hold an indelible place in the heart of the Philippines.

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Flexing Our Creativity: Ano Ito Challenge at Cattleya Resort! 🐙 #AnoItoChallenge

Get ready for a hilarious and creative adventure as we take on the "Ano Ito?" Challenge at Cattleya Resort, Antipolo, during our epic team building session! Joined by Alvey and JB, we'll put our imagination to the test as we transform an octopus tripod into various objects and figures. From wild animals to everyday items, you won't believe the wacky creations we come up with!

The Challenge

The Ano Ito Challenge is a fun and imaginative activity where participants transform an octopus tripod into as many different objects and figures as they can think of. The aim is to stretch our creativity, have fun, and laugh at the ridiculousness of our creations.

Meet the Players : Alvey and JB and Me.

Alvey and JB, my amazing officemates for this challenge, bring their unique sense of humor and creativity to the table. Their quick wit and enthusiasm make the whole experience even more enjoyable and entertaining. And, of course, we have to compete each other. 

Hilarious Transformations:

From wild animals like eagles and tigers to everyday items like brooms and hats, we came up with a wide range of hilarious and imaginative creations. Each transformation was a surprise, even to us, and the laughter was nonstop.

The Venue: Cattleya Resort, Antipolo

Cattleya Resort provided the perfect location for our team-building adventure. The resort has serene and lush environment allowed us to fully immerse ourselves but this video was recorded inside our room , without any distractions except Logan our Teammate went inside to give us  a shot  of drink. 

Why You Should Watch

This video may be a bit lengthy, but every second is filled with laughter, fun, and unexpected creativity. Whether you're looking for some entertainment or inspiration for your own team-building activities, the Ano Ito Challenge at Cattleya Resort is sure to deliver.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy as we unleash our creativity in the most unexpected ways. Let the Ano Ito Challenge begin! 🤣🐙

WATCH THE VLOG:

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Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on our latest adventures. Join the conversation with the hashtags #AnoItoChallenge, #CattleyaResort, #TeamBuilding, and #CreativeChallenge. We can't wait to share more fun and exciting content with you!

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Thank you for being a part of our creative journey! We hope this video brings a smile to your face and inspires you to embrace your own creativity, wherever you are.

The Best Drive-In Restaurant in Tanay, Rizal - Rambull's Bakahan sa Tanay.

Traveling and you traversed Tanay, Rizal? Stop over and eat at Rambull’s Bakahan.

 It is located at Manila East Road, Plaza Aldea. Tanay is one of the thirteen towns and one component city that comprises the Province of Rizal. It is located in the eastern part of the province and is famous for its Daranak Falls (among others), where numerous TV shows and movies are being filmed. In addition, tourism won’t be complete without visiting food establishments; and Rambull’s Bakahan is one of the most visited Restaurants in Tanay due to its famous Beef Bulalo and other Filipino Cuisines.

 🎥Watch the Video

🚗Parking

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The parking area is not a problem. It has wide available parking lots in front of the establishment. This is a plus point because this restaurant is situated along the road; a parking area is extremely important since it is a Drive-In concept – the majority of those who dropped by to grab a heavy meal are vehicle owners and those groups of bikers. 

This is the front view of the said restaurant, the facade of the building is welcoming. It has also a wide parking area.

🏫 The Place Itself.

Rating:⭐⭐⭐⭐

At the entrance of the Restaurant, you will see the skulls of the bulls displayed. It has earth-tone vibes due to its wooden tables and chair. It is welcoming and you’ll notice right away the “Country-side Cowboy” motif as the waitress and crews are wearing “cowboy/girl costume”. There is added wooden horse inside and a cowboy hat that you can wear while taking pictures. 

The main restaurant‘s building has enough tables and chairs to cater whether you’re eating alone or in a group. In addition, there are cottages or AKA Kubo outside that you can occupy if you want privacy. 

The washroom is clean and not disgusting if you use it, so it is a plus point for me. 

Even during peak hours, the counter where the queue occurred is well-organized, from checking the food menu, checking the available food displayed, to the payment portion, until you'll wait for your order to be served - it has an efficient approach. 

In addition, if you’re differently-able, this place has a wheel-chair ramp. 

The tarpaulin that displayed the Food Menu - Rambull's Bakahan sa Tanay Restaurant.

🍽 The Food

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rambulls’ Bakahan sa Tanay Restaurant is well-known because of the Beef Soup, Brain, and Bone Marrow from the Bulls, but they also served other Filipino Cuisines. 

Batangas Lom, Rambulls Version

Sweet and Spicy Kaldereta, and a bowl of Beef Bulalo.

I am really a big Filipino Cuisine Lover. It makes me feel comfortable and felt at home. I gave a five-star because, at that time when we arrived at the place, I was extremely hungry from the whole day's adventure in Laguna. We just decided to drop by when we’re heading back to Manila and grab a heavy meal. So, at that time, all the foods are savory and mouth-watering. 

Especially, the tender meat in a boiling soup – when served, it made my day complete.  For the amount of php425.00, the bowl of Beef Bulalo is good for 3-4 people.

They also served Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Meals – which you can also take out. 

☑ Final Verdict

Rating:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Overall, the place is only accessible from Manila if you have your own vehicle. But if you want to go there via public vehicle – it is possible, but not recommendable since it takes your time and effort to travel. But if you’re driving from Laguna, or sauntering the towns around the area, Rambulls Restaurant is the perfect place to end your day as a side trip and get satisfied with the savory foods. 

A face of a satisfied food lover.

Visiting The Municipality Where Most Of My College Memories Happened - Angono, Rizal.

 I was a Rizalenyo during my college days that last for more than four years. I studied in Binangonan, and Angono is my nearest go-to place as it is just one jeep ride away. 

Angono is a 1st class municipality in the province of Rizal, Philippines. According to the 2020 census, it has a population of 130,494 people. 

It is best known as the "Art Capital of the Philippines", being the hometown of national artist for music Lucio San Pedro and national artist for visual arts Carlos "Botong" Francisco, as well as the site of the Angono Petroglyphs, the oldest known work of art in the Philippines. It is currently campaigning for its inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as it is a center for visual arts. It is also campaigning for the inclusion of the Angono Petroglyphs (1 of 5 properties of the Petroglyphs and Petrographs of the Philippines UNESCO tentative site) in the World Heritage List.

First created as a pueblo in 1766, Angono was a barrio of its neighboring town Taytay and Binangonan before it was legally proclaimed an independent municipality in 1938 by then-President Manuel L. Quezon.

By the way, after a few years passed, when I left Rizal and move to the Urban Zone of Manila for work; I had a chance to visit back the place where most of my college memories happened. There’s so much development around – a newly built mall, and so much progress occurred.

Watch the VLOG:

More about ANGONO RIZAL...

🏊 One Night in Bosay Resorts In Antipolo City

Some Photos are courtesy of Bosay Resort Website

YES to Green Program : Morong Rizal

Sabay-sabay na inilawan ang mga Christmas tree na gawa sa mga niresiklong materyales, tulad ng plastik ng bote, softdrinks, papel, pabalat, etc., sa 14 na lokalidad sa buong lalawigan ng Rizal bilang pagsisimula ng Isang Luntiang Pasko ng mga Rizaleno. Hangarin ng aktibidad na ito na gisingin ang kamalayan ng bawat tao sa pangangalaga at pagmamahal sa Kalikasan. Tugon din ito ng bawat lokalidad sa probinsya bilang matibay na pagsuporta sa YES to Green Program ni Gob. Nini Ynares.

YES na YES - Morong, Rizal

YES na YES.. Ito po ang entry ng Morong sa Rizal Inter-town Christmas Tree Making and Town Hall Decoration Competition using recyclable materials..

Gusto ko pong magpasalamat sa lahat ng nakatuwang ko sa proyektong ito..

First of all, kay God sa pagbibigay sa amin ng malakas na katawan at isipan. Secondly, kay Mayor Mando San Juan sa pagsuporta sa amin all the way. Sa ating 8 Barangay Kapitan at kanilang mga kagawad at kawani sa pagsuporta sa Balwarte Contest. To MENRO Sir Jerome Mateo and his staff, our Street Sweepers, 4Ps staffs, Engineering Dept., Mr. Jonathan ang may-ari ng mga magagandang halaman, sa LIKAS Morong na lagi kong kapartner sa mga proyekto, kay Romeo San Diego at shempre sa utak ng ating disenyo, ang napaka creative and artistic nating kababayan na sina MR. ALEXIE CORBILLA and MR. JASON CORBILLA. Taos puso po ang aking pasasalamat sa inyong lahat.

Sa pinamalas po nating pagkakaisa at pagtutulong-tulong ay isa na pong malaking karangalan para sa bayan. Sanay hindi ito ang huli sa ating pagsasama-sama. Lagi nating pairalin ang PUSO para sa MORONG upang makamit natin ang ating mithiin para sa ating bayan.

MARAMING SALAMAT PO!!


By Dhen Bautista
Guest Writer

Doing extraordinary things...Defying the Gravity and pushing the limit

Green Minded  Team : Athan, Irene, Bonj as execute their trademark pose in every travels (Mitra's Ranch )

I always stressed, “I will not allow my life to pass without doing an extraordinary thing”. Living in my comfort zone is a big no no for me. Trying something new to spice up my life is my goal. Can you afford spending all day long in a four-corner room doing nothing ?. A person who is afraid to  take  risks will not enjoy life. The world is huge outside.

My eagerness to travel became my passion. I make sure that wherever I go I had pictures or souvenirs as proof that I was able to do it. I learned to plan  ahead of time and also how to prepare myself for these travels both physically and mentally. Then I started to share my trips through my travel blog. And was motivated to be a practical nomad. I was inspired by a letter from Lois Yasay, - a woman who quit her job just to travel Southeast Asia for six months with PHP 100,000 (non-stop). James Betia (I joined some of his travels and learned surfing),-who backpacked the Philippines for 100 days for PHP50, 000 (non-stop). Lastly, Rinell Banda a Filipino Dreamer who travelled the whole World.

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After knowing these true-blooded nomads personally, I learned to celebrate the Panorama of life, to travel and not to be afraid. We must take risks  in order to know where we truly belong.  And as with travelling you’ll never know what to expect.

I was able to rove, survive and enjoy the so called “City in the Forest” for only PHP4500. Together with my friends, we booked a round trip air ticket to Puerto Princesa City and this trip took six days from April 4 -10,2013.

April 4, 2013 at 6PM we arrived at the airport with no plans, no accommodations  and no fixed itinerary at hand. But that didn’t stop us from laughing and taking pictures. Literally, all we cared about was having fun and being in the moment.  We then  proceeded to this  restaurant the offers Birds nest soup. You haven’t been to Palawan if you haven’t tasted it.

Moreover, with the PHP4500 fund which we spread out for six days. It covered the round trip tickets, accommodations, foods ( Chaolong , Nido Soup, Sea foods), Swimming at pristine beach, experience Underground River, City tour, Bar Hopping, Hair Tattoo and of course “pasalubong (souvenirs)” .

Since I was trying to push my limit in terms of travelling I got to thinking how far would PHP500 take me? This idea pushed me to dare my friends to go on a 3 day trip to Rizal from August 9-11, 2013. To go as far as we can with that thought in mind.  It was crazy yet exciting.

First day we met in Cainta Rizal (Goodies Capital), and then we went to Taytay, Rizal known for its  Garments and Woodcraft products to visit the “Bantayog ng mga Bayani (Guerillas Memorial Shrine)” and in Jardin Miramar situated in  Antipolo City. The second day, we hired a tricycle for PHP300 for the entire trip. From Morong Rizal, we went to Baras, Rizal to visit the longstanding church, then lunch at Daranak Falls in Tanay, Rizal and experienced the Art of Rock Balancing , then off to the Floating Restaurant in Pililia, Rizal and ended up in Jala Jala, Rizal. On  our last day, we visited Angono Rizal (Art Capital and Home of Original Hegantes) before we went straight to Thunderbird Casino and Resort where I was invited to conduct a motivational speech for a journalism seminar. It was indeed relaxing and an unforgettable experience. The best part of it? It was totally FREE !

Doing Crazy Thing : Zambales

Aside from the tourist spots, the historical sites, the innumerable resorts, culture and practices;truly Rizal Province is definitely more fun because of its local inhabitants.

Who would expect that I got the chance to interview (impromptu) a businesswoman and the owner of the World’s Popular “Casa Santa in Antipolo City”. How about the creative man who revives “Stone Age” through his craftsmanship in Binangonan, Rizal and a fisherman who lived at the heart of Laguna Lake in a Nipa Hut that narrates his tales of resiliency and triumph against typhoons.

Not surprisingly, after these challenges  mentioned above , I learned some things that I never acquired during schooling. Those things wherein you can only encounter outdoor; how to deal with people , how to manage any fortuitous events might happen , how to live life in a simple way. And in the same manner, I was able to discover who am I and my capacity level.

“Travelling doesn’t need to be expensive” that’s what I learned. You just have to know how to be resourceful, wise and make TIME for it.  And as a full time employee, getting approval for a vacation leave is not easy, so being tactful is also required .

As Jack Canfield said “ If we  are not a little bit uncomfortable every day, were not growing. All the good stuff is outside our comfort zone.” 

This Article is an “I Love Tansyong” Official entry in a Writing/Blogging Contest organized by Wego in partnership with Cebu Pacific Air, the Tourism Promotions Board, and ABS-CBN Choose Philippines with a theme “Your Life-Changing Travel Story”

Thank you Eliza J. Diaz (Market Development Manager for Wego Philippines) for the invitation.

Also thank you to the four judges, Anita Duffin, Doming Ramon C. Enerio III, Phillip Kimpo Jr.

Post by Wego.