Batangas Adventure 2024: Market Run, Fresh Guavas & Epic Filipino Feast!

 Welcome to Batangas Adventure 2024! This adventure was all about enjoying local culture, Filipino flavors, and the warm hospitality that Batangas has to offer. We drove down to the stunning town of Anilao for some much-needed downtime, delicious food, and authentic experiences. Whether you're a foodie or nature enthusiast, this blog will take you on a journey from Bauan Market to enjoying fresh-picked guavas and a home-cooked feast with friends. Don’t miss the vlog embedded at the end to see all the action up close!

Our first stop was Bauan Market, a local gem known for its wide range of fresh produce. Located on the highway at 135 Legaspi in Bauan, Batangas, this bustling wet and dry market has everything from pork and fish to fresh vegetables. We arrived courtesy of Bryan’s trusty car, making the quick 20-minute drive from Anilao. With a budget of 3,000 pesos, we gathered ingredients for our meals while immersing ourselves in the local market vibe. Chiara and I sneaked off to grab some freshly cooked bananacue along the highway, savoring this sweet snack before rejoining our friends.

On the drive back, we experienced a true countryside moment. Despite the rainy afternoon, we stumbled upon a guava tree brimming with ripe fruits near our accommodation at Anilao Scuba Dive Center. We couldn’t resist plucking a few guavas right off the branches, eating them with a pinch of salt for that perfect tangy-sweet taste. It brought us back to our childhood days, where simple moments like these left a lasting impression. Nothing says "Batangas" like fresh, organic fruits right from the source!

🎥 WATCH THE VIDEO of US PICKING GUAVA:

As evening approached, we gathered to prepare an epic Filipino feast featuring some classic favorites. Our menu included pork sinigang with its savory broth, grilled bangus (milkfish), pork BBQ skewers, hotdogs, and, of course, rice. Cooking together added an extra layer of fun to the experience, and by the time dinner was ready, we were more than eager to dive in. Each bite was a reminder of why Filipino food brings people together—it’s all about the flavors, memories, and shared moments.

🎥 WATCH THE VLOG During Barbeque:

After our hearty meal, we wrapped up the day with drinks and pulutan (finger foods), keeping the spirit of friendship and bonding alive. Red Horse and Alfonso provided just the right pairing, adding warmth to our laughter-filled conversations. With the sound of the sea in the background, we shared stories, laughed, and reflected on the simple joys of our Batangas getaway. Moments like these make every road trip unforgettable, strengthening bonds and creating memories for a lifetime.

Catch the full experience in the vlog below! Watch our Batangas adventure unfold as we explore Bauan Market, enjoy local delicacies, and share unforgettable moments in Anilao. Whether you're planning your own Batangas trip or just love Filipino culture, this vlog is packed with travel tips, food inspiration, and real-life adventure that you won’t want to miss!

🎥 WATCH THE VLOG:

Batangas Lomi Adventure! | Must-Try Local Dish 🍜

 Batangas, known for its beautiful beaches and rich heritage, is also home to one of the Philippines' most beloved comfort foods – Lomi. This noodle dish, affectionately called Batangas Lomi, stands out for its thick, savory broth, generous toppings, and the hearty satisfaction it brings with each bowl. On a recent food trip to Batangas City with friends, we couldn’t resist diving into this local delicacy, which perfectly encapsulates the soul of Batangueño cuisine. If you're a foodie or just someone in search of unique local flavors, Batangas Lomi should be on your must-try list!

What makes Batangas Lomi truly unique is its distinct texture and flavor. Unlike other versions of Lomi found across the Philippines, Batangas Lomi has a thicker, richer broth that clings to every strand of the chunky noodles, creating a deliciously satisfying bite every time. The broth is usually made with a blend of pork, chicken, and shrimp flavors, seasoned with spices, and thickened with cornstarch to give it that signature thickness. Each bowl is loaded with generous toppings like pork, kikiam, liver, and boiled eggs, making it a filling meal that’s perfect for any time of the day.

This dish is incredibly popular not only because of its taste but also due to the culture surrounding it. Batangas locals are passionate about their Lomi, and each eatery has its own unique twist on the recipe. From food stalls to restaurants, each Lomi shop proudly serves its own version, drawing in loyal customers who love to compare flavors. The experience of ordering a "special Lomi" in Batangas often includes an array of condiments like calamansi, soy sauce, and chili paste, allowing each diner to customize their bowl to their liking. This interactive dining experience makes it more than just a meal; it's a tradition.

🎥 WATCH THE VLOG:

One of the reasons Batangas Lomi has gained nationwide popularity is its association with comfort food. Whether it’s a rainy day or a chilly evening, a bowl of hot Lomi warms you up and brings a sense of coziness. For many Filipinos, especially those who grew up with it, Lomi evokes memories of home and family. It's a dish that locals and tourists alike seek out when visiting Batangas, especially because it's so different from the lighter noodle soups like mami or pancit that are common in other regions. The hearty, robust flavors of Lomi make it perfect for satisfying cravings and celebrating the comforting flavors of Filipino cuisine.

Our Lomi adventure was not just about tasting the food but also about bonding with friends over a shared love for local flavors. Batangas Lomi is best enjoyed with good company, as each bowl becomes a conversation piece. Every bite, every topping, and every spoonful of that rich broth is a journey into the heart of Batangas culture. If you’re ever in Batangas, don’t miss the chance to try this local gem. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a taste of tradition, a bowl of comfort, and a celebration of Batangas pride. 🍜 

Typhoon Kristine: Anilao Batangas in the Eye of the Storm

 Typhoon Kristine has made a significant impact on various parts of the Philippines, and Anilao, Batangas, known for its world-class diving spots and serene coastal views, wasn’t spared from its wrath. The typhoon brought heavy rains and strong winds, transforming this usually calm and scenic destination into a place of chaos and destruction. Roads became impassable due to floods and fallen trees, and some of the beachfront properties faced severe damage from the storm surges. In this post, I will share with you a firsthand look at how Anilao has been affected, particularly the state of the area during the typhoon.

In the video embedded below, you will see the contrast between the good days at Anilao Scuba Dive Center, where the waters were clear and inviting, and the situation now, where the once vibrant beach is battered by strong waves and heavy winds. I have spent a peaceful weekend in Anilao, enjoying the beautiful marine life, the warm community, and the quiet tranquility of the shore. Unfortunately, all of that has been disrupted by Typhoon Kristine, leaving both locals and visitors in shock at how quickly nature can change a place.

Check out the video clips embedded here. The first video shows me enjoying a perfect day at Anilao Scuba Dive Center, diving into its crystal-clear waters and relishing the beauty of the place. In the second clip, you'll witness the stark reality of the damage caused by Typhoon Kristine, showcasing the flooded streets, damaged dive centers, and the overwhelming force of the storm. The contrast serves as a reminder of both the beauty and the unpredictability of nature, and how important it is to help communities like Anilao recover after such a disaster. 

🎥 WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW :

📌 Travel Guide: Masasa Beach, Tingloy, Batangas to Puerto Galera, Mindoro

Welcome to my latest travel blog! This video includes the "behind-the-scenes" moments from my previous uploads: Masasa Beach Escapade and Puerto Galera Adventure—all packed into a whirlwind 3-day trip. I hope you enjoy this #vlog!

One thing I’m truly proud of is my ability to connect with people easily. My friend and officemate, William Pombo, introduced me to his circle of friends, the “Britney Army Philippines.” Even though I don’t consider Britney Spears my personal goddess, they welcomed me warmly. Let me tell you, they are some of the happiest people I’ve ever met!

After meeting them several times, we officially became friends, and they invited me to join their summer getaway. Although this happened way back on May 5, 2018, I’m only sharing it now (better late than never, right?). It’s a throwback to a sunny summer, even though it’s already the rainy season!

Watch the video :

The Journey to Masasa Beach

Masasa Beach is located in San Juan, Tingloy, Batangas. I had heard about it before and seen blog posts, but I never thought I’d visit because it seemed so far away—and it really is!

We started our journey at 3 AM from the bus terminal in Buendia. I can’t recall if it was JAM or JAC Liner, but it’s the one next to McDonald’s (where we grabbed a quick bite). The bus fare to Batangas Grand Terminal was around ₱150-₱180.

At the terminal, we took a jeep bound for Mabini Multi-Purpose Port, which took another 30-45 minutes. Before continuing, we indulged in authentic Batangas Lomi. I was blown away by how generous the serving was—one bowl could feed four people! It was delicious and truly lived up to its reputation.

From there, we headed to Mabini Port via jeepney, leaving at 5:30 AM. The jeepney rides are frequent, so there’s no need to worry about waiting too long..

#mabinibatangas bakit ang mahal ng environmental fee kaysa sa bangka? pic.twitter.com/dkLra7hEjM

— Jonathan D. Orbuda 💻 (@ILoveTansyong) May 4, 2018

Si Chris nakapila to pay for the environmental FEE

While kami nag aantay ng bangka.

Mabini Port and the Bangka Ride

When we arrived at Mabini Port around 6:30 AM, I was shocked by how unorganized it was compared to Batangas Port. We paid an environmental fee (which felt overpriced for such a short stay) and had to endure a long queue to board a bangka (boat).

The Britney Army heading to Tingloy Port , Batangas.

Finally, under the blazing 10 AM sun, we set off on a 45-minute bangka ride to Tingloy Port. The fare was around ₱80.

From Tingloy Port, we took a tricycle to our accommodations. After all the effort and time spent, I found Masasa Beach to be underwhelming. It was beautiful, but not worth the long and exhausting journey. It seemed overhyped due to viral posts and blogs.

Tingloy Port na po kami.

Watch the video :

Making a Spontaneous Escape to Puerto Galera

By the second day, I decided to leave my friends early and head to Puerto Galera, which was just a boat ride away. I booked a 6 AM boat the next morning. Though my friends were sad to see me go, I felt I needed some “me time.”

When I arrived in Puerto Galera, I booked a room for ₱800 for a 24-hour stay. I pampered myself with a massage, enjoyed drinks, and made the most of my solo adventure. Meanwhile, my friends explored other spots around Masasa Beach, which I only learned about later through Facebook

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If you ask me whether I’d return to Masasa Beach, my answer would probably be not anytime soon. The experience didn’t leave a strong impression, and there are many other destinations I’d prefer to revisit, like Calaguas Island.

This trip taught me the value of making the most of my time and trusting my instincts. It also reinforced the importance of enjoying the company of friends while exploring new places.

Thank you for following my journey! I hope you enjoy this light and conversational writing style—it feels like I’m just chatting with you all. Let me know your thoughts in the comments. Until next time!

#TravelVlog #MasasaBeach #PuertoGalera #BatangasAdventures

Lying and Indulging the sand and sun at Masasa Beach

Blue board Set Up of Roar Music Video Includes Taal Volcano

Taal Volcano in Tagatay as features in Katty Perry's Roar Music Video (Image by Jomar Hilario)

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Have you watched Roar's Music Video? with sexy Katty Perry in the jungle? I am pretty sure that you are familiar one of the picturesque views feature on the said video.

Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez was so proud of Katty Perry's Roar Music Video because it it features the panoramic view of Tagaytay, Taal Volcano to be specific.“Yes, [it is] a picture of the Philippines in what is obviously paradise. I am very happy,” Jimenez said. "It's no secret that, when Katy Perry went to the country, she fell in love with Philippines. I would not be surprised if she made the choice [of including Taal in the video] the herself. [But] I do not know that for a fact," he said.

Moreover, the said music video was taped indoor in a studio set up with blue board.   Blue Board is a blue wall where-in the computer can add a variety of background so that  the artist's background during shooting looks very pleasant. It is famous in weather reporting and MTV.

The production choose Taal Volcano as one of the background because Perry must have been blown away and was amazed by the sight when she visited the country in 2012.  Same year when she performed in Arena   Pasay , January 22, 2012.

Truly, Philippine is a country wherein foreign artist loves to visit because of its distinctive beauty . A beauty that can surely compete worldwide.

Here is the Music Video