Diary Sheets

The 𝐓𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐱 at Lipuun Point in Quezon Palawan is a great weekend family escapade to the acient dwelling places of early inhabitants from thousands of years ago.

The hike begins at the Tawa tawa boardwalk - a 1.3 km concrete path that starts at the beach and leads to the mouth of the lower cave in the complex. While flying my drone, I had to quickly bring it down when an eagle (or hawk) swooped in close, limiting how far or high I could go.

We explored four or more caves along the way as we hiked to the top, reaching an elevation of 114 feet. The hike is manageable, thanks to the concrete steps and railings, though some parts of the stairs were quite steep. However, even for someone in their 60s, it wasn’t too challenging. Instead of returning via the boardwalk, we followed a loop trail that led us down a different concrete path and set of stairs. The way back isn’t entirely downhill but a mix of ascents and descents, adding a bit of variety to the terrain.

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞? It’s not just the physical challenge or the beautiful surroundings. The real reward is the connection to the past — walking the same paths that ancient peoples once walked and entering the caves where they lived. In addition to burning some calories, you’re surrounded by the refreshing sights of nature, with vibrant trees and plants which instills a sense of revitalization.

Within the compound, several buildings house a collection of artifacts and replicas discovered during the excavation of the caves, led by the late Dr. Robert B. Fox and the National Museum of the Philippines in the 1960s. Visitors can explore these exhibits either through a guided tour or at their own pace.

From ruins to a new beginning. 🔥🏢 Once ravaged by fire half a decade ago, the 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐧al Justice Education Building of 𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 now stands proudly in the final stages of reconstruction. This is a testament to resilience, progress, and the unbreakable spirit of rebuilding.

College of Criminal Justice Education Student Organization WPU-PPC
Western Philippines University

We didn’t spend much time during my recent visit to my hometown in Tabuk City, but we did manage to squeeze in a quick drive to 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐦𝐚 𝐕𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐤 in Bulanao. It’s a great spot to take in the panoramic view of Tabuk’s stunning landscape, where the Chico River seems to slice through the lush meadows and hills, with Kalinga’s mountain ranges as a breathtaking backdrop. It’s also a great place for sunset and sunrise viewing, picnics, and group gatherings. I think the road leading up would be perfect for hiking, or last route when going cycling.


Tabuk City Public Information Office

𝟑𝟔𝟎° 𝐓𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐌𝐀 𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 𝐃𝐄𝐂𝐊
Bulanao, Tabuk City, Kalinga.

I've been here in a once remote barangay in Tabuk, Kalinga a thousand times, always just passing by, glancing at the unpaved road lined with trees. But seeing it from above now offers a whole new perspective, that lets me appreciate the beauty of the surroundings in a way I never did before.
Balong is surrounded by green meadows, peaceful pastures, and rice fields, framed by mountains in the distance. It’s a relaxing escape from the busy city life, which reminds me of the weekends spent there many years ago doing church outreaches to a peaceful community. But sadly, despite how calm everything looks, a small tribal conflict broke out (apparently) nearby while we were there, making the place feel less peaceful than it should be.
However, I always remember that the people there are peaceful, and value peace more than anyone else.

I was wondering, could the ancient Greek-inspired columns and architectural designs have been intentionally used to symbolize CSU as a hub of science, arts, philosophy, and mathematics, much like the role of Greek civilization in its time? Well, its a thoughtfully crafted branding.

Cagayan State University - Carig Campus, where I spent my college years and graduated 19 years ago, has transformed in remarkable ways. While the new Greek architecture themed buildings, structures, propylaea campus portal, and fountain pools are impressive, I couldn't find my former instructors and professors from the College of Engineering. I had hoped to personally thank them for the academic guidance they provided, which has shaped me into the person I am today. Sadly too, I was unable to obtain authorization to fly my drone.
Nevertheless, CSU truly is "Ad Optimum Educans"

Visited my Alma mater - Cagayan State University. I’m surprised that this little area can fit so many buildings, including a five-storey one near the airport. Walking around the campus where I spent my first year in College more than twenty years ago didn't really hit much with nostalgia. The old gym, barracks, stage, ROTC marching ground, computer lab room, lab high school and old classrooms are all gone. Only the Library and few structures remain. But the transformation of the campus, is a testament to the vision and hard work of the university's leaders.

Tuguegarao's Famous 𝐁𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐋-𝐏𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐍𝐆.
Thank you sir sa Treat.

PSU - School of Medicine is now in its second year, after opening in September of 2023. The front area still has a green and thickly vegetated, open space. The administration must've some impressive landscaping plans or they’re leaving room for future buildings. The government has also promised full scholarships to deserving Palaweños, which is great news for local students.
Btw, its the first med school in MIMAROPA.
For more info: https://tinyurl.com/psumedschool

Napahaba ang ulan ngayon. Pero last week, ilang araw ding mainit sa Sports Complex. 😀

If you think Koreans are masters of tearjerking, heart-wrenching films, Chinese filmmakers are right up there too. Viva La Vida, by Han Yan is a notable instance. The actors are truly top-notch, portraying their characters' struggles in such a raw, realistic way that you can almost feel the emotional turmoil and unpredictability of life. What’s especially brave is how they let their raw emotions and appearances be captured on screen, which really adds to the authenticity of the whole film.

The story itself is not be groundbreaking, but the screenplay, despite its simplicity, beautifully shows the selfless nature of human love and how far people will go to protect and support those they care about. The way the characters grow is closely tied to their relationships with each other, and that interconnectedness makes the film hit even harder emotionally.

I think that, the character development in Viva la Vida is one of the film’s standout features. It’s such a powerful, moving film that explores love, sacrifice, and what life really means in a way that sticks with you.

𝐎𝐍 𝐖𝐏𝐔-𝐏𝐏𝐂 𝐒𝐓𝐔𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐒' 𝐃𝐀𝐌𝐀𝐆𝐄𝐃 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐀𝐋𝐄, 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐒𝐘 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐏𝐎𝐈𝐍𝐓.
*𝑚𝑒𝑑𝑦𝑜 𝑙𝑜𝑛𝑔 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑡.

𝐎𝐧 𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭 while taking photographs in public is generally permissible, it becomes legally complex if the photograph causes harm or invades someone's privacy. Additionally, the issue of defamation may arise if the photo is shared in a way that damages a person's reputation. In this case, the photo taken by the photoblogger wasn’t harmful in itself. However, it became a platform for the his followers to mock and bully the student's performance. While the original intent of the post might not have been negative, it unfortunately opened the door for inappropriate comments that caused harm to the students. The subsequent bullying created a negative impact, and some level of responsibility lies with the person who shared the content. The photoblogger should have monitored the comments section and moderated or deleted offensive content.

𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐲 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭, Pedrography, with all due respect, should have still obtained consent from the students or from WPU-PPC management before taking photos, and videos, and flying a drone, especially if the images captured would be shared publicly. Although the event was held in a public complex, where there is generally a lower expectation of privacy, and no law seem to prohibit it, WPU participants and the institution still have rights concerning the use of their images.

For example, if the Intramural meet were held on WPU premises, a non-WPUan would not have the freedom to simply enter and document the event. They would be required to register and state their purpose before being allowed to do so. Similarly, just because the Intramural meet took place at a public sports complex doesn’t mean anyone has the unrestricted right to document as they please. Take a wedding in a public park, for instance - would it be acceptable for an unsolicited photographer to show up, take photos, shoot videos, or fly a drone without permission? That would be unethical, especially since they would be infringing on the role of the official photographers.

In the same way, when 'Pedrography' intruded on the event, he essentially competed with WPU’s official documenters. This created complications, as WPU's drone operators faced the risk of navigating shared airspace, with Pedrography's drone interfering and competing for the same space.

Ethics and courtesy should always be a priority. Pedrography could have consulted WPU's management beforehand, as there may have been university guidelines and policies regarding taking photosr or videos or filming events that he could potentially violate.

𝐎𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐝𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐞.
I think this matter may seem too trivial for some to take seriously. Some might have brushed it off and avoided increasing Pedrography's engagement. After all, being bashed or mocked online holds little weight, as the people making comments often don't know the full context of the event, and some are simply behaving nastily. The situation would have eventually passed, and Pedrography's photo would have been forgotten.

However, It's important to recognize that what may seem minor to one person can feel overwhelming to someone else, particularly when the bullying occurs in a space where they are exposed to public ridicule. While it might seem like a trivial issue to some, the students feeling bullied is not something to be dismissed lightly. Bullying, in a public forum like facebook, can have serious emotional and psychological effects. Even if the photoblogger didn’t intend harm, the mocking and negative comments can deeply affect the students' self-esteem and mental health.

Students should develop resilience (without implying they must tolerate mistreatment) when facing issues like this. More serious challenges will arise in life, and learning to stand firm without being overly influenced by public opinion will foster emotional and mental strength.
For content creators, acknowledging faults or shortcomings and choosing humility is key to earning respect and winning over more hearts and even followers.
Nevertheless, pedrography is appreciated for his amazing shots and the positive promotion he's bringing to Palawan and the city.

Cheers to making peace! 🙂

*𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑥𝑡 - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/ZZgNRsaC9RbdXFBP/

I was expecting the usual cramped, noisy bus terminal when we first visited PITX in Paranaque on our way to Tagaytay. Instead, we found a modern, spacious facility and amenities that felt more like a mall. There were plenty of shops, restaurants, and even comfortable areas to relax in and hang out while waiting for the bus. It was a far cry from the traditional bus terminals I'm used to.

Surprisingly, PITX has routes going all over the Philippines, from Luzon to Mindanao. It's a one-stop shop for travelers, saving you the hassle of transferring between terminals.

If you're ever in Metro Manila and need to catch a bus, PITX is definitely worth checking out.

Painting Competition.
Who do you think painted the scenery better?
Western Philippines University - Puerto Princesa Campus Intramural Meet 2024

A picturesque neighborhood with a serene atmosphere.
The upper-floor units offer lovely views of Taal Volcano, Skyranch and the city skyline. Many of these units are available for rent at affordable rates.

Snapshots from our journey to Bokod. It was too cold for me, but I couldn’t resist the stunning landscapes and mountainscapes—a welcoming panorama for great outdoor activities and rich cultural heritage. There are many things to see and do in Bokod, Benguet.