#Siquijor Philippines

[datura-tea]

still thinking about filipinos in the fallout wasteland, but now in the context of my headcanon that fallout america annexed the philippines in 1946 instead of granting the nation its independence.

what made me think of this headcanon? the timeline between our world and the fallout world splits at about that period, and, well, there's precedent for the annexation: in real life, there were 50 years of american occupation, and there's ongoing american intereference in our politics, economy, and culture (essentially making the philippines an american neo-colony, but i digress), and considering how fallout america is just america turned up to 11, these things will just be magnified, and so: the philippine annexation of 1946.

now, there's nothing in fallout canon about the philippines except for a brief off-hand comment from the newscaster at the beginning of fallout 4 about american troops in mambajao (an island in camiguin) but this already tells me that, by 2077, if american military presence in the philippines has managed to reach that part of mindanao, the american occupation has intensified.

that little nugget already paints such a vivid picture of what's happening in fallout philippines - an american military base in mindanao tells me that more indigenous communities were displaced (real life example: the aeta and ibaloi communities in luzon, who still, to this day, cannot return to their ancestral lands), that sexual exploitation of women and children was rampant (irl: the sex industry in angeles city, among other areas), that american soldiers were free to enact violence on filipinos without facing any consequences (irl: jennifer laude's murder at the hands of joseph pemberton), that american imperialism is thriving in the archipelago, and that the sino-american war is serious and ramping up.

but let's see what the newscaster actually says:

"It would also appear our troops stationed overseas are experiencing some unusual weather, as well. On the Island of Mambajao the nights are cold. Unseasonably so for Southeast Asia. But for the 5th Infantry, that's as comfortable as an Autumn jamboree. All the easier for our mechanized hellcats to drive any screaming Commie meanies right into the Bohol Sea."

"screaming commie meanies" tells me that there's a significant communist presence in the philippines, which i am taking to mean that the communist party of the philippines and the new people's army are alive and well and fighting against the american occupation. i really don't think there'd be many chinese communist spies in the philippines at this time since filipino communists are against chinese imperialism as well, but tbh this part isn't solidified in my brain as much... anyway

essentially, fallout philippines has the problems of current, real life philippines, just amplified. american occupation on one hand, chinese imperialism on the other, unusual cold weather (which tells me that climate change was also a problem in the fallout universe), the threat of nuclear war... all with ordinary filipinos in the middle. would it be a stretch to say that a lot of them fled to america and established their own communities there? that those communities would have thrived and retained our creativity and sense of community/pagkakapwa abroad? that those communities would have survived the bombs and banded together and kept themselves and their culture alive, in the apocalypse?

[aperture24]

Seawall

Sunny Day

📸: Yashica MF2 Super 🎞️: Kodak Ektar 100

[msicedcoffee]

autopilot

[itsmicqua]

Turning Slow Living Into Reality

It’s been 4 years since I last put something up on here- that’s crazy. You’d think after setting up a tumblr account for every single one of my 164291 emails I’d finally give up. But this is the story of my life: try, falter, and try again. I’d like to think that’s better than giving up. 

All this time I've been trying to figure out why I struggle to sit alone with my thoughts and put them into words. As far as I know, and as much as I know myself, I think.. it’s because I write what I think, because I’m too afraid to say it. Afraid because I think no one would listen and care. As I sit and type away on my laptop, I realize how that’s both terrifying and empowering. To, at least, be able to put my thoughts and feelings in a little corner on the internet and not have it ruin or affect anybody but also have it existing, as proof of my emotions and experiences.

I wonder why this is important to me. I wonder why it’s important to remember. Is it because I don’t want to forget? Or is it because everything is changing and I can’t keep up? 

This is my attempt to remember- that this year, 2024 in August I truly lived by what makes me happy. Without worrying about societal norms of success, conventional notions of happiness and just being in the moment and following my joy.

So, what has transpired since the last time I wrote? Well, it’s officially been 7 months since I broke up with my then-boyfriend. Yes, after 5 years of not seeing each other and meeting for the first time in real life in September of 2023, I called it off in March. This was 6 months after our time together in Europe, which, don’t get me wrong, was really good.  3 weeks in Europe was unforgettable and unreal. But I couldn’t see myself in a passive relationship where it was up to me to make things happen. 

How detailed should I go into this, I wonder. I'll chalk it up to... If they wanted to, they would. And maybe, if I had the means, resources and opportunities to have made it work and move there and be the one to do the traveling, to uproot my life but even then still, it would have continued to ruin me and eat at me- constantly thinking I was never going to be worth flying halfway across the world for. It felt one-sided, as if I was the only one that would go through all the hoops, flights, visa applications and re-arranging my life. You know what? Maybe I was, but I gave it a real shot. I'd like to think I deserve to want to be desired to be with enough to make them see where I'm from and be with me here. And if they weren't able to do that, then what's the point? So, actually, the breakup was inevitable given that he just couldn't bring himself to make plans to see me within the next year. I tried waiting but it just felt like begging at one point and that was my lowest low. Begging for someone's time- because you shouldn't have to, if they loved you. Or maybe that's just me and my love language is quality time. So, I decided not to make that my reality and called it off. It wasn't easy, still isn't- but I am 100% better for it and I feel changed altogether.

I remember coming across a quote before that says, something is only real when it is shared. Is this why I have an urge to express my thoughts and feelings? Because they are only real when I transform them into a tangible thing- in this case my writing. Do I write about my life and experiences because I want them to be real and exist as more than just a mere memory in my head? Maybe that’s why I’ve avoided writing about the end of my relationship for the longest time. My journal hasn't even had my pen inscribe every trivial detail of the final moments of my last relationship. But now, it's really over.

My reality now is filled with the comforting feeling of warm sunlight on my skin, quiet afternoons without worry, cuddles with Ponpon at night, laying on the beach while reading a sad book, blasting good music at the hostel and completely being myself enjoying every day as best I can.

Now, I live on my favorite island- Siquijor. Volunteering at a hostel while working online. After 5 years of back and forth traveling to and from Manila, I was scared I'd be tired of this island but constantly meeting new people from all over the world has kept giving me different experiences. And, each time I come back, it's different. Maybe it's because I also keep changing. I often meet people that end up being good friends. On the odd times, I meet people that inspire me and make me want to give writing another shot.

I used to obsess over living the 'right way' or find purpose or meaning and something bigger for my life- maybe I'll find it or figure it out. But I have come to know and accept that living day by day and knowing yourself and being present is good enough. Maybe releasing these words into the wild will somehow make it true or real (I hope it does).

This is me trying, at least.

[walaumalistulog]

After more than fifteen days have passed, I still find it challenging to find the right words to express my Siquijor and Dumaguete adventure.

It marked my first journey to the captivating Visayas islands, a dream realized that made my mother fret over my distance. Taking my maiden flight, the thrill of firsts lingered throughout the trip.

Upon our arrival in Siquijor, we chose to rent a motorcycle, seeking a slower pace to savor every moment. While most could explore the entire island in a day, we craved a deeper connection with its beauty. As a motorcycle enthusiast, riding 160 kilometers across the island felt like a personal triumph.

The beaches in Siquijor---its golden sands caressed by gentle waves. Here, tranquility whispers in the breeze, and the azure waters beckon your soul to dance with the tides, a paradise embraced by the gentle, tropical embrace. A place where I almost cried in awe for its picturesque view that no camera lens could give justice to its glory.

We were also able to stay at a place near this enchanted river. Each morning, I would wake up to the melodious symphony of the river's flowing waters and gentle rustling of leaves. The waters of this river gave me a sense of tranquility washing over me. It was as if the river embraced me with its healing touch, relieving my whims and worries, and filling me with a profound sense of peace.

Leaving this beautiful island was bittersweet. It was a place where I had discovered the enchantment of nature and the enchantment of my entire soul and being, a place where I had found that heaven is indeed a place on Earth.

Siquijor—an island, like a devoted mother, watches over her child from afar, patiently waiting for their return. A home for everyone, where the warmth of your absence lingers, patiently awaiting your return.

Leaving this island with so much love and emotions. I really had no plans on visiting this beautiful place this year, but I really am glad to experience its serene beaches and mysticism.

There's a sense of comfort in knowing that this place will always be there, ready to welcome its visitors back with open arms and overwhelming love.

[patricia-antazo]

Siquijor

September 2019

[asta-daily]

Coco Beach

And then, of course, the islands! Palawan, Siquijor, Bohol, Coron. all filled with corals, thin sand, sun, sea... Living dreamscapes. We dip our feet into the warm waters, watching underneath multicolored fishes dancing around us. We feel like we've just step into a postcard. A place to forget ourselves in bliss. Not too much, though: watch out for falling coconuts.

/* Pencil doodle on A6 sketchbook - Porte-mine sur carnet A6 */

Et puis, bien sûr, les Iles ! Palawan, Siquijor, Bohol, Coron, toutes baignant dans le corail, le sable fin, le soleil, la mer... Paysages de rêves s'il en est. Plongeant nos pieds sous les vagues si transparentes que nous pouvons voir une ribambelle de petits poissons multicolore danser autours de nous, nous avons l'impression tenace d'avoir mis pied dans une carte postale. On s'oublierait presque dans cet océan de bonheur. Je dis presque, car veillons aux chutes de noix de coco.

[travelbinge]

By Marcinmalicki

Cambugahay Falls, Lazi, Siquijor Island, Philippines

[iamxteph]

Siquijor 🏝️

[shellwanders]

Paliton Beach: Siquijor's Best Kept Secret

Paliton Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand and clear blue water located in the province of Siquijor in the Philippines. The beach is relatively secluded and undeveloped, making it a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Traveling to Paliton Beach Siquijor for the first time? This detailed and curated travel guide will make it easy for you to navigate…

[hzlnutzs]

PITOGO CLIFF DAY 2 - part ng island tour itong Pitogo Cliff. 1st stop namen yan. As usual, gloomy ang weather. Umaambon na papuntang ulan na din. May entrance fee na 30.00 petot. Ng pagpunta namen is palabas na yung mga nagtotour. So medyo solo namen yung place.😍😍😍 Hindi lang pinayagan mag cliff diving kase sa current ata ng water. Struggle din bumaba kase madulas ung stair. #bekisoursasiquijour #siquijor #philippines #travel #beach #adventure #aesthetic #pitogocliff (at Siquijor Island) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cn9ap3Jv2kj/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[aperture24]

Sea

[siquijorbestof]

 Discover the best itinéraire Philippines, featuring top destinations from Manila to Boracay. This guide covers beaches, nature spots, and cultural experiences to help you explore the beauty of the Philippines on an unforgettable adventure.

[laneeeyyyday]

Don't mess with me, I got my own labubu.

[jji2018]

Sharing our Dumaguete & Siquijor trip with a twist.

Day 0 (September 11): Daraga, Albay to Manila

We met two of our friends, who happened to be twins, at MOA to satisfy our ramen cravings. We indulged in ramen and gyoza at Mendokoro Ramenba and took evening strolls at the Bay.

Day 1 (September 12): Manila to Dumaguete

Front-row seat, baby! However, with additional tasks, such as opening the plane's emergency exit. Our rental car service delivered the vehicle to the Dumaguete airport right after we landed. We drove a gray metallic, less-than-a-month-old Toyota Wigo.

For our first stop, we enjoyed our late breakfast at Café Sans Rival at The Henry. We had pancakes, bacon, eggs, bangus, fried rice, coffee, tea, and juice! What a fantastic way to start our tour! Next, we explored and took photos at Pulangbato Falls, Sulfur Vent, Mango Ranch, and Tierra Alta in Valencia. We also stopped by the Cata-al Museum and Forest Camp. We checked in at Flying Fish Hotel, washed up, and had dinner at Gabby’s Bistro with PJ and Rae. The serving was generous, and the food and staff were excellent! And the mango crepe was lit!! We managed to get our ferry tickets for Siquijor before heading back to the hostel.

Day 2 (September 13): Dumaguete to Siquijor

Travel time from Dumaguete to Siquijor was about 3 hours (the average travel time is 1.5 hrs). We took the Montenegro Ferry, the only vessel that sailed that day to Siquijor. The weather was rough. We rode a tricycle to White Villas Resort in San Juan, had a meal at their restaurant, and then decided to check in—a big thank you to the White Villas staff for accommodating us despite an error in our booking. We washed up, fixed our things, and slept the whole afternoon because our tour was canceled. It was such a rainy and windy day!

Day 3 (September 14): Day Tour in Siquijor

We enjoyed our complimentary breakfast at the resort. Afterward, we set off for our day tour, starting around 10:30 am. The weather had improved, making it safe to begin our tour. Our first stop was supposed to be Pitogo Cliff; however, it was still closed for the day. We decided to come back later that afternoon. Next, we went to Balete Tree Fish Spa. I expected small fish to tickle us. But there were larger ones, which I was a little scared. LOL. We shortly stopped by Hapitanan in Lazi and took broom shots. We met Ivana Alawi’s broomstick and brought home our souvenir voodoo dolls. We also stopped by Lazi Church and took photos. Lazi convent, which is across the church, was closed. It was lunchtime, and we ate Sinigang na pasayan and sizzling pork sisig at Jacs Kitchenette.

There, the rain started to pour. Despite the harsh weather, we continued the tour and explored the Sambulawan Underground River. We expected a canoe to hop on, but no vehicle could fit in the cave. Equipped with a life vest and torchlight, we explored the cave on foot with our guide, Kuya Arvin, who is very accommodating and skilled at taking photos. Our next stop was Salagdoong Beach. It was still very windy, and the waves were huge, so we dipped our feet in the water and climbed up to the viewpoint. The view was still astonishing as the clear waters hit the rock formations. Our final stop for the day was the 'Welcome to Siquijor' signage. We were drenched when returning to the hotel.

For our dinner, we visited Dolce Amore, an Italian restaurant 2 minutes from the resort. Their pasta, pizza, and gelato were a true luxury. No wonder most of their patrons are foreigners.

P.S. Big shoutout to Kuya Jesse, our tour guide, who was super friendly and accommodating and ensured our safety!

P.S.S. We were supposed to return to Dumaguete, but all trips were canceled. So, we extended our stay at White Villas. We were unable to use our reservation at the Flying Fish Hostel.

Day 4 (September 15): Going back to Dumaguete

Kuya Jesse picked us up at White Villas and took us to Siquijor Port, hoping to catch any trip back to Dumaguete. We were given a queueing number for the 2 pm trip, but it was canceled. We took a chance for the 4:30 pm trip, but we had no slot. Thanks to the fixers who got over 20 tickets for one queueing number.  */Annoyed/*

It's a good thing Kuya Jesse lent a hand to us. His friend picked us up at the port ticketing office and helped us find a nearby inn to spend the night. This time, there were three of us sharing a room. We met Ate Fritzie at the ticketing office; she couldn’t grab a ferry ticket, too, and joined us.

That night, we tried booking our ferry tickets online. We booked possible trips of OceanJet fast craft, Montenegro Lines, and Aleson, too, for the next day.

Day 5 (September 16): Travel Day to Dumaguete, Manila, and Bicol

It was a very early wake-up call – 4 am (but I extended 10 minutes of sleep). Kuya Jesse picked us up at the inn head to Siquijor port for the second time. This time, the fast craft ferries resumed their trips. Our online booking for OceanJet (for beshie and me) and Aleson (for Ate Fritzie) were the keys for the 6 am trips. We bade goodbye to Siquijor and arrived in Dumaguete after 40 minutes of travel.

Since our flight to Manila was scheduled for 10:40 a.m., we were able to try Dumaguete’s painitan for breakfast. PJ and his mom took us for a quick tour of Dumaguete and Valencia. And we made it on time for our flight to Manila! But upon landing, the first thing we did was to get our luggage and find a nice place to dine in NAIA T3. We cannot miss eating during lunchtime, so we had a meal at Army Navy and had takeaways from Tim Hortons before transferring to NAIA T4, where we were supposed to take off for Daraga, Albay.

Btw, the window seat was excellent! Covered with fluffy clouds, Mt. Mayon said hi to us.

And yes, we traveled from Siquijor to Dumaguete to Manila to Albay to Naga City in JUST A DAY. Teleporting was real, folks!

Thanks to Avis for driving us from Naga to Daraga and returning from Daraga to Naga. And thank you to Sieg for the additional stay at the White Villas.

Thank you, PJ, Rae, and Solamillo Fam, for driving us and the silvanas.

Thank you, Miracle21 car rental, for lending us your baby Wigo for your Dumaguete City & Valencia tour. Thank you soooo much, Kuya Jesse, for all the help in getting around Siquijor and for ensuring our safety.

Hoping to come back to Dumaguete and explore more places in Siquijor soon!

-- The Beshies, MaiMai & JenJen

[islifearecipe]