CJ Faderogao

Let's face it, finding meaning in our globalized world is hard. So many perspectives and opportunities are open to us now that it's tempting to be a vagabond. Not only in matters of education but especially in choosing a profession.  In the past centuries, choosing a profession is generally not a complicated question. Young people just embark on their father's work. It made the best sense: if a career worked for one's father, then it should also be the task that their children should do.  While practically sound, we now understand that this is not that simple. There are other things that needs to be taken into consideration like personal strengths, values, passion, and one's preferred way of contributing to society. These are additional parameters that if fulfilled, I personally believe, will make for a more satisfying and stable occupation. As someone who is in search of balance between these parameters myself, I know firstha

Many of us have come to know the province of Ilocos through its historical and cultural side: From early education textbooks that introduced us to the Paoay church and the streets of Vigan; from history lessons that informed us how the Spaniards influenced Ilocanos' way of living-we are painted a picture of Ilocos as a region that is rich in heritage and cultural identity.  This side of Ilocos is still intact. And it gained even more prestige as the province became a political stronghold not only in North Luzon but in our whole country, as the Marcos family rose to prominence.   Ilocos is now a mixture of all these things, a united province that maintains integrity and character amidst our changing time.  In our 3rd and last day of exploring Ilocos, we will slow down from our nature adventures the day before, and walk perceptively through the lanes of history as we visit the region's historical and cultural markers. Continuing on from Suba, Our day will begin in the shores of P

The region of Ilocos has two sides: One embodies rich history and culture, as seen through its numerous museums, heritage sites, and historical churches. The other is a side that remains close with nature. A side that is preserved not only because of inherent beauty but also because of its opportunities to improve Filipino's living conditions using renewable energy. Our journey in the north continues as we explore this natural side of Ilocos. Rejuvenated from our long drive the day before, we are now set to get back on the road and experience the nature wonders of the north.  Our first destination is one not far from Blue Lagoon: the enchanting Bantay-Abot Cave. * * *  Bantay-Abot Cave is a rock formation on the shores of Balaoi, Ilocos Norte. It isn't really a cave per se; it is a holed hill that looks like a mass of rocks with an unusual hole in it's center. The hole simply ends up on the other side of the shore.  I won't be surprised if the locals have folklores abou