CJ Faderogao

This year, I spent Easter at  Barasoain church in Malolos, Bulacan. This historical marker has been on my travel list for a long time now but my recent travels up north doesn't permit a stop at Malolos. Now, with a weekend to spare-and an important Catholic occasion to observe-I found last week's Easter Sunday the opportune moment to finally visit it.  I spent the day appreciating Barasoain, not only as place of worship, but also as a witness to the historical events that happened within its walls over a century ago. Barasoain church's early history and architecture The Barasoain church, also called Our lady of Mount Carmel Parish,  was first built in the shores of Malolos river as a hermitage made of bamboo and nipa. It was  Bangkal's (the old name of Barasoain) town chapel. Over time, it was moved to its present location in  Paseo del congresso street  near downtown Malolos. It underwent many renovations because of fires and earthquakes; with its present ...

Marilaque, a popular, if not the most famous, destination for riders who reside in Metro Manila. Since its completion a decade ago-effectively connecting NCR with the province of Infanta-it has become a landmark for travelers, especially for those who go on two-wheels, who considers it both as a "playground" to test ride skills and a place to take a breather from the busy metro. This increased regard has allowed tourism to grow in the provinces that it covers, namely: Marikina, Rizal, Laguna, and Quezon. Numerous cafes, restaurants, and nature preserves has opened up within it in the last few years, allowing more people to discover the beauty of Sierra Madre It is not without blight however, as its winding roads have also seen shares of fatality because of reckless riders. Nevertheless, travelers still flock to this mountain path. The well-paved roads, the sparse traffic, and the beautiful views are enough for many to risk going into technical terrains just to see what lies w...