I was in the Philippines for two weeks. I took the opportunity of spending the chinese new year holiday back home, and by availing the remaining 5 days vacation leave for the year, and applied 3 days of no pay leave, it sum up to 14 days of extended vacation. Most of the days were spent supervising my unscheduled house renovation. The simple plan of just adding two rooms turned into a major house renovation in which I am afraid its completion will took sometime. So my planned Caramoan Islands trip again did not push through, and just hope it will be a reality on my next vacation, third attempt. I'll make sure.
But I was able to finally explore the Corregidor Island. Before going home to my hometown, I stayed two nights in Manila for the tour to Corregidor Island. Known as the Island Fortress, Corregidor Island is about 48 kilometers west of Manila turned into a memorial of the courageous Filipino and American soldiers who bravely held their ground against the invading Japanese forces during the second world war.
While still in Manila , I chanced upon the Sto. Nino Festival along the Manila Baywalk. More than hundred of floats bearing Sto Nino images were being paraded along Roxas Boulevard. The floats were accompanied by bands, streets dancers, and devotees. Those who come to witnessed the festival also bring their own images and lined along the parade route. It was a joyous event and at the same time an opportunity to appreciate the religiosity of the Filipinos.
