Another BLESSED Journey to KAMAY NI HESUS SHRINE and sidetrip to AIR SUMMIT GOURMET

It is my "PERSONAL COVENANT" to visit "KAMAY NI HESUS" SHRINE as a form of THANKSGIVING and to ask for GUIDANCE whenever I will be traveling for a MISSION, designated to a new POSITION or whenever there is a need to recharge my being as I continue with my JOURNEY in LIFE...

Traveling to the SHRINE, popularly known as "GROTTO" for the locals, is a refreshing one. Lush greens and fresh air along the way make the trip enjoyable and exciting.

This particular JOURNEY is actually my THANKSGIVING for my remarkable journey in China for 10 months. This is also purposely to ask for the ALMIGHTY's GUIDANCE since I was newly designated  to another "challenging" position just this Friday (September 23). As the new Chief of the Personnel Office of the AFP Command and General Staff College (AFPCGSC), it is another new for me. Although I already occupied several positions and had been assigned to numerous offices related to personnel management, this is another new since AFPCGSC is my first unit assignment outside the Philippine Air Force. This time, I will be in-charge of  managing personnel from the different Major Services, not just the Air Force, who are assigned at the highest military learning institution, the AFPCGSC. Indeed a herculean task to fulfill.

May God Bless my Journey so that I can successfully fulfill and accomplish the duties and responsibilities embedded in this significant and sensitive designation.

To provide some information about the Shrine:

MASS SCHEDULE

The KAMAY NI HESUS SHRINE is opened daily from 6am to 6pm to the public for FREE. 

There are daily Mass Services. 
For Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday is 9am

Healing Mass is being conducted every Wednesday and Saturday at 9:30am

During Sundays, there are 4 Mass Services at 7:30am, 9am, 10:30am, and 11:30am.

The shrine is founded by Rev. father Joseph 'Joey' Ayala Faller. The construction of the Shrine started on December 8, 2003 and was completed the following year.

The climb is both exciting and challenging with 287 steps upward the hill. The shrine is usually crowded during weekends and holidays especially during Sundays.

The 14 Stations of the Cross are situated along the way of the climb making the journey a blessed one. Perfect venue to PRAY and REFLECT. 

The captivating overlooking views are good for picture taking.

After about 300 steps, I finally reached the top of the hill. It was a triumphant feeling just like reaching the top of the world. The view of the 50-foot image of Jesus Christ was a joy to behold as a reward after the 20 to 30 minutes climb.

 Devotees praying at the foot of the image. A remarkable moment to witness.

Printed prayer is posted beside the statue as a guide for the visiting devotees. Aside from the scripted prayer, I crafted my own personal prayers from the heart thanking the Lord for the continuous blessings and asking for Lord's guidance for the next chapter of my journey.

After praying and honoring the Almighty, Enjoying the view from above, and short rest, it is time to go down the hill. 

After hurdling the slightly challenging climb, it is time to light colored candles and pray for noble intentions.

This was the first time that I noticed that there are pinned written prayers on the wall along the way out.

Noah's Ark House of Prayer is also within the compound.

There is also a playground for children that makes the compound a complete family destination during weekends and holidays.

"Feed the KOI" is another activity that can be done inside the compound near the Noah's Ark.

Many people are enjoying while feeding and watching the "KOI"

Enjoying "selfie" with the KOI.

There are numerous food shops inside the compound offering local delicacies and many other Filipino dishes.

Souvenir shops are also available selling various items.

From small to big items, there are wide variety to choose from.

From something for display to something that you can use, there is something that can you bring home as remembrance from the GROTTO.

"Pancit Habhab" for 15 pesos per serving is available to satisfy your hunger and also a rare chance to try the popular merienda in Quezon Province.

There are many other local food items that can be bought inside and also outside the compound.

The ideal duration to stay inside the KAMAY NI HESUS SHRINE is 2 to 3 hours including the mass for about an hour, the climb for about 45 minutes, buying some souvenirs, and the remaining time to explore the whole compound.

After the noble journey at the KAMAY NI HESUS SHRINE, I headed to a new RESTAURANT nearby. The "AIR SUMMIT GOURMET' actually started its operations early this year but I only learned its existence a few months ago. It is the FIRST AND ONLY AIRPLANE RESTAURANT in the PHILIPPINES. 

A new experience and different ambiance that require extra cost. A set meal costs about 500 to 800 pesos per person. A set meal for 4 persons costs about 2,500 pesos. 

It is about 10 to 15 minutes travel time from KAMAY NI HESUS SHRINE. The restaurant is located at the old KAMAYAN SA PALAISDAAN floating restaurant in TAYABAS CITY. 

How to reach KAMAY NI HESUS SHRINE?

For Private Vehicle: Drive towards South Luzon Express (SLEX), then exit at CALAMBA City (Turbina), upon reaching crossing, turn right then head towards STA. CRUZ, then to LUCBAN.

For Commuters: 

1. Ride a bus bound for LUCENA CITY.  JAC, JAM, DLTB Liners are Lucena-bound buses with terminals in Cubao and along Taft Ave.

(About 3 to 4 hours travel for about 200 pesos fare)

2.Get off at DIVERSION ROAD, LUCENA CITY.

3. Beside the JOLLIBEE is a JEEPNEY bound for LUCBAN, just tell the driver that you are going to "GROTTO". 

(About 35 to 45 minutes travel time for 30 pesos fare)

P.S. The WHOLE COMPOUND of the KAMAY NI HESUS SHRINE is a STRICTLY NO SMOKING AREA!

I am looking forward for another BLESSED JOURNEY to KAMAY NI HESUS.

REFLECTION: Eight Published Poem of an Aspiring Writer

This is my 8th published poem in the pages of "THE CORPS" Magazine and the 4th in 1995... 

EPHEMERAL: Seventh Published Poem of an Aspiring Writer

This is my seventh POEM published in the pages of "THE CORPS" Magazine and the 3rd in 1995...

AN OUTCRY: Sixth Published Poem of an Aspiring Writer

This is my 6th published poem in the pages of "THE CORPS" Magazine and the second in the year of 1995...

AWAKENING: Fifth Published Poem of an Aspiring Writer

This is my fifth published poem in the pages of "THE CORPS" Magazine and my first in the year of 1995.

PARADIGM: Fourth Published Poem of an Aspiring Writer

This is my fourth published poem in the pages of "THE CORPS" Magazine in 1994...

REVELATION: Third Published Poem of an Aspiring Writer

This is the third published poem in the pages of "THE CORPS" Magazine.

INSPIRATION: Second Published Poem of an Aspiring Writer

This is my second published poem in the pages of "THE CORPS"Magazine. 

It was the time when relationships were painstakingly developed through "PEN PALS" and "LETTER WRITING".  It was the time when LONG DISTANCE RELATIONSHIP entails gargantuan sacrifices and considerable cost.

Unlike today, "FACEBOOK", "TWITTER", "INSTAGRAM" and other social media applications make relationships so much easier to start and develop.....but sad to say also easier to end...

How Nostalgic is my Homecoming Journey to Philippine Military Academy and Baguio City in 2016?

The Philippine Military Academy (PMA) and Baguio City are iconic landmarks and popular destinations in the Philippines.

PMA, considered the "Country's Premier Military Institution", is mandated to transform cadets ("the cream of the crop") to become excellent military officers 

in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and future leaders of the country. 

Baguio City is "THE SUMMER CAPITAL" of the PHILIPPINES because of its relatively low temperature (ranges from 15 to 23 degrees Centigrade but can drop to 8) significantly due to its high elevation (about 5,000 feet above sea level). 

Baguio was derived from the Ibaloi word "BAGIW" for "MOSS" because of the abundance of mossy plants in the area. Baguio City is a highly urbanized city, the center of business and education in Northern Luzon and the regional center of the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). It has a total land area of 57.51 square kilometers and a population of about 346,000 people.  

Together with two female PMA Cadets at one of the most important structures in Fort Del Pilar, the Melchor Hall

Notable events in PMA History

*PMA traces its roots as ACADEMIA MILITAR in Malolos, Bulacan by virtue of decree issued by the first President of the Philippine Republic, General Emilio Aguinaldo on October 25, 1898.   

*On February 17, 1905, the Officer's School of the Philippine Constabulary was established in Intramuros, Manila.

*On September 8, 1926, the school was renamed to "Philippine Constabulary Academy" by virtue of Republic Act 3496. 

*On December 21, 1936, Commonwealth Act No. 1 or the National Defense Act was passed establishing the "PHILIPPINE MILITARY ACADEMY" 

In 1993, female cadets were accepted at PMA by virtue of Republic Act 7192. The first batch of female cadets graduated in 1997. In the same year, PMA was transformed into "TRI-SERVICE" ACADEMY wherein cadets undergo training and take subjects during the last two years in PMA based on the branch of service they will be joining after graduation. They can select among the three services in the AFP (Philippine Army, Philippine Navy, or Philippine Air Force).

To know about PMA cadet admission qualifications, requirements, and other details, kindly read PMA Entrance Examinations 2016

My JOURNEY at PMA in 2016

After 7 long years of my last visit, I was able to come again to my Alma Mater. Coincidentally, this year, we commemorate our 20 years after graduating from PMA and 20 years of service in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) as military officers. For others who opt to resign and retire from the military service, they are also serving our country in other capacities in various government agencies and private companies.

It is always a welcome opportunity to be able to perform official duty and to be able to travel back to my Alma Mater despite the hectic schedules.

A wonderful journey down memory lane.

Our billeting area at the Navy Base, Baguio City.
Thanks to our gracious host, the Department Head of the Department of Air Warfare.

          The Philippine Military Academy has metamorphosed into wonderful tourist destination. But most significantly, it has transformed into a holistic military training institution as perfect breeding ground of leadership skills, managerial acumen, and sterling character not only for the future leaders of our Armed Forces but for the Philippines as a whole. PMA Graduates do not only become top leaders of the AFP, but many graduates become lawmakers, LGU leaders, Ambassadors, Cabinet Secretaries, Heads of various Government agencies and other important designations in different government offices, big companies, corporations and private entities.

At the LOPEZ HALL at PMA. "Bravo Bulls" is my company when I was a Plebe while "Foxtrot Cools" is my company from Yearling Year until PMA Graduation.

         The unexpected homecoming to my Alma Mater this year was made possible by the testimonial parade in honor of 8 retiring Generals as "Outstanding PMA Alumni" for reaching the STAR Rank (Brigadier General, Major General, Lieutenant General, and General). Two of the honorees are the top 2 leaders of my current unit Assignment. We were invited to witness the said remarkable honors. The night before the said testimonial event was the Quarterly Socials. Some of us were welcomed as Newly Assigned Personnel to the College. My assignment was primarily because of my recent Foreign Schooling. 

The PMA Cadets while preparing to render arrival honors to the outstanding PMA alumni

       The testimonial honors include the Arrival Honors rendered by the CCAFP in front of the PMA Sundial, the Parade and the Awarding Ceremony at the Borromeo Field, and lunch at the Yap Hall (Cadet Mess Hall). Family members and friends of the honorees were also invited during the testimonial honors.

The PMA Cadets while having the
SATURDAY RANKS INSPECTION

It was a nostalgic feeling witnessing the Arrivals Honors along Quezon Avenue and the Parade and Review at the Borromeo Field. With my height of 5'11", I was always included as member of the Arrival Honors contingent when I was still a cadet about 20 years ago. 

The Battalion Commander and Staff while waiting for the 
Ranks Inspection to be completed.

We are also lucky because of the inclusion of the "OPEN HOUSE" in the schedule of activities at the newly-constructed PMA Cadet Barracks. OPEN HOUSE allows PMA visitors to enter cadet barracks and interact with PMA cadets. It is another welcome opportunity for us, the ALUMNI, to be able to reminisce our MEMORABLE days inside the PMA Cadet Barracks for 4 years where we did not only stay, sleep, and study, but most importantly where we were transformed into capable Military Officers and responsible individuals. We also shared absolutely unforgettable moments with "MISTAH" (PMA Classmate). It is also where we learned valuable lessons not only about leadership but also life lessons from our Superiors (Upperclassmen) and where we harnessed our leadership skills by leading and as mentors to our Subordinates (Underclassmen).

OPEN HOUSE is also a rare chance for civilians to have a glimpse of what a PMA cadet room looks like and an idea on how training at PMA is being conducted.

The "REGIS HALL", one of the PMA Cadet Barracks.
Where I consumed half of  my"Life as a Cadet" from Second Class Year (3rd Year) and First Class Year (4th Year)

The "BORROMEO FIELD" where PMA cadets render parades to visitors regularly especially during Saturdays."Silent Drill" Exhibitions are also held in special occasions and celebrations. 

The newly-renovated "YAP HALL" or the Cadet Mess Hall where the cadets dine and learn social graces, standrad table etiquette, and most importantly "military discipline".  

A very short side trip to other tourist destinations and important landmarks in Baguio City completed the worthwhile homecoming. We strolled for about an hour at the famous "BURNHAM PARK". We were also able to visit the SM CITY BAGUIO which has an overlooking alluring view of almost the entire city proper. 

What was probably lacking in this particular travel is my visit to my FOSTER FAMILY. Their HOME at La Trinidad, Benguet, just beside another Tourist Destination, THE BELL CHURCH, became my "HOME AWAY FROM HOME" during my whole stay in the Academy especially during weekend privileges. They treated me as real family member until today. I just do hope that I can have ample time during my next journey to Baguio City to also have a "homecoming" to my "family" in the Summer Capital. 

Thank you Papa Roy, Mama Grace, and Toto for providing me a "home away from home" in Baguio City.

The Burnham Park, located at the City Center of Baguio

The SM CITY Baguio

The captivating overlooking view from the topmost floor of the SM City Baguio

The PMA is expected to continue to evolve to become an iconic tourist spot not only in Baguio City, but in the whole Philippines and more significantly as venue of transforming carefree youth into responsible leaders of our country.

The PMA motto of "COURAGE, INTEGRITY, and LOYALTY" will remain as the solid foundation in transforming the cadets into responsible, effective, and ethical LEADERS of our NATION.

Looking forward for my NEXT homecoming to my HOME for 4 remarkable years in the early 1990's. One of the most memorable and significant chapters in my INSPIRING JOURNEY in LIFE.

How to reach PMA and Baguio City?

Baguio City is about 244 kilometers north of Manila (the capital of the Philippines). For public transport, there are numerous buses regularly traveling to Baguio City. The most popular is "VICTORY LINER" which has bus terminals in Pasay City, Quezon City (near Cubao and Kamias), and Caloocan City (Monumento). The travel time is about 6 to 7 hours depending on the traffic.

PMA is situated about 10 kilometers away from the Baguio City center. There are jeepney routes that will take you inside PMA until the parking area near Melchor Hall. Taxi is the most convenient way to reach PMA using public transportation. It covers an area of sprawling 373 hectares housing Cadet barracks, buildings for Administration, classrooms, and support functions, and other training facilities responsive for conducting comprehensive and holistic training.

The PMA, including the Melchor Hall, played a very significant role in who I am and what I am today