HYBRID PROJECT - A Taste of Modern Filipino Cuisine in the Heart of Imus, Cavite

Being the flag capital of the Philippines, Imus City, Cavite is becoming one of the vibrant cities to explore in the province of Cavite. Aside from from the historical value of this town, the culinary experience is something you must explore in Imus City. 

Located in Tirona St very close to the Imus Plaza, one restaurant that is making itself known for its food is the Hybrid Project. 

From the outside, the restaurant seems like an ordinary vintage house.  Since we had an event at Imus Complex and still had time to spare, we decided to try HYBRID PROJECT for lunch. 

Aside from modern Filipino cuisine, Hybrid is also a favorite hangout place, especially in the evenings. Wines, spirits, and beers are also available. 

I love coffee and I must say the one at Hybrid was awesome! As a coffee lover, I love it in big servings and when you order an Americano Coffee  for Php 60.00, you will be served a big cup of coffee. I was shocked how big it was but I loved it a lot! 

The ambiance inside was really quaint. The interior was simple, homey, and very Filipino with some modern touches. 

Ok time to order! For our starters we had Chicken Wings -  Php 160.00 . They have two flavors available for the wings so I decided to have them mix both flavors and it was perfect. This is a great way to start your meal at Hyrid. The wings were crisp, meaty, and the sauce was delicious!

Tower Burger Php 205.00 - This is one of their best sellers. Enjoy a double home made beef patties that was so tasty and well seasoned. The black burger buns that are so soft and very moist also adds to the aesthetic look of the burger. Chips are also available on the side. 

Sisig Rendang Php 175.00 - A beef dish that is cooked for hours and and infused with Hybrid Sisig Indonesian sauces. 

Over-all, we were very impressed with Hybrid Project and I am so pleased that restaurants 

like this are springing up around the very historical City of Imus. So if you are going to visit Imus City, might as well try our food here and start your palate adventure with some delicious modern Filipino cuisine, THE HYBRID PROJECT! 

Phone Number: 

(046) 454 4603

Address:

 118 Maestro G. Tirona St. Imus, Cavite

AGZAM RESORT AND SPA : A Beautiful Garden Resort and Spa to Stay in Kalibo, Aklan

When we think of Kalibo, Aklan, we are always reminded of Boracay which is one of the world's best beach and also the famous festival which is Ati-Atihan Festival always held in January.  But Kalibo has so much more to offer and that's what I came in to explore. 

And during my stay in Kalibo, one resort really stood out for me and that is Agzam Resort and Spa. The resort is located Liberato Rd which is around 6 km from the city of Kalibo.  Agzam Resort is also one of the closest to the Kalibo International Airport. 

As you enter the resort, you will already get a feel of the vibrant culture that  is conveyed by the decor all over the resort such as the decor found in the reception area. 

In every resort I go to, the swimming pool is a must, especially if a beach is not available. At Agzam Resort and Spa, it has an amazing Olympic size swimming pool that was just so inviting that I couldn't wait to take a plunge.

Having 6 swimming lanes, this is a haven for avid swimmers like me. You also see some students who come either in the morning or in the afternoon for their training. The pool is 4 feet in depth at both ends and 5 feet deep in the middle. 

If you are a big group, you must try Pugad Lawin Hut on the top right facing the swimming pool. 

Guests can avail of the tables and bamboo huts for rent . Their style of cottages is one of my favorite features of the resort. I remember just hanging out in one of huts just chilling while listening to some cool house music. A sign of a traveler having a relaxing time! 

When you are inside Agzam Resort and Spa, you will notice the beautiful garden landscape that is so well-maintained and creates a relaxing ambiance.

If you are planning to stay overnight, Agzam Resort and Spa has 12 rooms to choose from. Since I was travelling alone, I availed of the Standard Room which is so spacious. I even have my own kitchen in the room. The bed was very comfortable, the air-con works perfectly and the water pressure was great! I did get a nice sleep! 

Another thing that you must explore at Agzam Resort and Spa is the dish that they are very famous for and that is the Binakol. I haven't tasted it before but I was so eager because when my friends found out I was visiting Kalibo, they told me that I had to try it. So I went straight to the dining area and immediately ordered much awaited Binakol!

A dish so famous in Aklan, Binakol is a chicken soup dish that is cooked in coconut juice and also cooked in the coconut fruit. I couldn't wait to give it a try. 

If I will be asked what I think of Binakol? DELICIOUS! I love the taste of the coconut juice and chicken together. Combination beautifully blended and to my surprise I finished all of it! It's that delicious! 

Another must try at Agzam is their Pork Sisig. Yum yum!!!!

Everybody wants to be pampered and here at Agzam, you can visit KAMA-LOKA SPA and avail of their signature massages. The price range of the massage is from  Php 350.00 to Php 1000.00. Complimentary house tea is also available for the guests.  What a way to end off your holiday in Kalibo!

My stay at Agzam Resort and Spa really made my visit to Kalibo something to remember. The staff were very friendly and hospitable, the food was amazing, the resort and their accommodation was very clean and well maintained. Just what I was expecting my stay in Kalibo would be! 

RATES

Entrance Fees:

Day Time (6:00 am - 6:00 pm) - Php 70.00

Night Time (6:00 pm - 12:00 mn ) - Php 100.00

Poolside Bamboo Benches: 

Bamboo Huts - Free with Php 500.00 consumable of food and

 drinks (4 Hrs of Use) - POOL FEE EXCLUDED

Bamboo Benches - Free with Php 250.00 consumable of food and

 drinks (4 Hrs of Use) - POOL FEE EXCLUDED

Pugad Lawin Hut - Free with Php 1000.00 consumable of food and

 drinks  - POOL FEE EXCLUDED

Address: 

Liberato Rd. Linabuan Norte, City Proper, Kalibo, Philippines, 5600 agoda

Phone Numbers: 

+639335128878

+63362624240

Exploring LA VISTA BALANGA INLAND RESORT in Balanga, Bataan

So many of us complain about the heat specially during summer, but this also gives us an opportunity to go out and explore places where you can beat that heat and relax. 

If you are in Bataan or planning to explore this province, consider spending time here at LA VISTA BALANGA INLAND RESORT.  During our visit to Bataan for the 75th Araw ng Kagitingan celebration, we had the opportunity to stay in the resort for a couple of days. 

La Vista Balanga is very easy to locate. Always remember that this resort is right across from the new mall in Balanga, VISTA MALL .

Below are the rates and Fees for day and night swimming. They also have a lot of cottages that can accommodate small or large groups. 

PACIFIC GEARS Full Face Mask - Making Snorkeling More Fun!

Philippine's marine life without a doubt is definitely one of the best in the world. Every time I go to the beach, one activity that I always want included on the itinerary is snorkeling. 

I bought a snorkel and mask few years ago which I always bring with me when I travel. But recently, I came across this Pacific Gear Full Face Snorkeling Mask and decided to give it a try.

During my beach travels, I've seen quite a few snorkelers with a full face masks and I really wondered what it was like to be wearing one. 

HAKUPAN ISLAND - Another Beach Getaway Destination in STA CRUZ, MARINDUQUE

During my stay at Sta Cruz, Marinduque, we really wanted to make the most of our holidays. I was told that there is one island not far from the town of Sta Cruz that is becoming popular amongst tourists and that is the HAKUPAN ISLAND. 

So with the collaboration of the Tourism Office and the Municipality of Sta Cruz, Marinduque, we immediately left for BARANGAY BOTILAO. A very quiet barangay and also the jump off site going to Hakupan Island.

Driving down to Barangay Batulao was quite a picturesque experience because of the small beautiful islands that can be seen on the horizon. 

Exploring LAS CASAS FILIPINAS DE ACUZAR in Bagac, Bataan

Aside from the beautiful beaches and other historical places in Bataan, there is one place in Bagac, Bataan that has really interested me and I have been wanting to go for a visit. Luckily, I had some visitors who arrived from overseas and I told them with no hesitation that I would like to take them to LAS CASAS FILIPINAS DE ACUZAR. 

3 Most Recommended and Affordable Places to Eat in Bataan

Aside from the historical places you will find in the Province of Bataan, this province is also rich in culinary delights that are only found here! During our recent trip in Bataan where we attended the 7th Araw ng Kagitingan, they took us to the most recommended places to eat around Bataan. Aside from all being delicious, they were also very affordable. 

. 

1. IMA FLORA'S PAMANGAN RESTAURANT - Pilar, Bataan

Address: Gov. J.J. Linao AlaUli, Pilar, Bataan

Phone Number: 0998 564 0275

Open: 7:00 am - 10:00 pm

If you are looking for a  great place to eat lunch, head to Pilar! This restaurant is one of the most visited restaurants in the area. If you love home cooked meals then this is the place to go. Right after attending the Araw ng Kagitingan at Mt. Samat, this was the place where they took us for lunch. 

75th Araw ng Kagitingan - A Salute to the Bravery of Our Filipino World War II Veterans

World War 2 had a great impact on the Philippines. Millions of Filipinos sacrificed their lives for the future of our nation. One event during the World War 2 that many of us won't forget was the Bataan Death March where thousands of Filipino and American soldiers died during the march, 

To pay tribute to the Filipinos who fought in Bataan in defense of freedom and democracy in addition to the bravery and heroism  of our World War 2 veterans, they declared April 9 as a Day of Valor or Araw ng Kagitingan which the people of Bataan consider as Bataan Day. 

In celebration of the 75th Araw ng Kagitingan held at Mt. Samat in Pilar Bataan, we were invited to attend the event where President Rodrigo Duterte would be giving a speech.

We arrived as early as 7:00 am at Mt. Samat National Shrine. So many people were very excited for this event and they also couldn't wait to see the President. I was one of them. 

      

Security was very tight in the area. Each invited guests went through a very thorough check. 

When we arrived at the venue, I met up with some the Filipino World War 2 veterans. These are the people I consider as my true heroes. I also got a little emotional to see them because they reminded me of my Grandfather who is also a war veteran. These are the people who fought for the future of the Philippines. Listening to their stories was both sad and overwhelming specially when they tell stories about the war and their friends who didn't make it during the Bataan Death March. 

The patriotism and the story of bravery and heroism of our war veterans will definitely be passed on to our youth. 

When the Philippine President arrived, He first went to Dambana ng Kagitingan for the wreath laying before he went to the stage for the program celebration. 

Prior to the arrival of the President of the Philippines, they called in a Filipino War Veteran and he clearly described what really happened during the Fall of Bataan, which lead to the Bataan Death March. I was horrified while listening to the story but then again our war veterans didn't give up and fought all the way to the end and that for me was very inspiring. 

Hand salute and with hands on the chest as we all sang with pride the Philippine National Anthem. 

Finally, I saw the President of the Philippines, Mr. Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

Was the President of the Philippines staring at me? 

Governor Albert S. Garcia, was the first one who welcomed everyone to the celebration. 

Though history and events during the World War 2 still live on, countries that used to be enemies are now allies, friends, and are solid trading partners.   

During the celebration the Ambassador of Japan, H. E. Kazuhide also gave his warm message to the people. He then apologized to the Filipino people for the events that occurred during World War 2 and bowed in front of us all which I found very humbling. 

Next to give his message was the Charge d' Affaires of United States of American to the Philippines, Mr. Michael S. Clecheski . 

Photo, Essay, and Oratorical contest winners from different schools around the Philippines where also recognized at this event by President Duterte and Secretary Briones of the Department of Education. 

Commemorative stamps where also presented to the President by Postmaster General Joel L. Otaraa . 

After all the awarding and other presentations, the President of the Philippines Rodrigo Roa Duterte was now called on stage to give his speech. 

Compared to his previous speeches, as we all know, he loved impromptu speeches, this time he was very straight forward and also diplomatic in his speech. Our President also praised our war veterans for their heroism during the World War 2. To end his speech, he mentioned some amendments that he made for the benefit of our War Veterans which pleased many people. 

Right after the speech of President Rodrigo Duterte the Exit of Colors followed and that gave us the opportunity to visit the Dambana ng Kigitingan where the President offered flowers to the brave soldiers who died during World War 2. 

After attending this event, I came to realize that this is not just an ordinary non-working holiday for me. Araw Ng Kagitingan is more than that, especially if you are at a place where a big piece of  Philippine history took place like BATAAN. 

This event is not about remembering the Fall of Bataan and Fall of Corregidor, but to celebrate the bravery of the Filipino people who fought for our freedom and democracy during World War 2.

I would like to thank the Bataan Tourism Office for the opportunity to witness this event along with other travel bloggers and social media influencers. If there is one Province that is serious about promoting their tourism, the Province of Bataan is leading the way!