BATAD, BANAUE, IFUGAO | A Narrative of Plot and Subplots in Aha-Timeline

PROLOGUE |

I was never good in math but I have always been interested in learning history.

I am fascinated by the analytical formation of each theory based on different genus: personal, ideology, science or mere experience. The scriptures describing the fall of a certain empire or how an entire race triumphed over alien conquerors must have been made – imagined and witnessed or both - by geniuses. So, I wandered into wondering along the northeastern edge on the map, to learn and unlearn things: old and new ones, too.

Due to consistent urbanization of Banaue, it did not meet the criteria to be included in the listings of UNESCO Heritage Sites, but its neighboring town, Batad, has long sought to preserve and conserve the magnificent landscape.

Batad, 12 hours away from kilometer zero, is highly popular for its spectacular topography: natural and man-made. Waterfalls,  Rice terraces and aboriginal cribs pleated on forested mountains bring resolve on how the indigenous Ifugao ancestors had protected the land and their tribe. 

Communing with the mountains of Batad is like reading a book. The content on each chapter presents special tones, theme and mood - what are your choices? You read it from preface to conclusion or you don't read it at all.

It is my quest to abridge the gaps of what is illustrated in books versus the imageries painted in my imagination.

I am excited.

BANAUE, IFUGAO | Patikim ng Banaue

The first morning of my 2015 is like getting a present from an old buddy. It’s nothing luxurious nor it is close to being grand. Yet, you know, it’s special. Just plain special. My PJ’s still feeling damp from the cuddly weather last night and a hearty breakfast awaits me on the verandah with Mama Nature as my back drop.