All Roads Lead to Legazpi Albay (Wanderlust by Jay Ledesma)

As early as January this year, I already booked my Legazpi trip for the 50 th birthday celebration of our dear friend Raquel Co. I was excited not only to join Raquel’s dance party but also to revisit Legazpi after so many years. That’s why I was saddened by the possibility of our trip being cancelled when Mt Mayon started acting up days leading to our flight. Good thing, her activity did not escalate to an alarming level that we were able to proceed with our trip.

Our first encounter with Mayon happened just when we were to touch down Legazpi. Our pilot, Capt. Fitzwalter Ang (former AIA insurance agent), was kind enough to bring our planearound it so both sides of the plane got a view of the majestic Mayon. During daytime, you will
not suspect that it was acting up. Because aside from some light smoke it emits, Mayon stands
and looks beautiful, peaceful and calm.

 

It was the favorite and main backdrop of all our photos around the city. But nighttime is another story. Though it’s far from where we are staying in Legazpi City, still, seeing the red-colored flaming lava overflowing it, scared and gave us goosebumps. But one cannot see it every night. We chased it for 2 nights but failed because it was covered by thick clouds. But perhaps, just to say goodbye to us, minutes before we leave our hotel for our early morning flight, she briefly showed herself to us, only to hide again after our picture taking. It was really a different experience.

Before the much awaited Raquel’s birthday celebration, we had some time to do a city tour.
Our tour guide, Renz of Gets Travel, brought us to the Sumlang Lake, which is one of the newest
attractions in the city. What used to be a water-lily covered lake is now a crowd drawer,
offering several activities like kayaking, aqua biking and balsa tour. We saw some families
bonding through these activities when we were there. For the social media enthusiasts, the
place offers a picturesque sceneries perfect for Instagram and Facebook posts. You can never
miss Mt Mayon once you’re there! They also have a restaurant where we enjoyed some of the
popular local Bicolano cuisines like laing, pinangat and bicol express.

From there, we proceeded to the famous Cagsawa Ruins, the remnants of the 16 th century
Cagsawa church. According to historical records, it was built in 1587, burned down and
destroyed in 1636, rebuilt in 1724 only to be destroyed again during the Mayon eruption on Feb
1, 1814. On that fateful day, along with the town of Cagsawa, the church (except for its bell
tower and walls) was engulfed and submerged in lava. Aside from the ruins, there are now
other spots in the area good for photo ops. The place is also teeming with local teenagers
offering their “photo tricks” services. Using your own cameras or cellphones, they will take
your photos with all the camera tricks. Voila…a photo of you leaning against the bell tower or
carrying a rock, etc. They don’t charge a fee but you’re strongly encouraged to make a tip or
donation. While in the area, do not miss tasting their sili-flavored ice cream, which comes in different “anghang” intensity. We had level 1 which is for beginners or for the not spicy-loving
people like us. The locals will always have Level 5.

It was my first time to visit the Daraga Church or the Nuestra Senora dela Porteria Parish church, which was built in 1772. It is a fine example of Baroque architecture. The façade and its wall are made of volcanic rocks which are rich in the area. The church is situated atop a hill overlooking the sea and the grand Mayon.

 

It has been declared a National Cultural Treasure by the National Historical Institute (NHI), last 2007. The area is also teeming with volunteer photographers. Among those who approached us, I was impressed by the charming teenager named Giselle, who was selling local delicacies in the area. I love her bubbly personality and positive aura. In that brief encounter, she entertained me, inspired me and reminded me that it’s not what you have in life that matters but what you make out of what you have. Giselle
may have very little but she gave a lot of herself to making others happy.

We passed by and did a quick stop along the Legazpi Boulevard for that mandatory photo op at
the big Legazpi sign.

 

 

 

 

Highlight of our Legazpi trip was the denim-themed dance party of Raquel, held at the Pavilion
of Marison Hotel (the top-rated in the city). The celebrant’s families, relatives, and close
friends, most of whom flew in from Manila, were in attendance. Raquel was extra beautiful
and fashionable in her all white dress and denim outfit. Most of the guests came in their best
denim outfits, as well. The décor, food, music and program were great that one will think the
party is happening in Manila. It was definitely a night of festivity, fashion, family, friendship…and fun dancing! Cheers to the two beauties of Legazpi: Mayon and Raquel!! (Jay Ledesma)

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