Destinations

Freshwater appreciation via Lake Pandin

Zest Magazine heads to Lake Pandin in San Pablo, Laguna.

Published

7 years ago

April 17, 2017

Yeah, whenever we think of going swimming, we almost always think of going to the beach. In the Philippines, this is not at all surprising, considering that we have – as Charlene Gonzales once (in)famously stated – 7,108 islands (during low tide), less one if it’s high tide. But not as emphasized (though definitely high time that we should) is the abundance of other bodies of water in the Philippines, aside from saltwater. I’d say that for every El Nido (in Palawan) is a Lake Agco (at the foot of Mt. Apo, the country’s highest peak)…

At least this was the very thought running through our heads when we raced to Lake Pandin, a body of water somewhat trapped somewhere in San Pablo in Laguna. Rustic comes to mind when here, with everything seemingly slowing down, as people (okay, tourists!) are paddled into the midst of the lake. And while there, everything becomes… poetic, particularly when the sun hits the waters, when just about everything turns green – mossy sans the reflection (as if something is lurking underneath) and then somewhat neon-ish when reflecting the sun’s rays (reminiscent of… Flubber, or merpeople, or the radioactive goo that turns mortal beings into superheroes/villains).

And with Lake Pandin, yes, there are (other, non-saltwater) bodies of water, indeed, that deserve to be discovered…

Lake Pandin is a somewhat “new” tourist destination that (get this) an all-woman organization started to tap after they realized it can help them make a living to help with the expenses in financing their families. In 2005, a total of 18 local women formed the Samahan ng mga Kababaihang Mangingisda at Bangkera sa Lawa ng Pandin because – as their prexy Cristina Abgrego said – “naisip naming maghanap ng kabuhayan para tulungan ang mga naghahanapbuhay sa mga bahay namin (we thought of finding a way to earn to help those who make a living for our homes).”

These women were, incidentally, already making some form of living catching fish from Lake Pandin, since most of them live in the area anyway. The formation of the association was, instead, a “leveling up” of that “making a living”, Abgrego said.

And so using the balsa (bamboo rafts) that they had, they started “touring” people into Lake Pandin.

The “tour” is simple:

When you reach the bank of Lake Pandin, there’s a waiting area where you do the transacting for the tour (e.g. pay the fees, choose the type of tour).
The bamboo rafts have bangkero/bangkera (man/woman who does the paddling) assigned to them.
After agreeing on the payment/actual payment of fees, you are then queued. It’s a “first come, first served” arrangement, so tourists who arrived early will board a balsa You don’t get to choose the bangkero/bangkera (normally); instead, you’d board the available balsa that’s there (and have its accompanying guide/s) when it’s your turn.
A “waiting period” happens when stuff need to be put onboard – e.g. food that you paid for.
The guides do not paddle; instead, they just pull a rope (tied from one end of the lake to the other), which then brings the bamboo raft into the lake. There are “stops” – e.g. where the swing is (at the opposite end of the lake, coming from the take-off point), in the middle of the lake (where you can do some swimming), and so on.
No swimming is allowed without a life vest. As per Abgrego, at least two tourists drowned in a different lake near Lake Pandin, so the local government told them (sounded to me like “threatened”) that their local effort will be forcibly closed if something like that happened there. There is, however, this awareness that it somehow seemed like a veiled threat that their effort to be sustainable – because it proved successful – will be taken from them so that the earnings will then go directly to the local government…
While in the lake, you can eat the stuff you paid for (part of the package); go swimming; sunbathe; fish; or… do nothing.
After two hours, the “tour” ends. You’d be taken back to the bank where it all started, and… so long/until next time.

The association now has 12 bamboo rafts – more than enough to tour the tourists who flock to the place particularly during summer; and more than enough to help support the now 22 members of the association.

And – by the way – they don’t just have all women members now; there is also a transman (there used to be two, but the other one moved overseas already), as well as four men (since they still consider the transman as “one of the girls”) who “do things women won’t do,” Abgrego said, “like replace the bamboos in the rafts.”

Truth be told, there’s not much in Lake Pandin (and so not much to do there).

That is, you don’t come here to – say – go swimming the entire day, picnic with the entire family (again for the entire day), or have water activities (e.g. wakeboarding or kiteboarding or whatever). The trip there will be very specific – i.e. go out in the water to swim for a few hours, grab some chow, then head back home. Now, if this isn’t your idea of “fun”, then Lake Pandin is obviously not for you.

But if the intention is to experience something largely undeveloped; to be in a still-rustic place; to be able to help (empower) a group of women who prove that adage that “if you teach a woman to fend for herself, she’d fend for her entire family”; to mingle with #KaraniwangTAO (and they even have a #KaraniwangLGBT, well-respected, as per the women we spoke with); or to be in a body of water that CAN charm, give Lake Pandin a chance to be experienced.

p.s.
We “lost” a rainbow flag in (the waters of) Lake Pandin. The wind blew so hard, one of Outrage Magazine’s rainbow flags fell in the water. No chance to retrieve it, so it’s there somewhere…
If you happen to find it, you may want to hand it over to the LGBT member of the association overseeing the tour (as Abgrego said: “We’re happy we have them here”). Else, give us a call/yell. Or… just enjoy how a rainbow is not part of the green waters of Lake Pandin…

Lake Pandin is located in San Pablo, Laguna. As soon as you reach San Pablo, there are tourist guides who will offer (for a minimal fee, of course) to bring you to the take-off area of Lake Pandin. At that take-off area is where the paying of the actual fees happen – usually from P350 per person per trip, or (if there aren’t many people) from P400 per person per trip. The payment often includes a meal (usually rice plus three kinds of viands, bananas, and bottled water).

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M.D. dela Cruz Tan

M.D. dela Cruz Tan is the founder of Zest Magazine. And no, the initials (i.e. M.D.) do not make him a "medical doctor" (as many have erroneously thought in the past); he is actually a graduate of Bachelor of Arts (Communication Studies) of the University of Newcastle in New South Wales Australia (just don't ask when, he says). He can: photograph, do artworks with mixed media, write (of course), shoot flicks, community-organize, facilitate, lecture, research (with pioneering studies under his belt)... this one's a multi-tasker, who is even conversant in Filipino Sign Language. Cross his path is the dare (read: It won't be boring).

Destinations

Singapore Airlines launches travel-themed afternoon tea experience

Available from 20 September to 20 November 2024, this culinary adventure offers guests1 a unique opportunity to savour global flavours inspired by destinations in SIA’s extensive network.

Published

2 weeks ago

September 19, 2024

ZestMag.com Staff

Singapore Airlines (SIA) announced the launch of “Singapore Airlines Cafe at the Writers Bar – Teatime Experience Around the World”, an exclusive travel-themed afternoon tea experience in partnership with Raffles Makati and Mastercard.

Available from 20 September to 20 November 2024, this culinary adventure offers guests¹ a unique opportunity to savour global flavours inspired by destinations in SIA’s extensive network. The carefully curated menu features delectable treats such as spicy roasted duck salad with homemade sambal sauce, foie gras parfait on brioche, Belgian hazelnut praline crunch, Australian lamingtons, and Manhattan-style blueberry cream cheese scones.

Liwei Tai, General Manager Philippines, Singapore Airlines, said: “Our carefully curated Singapore Airlines Cafe afternoon tea experience at the Writers Bar offers customers a glimpse into exciting flavours from around the world, and invites individuals to visit unique destinations in Singapore Airlines’ extensive network. We look forward to offering customers a world-class travel experience when they travel with us to embark on their next culinary adventure.”

Bernd Schneider, Cluster General Manager, Raffles and Fairmont Makati, said: “Each bite of this meticulously curated teatime set unfolds a narrative inspired by the rich tapestry of global flavours. Raffles Makati is thrilled to collaborate with a world-class brand like Singapore Airlines, creating a unique experience that celebrates culinary artistry and captures the spirit of exploration and adventure.”

Customers who purchased an SIA ticket with their Mastercard debit or credit card during the promotion period can enjoy 50% off the afternoon tea set (full price at PHP 3,200++) when they pay for their culinary experience with a Mastercard card. KrisFlyer members may also choose to redeem the afternoon tea experience for two with 7,500 KrisFlyer miles. New and existing KrisFlyer members who have not purchased an SIA ticket during the promotional period can also enjoy the experience at PHP 3,200++ using a Mastercard card. The afternoon tea experience will be available daily from 2.00pm to 5.30pm, between 20 September and 20 November 2024.

Simon Calasanz, Country Manager, Philippines, Mastercard, said: “Mastercard is excited to partner with Singapore Airlines and Raffles Makati to bring people closer to their culinary passion – and each other. At Mastercard, we know that shared experiences matter more than things. This specially curated afternoon tea experience will bring Mastercard cardholders – and their loved ones – on an exploration around the world through food, elevating their culinary experience and creating truly unforgettable memories for them.”

Additionally, every afternoon tea experience purchase or KrisFlyer Experiences redemption enters customers into an e-raffle for a chance to win attractive prizes such as deluxe overnight stays at Fairmont Makati, as well as the grand prize of a pair of round-trip Singapore Airlines business class tickets to Singapore with a luxurious two-night stay at Raffles Singapore.

Destinations

Pinoys’ top picks for weekend adventures

With the “ber-month” holidays on the horizon, Pinoys are setting their sights on short weekend, domestic getaways. These short trips provide a refreshing mix of relaxation and adventure without the pre-planning required for travel to faraway destinations.

Published

4 weeks ago

September 5, 2024

ZestMag.com Staff

Digital travel platform Agoda reveals the top five most searched destinations by Pinoys for a brief yet fulfilling weekend getaway or staycation. For those who are craving a quick escape but unable to commit to a longer vacation abroad, weekend breaks in the archipelago offer the perfect solution.

Agoda looked at searches made by Pinoy travelers for overnight stays between late August to September. Manila, the second most populous city of the Philippines, emerged as the top choice, followed by Cebu, Tagaytay, Boracay Island and Batangas respectively.

Mike Hwang, Country Director, Philippines at Agoda shared, “Weekend getaways or staycations are an excellent way to recharge without the need for extensive planning. The Philippines offers such a diverse landscape where travelers can enjoy the cityscape, the beach or even the mountains without needing to travel too far. Each location also offers unique experiences that cater to different interests.”

Here are Pinoy’s top destination choices for a weekend break:

Manila
Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines, offers a mix of iconic landmarks and modern attractions. Visitors can do anything from exploring Intramuros, the historic walled city, to enjoying a shopping spree at numerous malls. The city’s vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene make it an ideal spot for a quick urban escape.

Cebu
Known as the Queen City of the South, Cebu is famous for its beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage. Travelers can visit the iconic Magellan’s Cross, dive in the crystal-clear waters of Moalboal, or take a scenic drive to the highlands of Busay for a panoramic view of the city.

Tagaytay
Just a short drive from Manila, Tagaytay is a popular destination for its cool climate and stunning views of Taal Volcano. Here, visitors can enjoy a leisurely day at Picnic Grove, savor local delicacies at Mahogany Market, or simply relax in one of the many cozy cafes overlooking lake Taal.

Boracay Island
Boracay Island remains a top choice for those seeking sun, sand, and sea. With its powdery white sand beaches and vibrant nightlife, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Activities such as kite surfing, island hopping, and sunset sailing are just a few of the many attractions travelers can enjoy here.

Batangas
Batangas is a favorite for its accessibility and diverse attractions. From the pristine beaches of Laiya to the diving spots in Anilao, Batangas caters to both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind. The province is also home to historical sites like the Taal Heritage Town, making it a well-rounded destination. Agoda’s extensive offerings include over 4.5 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in the same booking. This makes planning a weekend getaway easier and more convenient.

Travel

70% of Filipino travelers can’t get enough of their favorite spot: Agoda

Agoda surveyed travelers who just booked a new trip to their favorite destination. The largest group of respondents from the Philippines 54% cited adventure as the main purpose for their upcoming trip. 44% are traveling for food, while 25% declared celebrations to be their main travel purpose.

Published

1 month ago

August 30, 2024

ZestMag.com Staff

It turns out that one trip to Japan just isn’t enough for most of us. Agoda’s latest Return Visitor Ranking reveals that 70% of Filipino travelers return to their favorite destinations. The ranking, which was compiled from a survey conducted on the Agoda platform earlier this month, shows Japan, Thailand, and South Korea are leading the pack as the ultimate hotspots for returning visitors, followed by Taiwan and Hong Kong.

55% of travelers have visited their favorite destination between 1 to 3 times in the past decade, making up the largest chunk of repeat visitors. 10% of travelers have even visited their favorite destination ten times or more.

Mike Hwang, Country Director for the Philippines at Agoda shared, “Where some make it a habit to globetrot, others find pleasure in revisiting their favorite destinations. Agoda’s Return Visitor Ranking shows that for Filipino travelers, Japan, Thailand, and South Korea are more than just destinations, they are experiences that travelers crave to relive. Agoda is proud to facilitate these journeys, offering a diverse range of accommodations, flights, and activities to make any trip enjoyable, no matter if it’s the first or the tenth.”

When asked what makes Japan, Thailand, and South Korea so irresistible, half of Filipino respondents chose “Ease of Travel” at 50% as the primary reason. “Local Cuisine” at 47% was a close second, followed by “Convenient location” at 34%, “Safety and Cleanliness” at 33%, and “Previous Positive Experience” at 30% to round out the top five.

Looking at the survey data from an Asia-wide perspective, Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam are the destinations that Asian travelers can’t get enough of, respectively 44% of Asian travelers listed “Ease of Travel” as the main reason for going back to their favorite destination.

Interestingly, this aligns with the preferences of Filipino travelers, who also prioritize ease of travel and local cuisine.

Agoda offers travelers great deals on a wide range of accommodations, flights, and activities for everyone looking to revisit their favorite destinations. Whether it’s the first visit or the tenth, Agoda’s easy-to-use features helps travelers plan and book the next adventure with ease.