TravelswithCharie

Komunidad, 2026* Perhaps no other artist in Capiz has dedicated as much of his craft to the local coastal community as has Jonard Villarde. As a preschooler, he was curious about paints which developed into dabbling with wall drawings, notebook scketches and poster making for school competitions. This interest in art continued through high school where he explored other mediums and handicrafts as part of school projects in technology and livelihood economics. When he entered Capiz State University, he decided to pursue a degree in Secondary Education with a major in Architectural Drafting. Today, he teaches art and industrial education as a public school teacher. Villarde is not only an educator. He is also a multidisciplinary artist and nature enthusiast.  His works cover a range of mediums including murals, sculpture, drawings and  paintings on various surfaces including canvas, wood and paper. Villarde has previously exhibited his works at Viva ExCon 2018, Panagbo: Encounte...

La Casita Resort, Pawa I recently spent a few months in Capiz and found these lovely places which have one thing in common: ambiance. Whether its the style, the light, the cozy vibe, or the relaxed mood, these places offer a je ne sais quoi  charm that will make you smile. If you’re looking to disconnect from the humdrum of daily life or to get away from the incessant noise of modern day living, look no farther than La Casita in Pawa. Less than an hour from Roxas City yet miles away from the madding crowd, you’ll find peace and relaxation by the sea. With its enchanting thatched roof cottages and Hobbit style circular doors, you’re immediately transported to a different world. They also have tents if you prefer glamping on the seashore. Check out this link for more information about La Casita:  https://www.lacasitabeachresort.com/# La Casita Restaurant and Bar This temple of bamboo definitely gives tropical vibes as well as views of the casitas and koi pond. The restaurant ser...

  Parol from Pan-ay One of the most endearing Christmas holiday traditions in the Philippines is the hanging of star shaped lanterns in homes, public buildings, streets and markets. It’s always a welcome sight. Some lanterns are made of bamboo and paper while others are made of Capiz shells with metal frames. During the Spanish colonial era, lanterns or “farol” (lantern) were lighted with candles as Filipinos walked to church during the wee hours of the morning to attend “simbang gabi” or night mass. These masses begin on December 16 and end on Christmas Eve. The parol is the symbol of hope and faith. The star is a reminder of the Star of Bethlehem that shone brightly to guide the Magi to Bethlehem and the manger of Jesus. Parol from Pan-ay Parol from Pilar The parol has since evolved from the simple bamboo and paper lantern to gigantic 30-foot marvels with LED twinkling lights that are shown annually at the Pampanga Lantern Festival.  This festival is a fine display of Philip...

Shrine of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Dinginan Visita Iglesia (church visit) is one of the traditional Catholic Lenten rituals that is widely practiced in the Philippines. Devotees may choose to visit 7 or 14 churches on Maundy Thursday after the Mass of the Last Supper or on Good Friday . Visiting 7 churches is symbolic of the 7 Last Words of Jesus. Fourteen churches represent the Via Crucis which consists of 14 Stations tracing the journey of Jesus Christ to Calvary. While visiting these churches, devotees pray and reflect on the sacrifice of Christ. Follow this link for the  prayers recited at each station of the cross:  https://www.catholic.org/prayers/station.php Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception The Cathedral sits in the heart of the cultural heritage sites of Roxas City. The current structure is from a reconstruction in 1954. This is a good place to start your church visits. St. Vincent Ferrer, Cagay* *Photo courtesy of Fr. Bernie Barrios Hesus Nazareno...