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FOOTPRINTS…. BATAAN

(2nd Series of 12)

By: Marietta Pangan-Dutkoski

***Author’s Note: Hello Pinoy Times Readers, it is my delight to conceive another segment to resume this Philippine travel series. It has been my earnest quest to feature the beauty of our native homeland in a different light. As we just commenced the celebration of The Philippine Independence, my hope is to inspire each of you and re-visit our homeland with fresh and renewed enthusiasm towards the old saying: “Huwag Maging Dayuhan sa Sariling Bayan” (Do not be a stranger to one’s own land). As mentioned in my previous article in the May 2011 issue (Kawit, Cavite & Featured Travel: Aguinaldo Shrine), this travel series is inspired by beauty, historic, cultural and significant events. All places I have visited were inspired mostly by the Philippine Flag and all its symbolisms. The details of the eight rays of the sun signifying the 8 provinces revolting against our past invaders, the three stars, symbolizing 3 major islands: Luzon,Visayas and Mindanao, and it’s colours of white, yellow, red and blue reflecting emotions, patriotism all had significant contributions toward the liberation of our Philippine Republic, our country. For our second series of twelve, I am proud to feature the Peninsula of Bataan.

BATAAN

The province of Bataan is part of the Central Luzon region. It’s capital is Balanga City and is a rocky extension of the Zambales Mountains. The peninsula faces the South China Sea, bordered by Pampanga to the north, Subic Bay to the north-west, and sheltering Manila Bay to the east.

What made this province famous in our history is the “The Battle of Bataan”. After the fall of Manila in 1942, the defending Americans and Filipinos withdrew to Bataan, defeating efforts of the Japanese to split forces led by the former Gen. Douglas McArthur. Another significant event is the “Bataan Death March” which is the gruesome march that an estimated 72,000 weak and sick captive Americans and Filipinos started.

Today, the Bataan peninsula is the site of oil refineries, a shipyard, and many monuments to the suffering that took place there in the 1940s during the war. A national landmark atop the 4,500-foot Mount Samat in the southern part of Bataan honours the men and women who suffered and died. It is also a location of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant located in the Municipality of Morong. (Sources: Britannica online, Wikipedia;pbs.org/bataan)

FEATURED TRAVEL :

A Rendezvous with the Past at LAS CASAS FILIPINAS de ACUZAR

Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar might be a newly opened resort/hotel and living museum rolled in one in Bagac, Bataan, however this lifetime heritage of national treasures which was inspired by the “Calle Escolta” of the 1800’s to 1900’s, is a true work of talent, ingenuity and craftsmanship of businessman Gerry Acuzar. Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar is writing another chapter in our modern history which I am sure will make us Filipinos very proud. My family and I have the privilege to have paid this 400-hectare property a real rendezvous of our yesteryears.

Before going any further in our nostalgic experience of this place, let me give you a bit of history about its conception: The village of Las Casas initiated by the purchase of Bahay na Bato ( Stone Houses) and moving it to Bagac to be Mr. Acuzar‘s family rest house. Mr. Acuzar started to buy the decaying homes brick by brick and plank by plank, from different parts of the country – reconstructed and restored them using only old materials. Their names bear the places where they once stood: Casa Baliuag I, Casa Baliuag II, Casa Binondo I, Casa Binondo II, Casa Hidalgo, Casa Tondo, Casa Candaba, Casa San Miguel, Casa Vyzantina, Paseo de Escolta, Casa Bulacan, Casa Unisan, Casa Jaen I, Casa Jaen II, Casa Lubao, Casa Luna and Casa Cagayan. Presently, the Village provides not just a a glimpse of Philippine history but indeed a Showcase of Luzon homes and eventually the Philippines.

Beyond the historic past, Las Casas offers other conveniences of different recreations, rest and relaxation activities ( water and land), a resting haven and quality bonding time that can truly be enjoyed by everyone regardless of age and interest. It also offers scenic diversity and beauty which is why it is ideal for wedding venues, conferences and photo/movie settings.

As I think back on our recent visit, it was truly a rewarding experience. Las Casas is something that one should keep in their good memories. So if you have not been to Las Casas, stroll back with me with my 10 most highly recommended “must do and experience”. Let’s walk back at the cobblestone streets and marvel at the beauty and splendor of these majestic “Casas”(Homes) and everything else that they offer.

We were greeted by “Guardia Civil” (Civil Guards) upon entering the gates where more than 27 restored centenarian architectural houses which are now turned into luxurious, historic hotels, suites and museums with the conveniences of a beach, spa, swimming pool, function halls, bar and restaurants, and soon to rise hilot center and a chapel.

As we arrived, we were gladly greeted by the TK Solvason, The Manager, together with the staff at the reception in their Filipiniana attire in Casa Mexico, who gave us the briefings of our package. Then we proceeded to our assigned accommodation at Casa San Miguel. Our welcome drinks were refreshing, and since it was almost time for lunch, we were informed that our buffet would be ready at Casa Jaen II. The following describes what were prepared for us during our 2-day stay:

Guided Tour of the Heritage Houses- Every home is a living museum, complete with the history of each home, its first owners, its original location and the important historical events that happened in each home. For instance, Casa Mexico was reconstructed using salvaged materials from a junkshop and was rebuilt based on an old photograph. The Casa Hidalgo Mansion was used as the first campus of the University of the Philippines.

The Beach/Island Hop- Enjoy the neighbouring white sand beaches and teal pristine waters of the South China Sea while overlooking the magnificent mountain backdrops and the nearby Nuclear Power Plant in the town of Morong.

Use of the swimming pool and beach area- 2 medium sized (batis-inspired) swimming pools to cool down after “Laro ng Lahi” (Traditional Filipino Games).

Fishing- There can’t be any seafood fresher than the early morning catch by nearby village fishermen or better yet, take your own rod with bait and catch your own meal for fun and adventure.

Water Activities/Recreational – The use of kayaks and boats for fun activities and entertainment. You can also opt to re-live traditional Filipino games such as “tumbang preso”, “cadang cadang”, “syato”, “luksong tinik” and “luksong baka”

Accommodations-The Casas are built with a combination of old and new materials. The rooms and interiors were designed by the wife of the owner, Mrs. Tess Acuzar. There’s the old look and feel of the bed, armoire, lamps, floors and windows with modern enhancements such as the bathroom, AC, flat screen TV, and DVD player.
Lounging and Relaxation- The backdrop of majestic mountains, green rice fields and a running river that flows to the South China Sea will release stress and your cares of the world.

Kalesa Ride/Souvenir Photo- Riding one of the “Caruajes” (horse-drawn carriages) inspires a feeling of nostalgia, romance and an appreciation of a bygone era.

Cultural Show- like my father, you will be charmed by the serenade from the sweet voices of the Village Choir as they sing the classic “Kundiman” (love songs) and in-house Guitar artists play traditional folk songs. Every weekend, cultural dances are performed such as the national dance, Tinikling and various regional dances.

Dining- A casual breakfast, sumptuous buffet lunch and a complete sit down dinner with an array of Filipino favourite dishes is a true gastronomic delight!

From this relaxing flashback of our cultural heritage, i am certain that you will include the Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar as part of your itinerary on your next visit to the Philipppines, and be more inspired as you gaze at the beautiful old Spanish houses that withstood time first hand.

Special Thanks: TK Solvason and Staff of Las Casas Filipinas for the great accommodation and services they afforded us.

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