TRAVELOGUE 5

People often ask me why I ride at my age...without batting an eyelash I reply WHY NOT?

Besides the high and thrill of speed and the freedom that goes with it, riding frees the mind from worries if you will. Focus is absolutely on the motorcycle, the road condition, and the wind. As soon as the mind drifts away from the task at hand and think of your problems is where the danger lies.

Come weekend, some people prefer to play golf, bowl, tennis, and other sports. I prefer to ride the wind in the early morning and back before noon for quality family time. Occasionally we go on long trips either to the north or down south of the Philippines. 

As a ChefBiker, the food is dictated by the ride; As Bikers, the destiny culminates the ride. As Zen motorcycling imbues; In significance and context, its the journey that matters...

Northern Ride to Paoay

Quirino Bridge before Vigan

Paoay Church -

The Church of Saint Augustine, commonly known as the Paoay Church, is the Roman Catholic parish church of the municipality of Paoay, Ilocos Norte in the Philippines. Completed in 1710, the church is famous for its distinct architecture highlighted by the enormous buttresses on the sides and back of the building. In 1993, the church was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one best examples of the Baroque Churches of the Philippines.

Paoay church is prime example of Earthquake Baroque architecture, which is the Philippine interpretation of the European Baroque adapted to the seismic condition of the country. Destructive earthquakes are common and have destroyed earlier churches all throughout the country. Aside from Baroque, the church facade also exudes Javanese architecture reminiscent of Borobudur of Java.

The town of Paoay was originally called "Bombay" as the earliest inhabitants believed to have come from India. The earliest historical record of the area dates back to 1593, becoming an Augustinian independent parish in 1686. Building of the present church was started in 1694 by Augustinian friar Father Antonio Estavillo, and it was completed in 1710.

Arrival at Plaza del Norte after a 12-hour ride

Carpio ancestral house where our dinner was held hosted by Mrs. Carpio

Chow time

Viands

Dininding-famous vegetable dish in Ilocos norte simmered in fermented fish sauce

Bagnet-sundried and deep fried crispy pork belly also popular in North and South Ilocos

Arroz Valenciana

Our Chariots

Afternoon predepartue to Vigan

Adobo

Poque-Poque (grilled eggplant salad)

Iktad (similarto igado) - Pork and sweetbreads simmered in vinegar and ginger

Dragon-fruit Ice Cream