Taal Lake, a picturesque body of water nestled amidst the rolling landscapes of Batangas, Philippines, holds a secret within its depths—a secret of transformation that unfolded centuries ago. Prior to the cataclysmic eruption of 1754, Taal Lake was not the freshwater haven we know today; instead, it was a saltwater expanse teeming with life and history.
The seismic events of 1754 marked a turning point in the lake's narrative, as a volcanic eruption of unprecedented scale altered its very essence. Lasting an astonishing six months from May to December, the eruption reshaped the landscape and dynamics of Taal Lake in profound ways. One of the most notable changes was the shift from saltwater to freshwater—a transformation that reverberated across the ecosystem.
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The alteration in salinity brought forth a cascade of transformations. The Pansipit River, once a wide passage through which majestic galleons navigated from Balayan Bay into Taal Lake, underwent a dramatic narrowing.
Eventually, the river's course was obstructed by the emergence of new land, leading to the formation of what is now Lemery, Batangas, in 1861—a testament to the ever-changing geography shaped by natural forces.
Amidst the turmoil, new islands emerged from the depths, such as Napayong Island in Tanauan, altering the topography and providing new habitats for diverse species. Among these species were the Maliputo and Tawilis, whose existence became intertwined with the lake's transformation.
The Maliputo, once identified as a Trevally or Talakitok, adapted to the freshwater environment, evolving into a distinct species reflective of Taal Lake's new identity. Similarly, the Tawilis, formerly a marine sardine, found itself confined within the lake's waters as the salinity shifted, leading to its unique status as a freshwater sardine.
Evidence of Taal Lake's saline past lies in its very bed, where fossils of ancient coral reefs serve as reminders of a bygone era. Yet, despite its transformation, echoes of its maritime history linger—a testament to the resilience and adaptability of nature.
The changes in Taal Lake reverberated beyond its shores, influencing the region's political landscape. With the capital shifting from Taal to Batangan, now known as Batangas City, in 1755, and the subsequent renaming of the province, the map of Batangas underwent a profound transformation—a reflection of the interplay between natural forces and human history.
ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA
Klook.comIn the face of nature's violent upheavals, the story of Taal Lake serves as a poignant reminder of the need to respect and adapt to the ever-changing world around us. As we navigate the currents of time, let us heed the lessons embedded in Taal's turbulent history, embracing the harmony between human existence and the forces of nature.
A relaxing place in Batangas, just 3-4 hours away from Manila.
Look at the latest updates on Clark International Airport.
Learn more about the Feast of the Black Nazarene in the Philippines.
WHAT IS BLACK NAZARENE
To understand this annual celebration in the Philippines, let's get to know the reason why it is celebrated.
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| The Black Nazarene at Quiapo Church, Manila 2007 |
The Black Nazarene is a life-sized image of a dark-skinned, kneeling Jesus Christ carrying the Cross enshrined in the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene or mostly known as Quiapo Church in the Quiapo district of the City of Manila, Philippines.
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FEAST OF THE BLACK NAZARENE
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| Traslación in 2012 |
The Feast of the Black Nazarene (Filipino: Pista ng Itím na Nazareno), also known as the Traslación after the mass procession associated with the feast, is a religious festival held in Manila, Philippines that is centered around the Black Nazarene, an image of Jesus Christ. It is celebrated annually on January 9.
WHEN DID IT BEGIN?
The Feast of the Black Nazarene commemorates the anniversary of the translation or the transfer of the image from its original location at a church in modern-day Luneta Park to Quiapo.
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| Devotees flocked at Quirino Grandstand in Luneta to start the Traslacion in 2015 |
The image was brought to the Church of San Juan Bautista in Bagumbayan (now Luneta) until May 31, 1606 by Augustinian Recollect priests.
In 1608, the icon was enshrined at the Recollect church of San Nicolás de Tolentino in Intramuros.
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| The Procession of the Black Nazarene during the Spanish period |
It was moved to the Saint John the Baptist Church, which is now commonly referred to as the Quiapo Church, on January 9, 1787. The "solemn transfer" eventually became the date of the Feast of the Black Nazarene.
In 2021, the Basilica’s parochial vicar Fr. Douglas Badong explained that the Feast of the Black Nazerene is a proper term for the religious event, and could be called a fiesta as the event is similar to the typical Filipino festival.
WHERE TO STAY IN MANILA
Here's a list of hotels and accommodation in Manila:
- Octagon Mansion Hotel - Check Rates and Availability!
- Bayview Park Hotel - Check Rates and Availability!
- Go Hotels Ermita - Check Rates and Availability!
- City Garden Suites Hotel - Check Rates and Availability!
- Pearl Manila Hotel - Check Rates and Availability!
- Sunny Bay Suites - Check Rates and Availability!
WHY IS IT CELEBRATED?
There are opposing views on whether to consider the Feast of the Black Nazerene as a proper fiesta due to the fact that the January 9 observance celebrates the transfer of the image and not the liturgical "feast day" of the image. The proper liturgical commemoration of the Black Nazerene is on Good Friday.
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| A devotee wiping Black Nazarene's foot at Quiapo Church in 2015 |
In 2021, the Basilica’s parochial vicar Fr. Douglas Badong explained that the Feast of the Black Nazerene is a proper term for the religious event, and could be called a fiesta as the event is similar to the typical Filipino festival.
The event is also colloquially referred to as "Nazareno" after the image itself, or the Traslación after the January 9 procession. The word “Traslación” is often corrupted to the incorrect "translacion".
The Traslación procession is taken from the Spanish term for translation, referring to "passage" or "movement".
WHAT IS 'LA MIRATA' OR THE DUNGAW RITE?
On January 9, 2014, the traditional Dungaw (a Tagalog calque of the rite's Spanish name Mirata, "to see" or "to view") was revived and reincorporated into the Traslación after the discovery of old documents attesting to its practise. The rite, which was discontinued in the early 1900s for still-unknown reasons, involves the Black Nazarene, coming from R. Hidalgo Street, being made to stop briefly at Plaza del Carmen, a square along the southwest flank of the neo-gothic Basílica Menor de San Sebastián, before proceeding towards Bilibid Viejo Street.
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| The first Dungaw of the Nazareno and Virgen del Carmen Coronada at the Balcony of Basilica Minore de San Sebastian after being halted for centuries for unknown reasons. |
The resident Recollect priests remove the image of Our Lady of Mount Carmel from the principal niche of the retablo mayor, or use a replica which is termed its vicária. The image is dressed in its primera vestida (used only on the most solemn occasions) in its camarín, or private chamber. Only Augustinian nuns and other women may enter the camarín at this point; men, including priests, all exit as they are forbidden from watching the Virgin "change clothes". During the entire vesting process, the rosary is recited.
Once fully dressed in precious robes and regalia, the original image, which was given to the Recollects in 1617 by a Carmelite nunnery in Mexico City, is then solemnly and silently processed on its own small ándas to a temporary scaffold erected at the southwest face of the church. There, it is lifted up by several priests and attendants to "see" and "meet" the Black Nazarene as devotees fall silent. A Gospel lesson is followed by general intercessions, and several prayers (often the Lord's Prayer and the Hail Mary), are chanted fervently. The Basilica's bells are rung throughout the short prayer service.[12] The presiding priests then shout "¡Viva Jesús Nazareno!" to which the crowd replies "¡Viva!" and "¡Viva Virgen del Carmen!" to which the customary reply is "¡Guapa!"; this cheer is done thrice. Shortly thereafter, the priests slowly turn the Virgin's image so that it "watches" the Black Nazarene and its procession depart the vicinity of Plaza del Carmen. The image of the Virgin is then returned to the high altar, or the replica returned to its proper place, while the choir sings the devotional hymn Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno.
Theologically, the Dungaw rite reflects the fourth Traditional Station of the Cross, where Christ meets his Mother, the Virgin Mary, en route to Golgotha, and reflects the closeness of Christ and his Mother. The rite is also seen as a "courtesy" of the Virgin's image towards the Black Nazarene, as the former's shrine is along the processional route.
ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA
Klook.comTRASLACION ROUTE
The route for the Feast of the Black Nazarene usually start at Quirino Grandstand (Rizal Park) in the morning. The Black Nazarene is already transferred from Quiapo Church and set up here prior to the procession.
The route continues as follow:
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| Traslación route in 2019 |
DURATION OF THE EVENT
The 2012 Traslación is currently the longest in the image's recorded history as it ended 22 hours after leaving the Grandstand, arriving at Plaza Miranda around 05:15 AM PST the next day (January 10). The procession took longer than usual since the wheels of the Ándas broke early on at a point near Manila Hotel, while the rope broke some distance away near Liwasang Bonifacio.
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| Devotees flocked for the procession at Jones Bridge |
There were also reports of groups of devotees diverting the image from the previously defined route in order to pass by business establishments outside the traditional route. This illicit act was done to allow homes and businesses off the planned route to receive the good luck and blessings of the image.
ACTIVITIES AND TOURS IN MANILA
OBSERVATION OUTSIDE MANILA
Similar processions replicating the Traslación are also held on 9 January in other parts of the country. The largest of these is held in Cagayan de Oro, which uses an official replica of the image given by the Minor Basilica in 2009. It has since become a centre for the devotion in Mindanao.
On March 4, 2014, a replica of the Black Nazarene from Quiapo Church arrived at the Old Chapel of St. Rock the Healer Mission Center, Bishop's Compound, Brgy. Cawayan, Catarman, Northern Samar. Since then, many devotees across Northern Samar came to venerate the sacred image, especially on Fridays. At that time, the said mission center was constructing a bigger church.
On January 9, 2015, the first Traslación was held when the sacred image was solemnly transferred from the old church to the new and unfinished church building. Crowds not only from Northern Samar but all over the island attended.
On September 12, 2016, the newly-constructed church was blessed, dedicated, and consecrated by Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle. The event was concelebrated by priests from Quiapo Church, Felomino G. Bactol, the Bishop of Naval, Bishop Emeritus Anghel Hobayan of the Diocese of Catarman, Emmanuel C. Trance, the Bishop of Catarman, the Mission Center's first administrator Rev. Fr. Alan Abalon and Mission Center's second administrator and rector Rev. Fr. Rico M. Manook. The event was attended by devotees from different dioceses in Eastern Visayas. During the ceremony, the Mission Center was elevated to the status of diocesan shrine, making it the first church in the Visayas to be declared a shrine in honor of this image.
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| Traslación in Tagum in 2017 |
On August 18, 2019, the said shrine became a parish, making it the first barangay-based parish in the whole Diocese of Catarman. Its current official name is St. Rock the Healer Parish, Diocesan Shrine of the Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno.
TRANSPORATION DURING TRASLACION
Travel within the City of Manila during the Traslación every January 9 might be difficult as heavy traffic is expected. Most jeepneys use alternate routes for the day to avoid the procession, thus creating additional travel time. Some public transport systems such as the Line 1, Line 2, and Line 3 provide free rides to devotees, who are easily identifiable as dressed in maroon and walking barefoot.
Traffic rerouting is implemented on the annual procession and the day before, and is enforced by the Manila Police District with reinforcements from the Philippine National Police and, since 2014, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority. The Philippine Coast Guard guards stretches of the Pasig River along the Jones (since 2014), Quezon and MacArthur (until 2013) bridges to ensure the safe passage of the procession.
A similar scenario may be experienced by tourists and travellers in Cagayan de Oro and in Catarman, Northern Samar during the yearly processions of the sacred image, as well as in other towns and cities where replica images are brought out in procession on this day.
TRAVEL TIPS FOR TRASLACION
The Feast of the Black Nazarene is a big event celebrated not only in Manila in particular but in the whole country. If you are traveling or staying at any big cities, expect crowd and closed roads in the area.
If you plan to join the procession, get physically ready and bring only essentials like water and towel as it will be tiring and exhausting.
For those who doesn't plan to go to the procession, don't worry, Traslación is being telecast throughout the country by the mainstream media and streamed online by various sources.
MANILA TOUR
Some other attractions to see and things to do near Intramuros:
- Visit Arroceros Forest Park
- Food crawl in Binondo
- Visit the Dolomite Beach in Manila Bay
- Have fun at Star City
- Have a relaxing staycation at SMDC Breeze Residences
- Go shopping in Divisoria
IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.WHERE TO STAY IN MANILA
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The Metro Manila will look differently in the coming years because of these following projects for railways and mass transit.
A really sad news to start the year. :(
Cavite will be under one-hour away from Bataan soon!
In an advisory, SMC Tollways said there will be no toll fees collected from 10 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24 to 6 a.m. on Wednesday, December 25, 2019.
The company will also waive toll fees from 10 p.m. next Tuesday, December 31, to 6 a.m. next Wednesday, January 1, 2020.
This covers the Metro Manila Skyway, Ninoy Aquino International Airport Expressway (NAIAx), South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Southern Tagalog Arterial Road (STAR), and the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX).
“Starting next week, fully operational na siya... by Monday. Pipilitin natin na fully operational na before Christmas,” Villar told reporters during the final inspection of the 10-kilometer section of CALAEx.
The Cavite–Laguna Expressway is an under-construction expressway, whose alignment is situated in the provinces of Cavite and Laguna in the Philippines.
The portion from the Mamplasan Toll Barrier to the Santa Rosa-Tagaytay Interchange was partially opened for motorists late October, with access schedule of Sunday to Thursday 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and an extended time on weekends— Friday to Saturday—6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The 10-kilometer Mamplasan Toll Barrier to the Santa Rosa-Tagaytay Interchange section represents a fourth of the 45-kilometer CALAEx.
The travel time from Mamplasan to the Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay Road will be shortened to 10, from 45 minutes and is seen to benefit 10,000 motorists daily.
Villar said the 10-kilometer section of the toll road will be passable to motorists for free until February 2020.
Once the relevant certifications and permits have been released by the DPWH and the Toll Regulatory Board, the expressway will be fully opened for commercial operations.
The 45-kilometer CALAEx is a four-lane, expressway that will connect Cavitex in Kawit to the South Luzon Expressway at the Mamplasan Interchange in Biñan, Laguna.
The DPWH targets to complete the 45-kilometer expressway in 2021.
Here are the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) official entries for 2019.
With a previous, lingering dispute on the actual location, the DOTr settled the issue and started the construction of the Common Station, a 13,700-square meter concourse area that will interconnect the LRT-1, MRT-3, MRT-7, and the Metro Manila Subway.
"Papaano mo malalaman 'yung nagagawa kung aasa ka lang sa bunganga. Kaya ako nag-iinspeksyon, at the end of the year, gusto kong gamitin 'yung bunganga, yung mata, pati na 'yung tenga ko at nang sa ganun pwede akong gumawa ng judgement," said Secretary Tugade during the inspection.
Now under 24/7 construction, the Common Station is expected to serve approximately 478,000 passengers daily once operational by 2021.
Source: DOTr
Pasig City, known for its rich history and vibrant community, comes alive in a kaleidoscope of colors and festivities during the annual Paskotitap Festival. Held in the spirit of Christmas, this dazzling celebration has become a hallmark event for Pasigueños and visitors alike, offering a unique blend of tradition, creativity, and the joyous Filipino Christmas spirit.
A Symphony of Lights and Creativity
Paskotitap, a portmanteau of "Pasko" (Christmas) and "titap" (to light), is a fitting name for a festival that transforms the city into a radiant canvas of lights.
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| Paskotitap 2017 |
The festival typically takes place in December, and its main highlight is the grand parade showcasing elaborately decorated floats, street dancers, and giant lanterns known as 'parols.' These parols, a symbol of Filipino Christmas, are crafted with intricate designs and vibrant colors, representing the creativity and artistry of the Pasig community.
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Cultural Showcase and Community Spirit
Beyond the breathtaking visuals, Paskotitap Festival is a celebration deeply rooted in Pasig's cultural heritage. The event features cultural presentations, highlighting traditional dances, music, and rituals that reflect the city's diverse cultural influences. From folk dances to modern interpretations, Paskotitap provides a platform for local talents to shine, fostering a sense of pride and unity among Pasigueños.
Community Engagement and Holiday Cheer
Paskotitap is not merely a spectator event; it encourages active community participation. Schools, barangays (neighborhoods), and various organizations enthusiastically join the parade, contributing their unique flair to the festivities.
This community engagement enhances the festival's inclusivity, making it a true reflection of Pasig's dynamic and interconnected population.
PASKOTITAP 2019
The Pasig City Public Information Office announced on Friday that the following will be closed:- Caruncho Ave. – in front of the Pasig City Hall (1 p.m. onwards)
- Eagle St. (5 p.m. to 6 p.m.)
- Dr. Sixto Antonio Ave. (6 p.m. to 7 p.m.)
- Pasig Blvd. – Vargas Bridge/Rotonda (6 p.m. to 7 p.m.)
- A. Mabini St. (6 p.m. to 7 p.m.)
- Plaza Rizal Intersection (6 p.m. to 7 p.m.)
- F. Manalo St. – fronting City Hall (6 p.m. to 7 p.m.)
The parade is said to start at ArcoVia City at 5pm on December 15, 2019.
Motorists are advised to take alternate routes or avoid travelling on the thoroughfares mentioned during the specific hours stated in the advisory.
Here are the latest updates for Paskotitap 2019:
Other attractions to see in Pasig this Christmas season:
ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA
Klook.comAs Pasig City continues to grow and evolve, the Paskotitap Festival remains a steadfast tradition, reminding everyone of the magic that Christmas brings and the importance of coming together as a community. With its dazzling lights, cultural showcases, and community spirit, Paskotitap stands as a shining example of how Pasig City celebrates the most wonderful time of the year.
WHERE TO STAY IN PASIG
- Privato Hotel Ortigas - Check Rates and Availability
- Ace Hotel and Suites - Check Rates and Availability
- Marco Polo Ortigas Manila - Check Rates and Availability
- Richmonde Hotel Ortigas - Check Rates and Availability
WHERE TO NEXT?
- Rainforest Adventure Experience (RAVE)
- Your Ultimate Food Guide in Pasig
- ArcoVia City (How To Get There, Hours, Everything You Need To Know)
- Pasig Revolving Tower (Location, Rates, Hours - Everything You Need To Know)
- PASIG: Ayala Malls The 30th (Mall Hours and How To Go There)
- TIENDESITAS: What To Do, Where To Eat and How To Go There
- CAPITOL COMMONS: a Provincial Capitol turned into a Business Center in Pasig
IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.
WHERE TO STAY IN PASIG:
- Rainforest Adventure Experience (RAVE)
- Your Ultimate Food Guide in Pasig
- ArcoVia City (How To Get There, Hours, Everything You Need To Know)
- Pasig Revolving Tower (Location, Rates, Hours - Everything You Need To Know)
- PASIG: Ayala Malls The 30th (Mall Hours and How To Go There)
- TIENDESITAS: What To Do, Where To Eat and How To Go There
- CAPITOL COMMONS: a Provincial Capitol turned into a Business Center in Pasig
IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.
WHERE TO STAY IN PASIG:
The best alternate way going around Metro Manila!
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