Leaving Batad Village the Hard Way

Our overnight stay in Batad Village was short but special. It is not easy to go and leave whether that is in literal or figurative sense.

The simplicity of life and the genuine personality of the people in Batad Village made me realize and appreciate a lot of things I take for granted when I’m in the city. In order to send text messages or access the internet, one needs to trek for at least two hours.

Alex pointing out our destination

Before we left our hostel, I talked to the Porter, who also acted our tour guide. They normally charge Php100 per bag when you want them to carry it for you. I chose the option to let him carry my main bag not because I’m lazy, but also to help him earn a few bucks. He carried three bags which means he earned at least Php 300 that day. I bet it will go a long way.

We started trekking at 9AM. The sun is already high, but we need to beat the heat of the sun and just walk. I bought some Stick-O as my snack for every stop. I walked quite fast on the first few minutes, but then I got tired immediately. On our first stop, majority of the group decided to take a break as well.

Thanks to Dom’s Chippy and Jelly Ace supply and the girls’ samu’t saring tsitsirya, we managed to do the hike with additional sweet factor. We crossed paths with locals and other foreign backpackers. I can’t help but smile every time I see a traveler who wouldn’t mind the strong heat just to see Batad Village.

Dominic having a short talk with young locals

I think all in all, we had around four breaks. In one instant, we were able to talk to some kids who would carry the goodies that are really heavy. I stopped when a kid around 8-9 years old carried one sack of rice while one was carrying some bottled mineral water supplies that are placed in a taho container. Imagine the burden these young kids and the old locals need to go through just to deliver the goods. It seems like the whole world is in their shoulders, but they’re cool with it. Sanay na, ika nga.

Tina: From Frustrated Traveler to Frustrated Trekker hehe

After a number of stops for snacks and photographs, we made it to the last 30 minutes! There’s the long-way and the shortcut. This time, I dared to try the shortcut method. You need to pass through the steep stairs in order to reach the top. Dominic deprived us to do it at first, but the brave girls insisted to try this deadly way.

Steep stairs is steep

Yes, we made it! Now it is time for some tourist-y view shots hehehe

The obligatory view deck pic

I am glad that we had a nice time in Batad. This is my last view (at least for 2011) of Batad and I will forever cherish the memories and the lessons learned.

Now we are reunited with the big jeepney that will take us to Banaue. But before that, the group passed by Bangaan Rice Terraces. There were rumors that a popular celebrity couple secretly got married there last year.

Bangaan Rice Terraces

A closer view of the Bangaan Village

We wanted to go down and explore the Bangaan Rice Terraces, but we don’t have enough time. Also, the weather became gloomy all of a sudden. I still chose the topload option for our jeepney trip back to Banaue so that I’ll have another clear look at the scenery.

Jeepney Topload again!

Here’s a video compilation of our Batad-Banaue Jeepney Topload experience. If you are looking for some neck exercises, I am pushing you to watch this video. You will know why in a bit =P

We arrived in Banaue at lunch time and had a healthy meal as we watch ASAP Rocks 2011 LOL. We miss Batad, but we’re also excited to see the Banaue Rice Terraces!