The sights and sounds of Tabaco

Almost 3 weeks into service here in Tabaco City. So far, what I had heard has rung true…”the days are often slow, but the weeks fly by.” The first week or so was definitely an adjustment period, especially being the only American (that I know of) in my city. As I walk up and down the streets every day, I constantly get stares or “double-takes.” Being 6'8" doesn't help. People will yell “Hey Joe” or “Hi Dad” (more common with the kids). I find it humorous, but still haven’t completely gotten comfortable with the amount of attention I receive...just trying to roll with it and understand that it is their way of welcoming me. I often think about if the tables were turned and a Filipino volunteer was roaming around the streets of New York City. No one would care because America is so diversified; it’s a common occurrence to see people of a different skin color or accent. The world we live in…

I've finished my first proposal for my first project: a small-scale city aquaponics system. Aquaponics combines aquaculture and hydroponics into one system where both fish and vegetables can be harvested sustainably. Once we hopefully get the project approved by the mayor, construction can begin. The plan is to share the finished product with surrounding coastal communities so that they in turn can construct their own, allowing for increased food security by providing quality, locally grown crops that also enhance the economy of Tabaco. Hopefully, I can make this project sustainable and cost-efficient so that it can continue to thrive after my service.

These first few weeks have also allowed me to see some incredible places and meet some great people. So far, I’ve witnessed my first two fiestas, visited both the Mayon volcano and San Miguel Island (SMI) twice, and joined a local basketball team. I’ll elaborate a bit…

One Saturday, the Tabaco mayor offered to take the residing PC volunteers (myself and 3 other education volunteers) to San Miguel Island. I was originally told we were going to visit the marine sanctuary, but I was unaware the SMI fiesta was the same day. We arrived to every school on the island giving a skit/dance routine. Crazy to see some of the moves these kids have! American elementary and high schoolers would be blown away (not to mention half the stuff done would not be allowed in U.S. schools J). We were treated as guests of honor and even received a gift basket…pili nuts, a staple in the Bicol region. Afterwards came a trip around the island, allowing us to witness the incredible views of the Mayon volcano and the Pacific coast. The following day provided me with an opportunity to see Mount Mayon up close as my family took me up to the Planetarium for a picnic lunch. They have been more than generous in showing me the surrounding area! From our lunch spot, the entire of city of Tabaco could be seen.  

Looking out at Tabaco City Hall

Church of San Juan Bautista (St. John the Baptist)

A SMI fiesta performance

View of the Mayon volcano from SMI

    

My basketball career has resumed here in the Philippines. I was asked by my friend Robert to join his team, Lourdz, just a few days after arriving in Tabaco. I even received a legit jersey and shorts! Tournaments are held year-round with different municipalities playing host. Basketball here is quite different though with the majority of the courts being outdoors. Rain means postponement. I was not prepared for the level of competition though...the open league I am in features many players from local college teams. We actually lost our first game to the tournament defending champions by 2 points! I am easily the tallest player on the court, but Filipinos are incredibly fast and athletic. With people packed around the court, referees, and announcers, the environment made me feel like I was back at Scranton. Chance to relive the glory days!

This past Sunday, I visited fellow 271 CRMer Ali in her municipality of Santo Domingo for their fiesta. From about 11 – 3, I stuffed my stomach full of baboy (pork), manok (chicken), ube, halo-halo (Philippine ice cream), and of course kanin (rice). We visited 5 or 6 different houses and the spreads seemed to get bigger at each one.

Another adventure this weekend as I will be visiting a nearby waterfall in Malilipot for my niece’s birthday before leaving for Naga City for a volunteer night out. It’ll be great to see some other volunteers again, including some new faces from 269 and 270.

Hanggang susunod beses (until next time)!