PACD Assignment | Enera's Vet Visit | Beach Weekend

Summing up another weekend! In this video, I show you how I did my PACD Assignment, the Bebe Enera's Vet Visit and Beach Day with the family...

Destination Diary: Back in Onse Islas + New Places Discovered

Now I can say that Onse Islas in Panubigan, Zamboanga City doesn’t fail to impress me.

Only an hour’s ride away at a steady pace in C’s Chevrolet Spark, I was curious to see Onse Islas again after a year. Last year we were island hopping and it was the soft opening as the LGU re-opened the group of islands to visitors after having protocols installed in place.

This weekend, we joined my cousin’s group as we discovered new corners that I haven’t been to before, this time with a different route, starting from Sirommon, stopping for a moment in Baung-Baung and ending the tour in Bisaya-Bisaya island. What makes this particular trip interesting is the visit to Playa de Isabelle and the hike atop Baung-Baung island to view Bisaya-Bisaya in a distance.

Another thing to note is that I immensely enjoyed the meal prepared by our guide in Sirommon island consisting of fresh lambay also known as kasag or crabs, and freshly harvested coconut, where we got to drink the juice and scrape off the meat for a hearty finish. Because we were so busy eating with our hands, none of us remembered to take photos of our fresh feast by the shore.

Even if I forgot my rash guard at home due to uncontained excitement and also there were doubts prior to sailing to the islands because of the fear of bad weather, the day kept surprising us with random sprinkles of rain, but nothing to be alarmed about.

There are two new places for me in Onse Islas, the first one is….

Playa de Isabelle

It’s a quick walk to Playa de Isabelle, just be careful not to step on slippery surfaces.

I’m someone who easily falls with bad balancing skills but with some slow pacing and careful footing, we made it to Playa de Isabelle. It’s the other side of Sirommon island and looks like a long-forgotten pier reached its weathering limits.

Took a few photos with C (my most favorite is the one lying on the sand) and I personally didn’t bother crossing the mangroves to reach the weathered port. A few photos and videos here and there and that was enough for me.

And the second place I want to share with you is…

Baung-Baung Hill

It’s on another island, which involves another quick boat ride to sprint onto Baung-Baung. Visitors should get ready for a steep hike, so a lot of breaks are encouraged until the summit is reached. It was no sweat for our guide but it took us a while though. The view is like something I’ve never seen, as it was rewarding enough for that hike.

Luckily I was bringing my Granite Gear backpack and Thermoflask with me. I honestly didn’t mind the weight. We took a few photos and videos, I jokingly told the group to take a jump shot there.

After touching base in Bisaya-Bisaya Island, Carl and I decided to stay behind while the others went on to visit the natural infinity pool. Having been there before, we decided to take a quick nap.

Two new experiences for me on a Sunday, spent with C and some fun company, plus all we did is eat and burn off those calories. It’s more memories to be cherished Onse Islas.

Reminders

•    It’s a Muslim community, so visitors are advised to respect people living in the area.

•  The LGU is strictly imposing a no garbage policy, so please be responsible in disposing your trash properly. Do not leave anything behind. 

Other Relevant Links: 

Quick Guide to Onse Islas, Panubigan, Zamboanga City 

Destination Diary: Sta. Cruz Island + Things to Do

Review: Granite Gear Echo Backpack in Verb Petal

Note: All input are based on my personal experiences in Onse Islas (Eleven Islands). Our group made arrangements prior to the island hopping date. This is not a sponsored post. 

*Photos taken with the Samsung Galaxy A50.

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Quick Guide to Onse Islas, Panubigan, Zamboanga City

A random invitation to visit Onse Islas soon gained some interest from friends and family online as I posted our photos on socmed (social media). I put together a quick guide to answer the questions you left through comments on my feed and of course, more photos of the Eleven Islands.  

In front of Panubigan Barangay Hall

How to Get There

On a Sunday morning, we went all the way to Panubigan for breakfast at our family friend's place in a shack on the hill overlooking a beautiful view. In the highway once reaching Panubigan, there’s a huge sign by the highway that says Eleven Islands, some parts of the road going in isn’t concretized yet, so be ready to encounter a dirt road still in its construction phase. Some parts are already concretized, be patient as it will be completed soon. It also pays to have a careful and good driver with your party. 

Onse Islas Activity Map 

Do's and Dont's Onse Islas Guide

Registration and Orientation

The local government monitors all tourism activities in the area, so it’s mandatory to register all visitors and attend a brief orientation of the islands (islets rather). Visit the Barangay Hall, sign up and attend a brief orientation on the Eleven Islands, Do’s and Dont’s. The barangay will assign your guide for the day and a corresponding boat for your party. Our host paid a total of Php 5,000 for our party of eleven people (coincidentally) consisting of family and friends.

Ferry Terminal, Panubigan

After the orientation, it’s a short walk to the port where all the bancas are tied to. Vehicles can be parked near the barangay hall. All visitors are required to wear life jackets during boat rides, provided by the bancas themselves. Safety first, folks!

Speaking of safety, even if there are shortcuts through other routes, let me take the opportunity to remind everyone that protocols are there for a reason. Each person has to log in and register so that the local government can monitor, regulate and manage the visitors and the sites properly in case incidences occur. 

Experience Onse Islas

Eleven Islands is a group of islands in the barangays of Panubigan and Dita, Zamboanga City. Activities allowed in the area are island cruising (with a guide), kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, and also trekking.

Bisaya-Bisaya Island's Powder White Beach, Eleven Islands, Panubigan, Zamboanga City

In the first island called Bisaya-Bisaya, there are beautiful, weathered rock formations that one can walk to. Be careful to walk on the black rocks, I slipped and landed on my butt. Luckily I didn’t sustain any wounds. It turns out that the black surface on the rocks are caused by algae dried by the sun that turned black on the rocks.

White Rock in Bisaya-Bisaya Island, Eleven Islands, Panubigan, Zamboanga City

Natural Pool in one of the islets, Eleven Islands, Panubigan, Zamboanga City

During low-tide, it’s easy to cross to the other islet and visit the natural pool but it’s hot and we jokingly called it the solar-powered, hot spring infinity pool. There’s also the sand bar that appeared in the last island we went to, Sirommon Island where a family of starfish emerged just also enjoying the sun and sands.

Starfish Colony in Sirommon Sandbar, Eleven Islands, Panubigan, Zamboanga City

I like that the place is quiet, not crowded with too many tourists, there was only another group visiting the islands apart from us on the day. After all, Sunday is meant for relaxation.

Powder white sand beach, Eleven Islands, Panubigan, Zamboanga City

Be Responsible Visitors

It’s a good thing that the local government was able to straighten out the solid waste management program before tourists soiled the environment. There are huts to have picnics in. What lacked from the facilities was a good changing room and its corresponding amenities.

If you ask me though, I’ll have none of those souvenir stalls that are commonly seen in selling shirts, keychains or ref magnets. It just gives off a too-commercial vibe. I would rather have those on dry land and away from the islands. It’s also a good thing that no food vendors were allowed on the islands, minus the barbecue sticks and plastic that can be thrown away in the water.

Keeping the area clean is top priority and it’s emphasized in the orientation. No matter how small, it’s important to dispose of trash properly. Clean oceans is a plus, so let’s do all that we can.

Sandbar at Sirommon Island, Eleven Islands, Panubigan, Zamboanga City

At the end of the day tour, I have a collection of beautiful photos that look like I teleported to the Caribbean from Zamboanga City. I told an officemate that the only sighting missing is Captain Jack Sparrow. I went home with sunburn, but I do have stories to tell about how beautiful the place is. Looking at the islands, I’m grateful to have spent the weekend with people close to me and in such a beautiful place.

I’ve received inquiries and reactions from people in my socmed feed, so this quick guide was put together to share some information to those interested to visit Onse Islas. May you find time to experience and enjoy our beautiful sites in Zamboanga City and do be mindful of keeping them clean. 

Check out my video below. See you soon!

Scoop On The Goop! With Supergoop! SPF50 Daily Sunscreen

I have to confess that I’m guilty of not applying sunscreen every day. The last SPF product I was using didn’t feel right for me anymore so I chucked it out. However, I did my homework and it’s part of my green beauty advocacy this year to go green and I’m so glad that Luxola is so handy in this regard.

Packaging

The Supergoop! Everyday Suncreen’s packaging is simple, and facts about premature aging are printed on the box. The product itself comes in a tube with a flat twist cap cover and the bottle is sealed. The spout allows for controlled dispersal of the product.

Pros

• I like that it’s opaque and fast-absorbing, no white streaks on face and neck! 
• Fragrance-free and lightweight means no artificial ingredients, everything is safe! 
• Did I mention that it's waterproof? It's water resistant for up to 80 minutes
• It doesn’t cause me to breakout! I have oily skin and I can attest to its absorption

I honestly have no issues applying Supergoop! Sunscreen every day. I follow suit after my moisturizer. 

Cons

• The only con, however, is that it’s available exclusively online through Luxola. The shipping takes about 2-10 business days but I guess I’m lucky that this arrived on time (must be due to the shipping demands over the holidays).

Supergoop is affordable at the retail price of only about Php 700+ (got it on sale). Because it doesn’t need big amounts to be safe under the sun, I’m sure this 71ml tube is enough for the more than six months of continued, if not daily use.



It’s a highly recommended product because it’s stamped Cruelty-Free, Water-Resistant, safe for every day and it’s non-irritating.

I definitely need sunscreen and I’ve been secretly berating myself for neglecting sun protection for my skin. I have four big projects this year and more island-hopping plans for the summer as well as the rest of the year. All the more, I need sunscreen for both saltwater and chlorinated water lol, now that the pool in front of granny’s house is already well-regulated. I might add that Supergoop! Is safe even for kids as well.

Who knows, this sunscreen might make the occasional appearance in my Instagram beach-island photos. Seize the sunny day!

Speaking of, would you want to follow me on Instagram? It’s @raisiespeaks and I’ll check you out too! 

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Unboxing BDJ Box July- A Whole Lot Of Pampering Goodness!

My July BDJ Box arrived and you can just imagine my sister and I's excitement as we learned that the box was arriving. Before that, I already knew what the contents were because some gals were already posting photos online of their unboxing but we still had fun. My Sis even assisted me with the unboxing photos.

This is the whole package which looks so compact, but don't let the small size fool you because...

It's got a whole lot of Dove love and the usual treats from BDJ Box. Not bad for the month of July right? 

It's my first time to receive a BDJ Box, which was supposed to be a belated birthday present. Since all of the June slots were already sold out, I was able to get a slot for July. This month's theme is all about Head to Toe Pampering, and BDJ sure knows how to reward hardworking girls in the middle of the year.

When I first heard about the Top to Toe Pampering theme, I prepared myself for spa products, but now that I see all the Dove goodies and even added makeup, I think it's still more than enough to have a full body pampering experience.

Now look at this love from Dove, (fun rhyming!) there are all full-sized products that is enough to make me feel pampered. I'm a long time Dove user so this has just saved me at least a thousand bucks in my body care supply! Even Mommy is impressed... =D 

For this month, the BDJ team prepared a buffet of Dove pampering. Here, there is just not one but two bottles each of full-sized hair care for the crowning glory. There is the Dove Damage Therapy Intense Repair Shampoo 180 ml (2 bottles) and the Dove Damage Therapy Intense Repair Conditioner 180 ml (2 bottles). For the body, this will be handy for me as I travel at the end of this month, so I should be sure to pack the Dove White Beauty Bar Moisturizing Milk 135g. 

And for the BDJ Box itself, it's still oozing with sweetness and goodness, not to mention the most interesting stuff I have ever had my hands on... The color palettes in here are just what I need!

  

So what am I looking forward to with this month's beauty products? I am no stranger to Dove, and I am a big fan of the Energizing line because of its squeaky, clean scent for bath bar and deodorant. But receiving a super-generous line of eight full-sized products can just simply make anyone's day, and I have to say I can't wait to try the Dove Damage Therapy Intense Repair Treatment Mask 200 ml. I still have a small bottle of the Intense Repair Shampoo in the bathroom right now even as we speak and this could help me with my hair fall issues.

Another Dove full-sized product that I am excited to try is the Dove Whitening Original Anti-Perspirant Deodorant Aerosol 169 ml. I have been using the stick and roll-on for many years now, so using a spray deo is a first for me. At least I don't have to worry because Dove is gentle on my skin-even my underarms.

Now from the July BDJ Box itself, it's a treat that I am glad not to have missed. This box really caught my attention. I can't wait to try the Enchanted Eyeshadow and I got the Pixie Dust Shimmer Eye Palette Nude Eyes. 

 I like that this palette I received consists of neutrals which is really wearable for me. This only means that the team pays attention to my beauty profile and personal preferences since wearing anything too loud is not appropriate for a corporate environment. The super-tiny-sparkly formulation makes me feel like I am staring at real pixie dust! =p

Another plus is the usable applicator. I say usable because I have other eyeshadow palettes that promise good color but kind of fall back on the applicator since I don't really like to bring around a long eyeshadow brush in the bag.

Another sweet treat I like is the Too Cool for School BB Cream  from the BDJ Box. Lunch Box is a Korean Brand and they gave me the travel size tube. This is just perfect for an upcoming trip next week to visit relatives. So yeah, this is a keeper.

I really think the packaging is cute and clever. 

Well it was my sister who announced dibs on this one. She is a regular user of Revlon lippies but to tell you honestly, this is my first time to own a Revlon lipstick of my own. The usual brands that I have come to know are Mary Kay, Human Nature and Maybelline. But now, I have an added shade and I think I can experiment with this. 

I have heard of many positive reviews about Revlon Color Burst Lip Butter, as for the shade I got, it's in Raspberry Pie. It's a deep maroon pink shade. I haven't swatched it yet so let's see if it suits my skin tone. 

So far, these are the highlights of the whole July BDJ Box. There are still a lot of products in here like the Beach Hut Sunblock, Foot Appeal Mask, and the Sure Slim Voucher.

All in all, I think this is a great box, not to mention it is practical and there are a lot of good items putting the total estimated amount to over Php 4, 070. Whew. Just looking at that amount gives me a proud feeling. It's a good box, if not excellent. It makes me curious as to what's next. All the August boxes are already sold out but the September boxes are open for reservations.

It's tempting, I know. But I am more than satisfied with this month's box and receiving a July BDJ Box simply strengthens my interest that I could gift a similar one to a very special woman come October this year.

The BDJ Box team deserves a pat on the back for the job well done they have made. From the friendly responses I get in Twitter from their official account, to the carefully selected products that they offer, I am tempted to continue a subscription for more months to come. 

See how quick they are to respond to a simple question? 

So are you a Dove user too? Have you subscribed to any sampling boxes so far? What are your thoughts? 

If you haven't joined my Firmoo giveaway yet, you can check it out here. I hope you had a good weekend! =D 

Look at Who Went to The Beach This Sunday!

Yes! It is the puppies' time out for beach on a Sunday morning! 

What did Axle and Arista do? Take a bath and practice their Frisbee catching skills with their Kuya! 

 This place is right in front of our family friends' house in Sinubong. This used to be a rest house facing the sea. 

Choloy, Nikki and Jasper joined us with the puppies. 

Time on the grass after going for a dip in the water. Did you know it was exhausting to be your own doggies' yaya? 

Arista obediently returns her yellow Frisbee to her Kuya. Axle seems to have found something else. 

It was a great Sunday morning for time in the beach. Skies were blue. Coconut trees were swaying.

Time to dry off babies!

Kuya no more play Frisbee?

We found a nicely shaped shell and brought it home for our souvenir. We wrote the date and our names on it. 

 How was your Sunday?