How to Celebrate Family Homecomings Pinoy Style

My Ninang Dely who stood as my second mother when I was young, was here in the Philippines for a short vacation. I was like adopted by her for a year when I was 3 years old. My Nanay was fighting for her life that time because of pregnancy complications with our supposedly 4th sibling.

I guess it is a Pinoy way of celebrating like a fiesta when a relative or a loved one returns home especially during the most loved Pinoy events like Christmas and Holy Week. With my Ninang's homecoming, I did not invite the entire Barangay for a fiesta to celebrate with us, instead, I organized an  out of town Holy Week tour for her.

This is also my way of saying "Thank You" for all the things she did for me when I was young. 

JLo with Ninang Dely

Ninang Dely who is in her 70's has a strong Catholic faith and really keeps her "panata". I guess  the itinerary that I prepared for this tour really suits her.

Looks like a scene from "Tanging Yaman" the Movie

 

If ever you will choose Quezon Province as your destination, here are some of the activities that you might consider whenever you are thinking of hosting a family homecoming celebration.

Visit Kamay ni Hesus in Lucban, Quezon

Faith will recharge a weak body. I've seen a lot of "oldies" in their 60s-70s and was able to finish the 14 stations leading to a 50-foot statute of the Ascending Christ. Who am I to complain?

About Kamay ni Hesus

Rev. Father Joey Faller, founder of the Kamay ni Hesus Healing Church visualized the church to give the sick and the spiritually weak a haven where they could feel and experience the presence of God.

At the church’s backdrop is a steep hill transformed into a picturesque Via Dolorosa Grotto of Healing and Purification, all of 310 steps, including the life-size statues of the 14 Stations of the Cross is leading to a 50-foot statue of the Ascending Christ —the third biggest in the world than can be seen miles away.

In honor of the Virgin Mary, the Luklukan ni Maria features life-size statues and scenes depicting the Mysteries of the Holy Rosary.  Life-size statues of saints are also scattered in the church compound.  Scenes from the Holy Bible are also brought to life, from Adam and Eve at the Garden of Eden and the Noah's Ark complete with life-size animals.

For inquiries and other information, e-mail Kamay ni Hesus Healing Church at info@lucbankamaynihesus.com or call the church office at (042) 540-2206.

50-foot statue of the Ascending Christ

Serve her favorite Pinoy Food

"I've waited 20 long years to have a taste of this tinuto again!", she said after seeing a generous serving of tinuto or laing on the table. Laing is a spicy dish that is coconut milk based with dried taro leaves and is popular in the region. It has become a favorite among Pinoys like her who was craving for authentic Pinoy food.

And when you are in Quezon, do not forget to dine in at "Kamayan sa Palasidaan" Restaurant.

About Kamayan sa Palaisdaan 

Located in Tayabas, Quezon, Kamayan sa Palaisdaan is an ideal getaway restaurant for seafood lovers. The restaurant is a little hard to find - save for a sign that is lit up in neon lights at night - but has charming feel to it, with quaint nipa huts propped above a huge pond. 

The menu consists mostly of fish, since Tayabas is known for their light and delectable seafood compared to Lucban's meat fest. Big winnders are the Inihaw na Pla-pla and Inihaw na Hito. All the cooks are native from the province, so once can expect an authentic taste of Tayabas in their dishes. Other dishes, worthy of praise are the Inihaw na Spare Ribs, Squid in Oyster Sauce, and their own version of Salpicao (mixed vegetables and seafoods).

Native designed functions rooms for Cocktail parties, Conference, Wedding, Birthday and other Private occasions. Formal and informal dining with lush appurtenances and grand artistically rendered interior furnishings and decor. When enjoying a banquet the surroundings and ambiance of the place transports one to the heady confines of the sophisticate and formal and good graces inclined. 

Address : Brgy. Dapdap, Tayabas, Quezon  (042) 793-3654 or (042) 793-3655 or email : info@kamayansapalaisdaan.com.ph

Give him/her the gift of time and relaxation

Spending a little quality time with them makes a difference. Let them feel relaxed by bringing them to a place that is serene and let them enjoy the fresh air of the country side.

And whether you are an individual searching for some quality personal time,  a couple yearning to share magical moments together, or a family or group looking for an array of fun activities that build relationship and leave lasting memories, then visit Graceland Estate and Country Club.

Graceland Estates and Country Club, Tayabas, Quezon (042) 793 28567

 

Familia Gana Lakwatsera

Do you have any suggestions? I love to hear from you.