Maragondon town has a series of mountains that when viewed at an angle make out a figure of a lying woman. Collectively, the mountain range is called Bundok Buntis (literally, pregnant). Somewhere in its wooded slopes, Philippine revolutionary leader Andres Bonifacio was assassinated on the order of a political rival.
Photo by I.R. Arenas
A sunset is always a thing to watch for. It seems to be a visual representation of the abstract concept of serenity. Always.
Photo by I.R. Arenas
It is rare for me to view the Bataan mountains clearly from the urban side of Manila Bay as smog usually obscures the view. Included in the mountains is Mount Mariveles, which is actually a potentially active volcano.
Photo by I.R. Arenas
You know everything is well when you still see a flock of birds doing what Nature designed for them to do. And perhaps humans can learn from the birds – that sometimes being carefree is what we need to be.
Photo by I.R. Arenas
The question that runs in one’s mind is “How did it get there?” Surely there are many answers. Yet the sight of nature taking over the proud machines of human invention is assuring enough that the organic always have its way of conquering the lifeless.
Photo by I.R. Arenas
This sun with a face is a symbol used by Andres Bonifacio, the forefather of Philippine independence. The one in the picture forms part of a memorial to the Bonifacio brothers, the other being Procopio, who were killed by fellow revolutionaries, at the order of a rival, in a mountain in Maragondon, Cavite.
Photo by I.R. Arenas
What more rurality can you ask in a scene of lifeful green rice paddies and a guarding dog?
Photo by I.R. Arenas
This scene is no more. Livelihood and tourism brought people to reside in the Taal volcano island, considered a permanent danger zone. Now it is unlikely that people can remain there in many years to follow.
Photo by I.R. Arenas
Strings of clothes by the roadside make provincial life charming such as this scene.
Photo by I.R. Arenas
Once an active crater of the Taal Volcano complex, this peak has been the iconic shape seen in many depictions of the volcano. Up close, it still looks dismal despite the verdant cover on its slopes.
Photo by I.R. Arenas
Mangrove seedlings exude hope. Soon this seafront will become a lush sanctuary for fish and marine animals. Less space for beach goers but more space for biodiversity.
Photo by I.R. Arenas
The tourist boat and the fish pens support the residents of this lakeshore town. But how should the people work on sustainable development?
Photo by I.R. Arenas
Visual Tales 