Rest and recreation with team building activity is something that OHF staffs look forward to every year. This activity usually takes place after strategic/work and financial planning or after a big service event like medical mission or relief mission. And how does one prefer to relax? OHF staffs unanimously decided to go on a road trip to see other places that relaxes the mind and body after the taxing activity.
On February 20, 2020 after the planning session in Baguio City, OHF staffs proceeded to Vigan City, Ilocos Sur. The objective was for the staffs to relax and enjoy the sceneries they passed by and to know each other better during meals and while strolling around. With the addition of three new social workers to the OHF team, the group enjoyed each other’s company and learned how to fit in and welcomed the new ones.
If there is a place up North that evokes curiosity and excitement for local and foreign tourists; Vigan is one you can find in the list. Vigan is a popular destination for those wanting to see the Philippines of yester years when our country was still under Spanish regime.
Along the way to Vigan, Ilocos Sur, we passed by Candon, Ilocos Sur which is famous for its locally made pasalubong items like cornick of different flavors and other renowned products. The group also had a stop-over in Narvacan public market and bought some bagnet, a deep fried crispy pork belly dish that is similar to lechon kawali and originated from Ilocos.
Finally, we arrived at our destination Vigan, at lunch time. We visited the St. Paul’s Cathedral (also known as Vigan Cathedral) and spent some time inside the church to give thanks and pray. The group soon crossed the Calle Crisologo (also known as Vigan Heritage Village) which is famous for its cobblestone streets, old houses and calesa.
The staff took the liberty to stroll around the area and enjoyed the sights of old historical structures which was painstakingly preserved by the local government. We had picture-taking everywhere (selfie-groupie) for memorabilia and shopping of souvenir items, including delicacies that you can only find in Vigan.
To sum it all, everyone enjoyed the whole day tour especially the food trip and picture taking as it was a great experience for all as a team. Hoping that someday, we could go back and enjoy once more each other’s company thru the activities we shared.
Article prepared by Susie Bedia
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