#Mount Apo

[filipinawanderer]

From Beaches to Mountains: The Beauty of Philippine Landscapes

From the pristine white-sand beaches of Boracay, the Philippines is a realm of incredible landscapes waiting to be explored. Dive in with the #FilipinaWanderer as we uncover the beauty of these natural wonders. 🏖️⛰️ #TravelinthePhilippines

The Philippines, an archipelagic country nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, is a treasure trove of awe-inspiring landscapes. From the white-sand beaches that ring its islands to the majestic mountain ranges that pierce the sky, the country boasts an array of natural wonders that leave visitors and locals alike, spellbound. The Beckoning Beaches The Philippine archipelago is studded with…

[metanoia-sturmfrei]

Mt. Apo view

[cdobiking]

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April 11, 2022 | Paradise-Baroring Creek-Paradise

[thephoblographer]

Voigtlander Lanthar 65mm F2 Lens Review - Sharp and Beautiful!

These colors are worthy of sonnets.

I have only owned two lenses since I began photographing professionally: a 50mm and an 85mm. This setup has suited me perfectly fine for well over a decade. When I need another focal length, I rent it or borrow it. Somewhere along the line, I developed an appreciation of storytelling. The more I choose to incorporate backgrounds instead of creamy bokeh, the more my 85mm sits on a shelf collecting…

[sound-and-vision-inspiration]

Wat Arun

The Temple of the Dawn

One of Thailand's best known landmarks and named after the Hindu god Aruna.

The temple has existed since the 17th Century, stretching back to the Ayutthaya era but it's most celebrated feature, the giant central Prang (spire) was constructed in the nineteenth century and was completed in the year ManSuang is set.

The spire represents the mythological sacred mountain, Mount Meru and the four smaller prangs that form a square around it are dedicated to Phra Phai, the wind god.

The prangs are decorated with shards of porcelain and tropical snail shells which give it an iridescent glow when the sun hits it.

The temple was once home to the famous Emerald Buddha, the sacred image of Thailand. It was placed there by the man who would become Rama 1 but when he shifted his capital over the river and had the Grand Palace built, the Emerald Buddha was taken and placed in the newly built Wat Phra Kaew, which stands in the grounds of the Grand Palace.

Apo likes to visit the temple every year for a photo with his favourite sandstone cat.

[the0phrastus]

Well, that worked pretty well for an 88% waxing moon with the ZWO ASI071MC color camera. The near-full moon and Jupiter at opposition were just far enough away to make this set up work--plus a lot of 5-minute exposures. That band of red at the top left is the tail end of the ridge of hydrogen that runs behind the Horsehead Nebula (B33). Imaging notes: 63 x 300-second subs, no filters with the ZWO ASI071 color camera cooled to 0C, William Optics RedCat 15 Apo refractor, Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro mount. The Orion Nebula (M42), Running Man Nebula (Sh2-279), De Mairan's Nebula (NGC 1982,M43), and surrounding nebulosity.

More of my astro stuff here: https://SaltwaterWitch.com

[thatgirl4815]

10 BL Boys That I Want Carnally

Thx for the tag @thegalwhorants and @waitmyturtles! It's funny how whenever I do these games every BL man I have ever drooled over immediately leaves my mind, lol. I'm sure I'm missing people who would make a great addition to this list. But in no particular order…

1. Sand and 2. Ray

I’m including them as a pair because they come as one. Together or separately, both characters are 🔥 and I would die for either of them in my own way. Do I want them carnally? 100%, absolutely, without a doubt. I would commit arson for them. I would burn down mount Olympus for them. I would take a dip in the river Styx for them. (Can you tell I’m in my Percy Jackson phase rn?)

3. Mork

He’s the ideal. I love him. I will never not be in love with him. They say he’s not a romantic but he totally is, and adding Jimmy’s hotness on top of it all…whew.

4. Porsche

Idk what else to say other than Apo’s profile is perfection and Porsche was a slightly-annoying-but-still-admirable goofball who just so happened to be intensely hot.

5. Phayu

I had a Boss phase. His motorcycle racer vibes are unmatched, and the little bun he wore? No one can pull it off like him.

6. Vee

I know, I know, he’s problematic. The cheating was bad. He was in crisis, and I know that doesn’t excuse it, but Yin is hot enough that I am willing to overlook it. Also, I have been in a debate with my friend for a year now that he bears a significant resemblance to Yeonjun from TXT.

7. Sarawat

Is this the basic answer? Absolutely. I think 2gether is overrated, and while I enjoyed it at the time, I don't think it lives up to the hype anymore BUT Bright's profile certainly does. He fits this prompt too well.

8. Phaya

Idk why I keep talking about the actors so much over the characters, but I have to preface this by saying that I hated SCOY and War of Y was not much better (the part that I did watch) but Billy has never let me down. It also helps that Billy is one of the BL actors that knows how to act like he wants to devour people (didn't think I'd ever be saying those words in my life but here we are).

9. Black

Look, Gun as a nice guy is great, but Gun as a rebellious gang leader? I'm all for it. I only wish Black would've gotten more screen time. Or like a spin off.

10. Kiyoi

Finally leaving the Thai BL sphere for a moment. Kinda hate his hair styling but his face is 10/10, and I completely understand why anyone would have an obsession with him.

--

I think I'm kinda late to this one so if you're seeing this, consider yourself tagged! :)

[birdstudies]

February 18, 2023 - Mindanao Lorikeet or Mount Apo Lorikeet (Saudareos johnstoniae) Found on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines, these parrots live in and around mountain forests, moving to lower elevations in the evening to roost. Little is known about their diet, but they have been seen feeding on nectar from trees with red flowers. Possibly breeding between March and May, they likely lay clutches of two eggs, but little else is known about their nesting behavior. They are classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN as their population is thought to be declining due to habitat loss and trapping.

[apocalymons]

Okay there is something really funny about one of our main samefoods on rotation being pizza.

Like, multiple different kinds of frozen pizzas specifically. Your Red Barons full size zas, the French bread pizzas, your Party Pizzas, your Hot Pockets.

There is also something equally funny about how much we just really like the crust of most pizza (when it actually has crust).

You could argue that Hot Pockets are all crust. You could argue that the French bread pizzas are of equal crust to top ratio since it's a pizza mounted on a slice of bread.

Either way you slice it, us having two Apo fictives and being like, both extremely picky about pizza and incessant about how much we eat it, is just funny.

-Arca

[lightandwinged]

Anyway, my WoW: Egg thoughts are as follows:

Being completely honest, I would've missed the announcement entirely except GeForce Now broke with BG3's latest patch and I just happened to refresh Facebook while GLARING at it and was like "oh right, that's a thing."

I legit thought for half a second that they'd decided to eschew cinematics in favor of getting a live actor to play Anduin for half a second, so idk how much the cinematics team is getting paid right now, but I'm petitioning for them to get a raise because goddamn.

I'm very glad they chose Thrall to come and give Anduin the news that his manpain is the new expansion. My boy is all grown up :,)

(I literally don't care if it's called The War Within, it's an egg)

If there isn't already Alleria/Xalatath fic out there, there needs to be.

I am so glad more than just my dragon mounts will now be able to do WHEE flying things.

I've been at this long enough that Delves is just Dark Elves to me, idk.

Lore seems fine or whatever. Apo is sort of sitting here like 'WHY. WHY HAVE YOU COME TO ME NOW WHEN I AM THIS.'

(meaning the full time job professional he is now and not the guild leader he was 10 years ago)

I'll play, because it's just sort of what I do, but so far I feel somewhat detached. Now if WoW 2 ends up happening at the end of the Egg saga, like if Azeroth hatches into "Azeroth, but with better graphics" then we'll talk with more excitement.

[toddcharlson]

Eagle Nebula

Imaging Camera: ZWO ASI2600mm

Imaging Telescope: William Optics FLT132 APO Refractor

Aperture: 132

Focal Ratio: f/6.9

Field Corrector: William Optics Field Flattener 68III

Mount: Skywatcher EQ6-R Pro

Filters: Chroma Ha, Chroma SII, Chroma OIII

Dates: 2023/05/14, 2023/05/15, 2023/05/17, 2023/05/18, 2023/05/19

[emmanuelbagac]

Davao del Sur

Entry point: Brgy. Sibulan, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur Exit point: Brgy. Kapatagan, Digos, Davao del Sur LLA: 7°0′30″N, 125°16′33″E, 2,956 MASL (#1)

Days required / Hours to summit: 3-4 days / 14-16 hours Specs: Major Climb, Difficulty 8/9, Trail class 2-4

Mt. Apo, which towers above Southern Mindanao and covers the provinces of Davao del Sur and North Cotabato, is the tallest mountain in the Philippines. At 2,956 MASL, it has a diverse scenery that ranges from rugged rock formations to virgin woods, mossy bogs, and volcanic structures. In fact, Mt. Apo has the broadest variety of habitats and offers mountaineers an experience that meets their standards for the tallest mountain in the nation.

The Kidapawan trail leads to Mount Apo's summit, the highest point in the Philippines. The journey includes crossing the Marbel river on coconut logs, passing through Mainit Hot Springs, and reaching Lake Venado. From there, it's a 3-hour trek through a grassland to the rocky summit area, with wild berries and a water source. Climbers find the summit enchanting with its scenic beauty and exploration opportunities.

According to legend, Mt. Apo was named after a nobleman by the name of Apong who perished while settling the conflict between two potential husbands for his daughter Saribu. The term "Apo," which in Filipino means "master" or "grandfather," is another idea for the name's origin. Mt. Apo is unquestionably the patriarch of Philippine mountains.

[yausheyne]

Beyond the Beaten Path: The Top 10 Undiscovered Wonders in the Philippines

The Philippines, a country known for its breathtaking landscapes and bustling cities, is home to a plethora of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. This aims to unveil the top 10 undiscovered wonders in the Philippines, guiding adventurous travelers, eco-tourists, and cultural enthusiasts towards these off-the-beaten-path destinations.

1. Danjugan Island: Nestled in Negros Occidental, Danjugan Island is a 43-hectare wildlife sanctuary that boasts untouched coral reefs, pristine white sand beaches, mystical bat caves, lush limestone and mangrove forests, and is surrounded by vast seagrass beds and fringing coral reefs. This secluded paradise is a haven for nature lovers and offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the wonders of marine biodiversity.

2. Buscalan Village: Tucked away in the mountains of Kalinga, Buscalan Village is a remote haven that is not only home to the legendary tattoo artist Whang-od but also showcases the rich culture of the Butbut tribe. Here, visitors can witness the ancient art of traditional hand-tapped tattoos and experience the warm hospitality of the locals.

3. Apo Reef Natural Park: Located in Occidental Mindoro, Apo Reef Natural Park is the world's second-largest contiguous coral reef. With its vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters, this paradise is a haven for snorkelers and scuba divers. Exploring the underwater world of Apo Reef is like entering a mesmerizing realm filled with colorful coral formations and an abundance of marine species.

4. Mount Pulag: Standing tall at 2,928 meters above sea level, Mount Pulag is Luzon's highest peak. Known for its awe-inspiring "sea of clouds" phenomenon, this majestic mountain offers a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience. As you ascend, the breathtaking panoramic views and the ethereal beauty of the clouds engulfing the summit will leave you in awe.

5. Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge: Situated in Samar, Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge is a protected natural area that showcases the wonders of nature. Explore the intricate network of caves, navigate through subterranean rivers, witness cascading waterfalls, marvel at the stunning limestone formations, and cross the natural stone bridge. This hidden gem is a testament to the beauty and diversity of the Philippines' natural landscapes.

6. Tablas Island: As the largest island in the Romblon province, Tablas Island offers a serene and unspoiled escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its pristine beaches, enchanting waterfalls, and opportunities for snorkeling and off-the-beaten-path exploration, Tablas Island is a paradise for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

7. Kaparkan Falls: Located in Abra, Kaparkan Falls is a hidden gem that mesmerizes visitors with its terraced waterfall cascading over green mossy stones. The falls create a natural infinity pool, inviting travelers to take a refreshing dip and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. This unique destination offers a picturesque setting that is perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

8. Lake Sebu: Situated in South Cotabato, Lake Sebu is a first-class municipality known for its seven majestic waterfalls, stunning lakes, and the rich culture and arts of the T'boli tribe. Embark on a boat ride across the tranquil lake, witness the breathtaking waterfalls, and immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions and heritage of the T'boli people. Lake Sebu is a destination that combines natural beauty with cultural immersion.

9. Balabac Islands: Located at the southernmost tip of Palawan, the Balabac Islands are a hidden paradise known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. Explore the untouched beauty of these islands, go island-hopping, and discover the vibrant underwater world through snorkeling or diving. The Balabac Islands offer a secluded escape for those in search of tranquility and natural wonders.

10. Homonhon Island: Steeped in history and untouched beauty, Homonhon Island in Eastern Samar holds great significance as the place where Ferdinand Magellan first landed in the Philippines. This 20-kilometer-long island offers a glimpse into the country's past and showcases its natural wonders. Explore the unspoiled beaches, hike through lush forests, and immerse yourself in the historical and natural richness of Homonhon Island.

These top 10 undiscovered wonders in the Philippines each possess their own unique charm and story, waiting to be explored. Step off the beaten path and embark on an adventure to uncover the hidden gems that the Philippines has to offer. Whether it's immersing yourself in the vibrant marine life, witnessing ancient traditions, or marveling at the natural landscapes, the wonders of the Philippines are bound to leave a lasting impression. Adventure awaits!

Article Type: Roundups and “Best of” lists:

Target Audience: Adventurous Travelers, Local Filipinos, Eco-tourists, Cultural Enthusiasts, Travel Bloggers and Influencers

Topic: "Exploring Hidden Gems: An Unconventional Tour of the Philippines"

@therealrodthings

[hunchbacked-one-eyed-lame]

Deleted “Play Within a Play” Sequence from my WIP Hunchback Adaptation

Hello! The following sequence was cut from the hunchback play I’ve been writing and revising. I felt that the audience spent too much time without seeing Gringoire after the “Sanctuary” scene, so I wanted to bring him back into the narrative in a natural way. Lacking any substantial scenes from the novel to adapt, I had to invent my own.

The conclusion I came to is the scene you’ll find posted here. The idea is that the aristocrats commission a play in honor of the pending wedding between Phoebus and Fleur de Lys, the sort of thing that was often the case in the Middle Ages. 

Our Gringoire, of course, is the author who is commissioned to write it. However, his artistic integrity is somewhat compromised because his verses were revised and dictated by Fleur, making the play a thuddingly obvious condemnation of Phoebus’ infidelity.

This scene was one of my favorites that I wrote, because the imagery is very comedic and would work very well on stage. It’s also one of the only scenes that isn’t from the novel, but there is plenty of inspiration, and the style of drama is similar to Gringoire’s earlier work “The Good Judgement of the Virgin Mary” (which I call “The Judgement of Notre Dame” in my adaptation.)

Unfortunately, I found that this scene was fun in isolation, and it gave greater characterization to Fleur, but it dragged down the overall pace of the story. I’m in the process of cutting and massacring the play to be shorter and thus more appealing to publishers -- I may have to cut Jehan, sadly. Darlings like this have been casualties. 

Enjoy!

{Scene: The Home of Aloise de Gondelaurier. Enter Gringoire, wearing a black cloak, from the left. He crosses to the center and bows.}

GRINGOIRE: In honor of the pending marriage between Fleur de Lys and Captain Phoebus, I have been commissioned to write a secular drama. Many of the verses were revised by the bride herself. 

ALOISE: Aren’t you the fellow who balances on his head?

GRINGOIRE: No, I am Gringoire, the master poet and philosopher. (Gringoire folds his arms, causing his cloak to open, revealing his jester costume. The ladies giggle.) Start the show.

{Exit Gringoire. The musicians/actors gather their props and costumes. The actors assume the roles of a Greek Chorus, Apollo, Hera, and the Allegory of Loyalty. The Greek Chorus steps forward.}

CHORUS:

Hark to a tale as old

As the land and the sea

Of the burning sun

And lilies soft

A lover’s tragedy

A tale to whom 

All may abide

If you are the groom 

To a bride

{The Greek chorus steps back. The Allegory of Loyalty steps forward.}

LOYALTY: I am Loyalty. I am a friend to friendship and am wed to marriage. I am never asked for, but I am as expected as the rising of the sun.

{Gringoire enters, crouching across the stage and hiding his face. He is holding a stick with a crude picture of the sun on the end of it. The actor playing Apollo marches behind him triumphantly.}

APOLLO: I am Apollo, the God of the Sun. Who are you?

LOYALTY: I am the virtue of Loyalty. I pray that you take me into your heart.

APOLLO: Nay! I spit upon loyalty!

{Apollo takes the sun-stick from Gringoire, who crawls away and beats Loyalty to death with it.}

ALOISE: (Apprehensive) Fleur … did you write this part?

LOYALTY: (Collapsing) I am slain!

APOLLO: Good riddance to ye! The god of the sun has no use for the likes of Loyalty!

CHORUS: (Stepping forward)

From Mount Olympus 

There came down

A goddess whom

Upon the sins of Apollo

She did frown

{The Greek chorus steps back. Hera steps forward.}

HERA: I am Hera, the goddess of marriage. I bore witness to the slaying of the Virtue of Loyalty, Apollo. It is most displeasing to me.

APOLLO: What care does the goddess of marriage have for loyalty? 

HERA: I cherished Loyalty above all the virtues of the world. For your actions, I will curse you. (Hera raises her arms and wiggles her fingers rapidly. Apollo twitches and falls onto his stomach.) Upon thy belly thou shalt go, and dust thou shalt eat all the days of thy life.

APOLLO: Alas! If only I had taken Loyalty into my heart.

{The aristocrats applaud. Phoebus is uncomfortable. The actors bow and exit to the left.}

PHOEBUS: Fleur, did you write that ending?

FLEUR: A little bit.

[rogue-driv3r]

Came up with this idea and absolutely had to make a quick sketch of it. Basically that's a Frankenstein Monster combining the DS3 RX chassis and AWD with a mid-mounted, Le Mans winning, unrestricted V12 HDi twin-turbodiesel engine. This, in a post-apo wasteland warrior setup with off-road tires and increased ride height.

[the0phrastus]

Orion’s Belt or the Three Sisters: next time you see that familiar line of three bright stars, the “Orion’s Belt” asterism at the center of the constellation Orion, imagine the backdrop of ionized hydrogen and all the other surrounding stuff you can’t see with your eyes, the bright nebulae, the dark structures of dust and molecular gasses, vast stellar nurseries with violent new stars forming out of trillions of kilometers of hydrogen clouds. There’s so much going on behind these three stars. The center of the Belt, Alnilam, is a single massive star, a supergiant that’s 375,000 times brighter than our star. Alnitak is a triple star system, and Mintaka is a binary star, with the two stars orbiting each other every 5.7 days.

Imaging Notes: 60 x 5-minute exposures stacked in PI, ZWO ASI2600MM-Pro monochrome camera cooled to -10C, 3nm Antlia Pro Hydrogen-alpha filter, William Optics SpaceCat 51 apo refractor, Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro mount. Shot from my backyard in coastal New Hampshire, bortle 4-ish.