Friendship, hospitality and the beauty of Ilocos Sur took center stage from May 29 to 31 as former Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis "Chavit" Singson welcomed longtime friend Becky Garcia and a select group of her closest friends to a three-day getaway in his home province.
The trip began aboard Singson's private plane, which flew the group from Manila to Ilocos Sur. The excursion highlighted the longtime friendship between Singson and Garcia, who invited several of her close friends to join the journey.
Known for his hospitality, Singson hosted the group at his seven-hectare private estate in Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, a seaside property that guests often refer to as "Sulvec Greece" because of its resemblance to the landscapes of Santorini, Greece.
Located along the shoreline, the estate features hotel-style accommodations with bedrooms that can accommodate two to four guests. The property also includes swimming pools, jacuzzis, ocean views and landscaped gardens.
Upon entering the estate, visitors are greeted by bougainvillea lining the entrance, while fruit-bearing trees, including apple mangoes, and ornamental plants add to the property's appeal. The estate is also home to deer, cats, chickens and exotic birds, offering guests an opportunity to enjoy nature within the grounds.
During the three-day stay, Singson treated his guests to a tour of some of Ilocos Sur's best-known attractions.
Among the highlights were visits to Hidden Garden, local pottery centers where traditional craftsmanship continues to thrive, and a viewing of Vigan City's dancing fountain from the city's view deck. The guests also explored the historic streets of Vigan aboard traditional kalesas, experiencing the old-world charm that has made the city one of the Philippines' best-known cultural destinations.
Another stop was Baluarte Zoo, one of Singson's most popular attractions, where guests viewed a variety of animals and learned about wildlife conservation efforts.
The culinary experience included visits to several local establishments, including Pinakbet Farm, BarTech and Golden Baboy, where the group sampled Ilocano specialties and local favorites.
Joining Garcia on the trip were Madam Takako Okada, vice chairman of Okada Manila; Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas, publisher of Rising Tigers Magazine, TopNewsAsia, InCharge, EXQ and Leading Women; entrepreneurs Gerry and Jinky Rabano; Lulu Beano; Atty. Manette Agbayani; restaurateur Dave Mungcal; marketing executive Cielo Redoblado and spouse Jojo; and Dr. George Sarakinis, Garcia's husband.
The trip also gave guests a deeper appreciation of Singson's roots in Narvacan, where he served as councilor and mayor before becoming governor of Ilocos Sur. Throughout the tour, he shared stories and insights about the places that helped shape his life and political career.
More than a vacation, the getaway became a celebration of lasting friendships. Through Garcia's close friendship with Singson, her guests experienced firsthand the hospitality for which the former governor is known.
As the group boarded the private plane back to Manila, they brought home more than photographs and souvenirs. They left with memories of friendship, laughter, culture and an immersive Ilocos Sur experience.
For those who joined the journey, it was a weekend that combined friendship, travel and a deeper appreciation of one of the country's most historic provinces.
