From Steaming Bowls to Tastebuds: Discovering Comfort at Oliver's Lomi and Goto in San Juan, Batangas

As the sun begins to send its bright light over the town, people driving over to visit San Juan are stopping over, enticed by the savory aroma coming from the kitchen. The clatter of pans “clang, clang, clang” and the sizzling sound of cooking fills the air as the cook prepares orders for diners at Oliver's Lomi and Goto located at the highway boundary of Rosario and San Juan, Batangas. 

The lomi house has seven wooden tables prepared  for diners. The Lomi Batangas special, priced at a reasonable 70 pesos for a solo order. Feeling adventurous, splurge on the Super Lomi priced for 150 pesos good for 3-4 people sharing. 

The order usually arrives promptly, the lomi is served in steaming bowls packed with Lipa miki noodles, a thick-yellowish noodle with egg and flour as its base ingredient, savory broth, and an array of toppings like pork meat, liver, and chicharon. The first spoonful brings out a comforting sigh coming from the rich flavors of the meal. 

But as time passes, a subtle change is noticeable—the soup, once thick and hearty, begins to thin as it cools down. Nevertheless, the flavors remain robust, each ingredient—noodles, toppings, and broth—contributes to the harmony of tastes and textures. The miki noodles drowned in the broth adds chewiness in every bite.

Moreover, lomi is regarded as the staple comfort food and a favorite meal among the Batangueños ever since., iIn addition to satisfying hunger, it can magicallyhas a magical ability to warm chilly hearts.

In the realm of cuisine, only a handful of establishments truly excel with their crafts, and the charming lomi spot in the picturesque town of San Juan Batangas is definitely one of them. It offers a genuine gastronomic journey that will make a significant impact even on the most discerning taste buds.

Ultimately, it's not just about the dishes——it's about the overall experience. From the cozy ambiance to the attentive customer service, every aspect of dining at Oliver's Lomi at Goto ensures that everyone feels at ease, content, and ultimately fulfilled. This eatery is a true treasure in the San Juan’s culinary circleworld, one that will surely leave a lasting impression on all those fortunate enough to pay a visit.

Bitter Taste to Intense Daze: Experiencing the Iconic Batangas Staple drink– The ‘Lambanog’ 

With a busy day in San Juan, Batangas coming to a close, the sun officially hid in the skyset.  An efficient way to cool down and relax after a long, hectic day of hard work is hanging out with your friends, discussing how your days went while eating snacks and drinking a beverage. 

In San Juan, Batangas, a way to spice this up is by opening up a locally bought bottle of the one and only ‘Lambanog’.

Commonly served at gatherings in rural areas like San Juan, lambanog holds a significant place in Filipino culture as an essential part of festive traditions. 

Often referred to as the ‘Philippine Vodka”,’ lambanog is typically served with a chaser, given its extremely strong flavor. Pure, unfiltered lambanog boasts a minimum alcohol content of 30%, earning it a reputation for its potency.

The phraseword that best describes the tasteexperience of drinking pure lambanog in its purest form is ‘abysmally bitter.’ It has an very intense bitter taste that can be exceedingly overwhelming, prompting you to reach for something to wash it down. It also leaves an empty feeling on your stomach, which usually lasts for about a few seconds.

A suggestion to mitigate the powerful flavor is to have fruits like watermelon, or a glass of water on hand to help wash down the taste and get rid of the lingering aftertaste.

While many locals consume lambanog in their usual drinking sessions, drinking pure lambanog is not the recommended way for tourists to enjoy this beverage, as it is can be commonly used as a base alcohol for cocktails. Typically, only a small amount of lambanog is added to a bottle, which is then diluted with a more flavorful and significantly weaker beverage, like an orange juice or an energy drink. This makes lambanog tolerable and genuinely quite enjoyable for those of intend to keep their tongue away from its bitter aftertaste.

For those with low alcohol tolerance, consuming large quantities of lambanog, whether pure or diluted, even with breaks in between, is not recommended. Even in its diluted form, lambanog can still have a strong effect, particularly when the amount consumed is not carefully measured.

Effects of lambanog include laughter fits, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, disorientation and some other presentations that are pretty common in other liquors.etc. 

Lambanog isn't suitable for everyone, especially beginners. However, when approached with caution and enjoyed in its native setting of rural places like San Juan, Batangas, it can offer a unique and memorable experience. While it may not be personally recommended, trying Lambanog can be a fun addition to your bucket list, providing a new and adventurous experience. 

Exploring the Tangible Heritage: Unraveling Gems  of Museo de San Juan

The Museum of San Juan whispers the tales of years of history. Located beside the San Juan Nepomuceno Church in Barangay Poblacion II., Iit iswas more than just a physical institution–it is but a keeper of the echoes and history of the past.

The  Structure

Entering up to the San Juan Batangas’ Museum, visitors would often hear the “thud,thud,thud” sound as you step on the wooden floor, each creak representing the testament of the countless footsteps that had entered its threshold. Tall and narrow windows with capiz shells panel, a iridescent material madee from shells, can be seen above on the facade of the museum drawing people into embrace. According to one of the caretakers, the museum used to be a convent.

Inside, the museum was a symphony of quietness, marked by the occasional squeaks of the thick floorboards on the ground. The bright lightning coming from the opened windows, creates a solemn atmosphere amidst the breeze off the comforting wind. Glass cases filled with ancient remnants of the past, each strategically preserved to have its unique story be told.

The Tangible Treasures from the Past

Among the most cherished pieces were was the iron nails used in the construction of the former church in the Pinagbayanan, humble yet a significant artifact that speaks volume of the town’s rich past. The nails with their eroded and rusty surface held an essential role of their own. Each nail was a testimony of the countless blows, an evidence of the craftsmanship of the builders who constructed the San Juan Nepomuceno Church in 1943. 

Aside from the iron nails, the local museum shows off a diverse array of artifacts that enriches the town’s cultural heritage. Liturgical vestments or priest clothing, perfectly preserved and in good condition, serves as the prompts of the spiritual leaders who had guided the town over the centuries, starting with Fr. Don Tomas Martinez in 1844. Palayoks and utensils, used by generations of hands, reminds the culinary traditions of the locals before. The papers, yellowed with age and produced in typewriter, containing the eucharistic documents. Old altar tables, scratched by years of use, bore evidence to the sacred ceremonies that had taken place within the church like the first wedding recorded in town dating back to June 3, 1843.

Visitors would often pause to the display cases containing these artifacts, with their hands tracing the outlines of history as they dwell in the stories they hold. The sound of their footsteps echoes in the halls, a gentle addition to the solemn atmosphere. Each artifact seemingly ordinary, carried with it a puzzle-piece of the town’s rich tapestry, assembling together the bricks of the past and the present.

The Enduring Legacy of San Juan de Bolbok Church: A Historical Treasure in Pinagbayanan 

Nestled in the heart of Pinagbayanan, the remnants of the old church of San Juan de Bolbok stands as a testament to the resilience and faith of the local community. Its storied past and architectural grandeur speak volumes about the town's history, culture, and the collective effort of its people. The journey of this historic church from its humble beginnings to its present state is a fascinating narrative of survival, adaptation, and reverence.

From Humble Beginnings to a Stronger Foundation

The original church of San Juan de Bolbok was constructed from simple materials—bamboo and nipa palm that were readily available in the region. However, these materials proved insufficient in the face of nature's rage. Frequent and severe flooding tormented the area, prompting the need for a more durable structure. Recognizing this necessity, Father Damaso Mojica—the town's first parish priest, spearheaded the construction of a more robust stone church. The construction of the new church was a monumental task that required resources beyond what their barrio, Pinagbayanan, could provide. Stone, wood, and sand were obtained from neighboring towns, while materials such as tiles, baldosas (floor tiles), bricks, and iron were transported all the way from Manila. The logistics of transporting these materials were no small feat. They were ferried across waters using the boats owned by Don Camilo Perez, who charged fifty pesos per delivery.

The project was formally sanctioned by the Decreto Superior in August 1855, under the leadership of Don Juan Dimayuga. The total expenditure for the construction amounted to 1,425 pesos, 3 reales, and 6 grams, which was a significant sum back then. The coral stones used for the church were sourced from the sea, while lime and sand were procured within the town.

Preserving History: The Enduring Legacy of San Juan de Bolbok Church

The completed church was more than a place of worship; it became a sanctuary for the residents of Pinagbayanan. With its two floors, the church served as a refuge during floods, protecting not only the people but also their livestock, including chickens, cows, and goats. This dual role earned the church the nickname "Noah's Ark" among the locals, underscoring its importance in their lives.

Before the end of the 21st century, the church came under the care of Nanay Belen, the owner of the Bautista Heritage House. She acquired the property from Marina de Villa and Benedicto de Villa for 500,000 pesos. Unbeknownst to her at the time of purchase, the land held the remnants of the old church. Upon this discovery, Nanay Belen took it upon herself to clear the area, removing several coconut trees to better reveal the church's remains.

Despite the passage of time and the changes it brought, Nanay Belen has remained committed to preserving the church. She often holds masses at the old site, maintaining its status as a spiritual and historical landmark. Altering or selling the property was never an option for Nanay Belen because she believes that the church has become an integral part of the community’s heritage and identity.

On January 29, 1995, the old church of Pinagbayanan was officially recognized with a Historical Marker. This was made possible through the efforts of the Batangas Cultural and Historical Commission, in collaboration with the National Historical Institute. The marker serves as a reminder of the church’s historical and cultural significance, ensuring that its legacy is remembered and honored.

The story of San Juan de Bolbok Church reflects the community’s resiliency, and reverence. It highlights the lengths up to which the people of Pinagbayanan have gone to preserve their heritage and uphold their faith. The church remains a beacon of hope and a symbol of the enduring spirit of the town's residents. Through the efforts of individuals like Nanay Belen and the support of cultural institutions, the legacy of this historic church continues to inspire and unite the community not just today but for the years to come. 

Architectural Significance and Historical Context of San Juan de Bolbok Church

Understanding the larger historical and cultural background of the San Juan de Bolbok Church necessitates digging into the rich tapestry of Philippine colonial history. During the Spanish colonization, churches were not just religious structures but also hubs of community life, education, and local government. The construction of stone churches in the Philippines throughout the nineteenth century was part of a larger trend of establishing more permanent and strong structures to withstand natural calamities, which were common in the country.

The use of coral stones and materials transported from other regions, including Manila, reflects the interconnectedness of communities and the extensive trade networks that existed even in the colonial period. These networks facilitated the flow of goods, people, and ideas, contributing to the development of a shared cultural and architectural heritage.

The architectural significance of the San Juan de Bolbok Church lies in its use of local and imported materials, as well as its adaptive design. The decision to construct a two-story church was not merely for aesthetic or functional reasons but rather a direct response to the environmental challenges faced by the community. This adaptive approach to architecture is a hallmark of many historical structures in the Philippines, where form often follows the imperatives of survival and resilience.

The church’s coral stone walls are particularly noteworthy. Coral stone, while abundant and relatively easy to quarry, requires skillful craftsmanship to work with. The use of coral stone in the church’s construction is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the builders, as well as their ability to harness local materials to create lasting structures.

What can we learn from the remnants of the first Church in San Juan?

The preservation of the San Juan de Bolbok Church is a vital part of maintaining the cultural heritage and identity of Pinagbayanan. Historic sites like this church serve as tangible links to the past, offering insights into the lives, beliefs, and practices of earlier generations. They provide a sense of continuity in a rapidly changing world, grounding communities in their shared history and traditions.

For the people of Pinagbayanan, the church is more than just an architectural relic; it is a symbol of their collective resilience and faith. The church's role as a refuge during floods underscores the deep connection between the structure and the community's survival and well-being. It also highlights the broader theme of how historical buildings can serve multiple purposes over time, adapting to meet the evolving needs of the people they serve. As we look to the future, the ongoing preservation and celebration of the San Juan de Bolbok Church will require continued community involvement and support from cultural institutions. Efforts to maintain and restore historical sites must be balanced with the needs of a living, breathing community. Initiatives such as guided tours, educational programs, and cultural events can help raise awareness of the church’s significance and ensure that it remains a vibrant part of community life.

The story of the San Juan de Bolbok Church is a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. It underscores the role that historical structures play in shaping our identities and connecting us to our past. Through the dedicated efforts of individuals and institutions, we can ensure that these invaluable cultural treasures are protected and celebrated for generations to come.

The San Juan de Bolbok Church stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and faith of the people of Pinagbayanan. Its history, architecture, and cultural significance make it a vital part of the community’s heritage. As we continue to honor and preserve this historic church, we not only safeguard a piece of our past but also reinforce the values and traditions that define our collective identity.

Benito Marasigan Ruins and Museum 

It was 8:55 in the morning, as the sun cast its golden rays upon the town of San Juan, we found ourselves drawn to an abandoned-like house in Marasigan Street, just a few steps away from the bustling crowd and energy of the public market—the Benito Marasigan Ruins and Museum. 

As we approached the intersection of the street, our gaze was immediately drawn to the haunting silhouette of the Marasigan family’s ancestral home. With each step, anticipation mingled with a hint of fright and excitement, for we knew that within the charred remnants of this ancestral house lay a story waiting to be told.

The house was owned by the late Don Benito Marasigan and Doña Soledad Villapando-Marasigan, built around 1929-1930 by Don Benito for his wife and their eight children, including Horacio V. Marasigan, who is known to be the hero of San Juan. 

The house was once a grand three-story structure, but was devastated in a 2009 fire incident, due to extreme heat creating a magnifying glass effect that rapidly burned the old newspapers and clothes stored in the upper stories, leaving only the 60% of the first floor.

Stepping through the threshold, we were greeted by Ms. Myrna Maralit who stood as a sentinel, guarding the legacy of Don Benito and Doña Soledad with unwavering dedication for 15 years already. She underwent a week of training to fully comprehend the history and significance of the house. Along with her, is her niece and the caretaker of the ruins for almost 8 years, Trisha. She visits twice a week to maintain the house, preventing termite damage in the wood materials.Trisha describes the house as her home as well, as she feels a warm connection to it, finding comfort in keeping it clean and welcoming despite its history.

Amidst the whispers of a bygone era, we found inspiration in their resilience, whose tireless efforts ensured that the legacy of the Marasigan family would endure for generations to come.

Together, they ushered us into a world where time seemed to stand still, where every crack and creaks whispered tales of resilience. In their steadfast dedication, we found an inspiration and a reminder that even amidst the ruins, the legacy of the Marasigan’s house lives on.

As we wandered through the weathered corridors and explored the remnants of a once-grand structure, we couldn’t help but be struck by the stark contrast between its worn facade and the vibrant energy of the surrounding streets. 

Yet, the tale of the Benito Marasigan Ruins and Museum extends beyond its architectural significance. It intertwines with the courageous actions of Horacio V. Marasigan, a local hero revered for his unwavering dedication to his community.

In the face of an impending environmental threat, Horacio led the charge against the construction of Southeast Asia’s first copper smelting plant, which then threatened the health and environmental integrity of San Juan. This story was the country’s first peaceful environmental activism led by Horacio and the Concerned Citizens of San Juan(CCSJ). The discontinuation of the construction of the copper smelting plant in the area was achieved through a signature campaign led by concerned citizens. Meetings were regularly held at the Plaza to deter its construction. Had it proceeded, San Juan would have lost its pristine seaside, and the town would have been infamous for its pollution.

Leaving the Benito Marasigan Ruins and Museum, we carried with us a profound appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit, the legacy brought by the Marasigan family, and in the silent dedication of Ms. Myrna and Trisha. We were reminded that some stories are meant to be preserved, cherished and passed on for generations to come. 

Mercado White House

As we entered the gates of the Mercado White House, a sense of awe took over our senses. What we saw was truly something to behold, a large and elaborate structure situated in a part of town known for its crowded, busy streets. Amidst the traffic, smoke, and noise of San Juan, the beautiful relic of history, the Mercado White House, stands proudly, reminding us of the municipality’s once peaceful chapter.

The Mercado White House, an open ancestral house in San Juan, Batangas, was built exclusively using the finest of local hardwood trees. Up to this day, the White House still endures and stands as a testament to the creativity and hard work that defines the municipality of San Juan.

The house, previously owned by distant relatives of Jose Rizal, originally belonged to Aguedo De Villa Mercado and Pilar Marasigan. They had four children: Cleotilde, Natividad, Lourdes, and Felizardo. After the couple's passing, Lourdes inherited the house, and it was later passed to her brother Felizardo, who then passed it down to his three children, who were owners until 2020.

In 2020, the house was sold by Felizardo’s children to Mr. Neil Comple Marundan and his wife, Dra. Joy Marylene Maalihan. Mr. Marundan, along with one of the caretakers, provided us with insights into the storied history of the house. 

The White House was constructed over the course of 6 years, starting from 1934 all the way to 1940. It took over 150 hardwood trees to build this enormous homestead, with materials such as Narra, Balayong, Yakal, and many others used to form the structure. During that time, cutting wood in order to build houses was a common practice.

The building's architectural design is characterized by its pre-war and neo-classical elements. This is evident in the use of wood throughout the house, as well as the presence of columns and the antique simplicity that defines its appearance.

The lot on which the house was built spans 755 square meters, providing ample space for the elegant structure. The house itself boasts a floor area of approximately 500 square meters, offering generous room for its occupants.

The house served as a popular social venue for afternoon relaxation and hosted musical evening parties. Notoriously, the house was also used as a lounge by Japanese officials during the Japanese Occupation Period in World War II, with many Japanese Generals often being welcomed as guests in the house.

Some remnants of the outdated architectural design still persist in the White House, including secret passages reserved for maids who were not permitted to use the main doors used by the owners and guests of the house.

In 2021, under the supervision of Mr. Marundan, a restoration project was undertaken to preserve and reintroduce the Mercado White House to the public. This restoration effort led to significant improvements in the house, with many of its original elements successfully restored.

As stated by Mr. Marundan, approximately 90% of the original elements of the house remain intact and fully functional, continuing to be showcased. Minimal alterations have been made, such as replacing the upholstery for the dining room chairs and updating the main dinning table. Additionally, some elements of the kitchen have been restored. Interestingly, all other elements remain unchanged. Surprisingly, the speaker used by the Japanese officials back then is still present and fully operational.

Certain items that were not originally part of the house were included at the request of Mr. Marundan. These include an old barber chair from his longtime barber since childhood and a 'sorbetes' cart positioned in the middle of the lobby on the first floor.

Guests are asked to wear foot socks inside the house to protect the shiny hardwood floors from any potential damage. Indeed, every corner of the house gleams with cleanliness. The house is exceptionally well-maintained, with not even a speck of dust in sight. The floors are particularly slippery, especially when wearing foot socks, so caution is advised when navigating the house, especially around the stairs.

From the balcony on the second floor, guests can enjoy a view of San Juan. Birdhouses contribute to the serene atmosphere inside the house, even amidst the bustling noise outside.

A gift shop offers souvenirs to commemorate your visit to the White House, including Lambanog and other items. Additionally, the gift shop features a glass display showcasing the history of Philippine money, adding an interesting touch to the experience.

The Mercado White House is open to the public, offering dining services and rental options. Recently, it hosted an art gallery celebrating the release of the book Barako '77. Mr. Marundan assures that the house will stay open to all, with caretakers ensuring a hospitable welcome for guests. The restoration work will also continue, aimed at preserving the White House's charm and enhancing its appeal to the public eye.

This visit to the Mercado White House has been truly fascinating. The dedication and passion exhibited by Mr. Marundan and his wife in restoring this significant historical landmark cannot be overstated. Their continuous efforts to restore the White House to its original grandeur while also modernizing it to adapt to contemporary needs are truly admirable. erc

Unearthing the Hidden Masterpiece of San Juan Batangas: An Exploration of the Underrated Art of Pottery

Upon our arrival in San Juan, Batangas, we immediately noticed a distinctive landmark. Despite the dimly lit surroundings, the presence of the sign indicating our arrival in the unique town of San Juan, Batangas, guided our way.

As we journey, we pass by lines of pottery sellers, a form of art that is often overlooked today. 

Mr. Jose Zapata, aged 63, is actively engaged in pottery making at Obligar's Pottery, which is exclusively found in Barangay Libatog within the municipality of San Juan Batangas.

Fun fact: Obligar's Pottery is the youngest pottery (12 years), among its competitors in pottery-making, yet it is always frequented and featured. Perhaps it is because of their unique craftsmanship, the advanced machines they use, and the variety of styles to choose from.

He claimed to have dedicated four decades to perfecting his skills in the art. By skillfully transforming ordinary clay into stunning works of art, he managed to finance the higher education of his seven children. Seeking to further refine his craft, he participated in a pottery workshop in Vietnam, learning new techniques and approaches. Upon his return, he shared his skills with his community, enriching their understanding and appreciation of pottery. 

Originally from Pampanga, Mr. Zapata decided to showcase his exceptional pottery-making skills in San Juan, Batangas.

Pot is made by combining naturally  occurring raw materials such as clay earthen minerals, and water. The clay  cornerstone of this artistry must possess three essential qualities. First, it needs plasticity, granting the flexibility to mold into myriad shapes. Next, porosity ensures the pot's strength and durability, forming a resilient vessel. Lastly, the clay should be capable of vitrification, a transformative process that converts radioactive and chemical waste into a solid, glass-like material, reflecting the pot's ability to encapsulate and neutralize harmful substances.

All of the pot manufacturers in Barangay Libatog San Juan Batangas use the same clay property and improvise equipment in pottery making, when the construction process begins, the piled clay is shoveled and placed in the mud mill, making sure it is wet before grinding so that it can achieve the right consistency and texture. After grinding, the thrower will take enough clay and place it on a pottery wheel, one cup of water and a little piece of cloth, a simple tool used of a thrower for enhancing the beauty that's hidden in the mud. 

In the world of pottery, size dictates the dedication and precision is required. Each day, artisans meticulously shape their creations, varying from petite vessels to grand artifacts, each demanding its own unique touch. Once sculpted to perfection, these pieces enter the third stage of their journey,  the drying process.

The drying process is a dance with time, where the smaller pots, delicate and nimble, rest for about an hour and a half. These quick-drying pieces are balanced by their larger counterparts, large and robust, which demand a week-long repose. This extended drying period allows the significant mass of clay to shed its moisture evenly and thoroughly.

Streamers vigilantly oversee this critical phase, ensuring every pot, regardless of size, dries to perfection. Only when each vessel is considered sufficiently dry do they progress to the final stage, ready to embrace the next step in their transformation from raw clay to enduring art. After many hours and days of  waiting, the artist carefully collects all dry pots inside the furnace to begin the last process of pottery making. All pots  should be fully dry before it is processed to avoid cracks and unbalanced color of the pots.

Cooking time usually lasts for 2 to 3 days  depending on the pots types and sizes. The furnace, where the pot is sifted, is heated by wood bought from LGU in the place. These woodcuts are also purchased when the clay from Quari costs 15 pesos per bag.

There are three huge pottery factories in Barangay Libatog San Juan Batangas. All clay used in these three factories is from Aquari, the only river that stands as a source of quality clay in all of the pot businesses in the mountain of Barangay Libatog.

Two out of three pot factories in Libatog have been running for decades; each of them releases thousands of pottery a week.

Donna A. Benitez, daughter of the owner of Astillero Pottery, highlights a significant challenge confronting the pottery industry in Batangas. Despite its thriving nature, the pottery factory in Barangay Libatog faces difficulties, notably in the gradual hardening of clay as it sits in the Aquari, leading to mud blackening and stoning due to pit deepening.

The deep history of San Juan, Batangas captivated us, along with the remarkable skill displayed by the often overlooked pottery artists.

The charming town of San Juan is further enhanced by a stunning piece of artwork. San Juan is more than just a town with a vibrant culture and storied past; it is also home to undiscovered artistic treasures that, most of the time, go unnoticed.