It has been a year of planning for the team of STRUCTMOTO in what we like to call the “Manaoag Ride”. For most of us, our bikes back then are fairly new, hence we plan the ride. It has been a bit of a challenge due to the Wuhan Virus – Covid19. Infecting most of us, lockdowns, checkpoints, and everyone’s schedule. It was not easy but yes, we made it. For us Pinoys, this is almost a ritual or the norm after we purchase a new vehicle. Our beloved ride needs to be “blessed”.
The Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Manaoag is famous for its miraculous events and is a well-known pilgrimage site in Pangasinan. A lot of people go there to have almost anything blessed – a new car, bike, pencil, pens, literally anything. Us Pinoys being very catholic and religious, don’t just go there to have our stuff blessed, we can also pray and offer candles and ask our Dear Lord Jesus Christ for everything our heart desires. And if you’re good enough with the timing, there’s also a scheduled mass daily.
Upon accomplishing everything at the church, of course, time to refuel ourselves. We head out for lunch to a simple restaurant along the National highway in Urdaneta, Pangasinan. Formerly known as Matutinas, but sadly they have been hit by the pandemic bad, they need to let go of the said branch. Luckily, the chef/cooks were absorbed by the new owner and therefore still offer good food! After devouring all the food, they have this backyard with nipa huts where you can sit back, relax and enjoy the view. Noticed that there’s no food photo? Yes, you got it!
- Jay Munji