We set out for Baler, Aurora at 7:00am on May 18. The journey was long and tiring, which was aptly described by Olan when he quipped, "Nakakailang panaginip na ako nasa Nueva Ecija pa rin". We reached our destination, Aurora Technological Insitute (ATI) at 4:30pm.
Why we (I, Olan, Mariel and Yov) were in Baler was because we were requested as resource persons cum facilitators for the two batches of the Basic ICT Literacy Training Course for the Aurora e-Village beneficiaries. The training aimed to equip the participants with the basic knowledge and skills on computer operation, internet browsing and the use of the e-village kiosk.
The first batch of trainees were sixteen farmers, coop members and AEWs from Baler, Aurora while the second were from San Luis, Aurora of the same composition. The first batch had their training at ATI while the second, at Aurora State College of Technology (ASCOT). We discussed with the participants the folowing topics: Introduction to computers; Introduction to the Internet; The e-Extension Program; and How to use the e-Village Kiosk.
We were at first apprehensive when we noted the level of literacy of most of the participants. But to our surprise they were receptive and eager to learn. It made our work easier and fun. In the two batches, two participants (for me, at least) stood out above the rest - Ka Mauro and Ka Nilo.
Ka Mauro, one of the three SCs (senior citizens) in the first batch is the oldest at 71. Inquisitive and bright, Ka Mauro is P4MP President and an advocate of organic farming. Considering that it was his first to try a computer (he had chances before but never dared), yet he was fast to learn although most often he forgot (perhaps due to his age) his login and password for his Yahoo! and e-Learning accounts.
The second group was relatively young than the first. Their oldest, Ka Nilo is in his mid-fifties. Like Ka Mauro, it was also Ka Nilo's first to try the computer although his daughter had an internet cafe. Ka Nilo is a member of the Parish Pastoral Council and formator in their place. A trainor himself, he appreciated the methods applied in the training and personally congratulated us for piquing his interest in computers.
As e-Extension coordinators, we did not only delve on the training, we had also fun. We strolled Ampere Beach in Dipaculao, Aurora and gathered stones of various sizes and colors, and indulged on their buko. We tried surfing in Sabang Beach but only Yov successfully rode the waves.
During the weekend we visited Dicasalarin Cove, which is considered as one of Baler's best-kept secrets. Dicasalarin Cove is a secluded white sand beach where the verdant Sierra Madre foothills meet the Pacific Ocean. From Baler we went to San Luis to see another nature's beauty, the Mother Falls in Ditumabo. The trek to the falls took us 20 minutes, but it was worth it.
We also sampled Baler's nightlife. At Sabang beach is Freddie's Place, a KTV bar featuring the Futuristic Band. Their repertoire included "Closer" by Ne-Yo, "Bilog na naman ang Buwan" by Tropical Depression and the most requested "Bad Romance" by Lady Gaga (its opening lines, "Rah rah ah-ah-ah! Ro mah ro-mah-mah Gaga Ooh-la-la!" still rings in my ears).
For souvenirs, we shopped at their Pasalubong Center near Baler's Bus Terminal. They have the sabutan handicrafts, the usual t-shirts, bags, trinket, decors, and an assortment of local delicacies. Not to be outdone is their ukay-ukay center ("ukay-ukay na naman!").
Summing it up, our trip to Baler is rewarding. I was able to impart knowledge to the participants and at the same time I gained insights and experiences that I would forever cherish. In all honesty I would say, "I have the best job in the world".