11 December 2014 – The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver received a replica of an Ifugao nipa hut from a Canadian family who brought the souvenir to Canada six years ago after their trip to the Banaue Rice Terraces in the Philippines on November 28.

James and Marnie Stewart clearly recalls that their first stop in the Philippines was in Donsol, Sorsogon for a whale-watching adventure which they consider as one of their most unforgettable experiences.

From Sorsogon, they flew to Puerto Princesa, Palawan where they enjoyed the crystal clear waters and white sands of Sabang island. In El Nido, they spent a whole week exploring the island, snorkeling in its deep blue waters and eating freshly-cooked tuna.

Upon arrival in Manila, they headed north by bus to Banaue whose fascinating view more than compensated for the long hours of travel. Using a local guide, they embarked on a week-long trek to the rice terraces passing through Ifugao villages where they were able to experience the rich culture and heritage of the Ifugao tribesmen.

In returning to Canada, they carried with them a replica of the Ifugao nipa hut and a native bag hand-woven from the fabric of a tree bark. According to the Stewarts, they will always treasure the happy memories of their brief vacation in the Philippines, which they consider as the “land of the friendliest people in the world”.

Vice Consul Rogelio Villanueva Jr. thanked the Stewart family for their donation and assured them that the nipa hut has found a good place in the Consulate General where it will become part of its Filipiniana collection. The nipa hut or bahay kubo has been known as the traditional house of indigenous Filipinos before the Spanish occupation. It has also helped portray the Filipino spirit of “bayanihan”. END