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| (Image Source: ABS-CBN Corporation) |
“Philippine Hometown Stories”, the newest digital offering from ABS-CBN News, goes beyond showcasing destinations as ABS-CBN broadcast journalists return to the places that shaped their values, perspectives, and careers. The series blends journalism and lifestyle as Andrea Taguines, Bea Cuadra, Dennis Datu, Michael Delizo revisit their hometown, not as tourists, but as storytellers shaped by these places.
For Dennis Datu, growing up in a humble community in Bauan, Batangas instilled discipline, resilience, and an appreciation for simple living, values that continue to guide his work as a journalist. “My hometown has shaped so much of who I am today, both personally and professionally. We had to work hard just to get by, and that experience stayed with me,” said Datu. Those values are reflected in the places he always looks back to, including Bauan’s quiet coastal landscapes and its nostalgic local food. He added, “I felt really proud knowing that I was able to pay homage to my hometown. Through the show, I got to share a side of Bauan that you don’t usually see on social media — something more genuine and close to the heart. I’m also hopeful that the message of protecting the environment, especially our waters, came through, so future generations of Filipinos can still experience and enjoy them the way we do now. If you ever come to Bauan, you have to try londres and buchi-buchi. Eating these always makes me nostalgic because they remind me of my grandmother. Every bite takes me right back to those moments.” Meanwhile, Andrea Taguines showcases Tarlac as a melting pot of cultures that helped shape her outgoing personality and ability to connect with people which is essential to her work as a journalist. She shared, “Growing up in a Kapampangan household definitely made me more outgoing. Being exposed to people from different backgrounds and cultures helped me develop good social skills.” Her recommendations mirror that diversity, from local dishes such as bagis (Tarlac’s version of sisig) made with carabao meat to adventure spots like the paramotor in Bamban, followed by a visit to the public market for Chicharon Camiling.
For Bea Cuadra, returning to Iloilo became both a rediscovery of place and identity. She said, “Personally, growing up here really helped me find my identity. Being an Ilongga is more than just where I’m from — it’s that ‘City Of Love’ energy.” She encourages viewers to explore beyond Iloilo City, highlighting towns such as Leon and Alimodian and the hike to Bucari. She added, “The climb is tiring, but so worth it. That feeling when you reach the top — you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world.” Cuadra also recommended riverside dining at Icebucks Café, wakeboarding at Deca Wakepark, and Vespa tours for thrill-seekers. Meanwhile, Michael Delizo highlights Imus, Cavite as a place where history and modern life intersect. Delizo shared, “What I like about Imus is that it offers a fusion of profound heritage and hyper-modernity. You still see ancestral houses and the footprints of its contributions to Philippine history.” He also points out the city’s extensive sports facilities, including bike trails, running paths, pools, and climbing areas. Catch multiple local gems and more on “Philippine Hometown Stories” streaming every Thursday at 8:00 pm and on-demand on the ABS-CBN News Youtube channel alongside other digital offerings such as “Rated R: The Rico Hizon Podcast”, “Possessed”, fresh documentaries, and more.
