It is rare to see a house, or anything for that matter, kept in all its original state and preserved through time. Such historic house can be found at Daet, Camarines Norte. And did I mention it was built 95 years ago?



Built in 1917, the Pabico House is owned by Rufino Pabico but now looked after by his grandson, Francisco Timoner who welcomed us graciously, is still as beautiful as it was from the beginning. A first look of the house expresses grandeur and a certain pride as if stating it has seen it all. 



The colorful stone floors, grand staircase, intricate wood arcs, painted walls and lovely ceilings has a charm that an old soul can understand. My favorite part of the Pabico house are the Capiz shell widows that are so light and glistened a mother of pearl like facade.



Stories about the house are abundant as well. Mr. Timoner relayed a few, such as that the house was used as a headquarters for the Japanese Army, and even by the Americans. There was also a time, he said, that a ghost played a trick at the Japanese General once living in the Master’s bedroom. The story goes that whenever the general sleeps in the bedroom, he would wake up, still on his bed, outside of the house. 



The Pabico Ancestral House definitely has a lot of stories to tell, and will continue to create as time passes. It is a testament that not everything should adapt to this day and age, and that we should help in the preservation of such treasures. There are few historic houses and landscapes that are reminders of our past. And this house is certainly one of them. 



To get there:



By bus: From Manila, take the bus to Daet. 



Philtranco and Superlines run buses to Daet. 



8 hours, 560pesos ($13) (aircon bus)



         



By plane: From Manila, there are regular flights to Naga 



From Naga, take the 90 minute bus or van ride to Daet, Camarines Norte



By plane: From Manila, there are regular flights to Naga 



From Naga, take the 90 minute bus or van ride to Daet, Camarines Norte



              



To contact: 



Provincial Tourism Office,Daet, call (054)721-3087 for further info about Hotel rates and availability.



or email thru: Come2camnorte@yahoo.com