Numana Farm and Hound Haven, Angat, Bulacan

“May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears.” “Kindness is stronger than power.” “It’s not the load that breaks you down. It’s the way you carry it.”

                                                                      

Numana Farm radiates because of these affirmative calligraphy quotes and more that could be found around its sprawling green fields and garden (it’s like hunting for Easter egg bunnies except this time I get nuggets of wisdom); that combined with the bucolic surroundings, simple yet elegant houses, farm animals and hounds, certainly make the place the ultimate “farmcation experience” in Central Luzon.

  

Numana is a leisure family farm in Angat, Bulacan; just less than two hours away from Quezon City. Formerly a mango orchard, the five-hectare farm is owned by couple Amy and Stephen Ustare, who passionately advocate for organic farming. This type of farming does not use pesticides, fertilizers and genetically modified organisms (that are usually harmful to health) in crop and livestock production. Thru their farm, they aim to provide farm-fresh and safe produce, natural and healthy products and services that nurture holistic wellness and sustainable living. With this initiative, they want the next generation to inherit a better world, a new inheritance. That’s new “mana” or Numana.      

I found Numana thru AirBnb, and without nothing to do on a long weekend, I decided to pay a visit.

Numana offers two modern rustic vacation homes, such cozy retreats for couple, families, friends, even pets. They are beautifully designed air-conditioned rooms with en suite bathroom.

The two-bedroom casita could accommodate maximum of 10 persons, ideal for intimate group gathering and bonding. The house comes with its own living room, lanai, dining area and kitchen, with several board games, guitars and sports equipment to keep the guests entertained. Beside the house is a koi pond.

  

The kubo, where I stayed, is ideal for lonesome, couple or small family of four. It has a charming native bed with mosquito net, a daybed, and mini library. Windows are made from capiz, as well as glasses overlooking the grass-covered field. It has a small open hang-out area below with a hammock and two swings. I like the amenities and thoughtful touches the couple did to the room to ensure comfort and safety of the guests – air purifier, scented oil, room sprays, hand sanitizer, succulents, alarm clock, umbrella, flashlight, free light snack and water, and the Farm and First Aid kit.

  

Beside the kubo is the caretakers’ house. Ate Loesa was kind enough to let me play with her pet dogs – a frisky pinscher and a serious pug.

She also cooks for the guests but they must bring all the ingredients. Since I forgot to visit the market, I just went to a nearby dragon fruit farm, bought 2 kilos of the sweet and nutritious fruit and had them for dinner.

What I truly find amazing staying at Numana are the numerous free and worthwhile activities included in the package.

The farm provides wide open and green spaces where kids and kids at heart can play, bike or run around to their heart’s content. The mango and bamboo trees give shade and fresh air. Moreover, there is also a friendly reminder that says “Numana is a smoke free zone” per executive Order No. 26. Comfortable swings and hammocks are scattered around the property for lounging.

Other inspiring quotes I found include “If you get tired, learn to rest not to quit” and “Don’t let someone who gave up on their dreams talk you out of going after yours”.

They also grow all-natural, pesticide free fruits (rambutan, pomelo, mango), vegetables (lettuce, eggplant, sili, tomatoes, cucumber) and herbs through sustainable agriculture practices. Guests could visit the orchard and green house and pick (and pay for) seasonal fruits or harvest vegetables.

They raise native and free-range animals such as chickens, pigs, goats, and rabbits. Upon request, guests could also pet and feed the animals.

The bonus in staying at Numana is the access to Hound Haven PH, a non-profit retirement and rehabilitation center for military working dogs. Their critical mission is to help k-9 veterans find forever homes through adoption. These fur heroes have given more than half of their lives in service to the country. All they need now is a love of family.

I usually rate the place not just because of its stunning visual but more so of how it affects me, touches my heart and soul. And in this regard, Numana deserves a five-star rating. It is a welcome change from the chaos and crazy traffic of Manila. It is a labor of love, a picture-perfect place for those who want to spend time alone or with loved ones, practice “la dolce far niente”, or learn the basics of organic farming. 

  

The farm is essentially living by the phrase, “farm life, best life”, an exciting vacation choice that certainly reflects hopes, not fears.

  

From Manila (SM North or Cubao), take Del Carmen bus bound for Garden/Santa Maria and get off at the last stop - Terminal. Take a jeepney bound for Garay or Norzagaray and get off at Pulong Yantok Arch. Then take tricycle going to Numana.

Numana Farm and Hound Haven

#353 Pinaglagarian St.

Angat, Bulacan

Tel. No.: 0917-5907900

Airbnb