I spent my elementary years in one of the public school in Las Pinas and sad to say I didn’t experience going to any field trip back then. Looking back I think the closest thing I can consider an excursion would be the time when I was in Grade 5. Our class president rented a jeepney and the whole class went to the Nayong Filipino (not the one in Clark). For all the kids out there Nayong Filipino (Philippine Village) is a 46 hectare theme park housing the miniature version of the famous tourist spots in the country. Picture Bohol’s Chocolate Hills, Banaue’s Rice Terraces, and Bicol’s Mayon Volcano in one location without the hassle of spending money for airfare.
For the kids born in the late 90’s, better ask your older siblings or parents about it. It was more a picnic actually nevertheless we enjoyed being outside the school. Eventually it became a yearly event when I enrolled in a private school during my high school days.
And when the first field trip of my eldest happened I was actually the one who’s very excited that day. Wake up at five in the morning. Eat a quick breakfast so that not one would get hungry right away. Took a quick shower to wake myself again. And we’re set.
The field trip was well-planned. Although you can’t really calm down the some of them- there are kids running non-stop inside the bus. This is the time where and iPad or any mobile phone with game is very much useful.lol I didn’t have enough time to research as to what to expect in Sta. Elena. The wife and I were having a guessing game and somewhat overheard by the teacher of Joaqui. She came near us and gave me a lovely smile “Parang Farmville yun sir!”.
Zooming past the SLEX, the bus took a right turn in Cabuyao exit, and blow past the expanse of golf course. Finally we’re in the Fun Farm!
The place wasn’t huge as I expected it to be but it’s wide enough for the kids to run around, climb, explore and learn a bit of everything you’ll see in a farm. We started the activity feeding fishes in the pond and it was fun standing near the ducks. Just to hear them quack added to hands-on experience of being in a real farm. We then move in to the poultry area where the chicken and pig are the main attractions. The kids seem to be familiar with these two animals as they were not entertain. “Ayoko ng pig, bad sila! They steal the eggs of the Angry Birds!”,irked one of my son’s classmate that made everybody laugh.
Probably one of the popular activity would be the feeding of rabbits and hamster. Seeing and holding them up close delighted all the kids. Prepare to answer some interesting questions during the process. Some of the kids insisted their parents to buy them a rabbit or hamster for them to take care of when they go home.
There’s also a carabaoenjoying a midday bath in the swamp area of the farm. Our son wasn’t that much of a fan as he hurriedly sprint towards the horses. Kids lined up to be able to ride the horse, when it was out turn our son got scared and eventually pass up again. I guess he inherited that “scared as hell” gene on me.
There’s so much to do here. There’s a boat ride, fishing, and other stuff that kids can enjoy. it’s like having a 2 hours workout and trekking all the way to Gulugod Baboy with the kids running freely in an open space. If you’re looking something fun to do this weekend and if you’ve been spending too much time in the city, visit Sta. Elena Fun Farm for this one of a kind family experience.
Just some tips when you check out Sta. Elena Fun Farm
- Though the place is open to public, it’s better to make advance arrangement.You can email them at contact@staelena.com or call the following numbers +63-2-8868686 and +63-9209498260. Check out their site for more details.
- There are no nearby stores in the area. Make sure to bring food and packed some cold ice drinks/water as well.
- Wear something comfortable and extra shirt. It can get hot at times especially when you’re chasing the kids running
- Expect the not so pleasant smell of the place and animals. Mind you this is a farm. Wag maarte!
- Since this is the outdoor, bring mosquito or insect repellant.
- A camera to document the whole fun farm experience.