The Enchanting Oasis of Pasonanca Park

• HelloKumusta
  [koo-moo-sta]
• GoodbyePaalam
  [pa-a-lam]
• YesOo
  [oh-oh]
• NoHindi
  [hin-dee]
• Please/You're welcomePakiusap
  [pa-kee-oo-sap]
• Thank youSalamat
  [sa-la-mat]
• Excuse me/SorryPasensya
  [pa-sen-sya]
• How are you?Kamusta ka?
  [ka-moo-sta ka]
• Fine. And you?Mabuti. Ikaw?
  [ma-boo-tee. ee-kaw]
• Do you speak English?Nagsasalita ka ng Ingles?
  [nag-sa-sa-lee-ta ka ng in-gles]
• I don't understandHindi ko maintindihan
  [hin-dee ko main-tin-di-han]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGusto ko makita ang menu, pakiusap
  [gus-to ko ma-kee-ta ang me-nu, pa-kee-oo-sap]
• I don't eat meatHindi ako kumakain ng karne
  [hin-dee a-ko koo-ma-ka-in ng kar-ne]
• Cheers!Mabuhay!
  [ma-boo-hay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseGusto ko magbayad, pakiusap
  [gus-to ko mag-ba-yaad, pa-kee-oo-sap]

• Help!Tulong!
  [too-long]
• Go away!Lumayo ka!
  [loo-ma-yo ka]
• Call the Police!Tawagan mo ang pulis!
  [ta-wa-gan mo ang pu-lis]
• Call a doctor!Tawagan mo ang doktor!
  [ta-wa-gan mo ang dok-tor]
• I'm lostNawawala ako
  [na-wa-wa-la a-ko]
• I'm illMasama ang pakiramdam ko
  [ma-sa-ma ang pa-ki-ram-dam ko]

• I'd like to buy...Gusto ko bumili ng...
  [gus-to ko boo-mee-lee ng]
• I'm just lookingNagtitignan lang ako
  [nag-ti-tig-nan lang a-ko]
• How much is it?Magkano ito?
  [mag-ka-no ee-to]
• That's too expensiveMasyadong mahal
  [ma-sya-dong ma-hal]
• Can you lower the price?Pwede mo ibaba ang presyo?
  [pwe-de mo ee-ba-ba ang pres-yo]

• What time is it?Anong oras na?
  [a-nong o-ras na]
• It's one o'clockAlas-una na
  [a-las oo-na na]
• Half past (10)Alas-dyes y medya
  [a-las-dyes ee med-ya]
• MorningUmaga
  [u-ma-ga]
• AfternoonHapon
  [ha-pon]
• EveningGabi
  [ga-bee]
• YesterdayKahapon
  [ka-ha-pon]
• TodayNgayon
  [nga-yon]
• TomorrowBukas
  [boo-kas]
• 1Isa
  [ee-sa]
• 2Dalawa
  [da-la-wa]
• 3Tatlo
  [tat-lo]
• 4Apat
  [a-pat]
• 5Lima
  [lee-ma]
• 6Anim
  [a-neem]
• 7Pito
  [pee-to]
• 8Walo
  [wa-lo]
• 9Siyam
  [see-yam]
• 10Sampu
  [sam-poo]

• Where's a/the...?Saan ang...?
  [sa-an ang]
• What's the address?Anong address?
  [a-nong ad-dres]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pwede mo akong ipakita (sa mapa)?
  [pwe-de mo a-kong ee-pa-kee-ta sa ma-pa]
• When's the next (bus)?Kailan ang susunod na (bus)?
  [ka-i-lan ang su-su-nod na]
• A ticket (to ....)Isang ticket (papuntang ....)
  [ee-sang ticket pa-pun-tang]

Pasonanca, derived from the local term 'Pasonanca,' meaning 'to make a river,' has deep historical roots dating back to the establishment of Zamboanga City in the late 16th century. The area was initially populated by indigenous groups and later attracted Spanish colonizers who recognized its strategic importance for trade and military purposes.

During the Spanish colonial period, Pasonanca became a site for agricultural development and the establishment of infrastructure. The construction of the Pasonanca River irrigation system facilitated farming, while the presence of Spanish military outposts ensured the security of the region, integrating Pasonanca into the broader colonial economy of Zamboanga.

Pasonanca Park, officially established in the early 20th century, was initially a recreational area for the city's residents. Its development was part of Zamboanga's urban planning, promoting leisure and community engagement. The park features a variety of flora and fauna, reflecting the region's rich biodiversity and becoming a beloved destination for both locals and tourists.

During World War II, Pasonanca Park served as a refuge for displaced families and a strategic location for military operations. The aftermath of the war led to significant changes in the park's landscape, with reconstruction efforts aiming to restore its former glory, making it a symbol of resilience for the people of Zamboanga City.

In contemporary times, Pasonanca Park has evolved into a cultural hub, hosting various community events, festivals, and gatherings that celebrate the diverse heritage of Zamboanga City. The park's scenic beauty and historical significance have made it a focal point for cultural identity, reflecting the vibrant traditions and communal spirit of the local populace.

Pasonanca Park is accessible from various neighborhoods within Zamboanga City. The most convenient way to reach the park is by taking a jeepney heading towards Pasonanca. These jeepneys regularly depart from the city center, particularly from the Plaza Rizal area. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or a Grab car for a more comfortable journey. If you're coming from the Zamboanga International Airport, a taxi is the best option, taking approximately 30 minutes depending on traffic.

Pasonanca Park is a relatively spacious area with walking paths ideal for exploring on foot. While there are no trains or buses specifically within the park, jeepneys and tricycles are available for nearby destinations. Renting a bicycle is also a popular option, allowing you to enjoy the park's scenic views at your own pace. Be mindful of pedestrians when cycling, and always use designated paths.

Pasonanca Park is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to stay vigilant, especially in less crowded areas. Avoid walking alone after dark, particularly towards the fringes of the park. Areas to be cautious of include some streets leading away from the park where petty crime may occur. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is the Zamboanga City Medical Center, located not too far from the park. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the location of local police stations and hospitals for easy access if needed.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Avoid overly revealing attire. Religion: Do respect local customs, as Pasonanca Park features various religious sites. Public Transport: Do use designated jeepney stops and wait patiently for your ride. Don’t engage in loud conversations while on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile or a friendly nod. Eating & Drinking: Do try local snacks from vendors in the park. Don’t eat in a manner that appears disrespectful, especially near religious sites.

To experience Pasonanca Park like a local, consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon when the park is less crowded. Engage with local vendors for authentic food experiences, and don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. Join in on community events that may occur in the park, such as festivals or cultural programs. Take time to explore the surrounding neighborhood to discover hidden gems like local artisan shops and eateries not found in tourist guides.