> Dreams Travel Forever: Barotac Nuevo: My Hometown(Part 1)

Barotac Nuevo: My Hometown(Part 1)

"Growing up in my hometown had been such a remarkable experience. The joys and laughter it brought me made me feel the comfort it has in store not only for me but for everyone who visits the place."


                 
                My first travel features the place where my heart and mind truly belong- my hometown. But before going any further, let me share the history of my hometown and the various reasons why I keep coming back to the place which I call HOME.

                Barotac Nuevo is a small town whose main industry and capital is in agriculture. The name Barotac is from the Spanish word baro, which means mud, as well as the last syllables of tac and lutac. With nuevo, translated as new, added to the name, it distinguished it from another town called Barotac Viejo just north. 

               According to local folklore, Barotac Nuevo was famous for its well-bred horses. There was once a horse called Tamasak (town's Trademark), a pure white stallion known for its strength, in the stead of one Don Simon, and who was offered much if he could sell it to Manuel Gonzales de Aguilar, the Governor General of the country at that time. Don Simon eventually sold Tamasak, not for money but for title and separation from the town of Dumangas, which was just a smaller section thereof. The barrio, once known as Mulatac, now stands the town of Barotac Nuevo.

               But aside for the historic treasure, Barotac Nuevo is also known as the Football Capital of the Philippines. Residents in my town are not going wild over basketball superstars like Shaquille O'Neal or Kobe Bryant or even follow the steps of People's Champ "Manny Pacquiao". Kids here instead dream of becoming football stars like Ronaldinho (Gaucho) and Ronaldo (Luiz Nazario da Silva) both of Brazil and David Beckham of England. And because Barotac Nuevo is the home of football, many football superstars became famous in this line of sports. You will be considered a true Barotacnon if you know these names: Chieffy Caligdong, Ian Araneta, Roel Gener and other players who are  members of the Philippine Azkals Team (they are true-blooded Barotacnon).

              Children in my town learn to play football many years before they get to wear football shoes. That's the reason why Barotacnon players are the best when it comes to football. It's in our culture.. and runs into our blood. The passion for football is the key recipe why Barotacnon emerged in this kind of sport. If we all exposed to this passion, our nation will be a genuine nation.

             When Barotac players play, games will always be intense. When Barotacnon score, cheers will always be loud. When Barotac players run, plays will always be exciting. As an Ilonggo, I am proud of Barotac Nuevo players for their strength and skill when it comes to playing football. The lack of uniforms, shoes and facilities give Barotac players the drive and determination to play every game like it’s their last. This underdog mentality can be our fighting chance on our way to becoming a genuine football nation.

            So the next time you visit my place, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo and you see kids playing football, don’t be surprised if they come to you saying “Mahampang ta!. I know someday, Barotac Nuevo will be the next tourists spot in the Philippines. Let's help one another promote Barotac Nuevo. 

           If you like this post please share to everyone. See you in the next part of my journey here in my hometown. Keep on touch :-)

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