While I was strolling the baywalk of Dumaguete City, I saw this colorful Kalesa!
Kalesa is a two-wheeled carriage, similar to the Jinrikisha (rickshaw) of Japan, but in the Philippines it is drawn by a horse.
The kalesa was introduced to the Filipinos by the Spaniards in the 18th century, during their regime. It was used as the mode of transport by the upper classes.
Like today, wherein your car says a lot about your social class, kalesa was once considered a luxury that only nobles and high-ranking officials could afford. It can be compared to the Lamborghini of the 20th century!
I am always fascinated with kalesas. In fact, I was able to ride the kalesas of Cebu, Intramuros, and Vigan. But among all the kalesas I have seen, the kalesa of Dumaguete is the most visually appealling!
It was decorated with several adornments, but the thing that makes it unique from the others is that it had disco lights that also came with an upbeat music!
I haven't tried it yet, since I was in a hurry last night (need to fall in line a long queu to buy Silvanas), but I will surely try it tonight with my son. I'm pretty excited for the experience!
