Awao Falls

Awao Falls hides in the mountainous farming village in the Municipality of Monkayo. In terms of Eco-tourism, this stunning waterfall is the top destination in the province. There is no direct transportation to these majestic waterfalls, so having an hour bumpy habal-habal ride with a river crossing is necessary to see its hidden beauty. Getting here will certainly be challenging, but you will be rewarded with pristine and breathtaking waterfalls. The picturesque is perfect, the ambiance is relaxing, the water is cool, and the air is fresh.

Kaamulan Park

Kaamulan is definitely the most relaxing part of my travel in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. This government-owned park offers an outstanding and remarkable experience to all visitors. Why not? Inside the park, the wind is fresh, the temperature is cool, and the ambiance is relaxing because of the greens that surround the area. The landscape is clean and well-maintained. Thus, the entire area is picture-perfect - a perfect place to bond with your loved ones.

TRAVEL GUIDE: MATIN-AO COLD SPRING, Malaybalay, Bukidnon

Matin-ao Cold Spring is one of the public summer destinations in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon; it is a long river system where the cool and crystal waters are free flowing. The crystal clear pool lit by a natural skylight creates the picturesque more dramatic. Not only that, the area is surrounded with hardwood trees that preserve the tranquility and also serve as a perfect backdrop. And of course, the set up is not complete without the birds singing their lullabies to welcome the visitors. There are benches and has a wide open ground for family gatherings and picnic. A habal-habal is needed to visit these spots because they are located in a remote area on an adjacent location.

Nasuli Spring

Nasuli Spring is one of the top tourist destinations in Bukidnon. For the locals, it's a prominent place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, but a few travelers and backpackers know about its hidden beauty. This place is definitely a natural cold spring with cool and crystal clear waters that can quench your body heat. Not only that, this resort in Malaybalay City is surrounded by trees, plants, and flowers, which preserves nature's tranquillity and creates a relaxing ambiance. To combine all, the landscape of Nasuli is picture-perfect and can be considered one of the must-visit attractions in Bukidnon.

Paseo de Santiago

My Iligan City habal tour ended at the Paseo de Santiago, a seaside complex with several food stalls and shops. Since it's seaside, of course, it's by the beach, and the sound of the waves makes the area cosy with the cool breeze - a perfect spot to relax. Others would call it a "hangout area" where you can have a few bottles of beer and "ihaw-ihaw," with someone performing on the mini stage. The area is wide with an instagrammable landscape which includes the gorgeous fortress (photo above), a wide map of the Philippines on the ground and the statue of Lapu-Lapu on the other side. The perfect time to visit this place is during sunset. It is privately owned; thus, entrance fees are being collected.

7 Days Solo Backpacking in Region 10, 11, and BARMM

Provinces visited in Regions 10, 11, and BARMM

1. Lanao del Norte
2. Lanao del Sur
3. Misamis Oriental
4. Bukidnon
5. Davao del Norte
6. Compostela Valley
7. Davao City

San Lorenzo Wind Farm (Guimaras Windmills)

My last destination in Guimaras was Guimaras Windfarm, with 27 gigantic wind turbines that harness electricity from the wind. The island is surrounded by the seas, so it’s a perfect location for renewable because of its sea breeze. According to Kuya Ken, the harnessed energy is transported to Ilo-Ilo City via cables submerged in the water. There’s a registration but no entrance fee. We also talked about the proposed bridge connecting Guimaras to Ilo-Ilo; however, it was rejected because it could damage living underwater creatures. By the way, Bangui Windmills is the most prominent wind farm in the Philippines, and it has attracted a lot of tourists to Ilocos Norte. Just recently, I featured the Tanay Windmills in Tanay, Rizal.

READ: SOLO-BACKPACKING IN CAPIZ, ANTIQUE, GUIMARAS, ILO-ILO

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Tori's Backpackers Paradise

Tori's Backpackers Paradise is the cheapest place to stay in Siquijor. The receptionist greeted me at their small reception area with a genuine "Good Morning, Sir!" and a smile. At that very moment, I thought that this place was perfect. I only paid 350 pesos for an overnight stay, a great deal, right? This resort is backpackers friendly because of its low price, and they have a dormitory-type room where visitors can meet other visitors. I was just sad because my visit was off-season, and only three visitors were in the resort. If you want privacy, that's not a problem because they also have private rooms.

Siquijor Church

Introduction and History:

The Siquijor Church greets all the visitors as it is situated near the port. It was established in 1783 by the secular priests. It was built using coral stones, and cogon was initially used for roofing. What's unique about this church is the bell tower, which was built a few meters away. Like some other old churches in the Philippines,  its convent served as the hiding place from the pirates and other invaders. Today, it is the centre of Catholicism in the province, but for a non-Catholic like me, this church is the living witness of the past survived by the province and its people.

Salagdoong Beach

I can't deny Salagdoong Beach has crystal clear waters with a fine white sand shoreline, but there are also sharp stones and corals. Want a more thrilling experience? This beach has two cliff jump stations that you can try. The ambience in the area is relaxing because of the man-made landscape, which is also picture-perfect. Your day will end with a stunning sunset with the cool sea breeze blowing. Also, this beach is a prominent destination in Siquijor, so tourists are expected to visit it. 

The Naked Island in Surigao

Experience the naked paradise of the Naked Island, one of the islets of Britania Group of Islands, Surigao del Sur. I know you're thinking of something green, don't you? You're wrong! The name of this islet is derived from its characteristic - naked, which means that nothing can be found except the stretch of fine white sand. It's very short, more or less 10 meters depending if it's high tide or low tide. 

HIYOR-HIYORAN ISLAND, Britania Group of Islands, Surigao del Sur

Hiyor-hiyoran is another stunning islands of the Britania Group of Islands in Surigao del Sur. It is also called the souvenir island because among islands, Hiyor-hiyoran is the only one with souvenir shops built by the beach, well' that's so far. Same as the other islands, it also has fine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and gorgeous limestone formation. Very Instagrammable.

BOSLON ISLAND, Britania Group of Islands, Surigao del Sur

Walk with happiness on the fine white sand that cover on the shore of Boslon Island. This islet is like a huge boulder dropped in the water. Because of the pressured, the fine white sand exploded and became - Boslon Island. Well, that's only my own story. Anyways, this islet is circular in shape, with plants and trees hanging on top of the gigantic boulder, creating a cool atmosphere in the area. This islet is the usual "pahingahan" of the tourists. Very conyo no??

Lazi Church and Convent

History of Lazi Church:

The San Isidro Labrador Parish Church, commonly known as the Lazi Church, is one of the main tourist destinations in Siquijor. I was stunned by the appearance of this Church and its convent. The parish became independent in 1857, but the current stone structure, which is neoclassical art, was completed in 1884. It was built using the sea stones, coral stones and wood. In 1972, it was declared as a national cultural heritage. Today, it is newly renovated, with the walls covered with white.

Century Old Balete Tree, Siquijor

The Century Old Balete Tree is one of the faces of Siquijor and must be visited in the province. It is a fig tree family or known as the "stranger tree" because it grows beside other trees and sometimes kills the host tree by strangling them. In Philippine folklore, balete is the house of the tikbalang (horse demon), dwende (elves) and diwata (fairies). Having said that, this old tree, according to stories, is mythical.

Tierra Alta Lighthouse

It is part of Tierra Alta Residential Resort, one of the prime event destinations in Valencia, Negros Oriental. This place is perfect for a wedding and other types of gatherings because of its breathtaking scenery, where the natural beauty and the man-made structures are combined with perfection. The lighthouse is comparable to the prominent lighthouse of Batanes, surrounded by well-maintained grass and ornaments.

Red Rock Hot Spring

A gorgeous view of the Red Rock Hot Spring.

It is indeed another tourist destination in Valencia, Negros Oriental. It started as a family private pool but was expanded due to demands. Red Rock Hot Spring has become prominent among tourists and locals because it's relaxing. The temperature of the free-flowing spring water ranges from 37.5 to 39.5 degrees Celsius, which is perfect for tired muscles. Plus, the ambience inside the compound is very Asian because of the cottages and plants surrounding the pool.

Cata-Al World War 2 Museum

The Cata-Al World War 2 Museum started as a private personal collection but was expanded as a museum to let the new generation see what things were used during the Second World War. The collection includes ammunition such as guns, bayonets, and grenades. Also, there are old radios, transmitters, bags, army and navy uniforms and magazines related to the Second World War. Other Japanese memorabilia include costumes, tablewares, and many more. Cata-Al is a newly developed tourist spot and destination in Valencia, Negros Oriental.

CAMPANARIO DE DUMAGUETE, Negros Oriental - a Travel Guide

You must include the Campanario de Dumaguete or Dumaguete Belfry in your list of the must visit places in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. It is the oldest bell tower in Visayas and one of the historical markers in the province. It was built to monitor and warn the locals of any danger. Standing beside the St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral and in front of the city's Rizal Park, it is very accessible from and to any points in the city. Having said that, it is one of the most visited landmark in the city.

Casaroro Falls

Casaroro Falls stands a hundred feet and is surrounded by luscious greens and healthy vegetation; this paradise has a cool ambience while the fresh and cool water falling creates a relaxing rushing sound harmonized with the birds' lullabies and wind blowing the trees. To experience its beauty, I had to go backpacking to visit the Casaroro Falls location. Situated outside Dumaguete City, a 20-30-minute travel, this beautiful waterfall is hiding in the forest area of Valencia.

Antwet Backpackers Inn and Rooftop Bar

Antwet Backpacker's Inn and Rooftop Bar is the cheapest hotel or place to stay in Dumaguete City. I found this place using Google Maps and searched it on Facebook. I texted the number posted and messaged them on Facebook about their rates. The owner responded in an hour, which started our everyday conversation. Every time I shoot her a question, she responds like a friend. So, this place is perfect. Also, it is a walking distance to the city's tourist destinations.

My Solo-Backpacking Itinerary in Negros Oriental, Siquijor, Bohol

Total Expenses: 11,015.84 Pesos

MONEY ON HAND: 10,424.00
EXPENSES WITHOUT AIRFARE: 9,175.4 PESOS
Flights via Cebu Pacific: MNL-DGT - 627.84 Pesos. TAG-MNL: 1,212.60 Pesos

Morong Church

Morong Church (Bataan), or Our Lady of the Pillar Parish Church, is more than 400 years old, established in 1607, and is one of the oldest churches in the province. Its structure was made from Coral stones, erected by the locals under the Spanish Colonizer who ruled the province. Based on how this church looks, the rusty color and lichen hanging on the exterior are proof that this church is considered one of the heritage churches. However, I did not see any Heritage or Historical markers placed here.

TRAVEL GUIDE: AGUINALDO CAVE, Biak na Bato, Bulacan

The Aguinaldo Cave is the most notable among other caves in Biak na Bato National Shrine.  It is the cave where Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo took a refuge while leading the resistance movement against the Spanish and American colonizers.  It is believed that this cave was the "La Mesa de Aguinaldo," the table which Aguinaldo signed the historic Peace Treaty.

 

Pinagrealan Cave

Ang Kweba ng Pinagrealan ay unang tinawag na "Kweba ng Minuyan" na matatagpuan sa paanan ng bundok ng Sierra Madre sakop ng Bayan ng Norzagaray. Ito ay ginawang kampamento ng mga rebolusyonaryong Pilipino sa pangunguna ni Heneral Sinforoso del Cruz. Ito ay naging pangunahing kuta at tanggulan ng mga manghihimagsik nang taong 1896-1897.

Barasoain Church

This historical church is also known as Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish, a Roman Catholic church built in 1630 in Malolos City. From the Provincial Capitol, we rode in a tricycle and alighted in front of the church. It was early in the morning, so we had time to take photos without people in the background. Disadvantage? The church was open, but the museum was closed. Nonetheless, I was stunned by its structure; thus, standing in front of the facade of this church was remarkable, making Barasoain Church the top tourist destination in Bulacan.

Malolos Cathedral

The Malolos Cathedral is one of the historical churches in the Philippines, located in the city, Bulacan. The construction of this church started in 1814 and was finished in 1817, under Fray. Melchor Fernández. Like most of the century-old churches in the country, this Cathedral was severely damaged by earthquakes. Today, it is the seat of the Diocese of Malolos and has been the bastion of faith for the past centuries.

Baliwag Church

This church has a gorgeous Baroque architectural design, and according to the Spanish records, it was Fr. Juan de Albarran, OSA, who was assigned as the parish priest of Baliuag Church in 1733, the year that the church was officially begun. Then, between 1769 and 1774, the second church was built by Father Gregorio Giner. The structure of the church was completed in 1801. However, in 1863, the strongest earthquake damaged the church, but it was rebuilt in 1870. It's also known as the Saint Augustine Parish Church.

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Bulacan Provincial Capitol

This is the place where the other government institutions/offices can be found. It is also the place where you can find the office of the most powerful man in the government of the province. This compound is the location of the leading university in Bulacan and the provincial museum, which houses the history of the province.

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Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion

It is one of the old churches located in Bulakan, Bulacan, which is a 19th-century Neo-Byzantine-Romanesque stone church. It was declared as a Marked Historical Structure of the Philippines in 2007. During Holy Week or the Lenten season, this church is the center of a famous presentation, locally called "Dakip," a Filipino word that means to arrest or to abduct. It is a play that portrays how Jesus Christ was captured before the crucifixion.

TRAVEL GUIDE: CASA REAL SHRINE, Bulacan

Casa Real Shrine is one of the must visit historical sites in Malolos City, Bulacan. It was built in 1580, became the town’s Casa Tribunal, Ayuntamiento, and Casa Presidencia Municipal and was the residence and Office of the Gobernadorcillo during the Spanish time.  It was the site of the Imprenta Nacional of the First Republic, where the revolutionary organs La Independencia, El Heraldo de la Revolucion, Kalayaan and Kaibigan ng Bayan were printed., the printing press of the 1896 Constitution and the Heraldo de Revolucion.

Guiguinto Old Trail Station, Bulacan

Built in 1661, the Estacion de Guiguinto (Guiguinto Train Station) is the towns most acclaimed historical landmark and heritage site.  It was upon this that the Katipuneros (Filipino guerillas during the Spanish Regime) ambushed a train from Dagupan, killing six friars, including the parish friar of Guiguinto, Fr. Leocadio Sanchez, and the Spanish doctor. The incident inspired Severino Reyes to author the novel "Opera Walang Sugar" which was later made into a movie entitled "Walang Sugat." - source: www.bulacan.gov.ph 

Jose Cojuanco Mansion

This is the old and original house of Jose Chichioco Cojuangco (July 3, 1896-August, 1976). He was the former Representative of the 1st district of the province of Tarlac from 1934 to 1946.  He is one of the roots of the Cojuangco clan, and he is the father of the late President of the Philippines, Corazon Aquino, and grandfather of the late President Benigno Aquino III. This historical landmark is situated on Paseo del Congreso Street, just a few meters from Barasoain Church and Casa Real Shrine.

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Plaridel Church

This historical church was established in 1581, and it is one of the oldest Hispanic churches in Bulacan. Its structure is a barn-style Baroque with Moorish ornamentation. During the British occupation (1762-1763), this church was the place where the money and jewels of San Agustin, in Intramuros, Manila, were kept. There is an octagonal chapel, locally called the Simborio Chapel, surrounded by artistic windows. The people in this area, with the help of the local government, are preserving its historical value. Also, "Pintakasi ng mga Caballero," or a fiesta for horse lovers, is celebrated in Plaridel, Bulacan. 

San Rafael River Adventure

This gorgeous resort offers a remarkable, unique, and modern way of camping - this generation calls it "glamping" or glamorous camping. With great facilities, this river resort can definitely give you a WOW factor: from the gorgeous surroundings, relaxing ambiance, water activities, and excellent amenities. Leaving your work and relaxing somewhere is the perfect way of spending your rest days.

CAMILING PARISH CHURCH: Tarlac Travel Guide

Before hiking Mt. Damas, I visited the Camiling Parish Church or the St. Michael The Archangel Parish Church in Camiling, Tarlac. This historical structure is the oldest church built in the province. It was built at around 18th century but was destroyed several times and was rebuilt in 1880s after the major earthquake. This church was the death place of General Pedro Pedroche and his soldiers who were killed by troops of Francisco Makabulos.

Ramon Magsaysay Ancestral House

A stunning color of Magsaysay's ancestral house.

Another attraction in Zambales is the ancestral house of former President Ramon Magsaysay in the Municipality of Castillejos. After celebrating Batang Hamog Mountaineers' 7th Anniversary at Silanguin Cove, this ancestral house was our side trip. While heading back to Manila, we decided to stop by because it looked unique, and it was the house of the Seventh President of the Philippine Republic. It was Lucky 7; we were in the 7th Year and visited the house of the 7th President of the Philippines. Ma-connect lang talaga no?? This ancestral house houses furniture, photos, medallions, and other memorabilia.

Mt Daguldol

Batangas is prominent with its beautiful beaches and outstanding underwater activities, but if you want to strike two different destinations in one day, it is possible. Not so far from the shoreline of San Juan, you can find Mt. Daguldol, one of the hiking destinations in the province. This mountain is one of their assets in terms of mountain ranges with beaches in the background. Daguldol is perfect for first-time hikers because the trail is simple to moderate, but the beauty on the summit is remarkably beautiful.

Mt Manabu

Its name is derived from the phrase "Mataas Na Bundok." Mt. Manabu has gorgeous flora and distinct fauna on its terrain, which is usually composed of tall hardwood and fruit-bearing trees, coconuts, shrubs, and grasses. This type of terrain serves as a paradise for the civet cats that produce expensive coffee. In addition, its summit has a wide view of the mountain ranges from afar and the nearby villages and a cool and refreshing sea breeze.

Mt Malipunyo

It is one of the hiking destinations in Batangas because of the stunning views and extraordinary experiences that can be found on the trails of this mountain. Mt. Malarayat is another name given to the Malipunyo ranges in Southern Luzon. Proximity wise from Manila and nearby provinces, it's a big check. Furthermore, it is also considered “first-timer friendly,” as it has simple to moderate trail types. The terrain is abundant, with different types of trees and colourful flowers that serve as a paradise for wildlife. 

Mt. Tibig

This mountain offers a relaxing trek because of its trails and gorgeous picturesque on the summit. With reggae music in the background, the stunning mountain ranges, covered with greens, will definitely make your eyes relaxed while the fresh and cool wind will help your soared muscles recover - such a perfect place for bonding. Also, accessibility from Manila is super check because it is situated in Lobo, Batangas, a two to three hours land travel from the metro. Plus, hiking for one to two hours, you can easily reach the summit of Mt. Tibig.

Buntot Palos Falls

As I've been saying in my Laguna posts, this province has a lot to offer. Today, I am bringing you to one of the majestic waterfalls of Laguna. Buntot Palos Falls, which others call "the hidden falls," is the grandest waterfall in Southern Luzon as it stands 80 meters with a high amount of water falling. Its name literally translates to "Eel's Tail" in English because, according to our guide, the trails to the falls a long, curvy, and slippery, similar to Eels's body or Palos in Filipino. Did you know that it has a hidden feature? It is a cave beneath the waterfalls, so passing through the water is needed.

Mt. Mabilog

Aside from the historical sites, food, and rich culture, Laguna also has great flora and fauna that can be found in the mountainous and forest areas. Mt. Mabilog is just one of the mountains lying in the province where a vast diversity of wildlife can be found. Hiking this mountain can definitely bring an extreme and remarkable experience because of its muddy trail. Still, there's a wide picture of the Laguna and the nearby mountains, such as Mt. Banahaw and Mt. Cristobal. Not only that, the reflection of the skies can also be seen on the water of the seven lakes.

Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery

It is a burial site which is 15 meters below a small chapel, a chapel which was designed for funeral masses in 1845 by Franciscan Priests led by Fr. Vicente Velloc. In the Philippines, burial sites are situated in different spots, like hanging in Ifugao, placed inside the cave in Palawan and Cagayan, and concrete crypt (in the modern era). This burial site is unique because of its architectural design and purpose.

Pandin Lake

Pandin Lake is just one of the seven lakes in Laguna, and it is a certified tourist destination because of its unique and amazing picturesque. With the reflection of the skies, the water greets the visitors with its Instagrammable landscape. The water is cool and crystal clear surrounded by forest which preserve the area's tranquility. This is also the perfect jump-off or side trip for hiking Mt. Mabilog. The province of Laguna has a healthy culture, stories, and travel destinations.

3B Rest House, Antipolo City

Planning to go out of town but how far is out of town? Though, it's a one to two hours land travel from Metro Manila, we chose 3B Resort in Antipolo City because we thought that it has a relaxing ambiance and a pool with the view of Manila's golden skyline. Since it is situated on the mountainous part, the wind is relaxing, cool and fresh. This is your Backpacking Guide, Affordable Place to Stay, and Other Things You Need to Know.

The Secluded Erin's Place Resort, Baras, Rizal

Rizal is the neighboring province of Metro Manila, therefore, it's a perfect destination for travel seekers, team buildings, family gatherings, and many more. If you're looking for a quiet place, surrounded by trees, that has cool fresh air, a good landscape, has a relaxing ambiance, Erin's Place Resort is the perfect place to be. Almost two hours from Metro Manila,  this resort is one of the resorts in the secluded area of Sitio San Roque, Brgy. Pinugay, Baras, Rizal.

Aliwan Fiesta

Introduction

Aliwan Fiesta, or Aliwan Festival, is an annual event where colorful festivals from different regions in the Philippines gather in one area to compete for the coveted title. Having said that, Aliwan Fiesta is known as the "festival of all the festivals in the Philippines." Aside from the given title, the winners will also bring home cash prices and many more. This event has a huge contribution to Philippine tourism because it is the best way to let the world know or the universe rather, those festivals are More Fun in the Philippines. Anyways, Aliwan has a series of events, such as the street dance competition, the float parade, and the Reyna ng Aliwan. Below are the winners:

Jolo, Sulu: Tourist Spots, Destinations, What to do and Where to stay

While the sun was still setting and we were a few kilometers away from the port of Jolo, I noticed the big picture and the stunning view of Sulu - an island province in the Bangsamoro Region. Although this province is always associated with "war," my solo backpacking in the province is proof that traveling to this part of the Philippines is safe. I even discovered that the people are friendly and accommodating. Below are the must-do and must-visit tourist attractions and destinations: