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It is an islet situated in Brgy. Uacon, Municipality of Candelaria; a few hours of land travel from Manila. Before the coves of San Antonio were discovered, this island was first hailed as one of the finest gems of the province because of its fine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and relaxing ambiance. Since it is separated from the mainland and is in a remote area, a few visitors can only visit.
Bacolor Church (San Guillermo Church) in Pampanga is considered as the Cagsawa of the North. More than twenty years ago, Mt. Pinatubo erupted and many municipalities were left devastated, including Bacolor. This church was built in 1576 and was named after their patron saint San Guillermo Ermitaño. Destroyed by earthquakes and fire then was rebuilt in 1886.
Borawan Island is a small islet with a stretch of fine white sand shoreline, surrounded by crystal clear waters, a cool and relaxing ambience and amazing rock formations. Its name is the combination of Boracay, for its fine white sand, and Palawan because of the rock formation. A few years ago, this island became phenomenal in the province because of its beauty.
It is a seven-chamber cave where scientists and experts discovered 67,000-year-old fossilized remains of a Callao man in 2007, that's a thousand years older than the Tabon Man in Palawan. Callao Cave is definitely the top tourist attraction in Peñablanca, Cagayan. This cave is situated on the Northern foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains. By the way, Peñablanca, the name of the municipality, is a Spanish word that means white rocks because of the limestone present in the area.
Ang mansyon ng mga Aguinaldo o Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine sa Kawit, Cavite ay isa sa mga lumang istruktura na aking gustong maabot at ngayong araw, naabot ko rin ito sa wakas. Galing ng Baclaran, ang probinsya ng Cavite ay halos isang oras lamang na biyahe dahil sa Cavitex na nagpagaan ng trapiko sa lugar. Sa post ko kahapon, ipinakita ko sa inyo ang maaliwalas na bakuran ng mansyon. Ngayon, loob naman ng mansyon ang aking ibabahagi.
It is the center of the Archdiocese of Cebu City. Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral was established as a diocese on August 14, 1595, and became the metropolitan archdiocese on April 28, 1934, with its first archbishop, Gabriel M. Reyes. The structure's construction was interrupted due to insufficient funds and other circumstances. The facade features a trefoil-shaped pediment decorated with floral carves.
Heritage of Cebu Monument is a historical landmark situated at the original Plaza Parian. It occupies a triangular portion near the end of Colon Street. This Monument showcases the significance and symbolic events in history of Cebu during the reign of Rajah Humabon. It was a work of art by the National Artist Edgardo Castrillo on July 1997 in cooperation with Mayor Alvin Garcia and was inaugurated in December 8, 2000.
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| Photo: Tourists entering Magellan's Cross. |
Magellan's Cross is a historical landmark and the most visited tourist spot in Cebu City. It is a Christian Cross made of wood erected by Ferdinand Magellan (a Portuguese explorer) during his exploration in Cebu, Philippines, on April 21, 1521. This Cross can be found inside an octagonal chapel in front of Cebu City Hall and beside Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. This is one of the most prominent tourist spots in Cebu. But, the current Cross is a tindalo wood where the splinters of the original Cross were encased. The wood of the original Cross deteriorated because the people were chipping some parts and making it as a souvenir in the belief that it was miraculous.
Commonly known as the Minor Basilica of the Holy Child, the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño is one of the minor basilicas in Cebu City. It is one of the oldest Roman Catholic churches in the country. Its current structure is situated on the exact spot where the image of Santo Niño was found in 1565 by the Spanish explorers led by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. The statue is the same as the statue given by Ferdinand Magellan to the wife of Rajah Humabon 44 years later as a gift during their baptism on April 14, 1521, at the exact location of Magellan's Cross today.
"The Latin City of Asia" was given to Zamboanga City because of their language called "chavacano," similar to Spanish. The city is situated on the Southern side of the Zamboanga Peninsula and on the Northern side of Basilan. Aside from their language, the city is also prominent with its "vinta," a colorful and stunning sailboat or watercraft that is usually used by the locals. Using Google Maps, had a walking tour of their top tourist spots and destinations.
The Ruins, in Talisay City, was the largest residential mansion built then. This mansion belongs to sugar baron Don Mariano “Anoy” Ledesma Lacson (1865-1948.) Built after the death of his wife Maria Braga (1911) and served as the residence of their unmarried children. But, in the early part of World War II, USAFEE and then guerrilla fighters built this mansion to prevent the Japanese forces from making this structure their headquarters. It was burning for three days, leaving no traces of its glorious past, but still, the effort of the workers paid off because its gorgeous RUINS are still standing and part of our today.
It is a mountain that is a bit challenging, but you will be rewarded with amazing views from the summit, cool weather, and a remarkable experience. Mt. Mantalingajan, or Mt. Mantalingahan Protected Landscape, is situated in Rizal, Palawan, and it is more than 4 hours' travel from Puerto Princesa City. Since Manta (another name given) is located in a secluded municipality, its beauty remains hidden from many hikers. Thus, its richness is well preserved.
Commonly known as the St. Anne Parish, Molo Church is opposite the town plaza. Molo is one of the seven districts of Iloilo City, formerly called Parian (Chinatown), because the residents here were mostly Chinese. Then, it was changed into Moro because of the frequent arrival of Muslim pirates from Mindanao, but it later evolved into this name – Wikipedia.com.
It is another example of the country's historical baroque architecture. Built in 1864, Jaro Cathedral was erected by order of Mariano Cuartero, the first bishop of Jaro. In 1948, this structure was destroyed by an earthquake and was restored in 1956 by the order of the first archbishop Jose Ma. Cuenco. The famous orator Graciano Lopez Jaena was baptized in this church. In 1976, the National Historical Institute proclaimed this church as a Historical Landmark.
It is a place that converts wind energy into electrical energy, yet it is one of the top tourist attractions in Ilocos Norte. Bangui Windmills has 20 units of 70-meter high wind turbines, stretching along the 9 9-kilometer shoreline of Bangui Bay and facing the West Philippine Sea. Each of the turbines is 326 meters apart. READ: TOURIST SPOTS IN ILOCOS NORTE
This church is situated by the highway of Guimbal, Ilo-Ilo, and can easily be recognized because of its unique facade. After my visit to Miag-Ao Church, I traveled around 30 minutes to this church. According to my research, Guimbal Church or St. Nicholas of Tolentino Church doesn’t have any record of when it was erected or established. However, it was completed between 1769 and 1774 under Friar Juan Campos. 1893 it was further enlarged but later destroyed by fire during the Revolution in 1896 to 1898.
Paco Park is a recreational garden area and served as Manila's municipal cemetery during the Spanish colonial period. This structure was built in the 18th century and was completed in 1822. Its original design was to be a municipal cemetery for the influential and aristocratic Spanish families living in Manila and Intramuros, but it also served as a peaceful dwelling place for those victims of the cholera epidemic.
It is also known as the Burgos Lighthouse, a 66-foot-tall octagonal stone tower on Vigia de Nagpartian Hill with an overlooking scene of Cape Bojeador. It is one of the historical landmarks and a cultural heritage erected during the Spanish era in the Philippines. This lighthouse was first designed by Magin Pers and Pers in 1887 and finished by the Lighthouse Service under Guillermo Brockman.
Sto. Nino Cold Spring is one of Camiguin’s top tourist destinations. By its name, you can easily expect fresh and cold spring water. I had no plans to get wet, especially with the temperature of the water, it was really a NO NO. Because of its super dupper clear water, I dipped into the water and experienced how great this cold spring is. I was also stunned by the bottom of the pool, there are no silts because it is made of concrete.
The old Guiob Church was damaged by the volcanic eruption that happened centuries ago, damaging the other structures on the island. The Old Church Ruin of Camiguin is composed of meter-wide walls and huge columns. These walls and columns are made of coral stones and are now covered with mosses and plants.
It is also called Mena Crisologo Street, named after Mena Pecson Crisologo, who is the most respected son of Ilocos. He wrote Mining wenno Ayat ti Kararwa, which is compared to Jose Rizal's Noli Me Tangere; he is also the author of Don Calixtofaro de la Kota Caballero de la Luna and Codigo Municipal. With these stunning heritage houses, Calle Crisologo is definitely the top tourist attraction in Vigan City.
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| The relaxing warm water of Ardent Hot Spring. |
This hot spring resort was our last destination in Mambajao, Camiguin. Situated at the base of Mt. Hibok Hibok, it has a wide land area composed of trees, plants, cottages, and other structures. Tourists usually make Ardent Hot Spring Resort their last destination to soothe their tired muscles, and it is true. I spent an hour here and felt relaxed while my body was submerged in the warm water.
Colon Street is the oldest street and shortest road in the Philippines. It was named after Christopher Columbus, who bears different names (Spanish: Cristobal Colon, Italian: Cristoforo Colombo, Portuguese: Cristovao Colombo.) It was established by the Spanish, arrived in Cebu in 1565, and was led by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi (a Spanish conquistador.) The local government erected the Colon Monument at the intersection of the street.
Malamawi Beach is a hidden paradise and the top tourist spot in Isabela, Basilan. It is a privately owned resort with a long stretch of fine white sand shoreline. The resort has a wide area with open ground covered with grass, coconuts, and other trees, maintaining a relaxing ambience. There are cottages for rent and a function hall. A store and canteen are available inside the resort premises. Also, parking areas are available.
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| Photo: Surfers enjoying the waves of La Union. |
The Province of La Union is the surfing capital of the North. The gigantic yet friendly waves make this place a paradise for surfers, well, let's include those beach addicts. The beach has a long stretch of fine grey sand with a clear view of the golden sunset. The sand has a mixture of shells and colorful corals. For people who are afraid of the waves, like me, having a wide view of the emerald water with surfers dancing on their boards is just amazing.
Also known as the Minor Basilica and Parish of Saint Martin of Tours is considered the largest church building in Asia, standing 88.6 meters (291 feet) long and 48 meters (157 feet) wide. I am eager to visit this old church because an earthquake hit the province and it created a crack in its wall.
The National Museum of Natural History in Manila recently opened with a bang! They open their doors, cases, and glass cabinets to everyone, offering extremely rare items that can only be found here for FREE. The National Museum staff and researchers exerted their effort to preserve and keep these items for the next generation. It is my and your wealth! So, what are you waiting for? Tara na!
Rizal is a neighboring province of Metro Manila, and it is very accessible for commuters. Aside from the Maytime Festival, kasuy, and local delicacies, the province is also well known for its resorts with a gorgeous Manila golden skyline, which others call "overlooking." So, if you're planning to visit Antipolo, the province's prime city, and looking for a place to stay, Cattleya Resort is the perfect place for you.
This is a historical site and the oldest stone fort in Manila. Built in 1586, it was called the Nuestra Senora de Guia designed by Jesuit priest Antonio Sedeno. Fell into disrepair and was renovated in 1593. Incorporated as part of the walls but later abandoned due to its unstable foundations. The new structure was constructed with orillons (curved corners) masking cannons on the flanks. Destroyed during the British invasion in 1762. Repaired and renovated in 1764. American Army ordinance section was built on-site during the American occupation. Destroyed during World War 2 and is now a major tourist attraction of the Intramuros Walled City.
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| The stunning facade of the Quiapo Church. |
Others call this church the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, canonically known as Saint John the Baptist Parish, and it is one of the most famous churches in the Philippines. The first structure was made of bamboo and nipa palm and built by the Franciscan Missionaries. But in 1574, the pirates, led by Limahong, destroyed and burned the church. In 1588, Fr. Antonio de Nombella, a Franciscan friar, founded this church and declared it as the Parish of St. John the Baptist. It was again burned in 1603 and taken over by the “Society of Jesus” or the Jesuits. In 1686, the full construction was started initiated by Gov. Gen. Santiago de Vera.
Sta. Cruz Church, or Our Lady of the Pillar Parish, is situated in the Northern part of the city of Manila. It is said that the original structure was built in the same spot as the current structure. This was constructed by the members of the “Society of Jesus,” known as the Jesuits, from 1608 up to 1768. It is the first Roman Catholic built in this area. Its structure is made up of blocks of adobe quarried from the nearby provinces. It was dedicated to the newly converted Chinese who lived in Manila.
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| Photo: Guadalupe Church. |
Guadalupe Church, or the Nuestra Señora de Gracia Church, is a 400-year-old structure with an amazing facade. Founded by the Augustinians, the construction of its foundation was laid in 1601 and was finished in 1630. Some parts of this church were rebuilt several times because of the earthquakes, and in 1880, the masonry roof collapsed because of the earthquake, so it was rebuilt in 1882 by Rev. Jose Corujedo O.S.A. Later, this structure was burnt during the fight between Filipinos and Americans in February 1899. It was reconstructed and re-opened to the public in 1983.
Our group, Batang Hamog Mountaineers, usually make sure to participate in any Freedom-related activities to celebrate the freedom that was proclaimed on June 12, 1898. This year, to be out of our comfort zone we organized a Freedom Dive held in Sabang, Puerto Galera, Mindoro, which is one of the best diving spots in the Philippines. We all know that the Philippines is composed of more than seven thousand islands and are surrounded by water, so scuba diving is just one of the most tried water activities.
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| Photo: Britania Island. |
Our original plan was to hike Mt. Dulang-dulang and Mt. Kitanglad, but because of the question: “gusto nyo ba?” it was changed to backpacking in Northern Mindanao. It happened for a very, very short time. So from Malaybalay, Bukidnon, we rode on a bus with a Cagayan signboard and alighted at Agora Terminal. At the terminal, we rode in a bus with a Butuan signboard and alighted at Butuan Terminal. Then, another bus ride to Mangahoy, Bislig, Surigao del Sur. Our first destinations were the majestic tourist spots in Surigao del Sur.
Negros Occidental holds most historical sites of the region. The first attraction you should visit is a mansion that was owned by the sugar baron Don Mariano “Anoy” Ledesma Lacson (1865-1948). The construction of this mansion was non-stop until the entire structure was completed. It was the largest mansion built during that time, however, was burnt to prevent the Japanese forces from making it their headquarters during World War II. Because of the A-grade mixture of concrete that was used, its ruins remain today. Click here to read more.
Isla Reta Beach Resort in Talikud Island, Samal, is a perfect island for retreat and relaxation - well if you're just looking for a relaxing ambiance by the beach. This is one of the islands paradise in the Davao region that bears a white sand beach and an island that is surrounded by emerald and crystal clear water. And underwater is a sanctuary of colorful flora and fauna.