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It is a simple paradise in Tanay that is now one of the best tourist spots in Rizal; its name translates to "hidden paradise" in English because of its beauty hidden in the woods. The area is surrounded by hardwood trees, shrubs, and other flowering plants that make the area relaxing. Not only that, since the area still has a healthy bio-diversity, you will definitely have a lazy day because of the birds singing lullabies while the cool wind blows. CLICK TO WATCH MY VLOG
It is a historical mountain in Bataan where the Shrine of Valor or Dambana ng Kagitingan was built on its summit. This shrine has a huge cross with a memorial shrine and museum built to honor the gallantry of the Filipino American soldiers who fought during World War 2. The shrine complex on Mount Samat includes a war museum with different memorabilia, paintings, and weapons used by the Filipino, American, and Japanese forces during the Battle of Bataan. These structures were commissioned by former President Ferdinand Marcos in 1966 for the 25th Anniversary of the Second World War. Also, please note that the province holds the record of the Battle of Bataan, including the controversial Death March.
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| Photo of Guadalupe Church. |
Boracay is a gorgeous island in Malay, Aklan, with fine white sand, crystal clear waters, spectacular golden sunsets, and remarkable water activities. It is unique because it is described as one of the world's most beautiful white-sand beaches. Also, shops sell stunning accessories and other hand-made local products. If you’re into eating distinct and mouth-watering dishes, either local or international cuisine, there are hundreds of restaurants at Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3.
It has a perfect combination of fine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, wealthy marine biodiversity marine, stunning sunsets, and nightlife activities. Puerto Galera is located in the north-westernmost part of Oriental Mindoro. If you're looking for a place with a good combination of beach and underwater experience, then it is the perfect place for you.
Sunken Cemetery is a historical landmark and the top tourist spots in Camiguin. Before, it was a resting place and today, it is a tourist attraction that gives money to the government and jobs to the locals. This spot has a huge cross perched into the water. Tourists can cross and step on the base of the cross using boats, of course NOT for free. Souvenir shops and stores are available by the entrance. READ: Backpacking in Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, and Camiguin.
Others call it Malalison, which is an island in Culasi, Antique. It can be considered a fishing island because most residents are fishing for their livelihood. A few years back, its breathtaking beauty captured the attention of travelers after Typhoon Yolanda. It is Panay's next frontier because of its fine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters with diverse aquatic flora and fauna – it is truly a perfect diving paradise.
The Rizal Shrine in Dapitan (José Rizal Memorial Protected Landscape) was the place where our National Hero was exiled by the Spaniards in 1892. Today, this historical place shows his life while working as a doctor, sculptor, farmer, teacher and many others. He purchased this land after winning a lottery in 1892. Later, his mother, sisters and relatives transferred here from Calamba, Laguna. However, on January 15, 1897, the Spanish authorities confiscated all of his property. These were converted into a park and were declared a National Park in 1940 by President Manuel L. Quezon.
Is also known as the San Agustin Church is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Philippines. The structure of Paoay Church comprises baked bricks, coral rocks, tree sap, and solid lumber. The 24 buttresses were also placed on each side of the church for support; the reason why it is still standing after the earthquakes in the 17th century up to this generation.
Asik-Asik Falls is the top tourist spot in North Cotabato. It is a spectacular-curtain-like waterfall hiding in the mountainous area of Alamada. Its unique landscape and breathtaking beauty spread online, which captured the eyes of the world. Who says "no" to its majestic walls covered with lush green vegetation, such as moss and ferns, highlighted by the hardwood trees and the clear blue skies. In between these hanging ornaments are cold and crystal clear rushing water naturally falling on a shallow rocky pool surrounded by artistic rocks and boulders. Such a perfect place to relax and distress.
The Tinuy-an Falls is the top tourist attraction in Bislig, Surigao del Sur. It is a huge waterfall with cool and crystal clear waters and is surrounded by greens that create the area a gorgeous and relaxing landscape. The ambiance is so cool, with the fresh air blowing. By the way, most part of the waterfalls are accessible, including the pool area. Water rafts, with a guide, can be rented.
It is one of the must-visits in Sta. Ana, Cagayan, because it has a long-curvy stretch of fine white sand landscaped with greens on the side. The sand has a mixture of colorful shells, pebbles in different shapes, and living crustaceans running back and forth. From the quaint cottages by the beach, the crystal clear water and emerald seas are visible, separated by the horizon from the blue sky. Its preserved tranquility can definitely make your day a lazy day.
Palaui Island is situated in Sta. Ana, Cagayan. Aside from the Callao Cave, this paradise became one of the top tourist destinations in the province because of its beauty that stole the eyes of the world. Since the province is situated on the North East side of Luzon, due to its topographical location, the serenity and the breathtaking beauty are well preserved.
It is one of the most climbed mountains in Southern Luzon because of its beautiful landscape and cool and relaxing ambience. Plus, a two to three-hour land travel from Manila, Mt. Batulao, can reward you with a breathtaking and wide view of its green mountain slopes. Your trek can be tiring, but your tired muscles will be relaxed as the cool and refreshing wind blows.
This mountain has a good combination of breathtaking beauty, an elegant skyline, cool and temperate weather, and abundant flora and fauna, making it one of the hiker's top destinations in Bataan. By the way, it was my first major hike, and after five years, I am here again. Our journey is totally different because last time, it was the wet season, and this time, it was super dry.
Mt. Ulap is one of the highest peaks in the Cordillera region, with amazing flora and fauna. Because of its temperature, the trees, grass, and flowers look so healthy, making the mountain look gorgeous. Our itinerary was, instead of a public vehicle, we chartered a van for our transportation to the North. Thirteen of us met at Crossing, including Rio, our Chinese visitor. From Manila to Baguio City took us six hours of travel, so instead of getting bored while on the road and the rains were dropping, it was filled with stories of our previous hikes.
It is an active complex volcano located in Quezon Province. Dubbed as the "Holy Mountain," this giant bears a trail with a very calm ambience. To plant more trees, that's the main purpose of our hike. We chose this mountain because we want to preserve its hidden and majestic beauty. Though it is hard to trek due to its terrain, which is a rainforest, it is one of the most hiked mountains because it has healthy biodiversity, both plants and animals. Nonetheless, reaching the summit and heading back to the jump-off can give you a lifetime and unforgettable experience.
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| Photo taken at the boulders of Mt. Apo. |
Mt. Apo is a dormant stratovolcano in Davao Region, Mindanao, and it is dubbed the "Bubong ng Pilipinas" because it is the highest and the father of all the mountains in the Philippines. Its circumference stretches to two provinces in the southern Mindanao region, the provinces of North Cotabato and Davao del Sur. Though this mountain is considered active, trekking on its terrain is safe and can provide a package of remarkable experiences and photos to be shared.
Mount Hamiguitan is one of the most beautiful mountains in the Philippines because it is the home of thousands of flora and fauna. Some are endemic or can only be found on the terrains of this mountain. Not just the richness of its bio-diversity, its mountain range showcases the spectacular and breathtaking natural beauty at its finest. Because of that, it was declared as a sanctuary by virtue of R.A. 9303. With its natural wonders, it was also included as one of the ASEAN Heritage Parks. In 2014, this mountain was added to the UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites.
It has a combination of long and difficult terrains, a wealthy rain forest, a vast diversity of plants and animals, spooky stories, and unpredictable weather conditions, which can bring a remarkable hiking experience (the reason why it's my hardest). So far, hiking Mt. Halcon in Oriental Mindoro is the toughest. Though this mountain garnered a nine over nine rating in terms of difficulty, it is part of my "list of the must hiked mountains" because of its hidden and majestic beauty.
According to the locals, this island is one of the tourist spots in Quezon province awaiting to be discovered because, during low tide, a very long sandbar appears, as in super long, as in one of the longest sandbars in the Philippines. Though the sand is beige, it has a mixture of small corals, gray sand, and some little crustaceans running back and forth. By the way, according to our boatman, the island is now private and no trespassing. CLICK TO WATCH MY VLOG
Caramoan Island has a combination of stunning rock formations, crystal clear water, coves, and colorful underwater; it is definitely the top tourist spot in Camarines Sur. It became popular in the world when the Survivor franchise had its challenges on some of its islands. This beauty is situated in the far side of the province and almost twelve hours from Manila via land but the stress you’ll feel will be replaced with enjoyment – thanks to its beauty.
Alibijaban Island and Burias Island are two beautiful islands in Quezon and Masbate, respectively. Traveling to these places is time-consuming travel but you'll be rewarded with breathtaking beauty. The island has a fine white sand shoreline with trees, bangcas, and local cottages. Mixed on the fine white sand are small living crustaceans and sea shells, and more sea shells by the seashore. The cool emerald crystal clear water is rich with underwater bio-diversity, such as fish, colorful starfish in different sizes and appearances, and many more.
It's a cave with a pool filled with cool and crystal-clear waters. A lot of tourist spots hide in the province but the Enchanted Cave is something that you shouldn't miss. There are stalactites and stalagmites in different forms - stunning background for groupies. Limited visitors are allowed inside the cave per interval. Also, tourists need to wear life jackets and must follow safety protocols inside to avoid accidents. Entrance fees are being collected. CLICK TO WATCH MY PANGASINAN VLOG
Patar Beach is definitely the top tourist spot in Bolinao, Pangasinan. This paradise has a long stretch shoreline with a mixture of fine white sand and shells. Of course, the landscape with not be complete without the palm and hardwood trees, and cottages on the side. The seawater is crystal clear and cool. During our visit, due to COVID, with fewer visitors, the relaxing ambiance is preserved which can make your day a lazy-sunny day. The blue sky is just an addition to the beautiful picturesque of the beach.
Bolinao Falls 3 must be included in your list to visit in Pangasinan. Its pool perimeter is longer and wider than the other falls in the area, so it is perfect for photo ops. Though passing the rough road was a bit challenging, you will be rewarded with a wide open area surrounded by greens, landscaped with cottages. The breeze is fresh and cool. Such an Instagram-worthy place! By the way, it is a few minutes' travel from the Falls 1. Entrance fees are being collected. CLICK TO WATCH MY PANGASINAN VLOG
This is a spectacular waterfall in the middle of the woods. It is always part of the itinerary of operated tours in the province because of its fantastic landscape and relaxing ambiance. The cool blue-green water is perfect for tired muscles. But, to reach this spot, visitors need to walk on a concrete stair with more than 50 steps. Entrance fees are being collected. CLICK TO WATCH MY PANGASINAN VLOG
The Province of Pangasinan is a coastal province in Luzon making it one of the top destinations in the region in terms of stunning beaches. Not only that, the province has a lot of historical and heritage sites, proof that they have a deep history and a great mix of cultures. Of course, we can't miss the stunning and colorful art created by the Pangasinense. #SeePangasinan and experience the province's greatness.
Others find Quezon Memorial Circle as their perfect place for jogging, meeting someone, or other activities, and the perfect spot for Pokemon Go gamers as their lure location, but for me – this landmark commemorates the significance of the late President Manuel L. Quezon and the Commonwealth of the Philippines. I have visited this park several times, but it’s my second time entering the museum.
Mt. Pulag is one of the highest peaks in the Philippines, measuring 2,922 MASL. It is also one of the most beautiful mountains in the Philippines; therefore, you should include this in your list. On the other hand, on its summit, hikers can witness the famous “sea of clouds," a majestic phenomenon where visitors are literally above the clouds.
Because of the pandemic, Paragliding in Carmona, Cavite created it's own spark to local tourists. Before, according to Philippine Tandem Paragliding, they are flying with an average of 10% local tourists per day while the rest are foreign. Today, majority are local, possible reasons? COVID-19 protocols, Filipinos are staying at home and wants something new, and the effect of "Crash Landing on You." Nevertheless, if you want something heart pounding and extreme, this activity is highly recommended. CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE & WATCH MY VLOG
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.