Sirang Lente is a travel-related website that showcases stunning photos, updated travel itineraries, backpacking ideas, and hiking guides.
For me, the Province of Tawi-Tawi is the hardest province to penetrate because of its geographical location. Not only that, it is always associated with "war" and, most of the time, being judged and considered as "unsafe" for travelers, which I disagree with! Bongao, its capital, is the busiest municipality in the province but has a lot of stunning tourist spots and destinations that are just waiting to be recognized.
The Province of Basilan is an island province in the Bangsamoro Region. Its old name was Tagime, and it was named after a Datu who ruled the island before the arrival of the Spaniards in the province. Its name was changed several times until BasihBalan, derived from their legendary weapon called “pira”, which was made of basic iron and Balan, meaning magnetic, which was shorted to Basilan. Not just history, the province also hides amazing tourist attractions.
This branch of the National Museum houses a collection of relics discovered in the region. There are ceramics, earthenware, locally woven fabrics, paintings, books, jars, skeletons, and many more. Each of the items is enclosed in glass cabinets, while the others are on the walls.
The Provincial Capitol of Sultan Kudarat is situated in Isulan, and according to reviews, it is one of the most beautiful capitols in the Philippines - it's definitely a big YES for me. The capitol compound is 9.2 hectares covered with well well-maintained landscape, while the artistic structures are based on Islamic architecture, painted with white and gold. On the other hand, in the middle of the capital ground, there's a gigantic golden statue of Sultan Kudarat, whom the province was named after.
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| A gorgeous view by the beach of Isla Jardin del Mar. |
Upon arrival, I easily heard the relaxing rushing waves hitting the shoreline. After paying the entrance fee, with excitement, I headed to the side where the sound came from and found a stretch of fine white sand and playful crystal clear water. Not only that, this beach has emerald seas, the coconuts, and the trees by the beach serve as a perfect backdrop. By the way, the wind is cool and fresh and the area has a relaxing ambiance - perfect for family outing and weekend getaway.
After my historical tour in Dipolog and Dapitan City in Zamboanga del Norte, I traveled to Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental (Region 10). Its capital is Oroqueta City, but I chose this place because I want to see and touch Fort sa Cotta and the Cathedral. On the way, I noticed the wide farmlands, but when I arrived in the center, this city was the same as the other cities, business establishments were on every corner, transportation was continuous, and the streets were undeniably busy. From the Integrated Terminal, I rode on a tricycle to the different tourist spots, attractions, and destinations.
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| A photo of the stunning Katibawasan Falls. |
Every time I hear the word Camiguin, I usually think of the best lanzones in the Philippines and the Sunken Cemetery. But during our visit, we saw how wealthy the top tourist spots and destinations in the province are in terms of natural beauty, making the province one of the best tourist attractions in the Philippines. Backpacking is not a big problem here because at the port of Camiguin, multi-cab, with a driver, can be chartered for the whole day tour (and that’s what we did).
After Ozamis City and Misamis Occidental, I travelled to Pagadian City, Province of Zamboanga del Sur, which is the last province on my list. It was a three-and-a-half-hour land travel with a huge picture of how the people of the Zamboanga peninsula live. At the integrated terminal, I rode on a motorcycle to the centre of the city, passing by the famous rotunda. I was wearing a sando, and I easily felt the fresh and cool wind while we were on a descending road with a clear view of the stunning sunset.
Dapitan City Plaza (“Liwasan ng Dapitan”), also known as the Town Square, is the plaza that Dr. Jose P. Rizal beautified and developed during his exile. It has an estimated land area of 1 hectare, and it is laid out in the traditional rectilinear Spanish colonial manner. The plaza already existed when Dr. Jose P. Rizal arrived in Dapitan on July 17, 1892. Making this area one of the top tourist attractions in Zamboanga del Norte. Details from Dapitan City Official Website
The top tourist spot and destination in Southern Leyte is Maasin Cathedral, a catholic place of worship in Maasin City. It was originally built in 1700 by the Jesuit priests; however, it was severely damaged because of the Moro’s rebels. The bricks and the mosses on the façade give an older and unique look, which is perfect for modern selfies. This cathedral is definitely one of the historical pillars of the province. Since it is situated in front of the plaza and a few meters away from the City hall, it is one of the busiest area in city.