Rizal Park and Shrine, Dapitan

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 as National Park in 1940 by President Manuel L. Quezon.

Paoay Church, Ilocos Norte

Paoay Church or the San Agustin Church is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Philippines. The structure 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

Asik-Asik Falls is the top tourist spot in North Cotabato. It is a spectacular-curtain-like waterfalls 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.

Tinuy-An Falls

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.

Anguib Beach, Sta. Ana, Cagayan

Anguib Beach is at Sta. Ana, Cagayan. It is one of the must-visit in the province because of its 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, Cagayan

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.

Mt. Batulao, Batangas

I consider Mt. Batulao as one of the most climbed mountains in Southern Luzon because of the following: proximity from Manila, beautiful landscape, and cool and relaxing ambiance.  A two to three hours land travel from Manila, this mountain can reward you with a breathtaking and wide view of its green mountain slopes. You trek can be tiring but your tired muscles will be relaxed as the cool and refreshing wind blows. Since it's in Batangas, you can have a side trip in Tagaytay and have a sumptuous bulalo break.

Mt. Tarak, Bataan

Mt. Tarak is one of the top destinations in Bataan for hikers. This mountain has a good combination of breathtaking beauty, an elegant skyline, cool and temperate weather, and abundant flora and fauna. 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, Benguet

Mt. Ulap is situated in Brgy. Ampucao, Itogon Benguet. It 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.

Location, How to Get Here, Our Travel to Itogon: Instead of a public vehicle, we chartered a van for our transportation to the North. 13 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 are dropping, it was filled with stories of our previous hikes.

Mt. Banahaw, Quezon

Mt. Banahaw is an active complex volcano located in Quezon Province. To plant more trees, that's our 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 must hiked mountains because it has healthy biodiversity, both plants and animals. Dubbed as the "Holy Mountain," this giant bears a trail with a very calm ambiance. Reaching the summit and heading back to the jump-off can give you a lifetime and unforgettable experience.