<![CDATA[ marc7 travels - Marc7 Travels Blog Entries]]>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 17:24:37 +0800Weebly<![CDATA[#GOT71NorthernSamar: Landings and Crossings in Catarman]]>Wed, 11 Feb 2026 16:00:00 GMThttp://www.marc7travels.com/marc7-travels-blog-entries/got71northernsamar-landings-and-crossings-in-catarman​This rustic town in Northern Samar is the gateway of the province. It serves as the center of commerce, education, and governance. With an active runway cutting through the town, it gives tourists a preview of how landings and crossings start and end a laidback day in this town. This is Catarman. A town that transcends time and history.
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Catching the views of Catarman.
Located on the northern side of the island of Samar, Catarman was a pre-Spanish settlement that had its roots on the mouth of the Catarman River. The settlement, also known as Calatman or Cataruman, was part of Ibabao, one the three divisions established by the Spaniards in the region. Fast forward to the present, the town now serves as the capital and gateway to the province. The town may not compare to other tourist destinations in the province but, with a closer look, you will be surprised with the old town charm of Catarman.
 
Catarman Airport
 
Located at the heart of the town, the Catarman National Airport serves as the gateway to Northern Samar. The 1,600-meter runway can only accommodate turbo-prop aircrafts. It remains active connecting Catarman with Manila and Cebu for domestic travel. Changes in terminal assignments in Manila, though, will now connect the town only to Cebu.
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The Catarman Airport is a runway in the morning and a pedestrian lane in the afternoon.
Interestingly, this airport divides the town of Catarman in the middle. I found it interesting that mornings were for planes landing on the airport while afternoons, and when the airport is not in use, it functions as a pedestrian lane for locals moving from one side of the town to other other side. You will be treated with a full view of the runway while crossing it. I have only seen 2 runways with the same mechanism - Loakan Airport in Baguio City and Catarman National Airport. But to date, only this airport remain open for commercial flights.
 
Dalakit Boulevard and Beach
 
Adjacent to the runway of the Catarman National Airport is the Dalakit Boulevard and Beach. The beach is the most accessible beach spot in Catarman. It is just a short tricycle ride from town or, if you are up for a quick morning or afternoon walk from the town center, the beach spot is a good spot to head to. It is a fave spot of locals who head off to the beach strip for a quick dose of sun, sand, and sea.
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A view of Bulusan and Mayon from Dalakit Beach.
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The usual morning view, along the beach, of planes landing.
The gray sand shores was a great day starter when I was in Catarman. The clear skies gave me a clear view of Mount Bulusan and Mount Mayon on the other island. Locals were enjoying a dose of its salty waters. There were small stores that line the boulevard where you can get a snack. The beach was also a good stop for your morning plane-spotting. It gives you a great view of planes making its approach to the Cataraman National Airport.
 
Northern Samar Provincial Capitol
 
Just a few meters away from the airport is the Northern Samar Provincial Capitol. This is the center of governance of the province where most provincial government offices are located. It was only in 1965 that the town was declared the capital of Northern Samar after RA 4221 divided the old Samar Province into Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, and Samar.
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Catarman is the center of governance in the Northern Samar.
The imposing two-story building stands in elegance on the northern side of the town. It is the first to greet you as you leave the airport. A statue of Northern Samar local hero, Agustin Sumuroy, stands at the front of the capitol building. Sumuroy started an uprising in Palapag against Spanish forces. Known as the Sumuroy Revolt, the sentiment quickly spread through the province and neighboring islands.
 
Catarman Freedom Park
 
The Catarman Freedom Park is a sprawling park on the south side of Catarman. The open-space park is public space that fuses a touch of nature and community engagement. It is the host of community activities in Catarman.
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The Catarman Freedom Park is an open park that fosters community interactions.
The park is leisure space at the heart of the town which is a favorite spot of locals to watch the day pass. The huge open spaces are regular venues for students practicing school work routines. The auditorium serves as venues for community events. You can just take a seat in one of the park benches and watch a typical day in Catarman.
 
Our Lady of the Annunciation and Sacred Heart Plaza
 
The Our Lady of the Anunciation Cathedral Parish is the seat of the Diocese of Catarman. The church was first established in 1596 in Palapag. It was  in 1974 that the Catarman Cathedral was built after it became the diocese that oversees the Catholic churches in Northern Samar.
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The Our Lady of the Annunciation Cathedral Parish is the heart of the Catholic faith in Northern Samar.
The church stands in its grand baroque design at the heart of the town. Its four-story belfry towers on the right side of the church. The interior is simple with its beautiful three-level retablo as its main centerpiece. It glows elegantly with its gold and turquoise motif. The retablo is adorned with different saints with the image of the Our Lady of the Annuciation occupying the top niche.
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The old bell of the church on display at the church courtyard.
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The Sacred Heart Plaza is an open-space park of the church.
In front of the Catarman Cathedral is the Sacred Heart Plaza. This open-space park is adorned with images of saints and an image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus as its park centerpiece. I think the park is used for bigger church events that draws larger crowds. On a usual day, locals enjoy the park for their exercise and runs or to just spend a lazy afternoon watching the afternoon pass by.
 
Catarman River
 
The Catarman River played a pivotal role in building the present-day Catarman. The mouth of the river was host to the first settlement in the area. The river is fed by 5 tributary creeks - Paticua, Hibulwangan, Mahangna, Tura, and Danao. It is a major provincial river that separates the east and west sides of the town.
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A view of the Catarman River from its esplanade.
A river esplanade is now being developed along its river coast. I was able to get a full view the river’s mouth from a small “park” just beside the old Catarman bridge. A fisherman and his boat slowly sliced through the murky waters of the river as I took in the view. Catarman River remains to be a crucial part on the daily lives of locals.

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POST TRAVEL NOTES
Catarman’s small town vibe is its main tourist draw. It may not have the breathtaking landscape that the province is known for but its rustic vibe makes it stand out. This is a town that  either lets you warm up before a Northern Samar exploration or slows you down after a rugged adventure or both. In my case, it slowed me down and it let me experience the slow rural vibe before letting me head back to my urban busy life.
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Get ready for another Cebu adventure.
Local destinations have different flavors and vibe that makes it unique. Filipinos often associate great destinations with white sand beach spots, amazing sunrise or sunsets, and heartstopping views but not all destinations are blessed with such. Other destinations take pride with breathtaking views and simple attractions that makes us appreciate the simple things in Filipino living. These simple things make the experience extraordinary.
 
Getting there: There are direct PAL flights to Catarman via Cebu. Alternatively, one can take a flight to Tacloban from Manila. You can then take a van to Catarman from the city proper.
 
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]]><![CDATA[#PHClicksIn2026]]>Sat, 03 Jan 2026 05:53:48 GMThttp://www.marc7travels.com/marc7-travels-blog-entries/phclicksin20262025 was a definite high for both my local and international trips. I explored 2 new provinces, 13 local destinations, and went on 2 international trips this year. From doing DIY backpacking trips to going around Tokyo collecting Eki Stamps, I am beyond thrilled on how 2025 gave me new adventures.​
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We are getting ready to get more clicks of the Philippines this 2026!
As always, I am starting my 2026 with my top 5 local destinations for 2025. These local spots gave me my travel highs last year, either from exploring it on my own, giving me that rustic adventure vibe, drowning me in its natural beauty, or all three. These spots simply gave me the high 5 this 2025.
 
Mapanas and Palapag, Northern Samar
 
These two Northern Samar towns tops my 2025 list. Both towns have kept itself under the tourism radar despite having a scenic seascape and a rich history to share. The natural beauty of the towns strengthen the province’s tourism draw that is largely anchored on its dramatic rocky landscapes. To sum it up, both towns are simply amazing.
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Mapanas is a beauty every turn.
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Its coast was a good break from the usual beach views.
Mapanas charms its way to the heart of the traveler with its beautiful and rugged seascape matched with its bucolic vibe. From a road curve to standing up close, these massive rock formations that dot its coast was simply majestic. These natural attractions, carved for hundreds of years by the Pacific, solidly grounds its branding in Philippine tourism. The dramatic views of its coast matched by its laidback old town vibe makes you slow down to just simply enjoy the moment.
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Palapag has its own rock formation attractions.
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Palapag played a huge role in the Galleon Trade.
The town of Palapag, on the other hand, will get you hooked by its rugged beauty interlaced with its history. This town was an important post during the Galleon Trade as it was the last “fueling stop” before the galleons start their trans-Pacific voyage. The town was also pivotal in the spread of an uprising against forced labor that was started by its local hero, Juan Sumuroy. At present, the town sits silently in the shadows of history and ready to share its story to travelers who take the time to stop by the town. #GOT71NorthernSamar 
 
You can read about my Mapanas and Palapag adventures here:
#GOT71NorthernSamar: The Rocks From Ages of Mapanas
​
#GOT71NorthernSamar: Ang Pagpalag ng Palapag
​
Luna, Apayao
 
Luna was an enchantress. The distance of this destination matched by the challenge of public transport has made its attractions a bit tricky to explore. I was lucky that a Baguio-based travel
organizer, Napapagna, organized a stress-free trip that had us exploring the sights and sounds of this amazing town. We had a full weekend clambering through rock formations, cruising inside cave rivers, and paddling through the still waters of its main cave attractions.
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Enoying the views from the top of Luna...
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... and the views from under the grounds of Luna.
You will be amazed by Luna’s untouched beauty. We clambered up Dupag Rock Formation to get that picturesque overhead shot at its peak while getting immersed by the magnificent view of the surrounding valley. We explored the underground river of Manacota and got amazed by the untouched gorge where the river runs through before going underground. We took those amazing shots paddling through the cave mouth of Lussok Cave. The town of Luna gives you a well-deserved breather with nature. It lets you breathe in its charm and makes sure that you never forget. #GOT70Apayao

You can read more about my Luna, Apayao adventures here: #GOT70Apayao: Luna Rising
 
Anda, Bohol
 
Anda gives the best sunrise view while enjoying its powdery white sand. This is the best place to head off to if you want to enjoy island life without the usual tourist crowd. It fuses the island paradise vibe with the town’s rustic feel. You get to really immerse with its seascape vibe in a serene and peaceful vibe. It is a rustic paradise and an easy alternative for those who want a laidback white sand beach spot, away from the crowd.
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Boracay has the sunset and Anda has the sunrise.
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Anda is popular for its cave pools that dot its coast.
But beyond its beautiful white sand coast, you also get your dose of adrenaline with its collection of cave pools. Cabagnow Cave Pool is its main draw. It is a huge cave with a deep pool at the bottom. You can get to jump into from its opening to enjoy a quick cold dip with that extra adrenaline rush. Anda starts you off with a chill morning, gives you a rush throughout the day, and relaxes you with a nice evening wrap. That’s how this Bohol town defines beach escape.

Read about our Anda Escape here: #ShuTraRoadTrip: Grabe Naman Ang Ganda Anda!
 
Jomalig Island, Quezon
 
This island destination has been on my list for years and I am glad that I finally ticked it off in 2025. Jomalig Island is a full-packed adventure from start to finish. From the 4-hour boat ride to motorcycling around the island, it gives you the thrill of exploring the island rough and hard. The whole trip is not for the faint of heart. It is tiring but exciting.
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Enjoying the golden sunset on the golden island.
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Jomalig is known for its golden sands.
Exploring Jomalig Island is like opening gifts during Christmas Eve. You unwrap each beach spot one after another with a lot of excitement. Each beach spot exudes a different character and travelers can find their own beach spot depending on their vibe. From beach bumming on white sand beach spots to watching the sunset on golden sands to out of this world coast, Jomalig got you worth it. You get to enjoy the island better with great company… yung hindi mga buraot.
 
You can read about the gold of Jomalig here: A Gold Dig in Jomalig
 
Boljoon, Cebu
 
Just like Jomalig, Boljoon has been on my list for quite sometime now. The timing of my visit was perfect as it was just a few weeks after the treasured Spanish-period pulpit panels were returned to the Boljoon Church. Boljoon stands out from this selection for its history and story. Its well-preserved fortress church complex and
the saga on its lost, but later on recovered, 19th century pulpit panels was enough to get me to visit and explore this town on the southern end of Cebu.
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The Boljoon Church was the first to pique my curiosity.
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Standing face-to-face with its antique pulpit panels.
It was the beauty of its Spanish-period church that piqued my interest to visit the town of Boljoon. Little did I know that the story of its long-lost pulpit panels would get me more hooked to wanting to visit the town. The return of this panels to the church had me scrambling to visit it so I can see it for myself. The visit did not only give me the opportunity to see the panels in its rightful owners and place but it also allowed me to see the natural beauty of Boljoon face to face.
 
You can read more about my face to face encounter with Boljoon in Cebu here: Tara Doon sa Boljoon!
 
 
Moving forward to 2026, I have shortlisted 6 PH destinations that I am manifesting to visit this 2026. These spots are:
 
Kalinga - From my Luna, Apayao trip, I found out that Kalinga is more than just a tattoo destination. I would like to check out the adrenaline rush that this destination offers. #GOT82PH 
 
Limasawa, Southern Leyte - This PH destination fuses colorful history and the beauty in nature in one which makes it more appealing to me. #GOT82PH
 
Dinagat Island -  Another #GOT82PH goal, I think this island is going to be beach heaven for me this year.
 
Tondo, Manila - I am starting a new travel series that will focus on retrace the footsteps of Andres Bonifacio and the best place to start is his birthplace.
 
Sambaoan, Cebu - Time to uncover the beauty of nature and history on this Southern Cebu town.
 
Anini-y, Antique - This town was once the talk of the town of travelers. Time to check it out after the buzz has subsided.
 
These are just some of my travel goals this year and I am excited that I will get to share with you my new travel stories. It will be a mix of new local destinations and revisiting old spots. I hope that by sharing my travel stories, you get encouraged to travel around the Philippines more.
 
Cheers to more Philippine travels this 2026!
 
#MahalinNatinAngPilipinas
 
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]]><![CDATA[#GOT71NorthernSamar: Ang Pagpalag ng Palapag]]>Tue, 09 Dec 2025 00:29:20 GMThttp://www.marc7travels.com/marc7-travels-blog-entries/got71northernsamar-ang-pagpalag-ng-palapagNorthern Samar is a treasure trove for adventure seekers. Rustic and rugged, this province gives a different vibe that gives you a travel experience. From the rocks from ages of Mapanas, I went on to explore the rocks and history of a town that also stood for ages. Tara’t alamin natin ang kwento sa minsang pagpalag ng munting bayan ng Palapag.
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Exploring the rustic history of Palapag!
Palapag is a laidback municipality that lies along the coast of the Pacific. It once served as the center of Ibabao, one of the three Spanish-period residences in Samar. Interestingly, this small town played a huge role in the galleon trade between the Philippines and Mexico. So, it didn’t come as a surprise to find footprints of its colorful past around town.
 
Sleeping Lion Rock Formation
 
Just like the town of Mapanas, the coast of Palapag is dotted with rock formations formed by the wind and waters of the Pacific. The Sleeping Lion is an attraction quietly tucked in one of its rustic coastline communities. It is an unassuming destination. There are no directional signages that we had to rely on google map and asking locals where we can find it.
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Another untouched beach cove in Palapag, Northern Samar.
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We are off to search for the Sleeping Lion of Palapag.
We started the search for this “sleeping” giant at a beach cove behind the community’s cemetery. The towering rock formations that bordered the cove was picturesque that it reminded me of the movie location of “The Beach”. We walked north of the cove, scrambling over rocks, under the heat of the late afternoon sun. I was already here and I did not want to miss out on this spot.
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and there it was... a giant "lion" molded by the Pacific to slumber.
After 15 minutes of walking through a beaten trail, we came into another white sand cove and there it was. The rock formation molded by nature to look like a lion in slumber, with its head nestled on its front limbs. The indentations on the rock surface creates the image of its eyes and mouth while the vegetation create the visuals of it mane and fur. It really looked like a massive lion sleeping along the coastal waters of Mapanas.
 
Pangpang Falls
 
This attraction is an interesting stop along the national highway - Pangpang Falls. Tucked along the mountains of Palapag, the water cascades along the rock wall that faces the Pacific. This water then flows downstream towards the sea. The view of Pangpang Falls was amazing with its cascade and the forest covers surrounding it. 
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A view of Pangpang Falls from the highway in Palapag.
Taking in the view of Pangpang Falls did not require any hike but I guess you can also head on towards its base if you want to get a closer view. You might need a local guide though to do this. It was just amazing that you get to enjoy this rustic view along the roadside. I could imagine how grand the cascade would look during the rainy season.
 
Rakit Dakit Rock Formation
 
A gated cove was our access point to the Rakit Dakit Rock Formations. The beach cove offers a panoramic view of a white sand coastline of Palapag with a huge rock formation on one side. There were a few locals exploring the rocky coast when we arrived.
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Getting mesmerized by the out-of-thid-world views of Rakit Dakit.
The huge rock formation towers over the cove like it was guarding it from the waves of the Pacific. The gray rock crevices and the green foliage stand out from the blue waters and skies. The view is dramatic as you catch the waters of the Pacific crashing on its base. At first glance, the rock may look to be the prime attraction but there’s more to this landscape.
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Getting a closer look at the huge boulder of Rakit Dakit.
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I was amazed by the smooth rock coast of Rakit Dakit.
Getting closer to the rock formation, a different kind of coast will capture your attention. The view of the smooth rock floor shoreline is simply captivating. Smoothened by the ocean waters of the Pacific for hundreds of years, it was like stepping into a different world. The smooth stone coast, the view huge rock formations, and the sound of waves crashing and rolling along its coast completes the experience.
 
Galleon Port
 
Unknown to many, the town of Palapag was a crucial point in the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade. This small port on the outskirts of the town was the last stop of galleons for supplies before their transPacific voyage to Acapulco. It also serves as a stop of ships coming from Mexico before proceeding to Cavite City for repairs. The town’s strategic position made it the gateway of the world to the Philippines during the period.
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The Galleon Port of Palapag is still in use to this day.
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The port was once a crucial point in world trade.
Business slowed down in the area when the galleon trade halted in 1815. The port remains operational to this day but caters to locals traveling within the area. It continues to connect the islands and coast in Northern Samar with its public transport. It also serves as a fish port for local fishermen.
 
Lumang Simbahan ng Palapag
 
The Spanish-period influence in Palapag is also evident in the town center. Standing adjacent to the new church are the ruins of the Old Palapag Church. It was established in 1605 and the stone church was completed in 1663. The church was shaped similar to a crucifix and was made from coral stones. It also served as a fortress against Moro pirate attacks.
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The Ruins of the Old Palapag Church is proof of the town's role during the Spanish Occupation.
You could see how massive the stone church was from the foundations that still remain standing until today. The moss and plant-covers on the walls are testament on the structure’s age. I wonder why the locals decided to build a new church. A small grotto also stands in one of the corners of the stone church.
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A new church was commissioned in the 1970s.
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The ruins were a mute witness to the old stories of the town.
The church was replaced by a new structure in 1970. Its role in Philippine history was recognized with the installation of two NHI markers - one for the church and the other honoring the role of Father Alcina in the Catholic faith community in Palapag. A white cross was also planted in front of the church to commemorate the 400 years of Christianity in Samar.
 
Palapag Town Plaza and Sumuroy Monument
 
At the heart of Palapag is the sprawling open park of Palapag Town Plaza. The plaza is complete with manicured lawns and a covered basketball court that also serves as the civic activity center of the town. The town plaza is a favorite afternoon spot of locals to chill out.
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The Sumuroy Monument at the corner of the Palapag Plaza.
At one corner of the park is the Sumuroy Monument. The monument honors the local hero of Palapag, Agustin Sumuroy, who led a protest in 1649-1650 against the Spaniards for abuses and forced labor of residents. This protest spread through Albay, Sorsogon, Cebu, Masbate, Bohol, Iligan, and Zamboanga. This revolt is recognized as the first widespread revolution of Filipinos against the Spaniards.
 
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POST TRAVEL NOTES
Palapag is another unassuming destination in Northern Samar. Behind its lowkey vibe is a story of bravery that, more often than not, will surprise you. It was interesting to find out how this little carved its story in world and local history. Nasa sa lupa ng Palapag ay may pumalag na mga Pilipino laban sa mga Kastila.
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Sa umaga runway, sa hapon naman ay tawiran. That is Catarman!
Small Philippine towns indeed carry big stories. Exploring the Philippines helps you uncover these stories which reconnects you to our history and culture. I just hope that Filipinos can put more value in understanding our past so we can move forward from the learnings.
 
Watch out for the release of my Mapanas and Palapag adventure on my Youtube Travel Channel soon.

#MahalinNatinAngPilipinas
 
Getting there: Philippine Airlines flies to Catarman on specific days of the week from Manila and Cebu. You can take a trike from the airport to Colorhub Paint Supply along Bonifacio Street. The van terminal for Palapag and Mapanas is just across this hardware. Trips to Palapag and Mapanas from Catarman are usually in the morning while van trips from Palapag to Catarman are only until 1pm.

Shoutout to my travel buddies - HULL & STERN Dry Bags for keeping my stuff safe and dry during my travels and MAGWAI for their alternative and eco-friendly products for my local travels.
 
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]]><![CDATA[#GOT71NorthernSamar: The Rocks From Ages of Mapanas]]>Mon, 17 Nov 2025 16:00:00 GMThttp://www.marc7travels.com/marc7-travels-blog-entries/got71northernsamar-the-rocks-from-ages-of-mapanasNorthern Samar is a destination that is popular for its rock formations. Facing the Pacific Ocean, this geography helped mold the dramatic seascape of this province. An island destination has placed the province on the tourism map with its collection of these massive rock formations BUT these seascapes are not confined just there. So… in my quest to explore my 71st province, I opted to go beyond the usual and enjoy the coastal views of Mapanas in Northern Samar.
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Time to explore an off beat destination on my 71st PH province.
Mapanas is a laidback town that lies along the eastern coast of Northern Samar. Sandwiched by the mountains of Samar and the Pacific Ocean, this destination is so rural that, as early as 6pm, the town grinds to a halt for the day. But do not be deceived by its rustic vibe because it holds a lot of natural attractions that will keep you in awe. Pictures and videos of these attractions have recently trickled down into social media feeds that is putting the natural beauty of Mapanas on the tourism spotlight. From towering rock formations to clean river escapes to untouched beach spots, I think I got most of it covered on this trip so I could share with you the hidden gem of Mapanas.
 
Guinpandayan Coastal Scenery
 
I must admit that it was the videos of this Mapanas coastal view that caught my attention when I was planning my Northern Samar trip. The serene view of a rugged coastline opening into view from a highway road curve was just immensely captivating. This cemented Mapanas on my #GOT71NorthernSamar adventure.
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This view of the Guipandayan View Deck caught social media by storm.
The Guinpandayan View Deck lies along the national road of Northern Samar. Carved along the side of the mountain, the road sharply curves to the right opening to a dramatic view of Mapanas’ rugged coastline. I held on to my breath as we approached the curve and got swept off my feet with the amazing overhead view of the coast. It was simply breathtaking. It is no surprise that people on the road would often make a quick stop to catch this breathtaking view.
A view deck was built for visitors on the side of the road. From the deck, you can enjoy a full view of the snaking coastline with Pinusilan Rock and Balukawi Point Rock Formations jutting out of the waters of the Pacific. The white sand shores of Manapas also dots the coast of the town. The rugged coastal scene was simply captivating. The coastal highway runs adjacent to this amazing views. This spot is also where a lot of photos and videos are taken while “on the road”. Just make sure that you take extra precaution since it is a major highway.
 
Pinusilan Rock Formation and Blue Lagoon
 
Just a couple of minutes from the Guinpandayan View Deck, we rolled in the Pinusilan Rock Formation and Blue Lagoon. There are three massive formations in the area. Two rock formations guard the white sand cove where a resort now stands. A third rock formation is located off-shore, connected by a concrete boardwalk that spans over its rocky shoreline.
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Enjoying the rock formations of Pinusilan in Mapanas.
Local stories shared that its name “Pinusilan” was derived from the same waray word that translates to “gunshot”. The place was believed to be a place of execution during World War 2 where American forces brought Japanese prisoners to be shot. From its dark stories, it now rises as one of the attractions of Mapanas where you can enjoy the view of the rocky coast of Mapanas. The towering rock formations looked like guardians of the cove, protecting it from the waves coming from the Pacific Ocean.
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The boardwalk connects the beach to its blue lagoon.
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The Pinusilan Blue Lagoon is a popular attraction in Mapanas.
The boardwalk connects the mainland to an islet where you would find the Pusilan Blue Lagoon. Tucked within its rock walls, the deep crevice is filled with saltwater creating a pool with a blue hue. This is a favorite spot of locals and guests who are looking for a quick saltwater dip. The lagoon and the boardwalk also offer a panoramic view of the coastline of Mapanas.
 
Balukawi Point and Beach
 
Balukawi Point and Beach is another destination that is worth checking out when you find yourself in Mapanas. It is one of those spots along the coast that juts out to the Pacific Ocean with a massive rock formation at its edge. In fact, you can actually see Balukawi Point’s clustered rock formations from the Gipandayan View Deck.
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Balukawi Point is a low-ket attraction along the coast of Mapanas.
Similar to other beach spots in the area, it has a white sand coast and a rocky shore as you move out further to the sea. It is best appreciated during low tide where you could see the rocky bottom of its shores. You could easily see fossilized remains of anemones. Locals enjoy take advantage of the low tide to catch small crabs in the area. The clustered rock formations of Balukawi Point can be seen from a distance. The rock cluster adds more drama to the amazing landscape of this attraction.
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Balukawi Point is a perfect spot to connect with nature.
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There are lowkey resorts in the area that offer basic rooms.
There is a small resort at Balukawi Beach that offers basic facilities to tourists who want to experience a serene and rugged vibe of Mapanas. There’s no doubt that Balukawi Point can give you that space to disconnect and just enjoy it serene atmosphere. It also lets you connect with the rugged coast molded by the Pacific.
 
Kan Langka Cold Spring
 
Tucked on the hinterlands of Mapanas is the Kan Langka Cold Spring. Laidback and unassuming, the place is a favorite hangout of locals for that quick and refreshing mountain spring water dip. It took us about 45 minutes, on a habal-habal, to get to this natural attraction.
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We moved inland to explore the Kan Langka Cold Spring.
Surrounded by the lush forest covers of Mapanas, the Kan Langka Cold Spring is an attraction where two rivers meet to become one downstream flow. You can enjoy taking a dip from the larger river where water flows through its natural path and also enjoy “sliding” under a bridge where the second one flows. There is a huge and deep turquoise-colored pool at the junction where the rivers meet where there is an area where you can swim. From the junction, the river flows into one river downstream.
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Locak kids enjoying jumping into the cold waters.
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On the other side, kids were enjoying sliding under the bridge.
The place was developed by the locals with picnic huts and tables that dot both the river sides. There is an area deep enough where you can swing and jump into the deeper portion of the pool. You can also rent make-shift inflatables if you just want to enjoy “running” with the flow of the river. This mountain spot is a perfect place to just unwind, connect, and recharge with nature.
 
Binabalidawan Rock Formation/Mayong Payong
 
I have read that the best place to catch the sunrise in Mapanas is at the Binabalidawan Rock Formation. Unfortunately, we had a small hiccup that caused me not to catch the sunrise BUT I had enough time to explore the place and enjoy the early morning sun. Aboard a habal-habal, we rode through the rough trails to this pristine beach spot. The trail is sandy that we had to carefully tread through the trail. The seaside views were captivating along the route. This beach spot is best explored during the low tide.
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A perfect way to start the day... enjoying the view of Mayong Payong at Binabalidawan Beach.
Binabalidawan Rock Formation is along the edge of a white sand beach cove. This massive limestone formation stands like a vanguard protecting the pristine cove on this side of Mapanas. The cove is an untouched tropical paradise where you get to enjoy the solitude of the place since it is far from the communities.  Although it has spots of white sand shorelines, the beach is largely rocky shores that is ideal for mangrove growth. You can find a spot and enjoy the cove all for yourself.
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Exploring the cove with the view of Mayong Payong.
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Mayong Payong is known for its umbrella rock formation.
From the cove, you can catch the towering rock formations of Mayong Payong. These three rock formations lies a few meters from the cove and it is best explored during low tide. It would be easy to walk to these islets. The rock formations were called Mayong Payong because one its rock formations was shaped like an umbrella. Unfortunately, water was already setting in when we came in and I was not able to explore the rock formations up close. I did get to enjoy the view of these massive rock formations from the shores of Binabalidawan.
 
 
POST TRAVEL NOTES
It took a couple of amazing shots of Mapanas’ rugged coast to convince me to explore this off-beat destination. Who would have thought that these rock formations are not confined to an island but there are amazing formations that dot the coast of Northern Samar. These exposures, like this blog, can give new opportunities for tourism growth in the area and alternative livelihood opportunities for its locals.
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Up next... a mountain waterfall, a sleeping lion, and a taste of Spanish-period history.
Social media is pivotal in turning a lowkey and laidback destinations into the a hot PH attraction. This gives local travelers more opportunities to bring to the front unknown destinations to the psyche of local and international travelers resulting to opening up new opportunities for the community. Hence, it is important that local tourism offices are more adept in discovering their own attractions and drafting a sustainable program for tourism. This will give them a more proactive approach in promoting their own tourism brand rather than being taken into the limelight without a plan. Key word is proactive approach.
 
Watch out for the release of my Mapanas and Palapag adventure on my Youtube Travel Channel soon.
 
#MahalinNatinAngPilipinas
 
Getting there: Philippine Airlines flies to Catarman on specific days of the week from Manila and Cebu. You can take a trike from the airport to Colorhub Paint Supply along Bonifacio Street. The van terminal for Mapanas is just across this hardware. Trips to Mapanas from Catarman are usually in the morning while van trips from Mapanas to Catarman are only from 3am to 6am
 
You can stay at Jacob’s Haven at the town center of Mapanas. They also assist with your Mapanas tour arrangements. You can reach them at +63955 273 6297 or through their FB page: Jacob’s Haven.
​
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]]><![CDATA[#CebuSeries: Cordova Bleu]]>Sun, 02 Nov 2025 10:54:42 GMThttp://www.marc7travels.com/marc7-travels-blog-entries/cebuseries-cordova-bleuThis municipality either calmly welcomes or bids you goodbye along one of the flight line of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport. The municipality is part of Metro Cebu but unlike the nearby cities, this town kept its rural vibe. It was like we were being transported to the countryside of the province. A small town sandwiched by urban development but still manages to keep its rural vibe at the helm - this is the town of Cordova.
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Exploring another Cebu municipality that is close to the city.
Cordova, or Cordoba, is a quiet fishing town on the island of Mactan. It was created as a municipality 1864 and it is believed that its name meant “stark nakedness and bare”. Its name is also believed to be in honor of Governor-General Echague who created the town. He previously represented the Spanish province of Cordoba in the Spanish Congress. The sleepy town is an unassuming destination, living under the shadows of the more popular Lapu-Lapu City. But do not be deceived by its serene vibe, it can give quite a rustic travel experience for those who go beyond the bridge and ten thousand roses.
 
Cebu-Cordova Bridge
 
More popularly called the Cebu-Cordova Link Expressway, it is the third bridge that traverses the Mactan Channel and connects Cebu Mainland and the island of Mactan. It now stands as the longest bridge in the Philippines that spans over a body of water. It runs a total length of 8.9 kilometers from South Road Properties in Cebu City to Cordova. It was started construction in 2017 and was inaugurated in 2022 by Former President Rodrigo Duterte.
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Enjoying an afternoon cruise at the longest bridge of the Philippines.
CCLEx is now an attraction for both Cebu City and Cordova. Just like most people who visit Cebu, I have traversed the bridge a couple of times. My best traverse was on habal-habal while enjoying the afternoon sun. It is a beautiful sight to look at from the shores of Cordova where you get a view of the bridge with the cityscape view of Cebu.
 
Cordova Church and Convent
 
The Cordova Church, also known as the San Roque Church, was officially recognized as a separate parish in 1864. Its patron saint, St. Roque of Montpeller, France was a victim of leprosy. At the time of the church’s installation, Cordoba was home of many lepers. The creation of the church paved the way for the Christianism of this side of Mactan Island.
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The San Roque Parish Church of Cordova stands out with its Moorish-style architecture.
The present structure was rebuilt in 1924, decades after the original church was destroyed by a typhoon. The structure stands out with its Moorish-style architecture with two columns on both sides of the facade. It creates an impression of strength when viewed from the outside. Its interior, in contrast, is softer in tone with its stained-glass window pulpit. It is void of those huge retablos that is common in the province.
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The convent sits adjacent to the church.
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The simple altar of the San Roque Parish Church.
The sprawling church compound is also void of religious images which makes you focus on the beauty of the church. The convent sits adjacent to it, still showing its age and still in use. A bust of Father Chevalier was mounted along the perimeter of the convent to honor the Father of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart. Through the decades, the church continues to be a sanctuary for Cordovanons, not only spiritually, but also during times of calamity.
 
Cordova Municipal Hall and Park
 
Not far from the church stands the Cordova Municipal Hall and Park. The compound serves as the center of governance of Cordova. It houses the local government offices that provide basic services to Cordovanons. It has kept its old-time charm with its old structures fused with modern structures. 
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The Cordova Municipal Hall is the center of town's governance.
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The Old Municipal Hall is now a local museum.
The compound is also home to its local museum housed in the old municipal hall of the town. It serves as the town’s repository of its past. Unfortunately, the museum was closed at the time of our visit so we were not able to explore its exhibits. 
 
Cordova RORO Port
 
Just a few minutes away from the town center, The Cordova RORO Port serves as the town’s connection to nearby islands. It also serves as the jump-off point for island-hopping activities for tourists. The facilities are now being upgraded to give guests and locals the ease and convenience when traveling.
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The Cordova RORO Port is being modernized.
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A view of Lapu-Lapu from the Cordova RORO Port.
The port gives you an amazing 360-degree view of its surrounding areas. The towering resorts of Lapu-Lapu on one side contrasts the mangrove covers on the opposite side. You get to catch planes on their final approach on the west side and enjoy the sea views on the east side. The area is also a favorite hang-out spot of locals and tourists in the afternoon when the strip turns into a food park.
 
Bantayan Bay Port
 
Bantayan is Cordova’s secret local spot. It is a port area where local fishermen dock their boats that turn into a beach spot when the tides are low. And yes, weekends are usually busy when locals flock to the area to enjoy the sun, sand, beach. 
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The Bantayan Bay Port is a local beach spot secret.
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It is best enjoyed during the low tide.
This local beach spot reveals its rustic beauty during the low tide when its sandbars pop out of the sea. You can choose to wade through waist-deep waters as you hop from one sandbar to another as you find your own spot. There are no picnic huts and tables in the area. There are a line of mangrove trees along the sandbar where you can have a picnic. For those who don’t want to get wet, they can opt to hire a small bangka to bring you to your sandbar of choice.
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The lone tree up close and personal.
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The small lighthouse at Bantayan Bay.
The Bantayan Bay area lies along the vast mangrove covers of Cordova. Our guide shared with us that they offer tours around the mangrove areas but you can only do it during the high tide. A small lighthouse stands along the entrance of the port, adding more drama to its seascape. Floating cottages once operated in the area but it was later shut by the local government due to concerns on proper waste disposal.
 
Cordova Coastal Area
 
The Cordova coastal area flourishes with mangrove covers with about 100 hectares of cover. Traversing through an unfinished road network, we got a view of the beauty of the coastal area of Cordova. The low tide showed us the dramatic seascape of the town.
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A relaxing view of the sea and mangrove covers of Cordova.
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There are limestone rock formations along its shores.
The unfinished or ongoing road project is a great place to hangout. There are small shops along the road where you can buy snacks and then find your spot to enjoy them. We found ours where there were ruins of a house that once stood there. It was visually appealing with the limestone rocks and mangrove covers in the background. We enjoyed the view while enjoying the cool breeze from the sea.
 
10,000 Roses Cafe
 
Apart from CCLEx, the 10,000 Roses Cafe is another tourist attraction that is included in the day tours around Cebu City. The sprawling attraction is complete with restaurants, cafe, and souvenir shop that attracts hundreds of tourists daily. It gets usually crowded in the late afternoon and evening where you get to witness the 10,000 roses “bloom” with its led lights. Since it is an attraction in Cebu, you can expect to catch the thousand roses with the crowd.
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The 10,000 Roses Cafe is a major attraction in Cordova.
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Expect to see a thousand roses and a crowd at this attraction.
The cafe offers an amazing view of the CCLEx and the Mactan Channel with the cityscape of Cebu City in the background. It is also a perfect sunset spot giving you front seat views of the sun setting along the mountains of the Cebu. You also get to enjoy the views of planes arriving and leaving as it lies along the flight line of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport. Once you are in luck to find a spot, just enjoy the skyline views and the breeze from the small town of Cordova. 
 
POST TRAVEL NOTES
Cordova is a rustic town that has managed to keep its low profile despite having destinations that attract the crowds. There is no doubt that development and attention was pushed forward to this town after the construction and inauguration of the CCLEx. It brought new opportunities in and around the bridge. It also gave the town a new breath that could, hopefully, bring sustainable development and wealth to Cordova.
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We are exploring another PH province next!!!
Small towns often yield local secrets that often hide behind the shadows of more popular attractions. A change or development gives these attractions new pair of eyes that admire its beauty. Sometimes it goes on to becoming popular while others continue to remain lowkey. Whatever the case maybe, these attractions bring a different experience to guests. It is this experience that makes the destination unique.
 
Watch out for the release of my Cordova adventure on my Youtube Travel Channel soon.
 
#MahalinNatinAngPilipinas
 
Getting there: There are direct flights, from major local and international airports, to Cebu’s gateway - the Mactan-Cebu International Airport. You can take a cab from the airport to the Cordova Church where you can hire electric trikes to go around these Cordova destinations.
 
For e-trike tours around Cordova, you can reach Kuya Daryl at (0970) 778 9177. You can contact Kuya Sito for Bantayan Mangrove Tours at (0910) 479 0094.
​
Shoutout to my travel buddies - HULL & STERN Dry Bags for keeping my stuff safe and dry during my travels and MAGWAI for their alternative and eco-friendly products for my local travels.   
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]]><![CDATA[#CebuSeries: One Lazy Olango Sunday]]>Sat, 18 Oct 2025 02:53:43 GMThttp://www.marc7travels.com/marc7-travels-blog-entries/cebuseries-one-lazy-olango-sundayYou know what I like in Cebu? During lazy travel days and you want to hit the beach, there is always a beach spot close to the city for that quick escape. So, when we found ourselves with nothing to do on a Cebu Sunday, we hopped on a cab to Angasil Port and boarded a boat for an island known for its wildlife and rustic tropical vibe. It wasn’t going to be another usual Sunday. We will be vibing in Olango Island.
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When you have nothing to do on a weekend or a Sunday in Cebu, explore Olango Island!
Olango Island is a group of islands composed of the main island and 6 islets. The main island and 4 islets are under the jurisdiction of Lapu-Lapu City while the Nalusutan and Gilutongan Islets are under the municipality of Cordova. The main island is a popular weekend spot from the city because of its accessibility. It is home to a wildlife sanctuary and beach camping spots that give guests that tropical rustic vibe. The island slows you down and recharges you from
the buzz of the metro.
 
Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary
 
The Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary is the main tourist attraction of the island. The 920-hectare sanctuary is one of the known “bird transit stops” in the world for migratory birds. It has the largest concentration of migratory birds in the country, with 48 out of the 97 identified species as migratory birds from Japan, Northern China, and Siberia. The tidal flats were declared a protected area in 1992 and is one of the 10 areas included in the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance in the Philippines.
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Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary is the prime tourist attraction of Olango Island.
Visiting Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary needs proper timing, that is, during low tide for you to be able to fully experience and explore the sanctuary. The main entrance has the time posted as to what is the best time to visit the sanctuary. You can still explore the place during high tide but you won’t be able to head up to its bird viewing decks. You can also opt to camp in the sanctuary as they have designated areas for overnight stays.
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The sanctuary offers a ecotourism activities for its guests.
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The guest area of the Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary.
Guests are first given an orientation at the sanctuary’s Guest Area. The AVP gives you a brief on the facts about the sanctuary and its importance in the ecosystem, not only in the Philippines, but also in the world. Most of the tourist facilities are located here so, if you need to go to the rest room, you need to do it first before heading out to the birdwatcher’s station. From the guest area, we walked along the trail thru the Bantigue Mystic Forest. The “forest” is a mangrove tree lined path that gives you a preview of the island’s vast mangrove covers. The trail leads to a fork that leads to the two birdwatching stations of the bird sanctuary.
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A view of the first bird-watching station along the stone trail.
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Locals doing their usual daily grind.
Bird-station 1 is located on the southern end of the island. You walk along a natural rock trail that leads to the viewing deck. On one side you have the mangrove covers and on the other side you have the shallow marsh area of the sanctuary. There were very few birds at the time that we visited and the birdwatching guide later on explained that the birds usually move to the area just right before the sun sets. The vibe was very calming as you watch the horizon. On a clear day, you could see the city view of Cebu from a distance.
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The stone trail to the second station cuts through the waters.
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The station sits in the middle of the tidal flats of the sanctuary.
We headed back to the fork and walked through the stone trails that leads to Bird-station 2. This cemented pathway is visually appealing because it cuts straight into the marsh waters of the sanctuary. The resting hut in the middle of the pathway adds drama to the landscape. A guide was stationed in this station when we arrived. He gladly gave us a quick view of a flock  Little Egrets in view on the shoreline of the island. The calm vibe of the spot, with the refreshing sea breeze, was so relaxing and energizing. It was a good way to enjoy a lazy Sunday.
 
Blu-ba-you Beach
 
This nice and cozy beach spot is a perfect spot to enjoy a quick dip without the usual crowd. This is a fave spot is enjoyed by locals facing Cumungi Island. The waters are calm and serene with a perfect view of the neighboring island.
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Blu-ba-you Beach is a good spot for that quick beach break.
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You get to enjoy the beach with the view of Cumungi Island.
This beach spot was a great spot to enjoy the sun and sand. It has basic facilities for a day guests and it also has facilities for those who intend to stay overnight. The blue waters of the sea was inviting that I could not stop myself from getting my feet wet. This is definitely a perfect weekend spot if you want a quick escape from the buzz of Metro Cebu.
 
Caribbean Beach Resort
 
From the calming vibe of Blu-ba-you, we went on to enjoy the fun and tropical vibe of Caribbean Beach Resort. This new spot buzzes with its party music and its crowd. It gives off that beach party vibe complete with neon colors, party music, and crowd. It is also a beach stop of an island hopping pirate ship so don’t be surprised if the resort flows with the crowd.
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Getting a dose of the sun at Caribbean Beach Resort.
We found a spot close to the beach as we enjoyed a quick foot and leg massage under the sun. The entrance fee comes with complimentary fruit shake that cooled as down while enjoying the beach vibe. If you want to take a quick dip, the resort has a small cove for that. They also offer water activities for guests.
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The "I love Cebu" sign with Lapu-Lapu on the background.
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The resort installed IG-worthy spots that drive people crazy.
One thing that guests really enjoy here is getting that IG-worthy pictures. They have installations that really catches the curiosity and creativity pf its guests. From their stairway to heaven to their “I love Cebu” sign, it promises to be a visual treat on guests’ socmed feeds. The resort currently offers daytrips only but it is being developed by the owners to a fully functional resort in the future.
 
Olango Island Tour
 
Apart from exploring Olango Island, there are boat tours that tour you around the waters of the island. The jump-off point of these tours are in Maribago and the boat trip sails you along the waters of Hilutungan Channel. The cruise makes stops just a few meters from the shore where you can enjoy a quick salty dip and/or immerse in the underwater beauty of Olango Island.
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Another way to enjoy the waters of Olango is aboard a boat.
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The cruise stops at swim spots of Olango Island.
Our tour started out in the morning where we boarded a boat that could easily fit 25 people. The bangka cruise made its first stop near the San Vicente Sanctuary where we had fun jumping into the waters of the channel. We then proceeded further down where we were met by providers of water activities so we hopped on a banana boat to get that extra thrill of enjoying the waters of Olango Island. There were also fishermen who docked on our side, selling fresh produce from the sea. Of course, we had our fill. Cruising on the waters of Olango Island is also a great way to enjoy a lazy day with friends.
 
 
POST TRAVEL NOTES
Olango Island is a quick destination, close to the metro, that could give you that easy beach fix. Whether you are jumping into its waters or exploring its sanctuary, it does not fail in giving you that much needed city break without having to go very far. Olango Island is indeed a sanctuary, not only for migratory birds, but also for humans who need a break from the usual humdrum of city life.
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We're exploring another Metro Cebu destination next!
There will always be lazy days even when we are on the move. There will be times where, as much as we want to take a break, there are constraints. Remember that travel is not about going to a new spot. It can be your usual destination, your go-to-spot, or somewhere near, only this time, you try to re-discover the place or just simply enjoy what you have loved about the destination.
 
Watch out for the release of my Lapu-Lapu City adventure on my Youtube Travel Channel soon.
 
#MahalinNatinAngPilipinas

Getting there: There are direct flights to Mactan-Cebu International Airport from both local and international airports. You can take a cab from the airport to Angasil Port where you can take a ferry from Angasil Port to Santa Rosa Port in Olango Island. You can hire a trike to explore the island. You can contact Kuya Gerby for a day tour in Olango Island at (0927) 680 1542.
​
Shoutout to my travel buddies - HULL & STERN Dry Bags for keeping my stuff safe and dry during my travels and MAGWAI for their alternative and eco-friendly products for my local travels. 
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]]><![CDATA[#GOT70Apayao: Luna Rising]]>Mon, 06 Oct 2025 09:17:59 GMThttp://www.marc7travels.com/marc7-travels-blog-entries/got70apayao-luna-risingThe distance and the challenge of public transport make this landlocked province a gem to discover. For the few who have explored the province, they have always come back speaking of its enchanting beauty. I am now of these few. With Baguio-based travel organizer - Napapagna Outdoors, I traveled more than 9 hours to experience how Luna rises from the horizon.
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Locking in on my 70th PH province in Luna. Photo by Napapagna.
Originally called Macatel, the town of Luna is located on the northern side of the province of Apayao, along the boundary of neighboring province of Cagayan. It was renamed to its present name Luna by the Ilocano explorer and the town’s founding father, Antonino Barroga. It serves as a de facto capital of the Apayao where its provincial capitol and other government agencies are located. But beyond being a provincial government center, the rise of Luna is rooted on its enchanting natural attractions that has trickled on to social media feeds. Its enchanting beauty has caught the interest of many tourist, both local and international.
 
Dupag Rock Formation
 
Located in Marag Valley, the Dupag Rock Formation once served as a fortress by the NPA and, later on, by military forces in the 1980s. Its geographical formation of clustered jagged limestone rock boulders, rising to about 7 to 8 feet, make it a perfect hideout. The rock complex has become an attraction because of its overlooking views at its highest point and its dramatic rock surface when viewed from atop.
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An early morning bloom atop the Dupag Rock Formation.
We found ourselves in the middle of the vast Marag Valley, the jump-off point to the formations. From where we were standing, I couldn’t see the formation except for a forest cover from a distance. That was where we were headed to. It took us around 20 minutes hike, through the fields and across a river, to get to the base of Dupag. It is highly recommended that you explore the formations early morning because the place offers very little cover from the sun and the rocks can get pretty heated up by the sun.
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We had to hike for about 20-minutes to the base of Dupag.
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There are two trails to get to Father Rock - easy and hard.
You are given two options at the base of the Dupag Rock Formation - easy trail or hard trail. Both trails will end at the Father Rock - the highest point of the limestone formation. Being adventurous guy that I am, I chose to take the hard trail. The easy trail gets you to the top via the crevices in between rocks. The hard trail started off with me climbing atop the formations through a steep crevice with the help of ropes. Upon reaching the top, I had to clamber over the sharp tips of the limestone rocks. You need to take extra caution because the rock sides can also be slippery and steep. 
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Father Rock gives you a panoramic view of Marag Valley.
Upon reaching the Father Rock, I was treated with an amazing view of the plains below. I was not surprised that it was once a hideout since it offers a strategic and panoramic view of its surrounding areas. A view from above the rocks is dramatic. It looked like I was sitting on a a petal of a huge flower-shaped rock with greens around it. All my huffings ang puffings were rewarded with a great view and perfect IG-worthy shots.
 
Manacota Cave and Underground River
 
Initially I thought that our lunch picnic by the river/dike was just our coordinator’s way of making us enjoy the rustic vibe of Apayao. Little did I know, we were already at the jump-off point of another Luna attraction. So after a filling lunch, we hiked down the river trail to the underground river. Get ready because the 40-minute hike will have you walking under the sun with a couple of river crossing.
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Getting ready to get wet at Manacota Underground River. Photo by Napapagna.
As we got into a clearing by the entrance of a cave, we were greeted by the emerald green color of the water and the sign “I love Manacota Underground River”. The calm waters were calm and inviting. We were lucky that we were the only visitors for that day and we had the whole place for ourselves. So that dis not stop us from taking a quick dip in its cold waters.
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The view of the cave entrance from the trail.
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Our guide is getting ready to bring us through the cave.
We boarded wooden boats and our guides paddled us towards the Manacota Cave and Underground River. The cave is considered to having a “high quality ecosystem”. In pitch dark, our guides flashed their lights to showcase stalactites and stalagmites formations. The river runs through the cave and the deepest part of the river is at 12 meters. It is a through and through cave where there are two cave openings. We docked on the other opening of the cave where you could experience the rush of spring water flowing into the cave. An opening at the top of cave lets light stream in giving this part of the cave a more dramatic vibe.
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Enjoying the cold water from the headwaters of the river.
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The other side of the cave opens to a beautiful gorge.
We ventured further up the headwaters of the river. The gorge had steep rock-walls on the sides. Large rock formations gave the gorge that rugged vibe. We had to wade through rushing river waters to get to its headwaters. Large boulders were stacked atop each other at the end. This was a spot where one could cliff jump from the boulders before you let the rushing waters carry you back to the shallower parts of the river. Or you can also choose to find your own spot by the riverbanks and get soothed by the calming sounds of waters rushing down. Whatever you choose, you would get to enjoy nature at its finest.
 
Apayao Ecotourism and Sports Complex
 
The four-hectare complex fuses the rustic natural beauty of Apayao with modern sports facilities. It is complete with Olympic-size pools, a track oval, and a club house that overlooks the sports facilities. It also has a hiking trail in the area where you can enjoy a quick commune with nature. The facility served as host of the region-wide athletic meet in 2024.
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The sign that captured how we felt when we visited the sports complex.
The complex was a perfect spot to slow us down after a full day of adventure. It offered a tranquil vibe as we explored the area. Of course, we did not miss out having our pictures taken with the “I ❤️ Apayao” sign. The souvenir shop though was close on the day that visited and we missed out on that. The complex also has accommodation facilities for those who want to spend the night here. I hope that the facility would be maintained to provide world-class sport facilities for Apayao and its neighboring provinces.
 
Apayao Provincial Capitol
 
Luna now serves as the de-facto capital of the province of Apayao. It for this reason that a new government center that was built at the heart of Luna. The provincial capitol serves as the center of governance in Apayao providing basic services to the people of Apayao.
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Luna is now home to the new government center of the province.
Situated atop a hill, the Apayao Provincial Capitol is the government complex of the province. This is where most of the offices of national agencies are located. The main building is situated along one side of the hill. A staircase leads down to a fountain with a base in a shape of a star. Each spike represents the 7 municipalities of the province. Interestingly, I find the design of the complex different because of its layout. Unlike other capitol complexes that I have seen, it lacks that wow factor as its Capitol Building faces an unappealing view of its forested/farm area.
 
Lussok Cave and Underground River 
 
Lussok Cave is the most popular natural attraction in the province of Apayao. It did not come as a surprise that it is the most developed attraction with trails and picnic spots in the area. The cave once served as a refuge by the Japanese soldiers and native insurgents before social media propelled its beauty to local travelers. In fact, the holes on its ceilings were caused by war bombings. Its name was derived from the local word “lussok” which means sunlight seeping through the holes of the cave ceilings.
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Lussok Cave and Underground River is the prime tourist destination of Luna. Photo by Napapagna.
The Lussok Cave experience begins aboard a wooden canoe where your guide and boatman paddles you through the steep gorge leading to the mouth of the cave. We were treated with a relaxing view of the thick foliage that cover the gorge. Unfortunately, it rained the night before so the waters were not in its enchanting azure color. Still, the calm and serene vibe as we approached the cave opening kept all of us in awe.
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The view of the cave opening from the gorge.
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The dead limestone rock formations at the cave opening.
The guides explained to us that the cave is home to many living stalactite and stalagmite formations. As we were covered in pitch darkness, the guides showed us some of the amazing rock formations from images of the VIrgin Mary to images of jellyfish to stalactites shaped like a female genitalia, the rock formations will keep you amazed as you chuckle at the jokes shared by the guide. You will also find that the deep inside the cave is the home of a colony of bats.
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The hole on the ceiling was caused by bombing during the war.
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The view of the cave entrance from the inside.
Lussok Cave is a cave with a single opening so the boats had to maneuver at the large chamber found at the end of the cave. From here, we headed back to the cave’s opening. This is where you get a clearer view of the cave’s openings along its ceilings. These openings were a result of the bombings during the war. You will also be amazed with the view of the cave opening from the inside of the cave. It was an amazing sight to see. Our guide docked near the cave entrance where he lined us up for that famous Lussok Cave shot. This camera angle shot made Lussok Cave a popular destination in Apayao.
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Getting ready to hike back from the cave. Photo by Napapagna.
From the cave opening, there are two ways to head back to the receiving area. You can choose to take the bangka back to the docking station or you can choose to take a short hike on its gorge. A trail was established that snakes up to the green covers of its gorge. A hanging bridge connects the gorge to the other side and it also has a great view of Lussok Cave. The 10-minute hike through its forest covers will give you a relaxing walk with nature back to the park’s reception area.
 
 
POST TRAVEL NOTES
There is no doubt that the rustic beauty of Luna will continue to rise in popularity especially that only a few tread the roads to Apayao. Distance and transportation within Luna proves to be the biggest challenge in exploring its beauty. This is the gap that local travel organizers, like Napapagna Outdoors, come in to fill in that gap. They provide opportunities for travelers to explore these destinations hassle-free while providing earning opportunities for their local contacts. This is a great win-win arrangement for tourists, locals, and the organizer.
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Get ready to explore and commune with nature in Cebu.
Having traveled around the Philippines, I am quick to admit that there are destinations where the main challenge is exploring it DIY. I have shared in the past that there are destinations where having an organizer makes it more convenient and more economical. This also gives you the opportunity to making new friends and to make the adventure a shared experience thus making it more memorable… yung tipong babalikan!
 
Watch out for the release of my Luna, Apayao adventure on my Youtube Travel Channel soon.
 

​#MahalinNatinAngPilipinas
 
Getting there: My Luna, Apayao adventure was organized by Baguio-based FB travel organizer, Napapagna Outdoors. Kuya Eldridge provides a hassle-free and fun adventure from start to finish. You can check out their travel schedules on their FB page - Napapagna Outdoors.
 
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]]><![CDATA[#CebuSeries: Up Rising Lapu-Lapu]]>Tue, 23 Sep 2025 16:00:00 GMThttp://www.marc7travels.com/marc7-travels-blog-entries/cebuseries-up-rising-lapu-lapu​Nestled on an island adjacent to mainland Cebu, this city is the first to greet you as you touchdown in the province. The name of the city and the island is embedded in Filipino psyche because the first battle between Filipinos and conquistadors happened along its sacred shores. And beyond the stories of courage and strength, it has grown to become a bustling resort city where you can enjoy a vibrant tropical atmosphere with a pinch of history. This is the city of Lapu-Lapu, on the island of Mactan.
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The city where the first Filipino hero stood against colonization. Welcome to the City of Lapu-Lapu.
Originally called Opon, the City of Lapu-Lapu serves as the gateway of Cebu Province. It is a place where natural beauty and history perfectly fuse in a tropical vibe. It prides itself with the first resistance against Spanish colonization with the 1521 Battle of Mactan that resulted to the death of Ferdinand Magellan along its shores. Fast forward to the present, Lapu-Lapu City, or Lapu among locals, is now a bustling highly urbanized resort city. Its coast is dotted with beach resorts that attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists each year. But there’s more to Lapu than meets the eye and that is what we are about to find out.
 
Crab Island and Baliwis Rock
 
Unless you are checked in to one of the resorts in Lapu-Lapu City, finding a public beach spot can be a challenge. There are two reasons for this - first, most beach fronts are within the premises of a resort or hotel and, second, there are only a few spots along its coast that has a natural sandy shoreline. BUT Lapu locals know a spot or two that would surprise you. My first Lapu beach spot find - Crab Island.
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Crab Island is a local public beach spot in Lapu.
Crab Island is a beach camping spot favorite of locals. I think it got its name because of the small red crabs that you find in the area. The spot gets “cut-off” from the mainland during high tide because sea water floods into the mangrove areas between the “island” and mainland Mactan. I guess that is the reason why it was named Crab Island. One needs to tread carefully along the foundations of the remains of a land bridge, that connects Crab Island to mainland Mactan, to get to this hidden spot in Lapu-Lapu.
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The land bridge that connects Crab Island and mainland Mactan Island.
As soon as you enter the area, a fork along its trail will lead you to two distinct spots - Crab Island and Baliwis Rock. My two kid-guides brought me to Baliwis Rock first. The area is a rock-cliff spot where you get to enjoy the views of Hilutungan Channel and the nearby Olango Island. There are no tourist facilities in the area so you simply find your own spot on the area’s natural covers. Be careful when exploring the area because the limestone rocks are sharp and falling on these rocks will get you scratched. There are small coves at the edge of the waters but you would have to scramble down the rocks to get to enjoy the waters underneath. It is more peaceful to stay here since it gets less visitors compared to Crab Island.
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Baliwis Rock is a rock formation on this beach spot.
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There are coves in Baliwis Rock where you can take a quick dip.
Crab Island, on the other hand, is where most of the actions happen. The place was streaming with locals and a few foreigners for a quick Sunday escape. The area is  grassy thus making it a more ideal for a daytrip or an overnight camp. Be watchful though because there are no guards in the area. The area is where you will also find a sandy beach strip making it a good spot to swim. There were others who braved the waters and swam towards a rock formation just a few meters from the shore to try jumping off its cliffs.
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The trail to Crab Island from Baliwis Rock.
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Crab Island is a quick and easy beach spot in Lapu-Lapu.
The spot because of its ruggedness was able to give a more local vibe in the midst of the touristy coastline of Lapu-Lapu. It was a refreshing break where you get to be a local for a day and enjoying a lesser-known spot. It had the crowd and the vibe was pumping with the Lapu energy. You can find your own spot to enjoy the sights and sounds of Crab Island or Baliwis Rock alone and even with friends. It was a good spot for a quick and easy beach trip without going too far from the city.
 
Marigondon Public Beach
 
Marigondon Public Beach is another public beach spot in the city of Lapu-Lapu. It has a beach strip that the public can access that sits adjacent to its dock. Unlike Crab Island, the beach strip in Marigondon has tourist facilities like restaurants and hotels that is accessible to members. But the main draw of this beach is that it is the jump-off point of boat tours around the area.
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Marigondon Beach is a popular public beach spot in Lapu.
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The beach is also a jump-off point to island hopping activities.
We had the chance to enjoy a day of swimming and exploring the waters of Hilutungan Channel. You can rent a boat that could fit 20 to 25 people for a day of boat excursions in the waters near Olango Island. There are a number of operators that would offer water activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. Boatmen would also approach your bangka to offer fresh seafood that you could grill for lunch. We had fun jumping into the blue waters and enjoying a quick dip in Lapu-Lapu City. 
 
Alegre Guitars
 
Cebu is home to many great musicians. In fact, one of the cottage industries that Cebu is known for is the manufacturing of the Filipino Guitars and the City of Lapu-Lapu is at the center of it. These world-class instruments are known for its design, quality, and sound. It was the Spaniards who introduced guitar-making to locals of Opon (former name of Lapu-Lapu) since they used it during worship. The superb craftsmanship of the locals made Filipino Guitars popular both here and abroad.
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Alegre is one of the leading makers of guitars in Lapu-Lapu.
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You can watch local craftsmen in action at the Alegre Guitars.
The Alegre Family is one of two families that pioneered the guitar-making industry in Lapu-Lapu. Their factory/workshop is open to visitors where you could get a preview of how these guitars are made. Think of it like a live museum where you walk through each step of the process from start to finish. At the end, you walk inside their shop where you can see different stringed instruments produced by Alegre. You can also purchase a guitar as a souvenir from Lapu-Lapu.
 
Olango Island
 
Olango Island is the island across the Hilutungan Channel and it is under the jurisdiction of Lapu-Lapu City. The island is one of the favorite easy beach destinations that is close to Cebu City because it only takes 15 minutes to cross to the island by boat from Mactan. It is interesting how the short boat ride can easily transport you to a provincial vibe that is relaxing and serene. It is weekend spot where you can enjoy soaking in the sun while enjoying nature.
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Olango Island is another weekend destination to explore in Lapu-Lapu.
The island is home to the Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary that serves as a transit home to many migratory birds. Its diverse coastal ecosystem and its mangrove cover make it a perfect refueling stop of migratory birds. The sanctuary has built pathways to its two birdwatching stations where bird guides will help you in catching a glimpse of these birds. It is home to the largest concentration of migratory birds in the country.
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Olango Island offers a quick beach escape from the metro.
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The island is a weekend spot where you can enjoy camping.
There are also beach spots on this side of Lapu-Lapu. Olango Island is also a great spot for a weekend camp where you can enjoy a nice provincial evening vibe while enjoying the city views on the horizon. If you are up for just a quick day trip, Olango Island is a perfect destination that will give you that chill vibe without having to travel far. 
 
Mactan Shrine
 
At the heart of the city’s history is the Mactan Shrine. This sprawling historical park, along the mangrove coastline of Magelllan Bay, marks the approximate location where the Battle of Mactan happened. The park is home to two monuments dedicated to the two prominent personalities of the battle - Datu Lapu-Lapu and Ferdinand Magellan.
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History and progress of Lapu-Lapu City in one frame.
The Ferdinand Magellan Monument is a three-tier stone obelisk made of coral stones that was built in 1866. It stands to honor Magellan who led the Spanish fleet to be first to circumnavigate the world. This placed the Philippines in global prominence early on. Unfortunately, he was not able to complete the voyage because Magellan died in the hands of Datu Lapu-Lapu’s men along the shores of Mactan.
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The two monuments at Mactan Shrine honoring Datu Lapu-Lapu and Ferdinand Magellan.
At the center of this park is the 6-meter bronze monument of Mactan’s very own hero - Datu Lapu-Lapu. He led his warriors to a victory that would delay the colonization of the Philippines for 42 years. Lapu-Lapu’s statue stands in a defiant stand and on guard, watching over the coast of Lapu-Lapu. He is considered the first Filipino hero who made a more advance army bend their knees because of his leadership and tactical strategy.
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The Lapulapu Monument honoring the datu for defending his land against foreign intrusion.
From a humble park when I first visited it, the park is getting a more refreshing look. A new memorial was set that celebrated the 500th year anniversary of Magellan’s circumnavigation of the globe. Future plans include a museum that would give guests more insights to the city’s rich past. With the Mactan Newtown buildings in the background, it gives the park the vibe where the past fuses with the present.
 
Plaza Rizal
 
Originally called Opon Plaza, it was acquired by the church in 1908 and was given a facelift in 1928. It was a public park that featured a monument of its local hero, Lapulapu. The image which was erected in 1933 was armed with a bow and arrow that was aimed at the old municipal hall of Opon. Interestingly, three mayors died in the office which people associated to the bow and arrow aimed at the building. It was replaced by a staff in 1938 and, interestingly, paved the way to the Mariano Dimataga serving the municipality for 30 years.
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The Lapulapu Monument at Plaza Rizal has its legends to share.
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The Opon Plaza was given a fresh look and renamed Plaza Rizal.
The monument stands to this day at the plaza but the plaza has undergone a major facelift. A new city hall building was relocated at a different location. The plaza was renamed to Rizal Park and was given a revitalized look with dancing fountains, playgrounds, and exercise areas. The park gives locals and visitors another open space to enjoy and relax at the center of the city’s bustling center.
 
Virgen de la Regla National Shrine
 
The Virgen de la Regla National Shrine is the center of faith of Lapu-Lapu locals. The devotion to the miraculous image of the Cebuanos stands next to their devotion to the Santo Nino de Cebu. It was in 1735 that the locals first saw the revered image and was chosen by the locals to be their patroness. They had an image made and placed in the altar of the church which led to stories of miracles happening among devotees.
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The Virgen de la Regla National Shrine is the center of the Catholic faith in Lapu-Lapu City.
The church stands at the heart of Lapu-Lapu’s Catholic faith. The simple facade stands majestically in Opon. The belfry stands adjacent to the church dominating the skyline of Opon. The white-washed facade was a real beauty with the sunset glow striking its walls. You can really feel the devotion of the Cebuanos during the mass that was being held when I visited the church. A striking image of the Virgin in stained-glass window in front of the church stands beautifully from the church ground.
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Second to the Cebu Sto. Nino, the Virgen de la Regla is also revered by Cebuanos.
The interior of the church was grand. The stained-glass windows atop the church walls were appealing to the eyes. The altar catches your attention with its arched backdrop and the image of the Virgen de la Regla at the top. The simplicity of the backdrop contrasts to the intricate design of the image. It gives off the vibe of a homy sanctuary where you can seek spiritual refuge.
 
Muelle Osmena
 
Did you know that you can take a ferry from Lapu-Lapu to Cebu City? Yes… there is a ferry that connects the two cities with a relaxing and scenic 20-minute ride over the Mactan Channel. The ferry terminal is located just behind the Virgen de la Regla National Shrine. It provides an alternative route if you are heading to downtown Cebu.
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The Muelle Osmena Lighthouse was built in 1910 and was named after Cebuano's own, President Osmena.
At the center of this port is the Muelle Osmena Lighthouse. The historic lighthouse was built in 1910 from coral stones. It stands at 10 meters and serves as one of the guides for ships and boats traversing the Mactan Channel. It was named after President Osmena who is a native of Cebu.
 
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POST TRAVEL NOTES
Engraved in history, the City of Lapu-Lapu has progressed from a simple seaside town to a bustling resort city. It is a destination that has fused its stories into its progress. It is where you get that tropical vibe while immersing in its history and culture. It enriches you from its popular spots to its nooks and crannies that only locals know.
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We GOT something exciting coming up next.
It is interesting how you can find spots that seem to go unnoticed by most travelers. Engaging with locals allow you to explore a different side of place. You get to see beyond the usual tourism sites and you get a different kind of joy from exploring the trails less travelled. It gives you a better insight of the place and the stories that bind its culture. Like what I always say… go and explore beyond the usual.
 
Watch out for the release of my Lapu-Lapu adventure on my Youtube Travel Channel soon.
​​​​​
#MahalinNatinAngPilipinas
 
Getting there: There are direct flights to Mactan-Cebu International Airport from major airports of the country. From the airport, you can take a taxi to any destination in Lapu-Lapu. You can hire a tricycle to get around the city. Tricycle contact number: Kuya Jamsi - (0965) 378 4513. 
 
Shoutout to my travel buddies - HULL & STERN Dry Bags for keeping my stuff safe and dry during my travels and MAGWAI for their alternative and eco-friendly products for my local travels.
Get 5% off on your Hull & Stern dry bag purchase on the Hull & Stern website when you use the code - marc7del   ​
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]]><![CDATA[5 Fit and Healthy Spots in the Philippines]]>Sun, 07 Sep 2025 01:19:53 GMThttp://www.marc7travels.com/marc7-travels-blog-entries/5-fit-and-healthy-spots-in-the-philippines​Everyone is getting into their fit and healthy era nowadays. Whether it be getting a membership at a fitness club or joining runs, it is great to see that more people are making the right choice towards being an inch fitter and healthier. This might come as a surprise to many but I have been in the fitness industry for more than two decades. This movement was our dream when I started in the industry at the age of 24 and now it is starting to bear fruit.
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Metro Cebu is a great fitness destination.
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You walk around Intramuros.
Today I have decided to fuse two things that I am passionate about - my work and my local travels. This is NOT about where you would find the most health-conscious locals in the country. It is NOT about hiking or camping. This blog is about Philippine destinations that would challenge you to be more physically active while actually exploring the beautiful spots of the place. They provide you with a healthier alternative of adventure beyond the usual “touristy” way.
 
Baguio City
 
The City of Pines is popular for its cool climate. Whether it be a quick relief from the summer heat or enjoying the cold of the BER months, Baguio City is an all-year round destination. Most tourist often go around the city using their cars or by taxi which causes vehicle congestion along its popular spots, not to mention the challenge of finding a parking space. You see… the city’s infrastructures were not designed to accommodate this huge influx of residents and tourists.
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Baguio is a walkable city. You get a different vibe when you walk the city.
But here’s the thing… the City of Baguio is a walkable city. Locals usually just walk when doing their daily runs. That is the reason why locals get annoyed when tourists, who seem lost, block sidewalks because it slows down the pace of their daily grind. Walking around the city, from Burnham Park to Botanical Garden to The Mansion to Mines View, could help you complete your daily 10,000 step goal while enjoying the rustic views of the city. Exploring the city by foot would give you a more appealing Baguio vibe and you get to save up on gas and time.
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Baguio City spots can easily be reached on foot.
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Trying out other activities in Baguio will get you moving.
The city also has a lot of open parks that offer various activities - biking and boating at Burnham Park, children’s parks where kids can play outdoors the OG way, easy hiking trails, and horseback activities through forest covers. Don’t just eat at restaurants. Go out and have a picnic with the family after a short hike or bike ride. You get to enjoy family time with nature which is good for mental health. Find your spot under the pine tree covers as you enjoy reading a book over a cup of coffee. Try these physical and mental activities on your next Baguio trip to give you that different pine vibe that heals.
 
You can read more about my Baguio adventures here: Beyond the Usual Baguio Sunday Session
 
Intramuros, Manila
 
The Walled City of Intramuros is a “walkable” destination at the heart of Metro Manila. It fuses history and fitness because there is no other way to explore around it but on foot or on a bike. Well… if you have extra cash to spend, you can also go around it using the kalesa. But nothing beats exploring its nooks and crannies on foot as you get to discover beyond the usual sights.
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Here's the thing... the best way to explore Intramuros is on foot.
You can start your Intramuros walk at the historical Fort Santiago. This landmark warms you up as you walk around its sprawling space, from its barracks to its wall esplanade. From the fort, you can trace the footsteps of Dr. Jose Rizal from his cell to Puerto Postigo. All Intramuros landmarks are walkable from here. The Manila Cathedral, the San Agustin Church, Museo de Intramuros, Casa Manila, and Baluarte de San Diego are within walking distance from each other. You can get the vibe of the old Manila as you walk along its cobbled streets.
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Exploring the Walled City gives you a glimpse of our past.
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It gives you a glimpse of how Filipinos lived in Intramuros.
A leisure walk inside the Walled City gets you physically active while brushing you up on our history. This Manila spot perfectly fuses exercise and learning within and along its walls. The perfect way to end an Intramuros Day is to leisurely walk along its walls, enjoying the breeze from the bay, and breathing in the Manila skyline on the horizon. Intramuros literally walks you along its past.
 
You can read more about my Intramuros adventures here:
#ExploreManila: Intramuros (The North Wall)
#ExploreManila: Intramuros (The South Wall)
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Boracay Island, Aklan
 
Boracay Island is THE face of Philippine tourism. The island perfectly fuses the tropical beach vibe, picturesque sunset, and beach night life that most tourist, both local and international, look for on this side of the world. The island has definitely transformed from its 80's rustic beach vibe to its present unique rural-urban fusion.
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Boracay Island is known for its amazing sunset views.
Although island development has given its locals and guests more convenience moving around, Boracay Island’s 4-kilometer powdery white sand is still best explored on foot. Walking along the beachfront from Station 3 to Station 1 is a great way to sweat while getting that island tan. You can make quick stops along the way for a snack, to check out souvenirs, and to just enjoy the white sand beach view of the island's famous strip. You can also enjoy a Jonah’s fruit shake while finding your own beach spot. You may also opt to explore beyond Station 1 to discover secluded beach spots like Diniwid Beach. You will get to enjoy that Boracay Beach spot without the crowd.
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They also have other water activities that you could try.
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You will get to enjoy the views along the way.
The island of Boracay is an island that offers a lot of exciting activities. Whether you want to get a view from above or a view of what’s underneath its waters, the island got you covered. There are more activities to try out and lpenjoy. Its development has made things more accessible and convenient with public transport. But guess what, Boracay is still best enjoyed by walking along its white sand shores.
 
You can read more about my Boracay in a Day adventures here: Random Travel: Boracay In A Day
 
Metro Cebu
 
The Queen City of the South is burning roads with its running era. The city is piping hot with organized runs happening almost every week in and around the city. It is a huge city that offers a wide array of physical activities while immersing in its beauty. Metro Cebu will surprise you with how it gets you active while exploring a different kind of Cebu.
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A different view of Cebu from its city mountains.
While most tourist would opt to see a bird’s eye view of city at Tops Cebu, there are more exciting way of enjoying the same view from its mountain trails. You can go on an early morning or late afternoon hike and watch the city change with the colors of dawn or dusk. I was actually surprised that the mountains of Cebu hold a lot of amazing natural attractions that give you a different side of the city. This city flawlessly fuses the urban and rural vibe.
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You can walk around the Parian Area to explore the old Cebu.
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The Yap-Sandiego House is the oldest house in the city.
Beyond hiking the city mountain trails, you can walk around the historical core of the city. All you need is a map and you can easily navigate your way around the Parian area. If you are into running, you make a quick run around the Capitol and Fuente Osmena Circle. Better yet, you can run over the Cebu-Cordova Bridge, the longest bridge over water in the country. You can also try exploring the beach spots and bird sanctuaries on a bike at Olango Island. Exploring Metro Cebu alone can give you that quick workout while giving you a taste of Cebu beauty and hospitality.
 
You can read more about my Cebu City hiking adventures here: The Mountains of Sugbo
 
Side Note: You can also get a quick workout fix at Anytime Fitness Robinsons Fuente and Anytime Fitness One Pavilion Mall. These two AF gyms are located at Cebu City, near the Provincial Capitol Area. To get a free day pass in Cebu, check out their Facebooks pages:
Anytime Fitness Robinsons Fuente, Cebu City
Anytime Fitness One Pavilion Mall, Guadalupe, Cebu City
Anytime Fitness Talamban Times Square, Talamban, Cebu (Pre-selling soon!)
​
Siargao Island
 
Over land or water, Siargao Island is a physically active island. We are not just talking about paddling out and riding the waves. The island will also get you walking, biking, and paddling on calmer waters. Every corner of this island gets you moving.
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Calming my mind in Siargao.
Although there are public transports in General Luna, getting around its iconic spots is best done on a bike or by foot. This island gives you that back to basic vibe where you get to enjoy its rustic charm more if you are walking around. You really get to breathe in its rural feel that slows you down and the time. This island lets you enjoy its beauty the old-fashion way. It is like living back in the past.
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Siargao won't be complete without riding its waves.
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Enjoying the sun and getting the Siargao tan.
Even if you are exploring its famous lagoon, you go on a kayak to paddle your way to your own corner. You walk along the coast of its tidal pools to see the beauty of its nooks and crannies. When hungry, you have restaurants that offer you a healthier menu. You can also take a break to enjoy a yoga session if you want to ground yourself in nature and just get re-charged. Siargao Island is a wellness treat for travelers who want to have fun exploring in a healthier way.
 
You can read more about my Siargao adventures here:

#GOT81SurigaoDelNorte: Ten Things That Will Make You Go #SiargaoNaNgaAngHinahanapNgPuso (Part 1)​
 #GOT81SurigaoDelNorte: Ten Things That Will Make You Go #SiargaoNaNgaAngHinahanapNgPuso (Part 2)
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POST TRAVEL NOTES
While most people like traveling with convenience, you get to discover and appreciate more of the place when you explore the not-so-usual way. Taking a walk around the town lets you see the details of the city and its attraction. Trying out activities that gives you a different view and vibe lets you catch your breath on its beauty that is seldom not seen by the usual travelers. The physical activity gives you a different experience that will make appreciate the destination more, something that both your mind and body will remember.
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Exploring a different side of Metro Cebu next.
Traveling is a form of a wellness activity. Exploring a new place is a great way to ground and recharge ourselves. The experience enriches one’s mind giving a breather to our mental health. And when you match it with a physical activity like walking while exploring, you give your mind and body a good experience that enriches your total well-being. Give yourself a little room for change when traveling. That #ChangeGetsYouMoving for your mind and body.
 
#MahalinNatinAngPilipinas 
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Side Note: If you want to get a health assessment before you travel, you can get a FREE Health Assessment and Day Pass at the following Anytime Fitness clubs:
Anytime Fitness Southwoods, Binan, Laguna
Anytime Fitness West Fairview, Fairview, Quezon City
Anytime Fitness Eton Centris, Quezon City
Anytime Fitness Eton Westend, Makati
Anytime Fitness Ayala Malls Manila Bay, Paranaque
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Shoutout to my travel buddies - HULL & STERN Dry Bags for keeping my stuff safe and dry during my travels and MAGWAI for their alternative and eco-friendly products for my local travels.
Get 5% off on your Hull & Stern dry bag purchase on the Hull & Stern website when you use the code - marc7del      ​
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]]><![CDATA[#BirthdayTrip: A Striking Palo]]>Fri, 22 Aug 2025 03:48:55 GMThttp://www.marc7travels.com/marc7-travels-blog-entries/birthdaytrip-a-striking-paloThe town is unassuming and calming as I set my foot on its grounds. For most of us Filipinos, we know this place associated with the famous phrase “I shall return.” BUT this town takes a step forward beyond its place in history. It is a town that speaks of faith and resilience from its tough and painful past. I guess that is why it is a striking Palo for me.
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The story of Palo in Leyte is a story of rising up even after getting a hit.
 
Often living under the shadows of its neighboring city, the town of Palo in Leyte is forever etched in the history of the Philippines and the world. It is along the shores of this town that General McArthur fulfilled his promise of “I shall return.” when World War 2 broke out. From this symbolic return, the town has evolved into a thriving political and religious center in the province of Leyte being home to a new provincial capital and the Archdiocese of Palo. What does this sleepy town have to offer? 
 
MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park
 
At the heart of Palo’s tourism is the MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park. This seaside park is the site where the historical promise of the esteemed general to the Filipinos was fulfilled in October 20, 1944. The monument is the centerpiece of the sprawling complex where a couple of governments are also located. The complex is also home to a number of memorials like the Boy Scout of the Philippines Monument at the center of the complex.
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Palo got rooted in history when General MacArthur's fulfilled his promise.
The park was declared a National Historical Landmark in 2004. The main monument depicts bronze statues of General MacArthur, President Sergio Osmena, and their entourage wading through water as depicted from a picture captured by Gaetano Faillace. The NHI Historical Marker was installed in front of the shallow pool. A bronze cast of his footprints is on display just right across the seven-men monument.  A mural depicting World War 2 scenes was installed at the backend of the pool to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of the Leyte Landings.
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The tableau depicting World War 2 scenes at the monument.
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The bronze footprint of General MacArthur at the park.
The park also features other smaller monuments honoring the heroes of World War 2. There is a small theater on one end of the park and adjacent to it are the barges that carried liberation forces that landed along the shores of Palo. A Visitor Center stands right across the park where guests can have a full view of the park from its balcony. The back part of the park is connected to a baywalk that offers a panoramic view of San Pablo Bay and Samar Island. On a good day, you can do planespotting as these planes make their final approach to Tacloban Airport.
 
Red Beach and Leyte Lighthouse
 
Red Beach is the stretch of black sand coastline behind the MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park. It is along these coastlines where the liberation of the Philippines from the hands of the Japanese started during the end of World War 2. The beach is not exactly red. In fact, the sand is grayish black. Some narratives claim that “RED” was the code that the Americans used in reference to this coast along Palo. Eventually, the name was later adopted by locals.
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Red Beach is where the historical return happened in Palo.
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Red Beach and the Leyte Lighthouse in the background.
The MacArthur Landing Walkway now runs along part of the Red Beach. You will also find a string restaurants and a resort along the baywalk. A public beach is located at the far end of the walkway where you can rent a small hut is you intend to stay longer to enjoy the beach. You can also see from this area the Leyte Lighthouse at a distance. I am not sure though if you could walk to check out the lighthouse from Red Beach. The beach spot and the baywalk is a favorite spot of locals to do their morning or afternoon jogs.
 
Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lord’s Transfiguration (Palo Cathedral)
 
Founded in 1596 by the Jesuits, the Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lord’s Transfiguration or Cathedral is an ecclesiastical province that leads a large part of Leyte. The church was built on the same year with the two towers being added in 1850. It was proclaimed as a cathedral in March 1938. It was later utilized as a medical facility during the liberation of the Philippines in 1944.
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The Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lord's Transfiguration stands majestically at the heart of Palo.
The church structure stands out at the heart of the town. A statue of the Risen Christ greets visitors at the entrance of the church compound. The two towers of the church structure dominate the skyline of the town like a guardian watching over its domain. Its simple facade glows in yellow with the image of the Risen Christ at the top of the structure.
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The elegant interior of the Palo Cathedral.
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The beautiful retablo of Palo Church.
The interior of the church is elegant with its stained-glass windows, its Stations of the Cross mounted on the side walls of the church, and the niche, featuring saints, mounted on the upper walls of its front walls. Its intricately designed retablo is the main feature of its interior. The three-level retablo also features saints with the Risen Christ taking the top niche of the retablo. The retablo glows in gold catching your attention as you enter the sanctuary.
A Yolanda Memorial was also installed within the church compound. The memorial is one of the many in the province that honors the lives lost during the onslaught of one of the strongest typhoons to hit the country. It features a three-story “lighthouse” structure. Angels were installed on the plot, guarding the area. Tombstones of those who perished line the garden walls around the memorial. 
 
La Purisima Bridge / Bangon Bridge
 
Located at the base of Guinhangdan Hill, the La Purisima Bridge, also known as Bangon Bridge, has its own play in the town’s history. The bridge spans across the Bangon River connecting the town center to the area of the town’s historical hill. It carries the value of being the first steel bridge in the area.
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The La Purisima Bridge is said to be the first steel bridge in the area.
There are efforts to breathe new life to the bridge. A riverwalk was being constructed along the river banks of Bangon to create an attraction/fitness area on this side of the town. The LGU once had a project where lovers could put the locks with their messages on the grid of the bridge but I did not find any at the time of my visit.
 
Guinhangdan Hill
 
Standing at 522 feet, the Guinhangdan Hill rises from the edge of Bangon River. Its strategic location made it a focal area of the encounter between the Liberation and Japanese forces when General MacArthur landed in Palo. The hill was referred to as Hill 522 and was a stronghold of the Japanese at that time.
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Guinhangdan Hill is also known as Hill 522.
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From a fortress, the hill is now a pilgrimage site in Palo.
Locals have shared that a wooden cross stood at the top of the hill during the Japanese occupation. It was later replaced by a concrete cross after the war and, later on, became a pilgrimage site. From a Japanese stronghold during the war, the hill has become a religious destination for the faithful, especially during the Holy Week. Pilgrims climb to the cross to light candles to show their gratitude and faith to the Almighty.
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Enjoying the panoramic view at the top of Hill 522.
There is a cemented trail leading to the top of the hill. There is a small chapel as you start the hike. There are rest stops along the way where you can enjoy the overlooking views of the surrounding areas. I initially thought that the hike was going to be easy but it was a bit of a challenge because of the steep ascent to the top. The cross stood majestically overlooking the flatlands around it. It offered a panoramic view of its surrounding areas. You get to enjoy the breeze and view as a reward after huffing and puffing along the trail of Guinhangdan Hill.
 
 
POST TRAVEL NOTES
The name of the town of Palo has two versions on how it was named as such. The first is its association with the “palo” - a defense weapon similar to a club and/or the hammer used by carpenters. Another version that is based off on a superstition where it is said that the area is visited by typhoons every eight days. A phenomenon that they often refer to as “walo-palo”. No matter where the town derived its name, this town really sledged out its history with General MacArthur’s triumphant return to the country and, more recently, being battered by Typhoon Yolanda. It is a town that faces its battles, falls on its knees, BUT graciously picks up the pieces to comeback stronger and better.
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I long for the beach even when it rains.
Every town has its own story to share. It takes one to have the courage to explore its nooks and crannies to uncover the stories beyond the usual. These stories make you understand how it molded the town, its people, and its beliefs. It makes you appreciate their present by learning their past. You uncover what lies beneath the beauty of the place and the smiles on the local’s faces. You don’t just visit. You understand. That is key in making every trip an exciting one.
 
Check out my Palo, Leyte adventure on my Youtube Travel Channel or you may click on the link below.
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#MahalinNatinAngPilipinas

Getting there: There are direct flights to Tacloban City from major airports of the country. From the airport, there are public transports like jeepneys and trikes going to the city center where you can take another jeepney to the town of Palo. Tricycles are the way to go around in Palo.
Shoutout to my travel buddies - HULL & STERN Dry Bags for keeping my stuff safe and dry during my travels and MAGWAI for their alternative and eco-friendly products for my local travels.
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Get 5% off on your Hull & Stern dry bag purchase on the Hull & Stern website when you use the code: marc7del      ​
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