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What better way to end the year with a blog on one my top destination for this year. It was my last stop for my #GOT69Sorsogon trip and the best spot was saved for last. The beach spot gave me a much-needed reset from everything that was happening. With a beautiful destination like this in the province of Sorsogon, I am not surprised na talagang matunog ang Matnog!  Matnog is my top travel destination for 2024! Matnog is the southernmost municipality of Sorsogon. It serves as a crucial trading port connection and a vital transportation connection between Luzon and Visayas. Its name is derived from the local world “matonog” that is often associated to the sound of the tidal rip in the San Bernandino Strait and the sound of gongs to call for council meetings. But beyond the connection, Matnog is a perfect destination for travelers who simply want to detach, find peace, and connect with the self. Subic Beach Matnog is host to one of the few pink beaches in the country. Subic Beach was MY primary destination for this part of my trip. This would be my first pink beach experience and this really got me excited.  Subic Beach slowed me down, kept me still, and grounded me. Subic Beach was a laidback beach spot that I really enjoyed. I chanced upon a visit that there was only a couple of visitors on the island that we had it all for ourselves. I enjoyed my afternoon beach walk, exploring the beach. I took an afternoon dip while enjoying the pastel sky colors of dusk. What I really enjoyed the most was watching the stars by the shores. The stars glistened with the sound of waves gently slushing along the shores. That night, I whispered a prayer to the Lord through the stars and He answered an assurance through the blowing gentle wind. It was a night of assurance from above.
I found myself in my own beach corner the next day. I had the spot all for myself as I enjoyed the sand, sea, and sun. The place is picturesque with an old driftwood spicing up my photos. The shoreline of Subic Beach is white with a slight tinge of pink when you look closer because of the crushed red corals that get washed ashore. The faint pink color is evident when seen at a certain angle. Nevertheless, I had a blast at Subic Beach.
Subic Beach was both comforting and relaxing. It leveled up my beach experience by letting me experience my own space and grounding me. It was the perfect beach spot that slows you down first just to get you hyped under the sun the next moment. Calintaan Underwater Cave One of the stops during the island hopping activity is the Calintaan Underwater Cave. The cave lies along the shoreline and is submerged by seawater during high tide. You need to perfectly time your visit to the cave in order for you to get inside it. My boatman shared that the waves could slam the boats onto the cave walls.  The best time to visit Calintaan Cave is during the low tide. Unfortunately, my timing was off when I visited Calintaan Cave. It was just a few minutes away from Subic Beach but I was not able to consider the tide when I planned out the island hopping activity. I had to appreciate its beauty from a distance for safety. You can actually see the tide coming into the cave which meant that getting into the cave would be unsafe. My contact said that the best time to visit and enjoy the beauty of Calintaan Underwater Cave is during the summer months when the sea is calmer. Juag Fish Sanctuary Located on an adjacent island, the Juag Fish Sanctuary is a private fish sanctuary that was opened to help in raising public awareness on importance of a vibrant sea life. The sanctuary showcases their collection of marine life which you can view from a view deck and/or in its waters. If you would opt to enjoy the experience “under the sea”, the sanctuary is strict that you can only swim without sunblock. This is to protect the school of fish under their care.
Guests are welcomed on a dock where you pay an entrance fee. The entrance fee comes with a raft ride to the view deck and fish food. From the dock, you get to see the beauty of the huge expanse of the lagoon. The sanctuary is just part of the lagoon. You would often see fishing boats move in and out of the lagoon. The viewing deck is located at the center of the sanctuary which is connected to the dock station via a floating raft.
You board the raft which is then pulled to the view deck. From the raft ride alone, you can already view the fish collections of the sanctuary as they swim along the raft. The bamboo view deck gives you a 360-degree view of the sanctuary. You can walk along its perimeter fence and find your corner for that IG-worthy shot while enjoying the experience of feeding the fish. By the way, they come in all different sizes and colors. I got lucky that there were two swimmers in the area who were enjoying the feeding frenzy around them. POST TRAVEL NOTES Matnog is my top travel destination in 2024. The place slowed me down, cleared my mind, and grounded me once again. There are really places that stick to you, not just for its beauty, but for how the place made you feel and enjoy the experience. It makes you realize that, more than the destination, the travel experience makes a lasting impression.  Cheers to more travels this 2025!!! As we close 2024, my wish for everyone for the incoming year is that may you find your own piece of sanctuary here in the Philippines. Keep traveling to find it. Explore the off-beat while you enjoy the usual spots. Find your corner, get grounded, and find your inner peace. Cheers to more PH travels this 2025! Watch out for the release of my solo travel Matnog adventure video on my Youtube Travel Video soon. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas Getting there: There are regular flights from major airport hubs in the Philippines to the most scenic international airport in the Philippines, Daraga in Albay. You can then take a van from the airport to SM Legazpi where you can take another van to SM City Sorsogon. You can then take an aircon bus going to Matnog Port where you can hire a boat to Subic Beach and go island hopping. I suggest that you travel with a group as a more economical option. Stay Here: You can stay at Kuya Boy Beach Resort in Subic Beach. You can also make food arrangements during your stay with them. You can check out their Facebook page here: Kuya Boy Beach Resort 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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Exploring Sorsogon made me realize that the province has a lot to offer to any kind of traveler - from the laidback to the adventurous. I allowed myself to get lost this time on the eastern coast of the province, covering three areas that share remnants of its rich Spanish-period past. The similarities may be evident but each of these towns stand with a unique vibe. Welcome to the tri-towns of Prieto Diaz, Gubat, and Barcelona.  Time to explore three different sides of three Sorsogon towns. The three municipalities lie along the eastern coast of Sorsogon. Prieto Diaz lies along the north eastern coast, Gubat is at the middle, and Barcelona is the southern-most of the three. While each destination has a unique character, the three share a common denominator of having links to its Spanish-period - some still standing while others in ruins. Exploring Prieto Diaz, Gubat, and Barcelona would bring out the destination’s unique tourism brand while keeping the bind that ties three together. Prieto Diaz: A Rustic Seaside Town  Enjoying the chill sea and mangrove views of the town of Prieto Diaz. Prieto Diaz was originally under the visita of Bacon. It is the youngest municipality in the province after being organized as an independent town when Sorsogon. It was established in 1903 and was named after two Bicolano martyrs - Father Gabriel Prieto and Father Severino Diaz. It owns to having the most laidback vibe among the three that it gives travelers that old Philippine town feel. Sabang Beach Sabang Beach is a laidback public beach on the eastern side of Prieto Diaz facing the Pacific Ocean. This beach spot gives you an amazing view of the mangrove ecopark of the town. Apart from being breeding grounds of fish, these covers also protect the town from the powerful waves of the Pacific Ocean.  Prieto Diaz is a laidback town where you can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the moment. A community park was built on the shores of the beach. A Prieto Diaz marker, with the mangrove covers in the backdrop, was installed to give guests the local’s sense of pride for their place. The beach spot is not as grand as the others in the area but the mangroves in the area can be explored and gives you a different perspective of the town. The place exudes calmness so it is not surprising that this beach spot is a favorite early morning or late afternoon spot by locals. Easternmost Point of Luzon Island Just a few minutes-walk from the town center, you will find yourself on the easternmost point of the Luzon mainland. Dotted with mangrove covers, the spot is not easily recognizable as there are no signs that states so. I just saw it in google maps so I walked my way to the eastern edge of Luzon.  That's me, with my big smile, at the easternmost edge of the Luzon Island. A highway runs along the eastern side of the Prieto Diaz. There is a modern lighthouse that stands a few meters from the breakwaters of the town. There are a couple of mangrove covers along its shores that serves as safety anchors of small fishing boats. I walked down close to the edge of the sea wall just to know how it feels to be at the eastern edge of the Luzon landmass. I did not really feel anything special but it did made me smile. I mean you don’t get to stand at the edge of Luzon all the time. That thought alone will give you a smile. Escuela Pia ng Prieto Diaz If there was one attraction that led me to explore Prieto Diaz, it was its Escuela Pia. The Escuela Pia was first built in coral stones in the 19th century under the Spanish government. The one level building served as a school house from the time it was built to the present. This is one of the well-preserved historical structures on this side of Sorsogon.  The Escuela Pia of Prieto Diaz was rehabilitated and still in use today.
The coral stone structure stands out from among the modern structures of the Prieto Diaz Central School. A lot of efforts, headed by private institutions, have been undertaken to preserve the structure especially after it was damaged by Typhoon Reming in 2006. The school house remains to be of use until today. But beyond the efforts to preserve the structure, the Escuela Pia of Prieto Diaz tells how Spanish influence flourished on this eastern coast of the country. Gubat: The Town Where the Sun Rises for Adrenaline Junkies  Enjoying the feel of the morning sun in Gubat, Sorsogon. Established in 1764, the municipality of Gubat is fast becoming a popular spot for surfing because of its friendly waves that suits those who want to start to learn to surf. Its name was derived from the local word “guinobatan” which means “raided” as the town was often times raided by the moros during earlier times. Its present name is a shortened version of the local word. Since Gubat is sandwiched by the other two, it became my nerve center for my exploration. Rizal Beach This is where the adrenaline action is in the province of Sorsogon. The long stretch of black powdery sand is where one heads to for that riding the waves action. The sandy breaks of its coast make it the only beach spot that is beginner-friendly for both locals and visitors. The support given by the local government proved to be beneficial in the putting Gubat in the surfing destinations in the country.  Breathing a much-needed salty sir from the Pacific. But it is not all about riding the waves when you are at Gubat. You can also enjoy a quiet moment in the morning or afternoon as you watch locals and tourists enjoy the beach. This is the beach spot where you can enjoy a quiet afternoon people-watching as you enjoy the breeze and sun on your skin. Serene evenings make you appreciate doing nothing but enjoy a moment of tranquility enveloped by the dark and the night sounds.
One thing that I really enjoyed was watching the sun rise in the morning. Since Gubat is on the eastern side, you get front seats to a beautiful sunrise. I really enjoyed the sound of the waves, the morning breeze, and the warmth of morning sun breaking on my skin. It was great watching a new day breaking while on my fave spot - the beach. St. Anthony de Padua Church At the heart of the town of Gubat is the St. Anthony de Padua Church. Local stories passed on from generation to generation shared that the image of St. Anthony de Padua was held up, during a moro raid, while the townsfolk were praying for a miracle. It was believed that the child Jesus, on the arms of the saint, warded off the pirates. It was after this miracle that the town embraced St. Anthony de Padua as their patron saint.  The St. Anthony de Padua Church of Gubat is a Spanish-period church that took 10 years to start construction.
The idea of the building a stone church was conceived in 1768 but it took the locals 10 years to actually start construction because the residents needed to raise the coral stone materials for the structure. They had to oblige the men to donate one cubic meter of coral stone. Although the church has undergone renovations, the foundations of the church remain to be the original stones laid down in 1778. The rectory remains to be one of the two oldest rectories in the Bicol region.  I was amazed by the beauty of its baptistry. You can see the outline of its coral stones. The interior of the church remains simple and yet elegant. The paintings on the ceilings give the church an immaculate vibe. The simple altar, with the Crucifix and the image of St. Anthony de Padua as its highlight, completes the vibe of the sanctuary. What really stood out for me was the church’s baptistry where you could actually see the coral walls of the church complementing the painting of Jesus’ baptism. You can actually see the beauty of the age of the St. Anthony de Padua Church inside this corner. Christ the King Park The faith of the locals of Gubat must be so strong that they immortalized it by installing the Christ the King Park. The park sits adjacent to the church and separated by a town road. I have seen a church with a sprawling compound but this is the first time that I have seen a park dedicated to faith. Usually, towns have community parks but it is commonly dedicated to either a historical figure or named after the town. In the case of Gubat, it is dedicated and designed to signify their faith.  The Christ the King Park is a sprawling open park across the street of the Gubat Church. The sprawling open park is complete with an image of the Risen Christ as its main centerpiece. A three-level platform stands on one side where, I presume, the traditional salubong is celebrated every Easter Sunday. The space can accommodate throngs of people attending the celebration. Each spot gives them a good view of the celebration. Monreal Ruins Just a few minutes-walk from the church and the park, you will find the Monreal School Building Ruins. The school is the only school building in the Philippines that was built from corals and stones. Inaugurated in 1906, the Monreal Building was part of the American promise to provide free primary education in the province of Sorsogon.
The building is now in ruins and has been off limits to the public due to safety reasons. From the street view, you can still admire the beauty of its coral stone foundation. A similar stone structure stands a few meters from the Monreal Ruins which was re-purposed by the Bicol State University. I don’t know whether both structures were built together at the same time or share the same history. But I hope that the LGU of Gubat would take the initiative to rehabilitate and re-purpose the Monreal Ruins to keeps its historical value. Gubat Heritage Center The Gubat Heritage Center serves as a lifestyle museum and office of the town’s Municipal Tourism and Cultural Office. The house was originally owned by Don Juan Escurel and was built in 1918. The Casa Escurel-Sabater was donated by the heirs in 2017 and the LGU took the effort to re-purpose the heritage house to the Gubat Heritage House.  The Gubat Heritage Center is a museum that walks you through the rich past of Gubat. The first floor of the house serves as the receiving area and a gallery area for local artists. Art works of different forms, on display and on sale, will amuse you as you walk towards the lawn area. The open garden serves as a gathering place for cultural activities and shows. You are then treated to a mural that immortalizes the legend of Ginubat.
The second floor is a repository of time-pieces that give you a glimpse of how locals lived in the past. These antique furnitures and old photographs owned by the family froze a period and shares the snapshot to its guests. The museum also features historical events relevant to the town. It also educates visitors of the important livelihood that is unique to Gubat. Barcelona: A Town of Historic Proportions  Barcelona was a town that I fell easily in love with. Among the three towns, Barcelona outrightly shares its rich history. From the church to its ruins, the LGU has significantly banked on the town’s Spanish-period influence to attract tourist to visit the town. Mention the town of Barcelona to any local traveler and they will mention its famous Spanish-period church. Let me say this, the town will NOT disappoint. St. Joseph Parish Church (Barcelona Church) Built in 1874, the St. Joseph Parish Church, more popularly known as the Barcelona Church, is one of the oldest church in the Bicol region. The church is the tourism centerpiece of the town, making it a popular destination for those who want a piece of Spanish-influence in the province. The church looks amazing from the baywalk area with Mount Bulusan in the background.  Barcelona Church is one of the oldest church in the Bicol Region. The church was built in Neo-classical architecture using corals and slabs of sea stones joined together by a mix of egg whites, lime, and tuba (coconut wine). It has undergone restoration under the supervision of the National Historical Commission with the church walls and the bell tower remaining intact from its original structure. An image of Jesus Christ welcomes visitors in the church courtyard. Stone walls that depict the Stations of the Cross line the perimeter of the church’s courtyard. The simple facade is highlighted by a stained-glass window of St. Joseph carrying Baby Jesus.  The Barcelona Church with Mount Bulusan in the background. The interior of the church is a complete contrast to its simple facade. You will be impressed by the intricate and grand design of the church from its ceilings to its floor. I was really impressed by the ceiling paintings depicting different passages from the bible. The tiled floorings lead your eyes to its retablo depicting the Holy Family. The details were simply amazing and will keep you in awe.
I had the chance to get up to the choir loft to admire the church navel from a different perspective. I got to touch and feel the coral stones that was meticulously put together by its workers. I am not Catholic but I am amazed by the faith and the story of early Filipinos through these Spanish-structures that remain standing to this day. The Barcelona Church is one of the well-preserved church’s in the country that gives us a glimpse of the past. It is part of Sorsogon’s collection of Important Cultural Properties. Barcelona Ruins Park Just right across the Barcelona Church is a park that also gives you a glimpse of Barcelona’s rich history. The Barcelona Ruins Park offers was developed to highlight two significant Spanish-period ruins while giving you an amazing view of the Pacific Ocean. This is where you will also find the Barcelona, Sorsogon sign for that iconic “I was here” photo.  Enjoying a full view of the La Presidencia Ruins of Barcelona. The La Presidencia Ruins is one of the three remaining Spanish-period structures in the town of Barcelona. It used to be the seat of the Spanish-government in the area. It is said that the structure had tunnels underneath to serve as added protection against moro raiders. It is also believed that the tunnels also lead to the church. The structure served as a garrison during the Japanese occupation and the seat of the municipal government after the war before succumbing to the forces of nature.
At the other side of the park is the Escuela Pia Ruins of Barcelona. Built by the Spaniards to serve as a school to the children of the illustrados, the structure remained true to its purpose even during the American-period. It was later called the Stone Building that offered primary education, only this time, for everyone. It was later abandoned due to safety reasons but a large part of its foundation remain intact to this day.
The three Spanish-period structures are enough to give you a complete Barcelona history experience. You get to see it in one place just how the Spaniards build towns. Everything is within reach at the poblacion, in this case, within an arms reach of each structure. Too bad though that the town was only able to preserve the church intact. It would have been more interesting if all three were preserved for everyone to see a typical Spanish-period town in Bicol. Barcelona Baywalk and Boulevard Just behind the Barcelona Ruins Park is a boardwalk that connects to the Barcelona Boulevard. From here, you get to see a full view of the old town’s layout on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other side. The 180-degree view of the Pacific Ocean was a relaxing breather after walking around the area. The baywalk and the boulevard is a favorite spot for locals to unwind in the early mornings and late afternoons. Small businesses have sprung up to offer guests refreshments during their visit. You get to enjoy the laidback charm of Barcelona as you feel the sea breeze on your skin while feasting on the sea view of Barcelona. The spot got me thinking that this place would be a perfect place to catch the sunrise. Vintage Bridge Just a short ride away from the Poblacion is a small park called Vintage Bridge. Built in 1939, the only remaining part of the structure is the foundation of the bridge that remains rooted on its riverbed and its parapet on both ends. The actual bridge itself offers an amazing view of the river and the estuary.
The park was added as part of the town’s historical attraction. They have water sports that will give you the opportunity to explore the river and its surrounding palm covers. For those who just want to enjoy a quiet moment, you can take a sit in one of the park benches and enjoy the calm vibe of the park. POST TRAVEL NOTES Prieto Diaz, Gubat, and Barcelona are three Sorsogon town that share the common Spanish influence and yet have a uniquely distinct town vibe. This makes you wonder how these influences managed to come through on the eastern side of Sorsogon, unlike other provinces on the eastern side of the country. The answer lies on the Galleon Trade between Mexico and the Philippines. Since the ships traverse the Pacific Ocean, the Spanish rule needed to guide ships into the San Bernandino Strait to get to Manila Bay. Hence, Spanish settlements need to established along the eastern coast of Sorsogon for this purpose. Galeng, di ba?  Ohhh... we are not yet done with Sorsogon! We still have one spot coming up. Guess where? It is interesting how “developments” can happen because of the presence of trade in an area. This goes to show if LGUs provide opportunities for economic growth in their areas, it will give their locals opportunities to stay and become part of future developments. However we should also not forget that in the midst of these developments, we should not lose the vibe that makes our towns unique and our very own. Watch out for the release of my solo adventure in Prieto Diaz, Gubat, and Barcelona on my Youtube Travel Video soon. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas Getting there: There are regular flights from major airport hubs in the Philippines to the most scenic international airport in the Philippines, Daraga in Albay. You can then take a van from the airport to SM Legazpi where you can take another van to SM City Sorsogon. You can then take an aircon bus going to Prieto Diaz or Gubat. Traveling between the towns of Prieto Diaz, Gubat, and Barcelona can be done via mini-aircon buses or jeeps. Where to Stay: You can stay at Sayong Eco-SurFarm in Gubat, Sorsogon to enjoy the back-to-basic and laidback vibe of Gubat. You can also arrange for surfing classes if you want to ride the waves of Gubat. You can check out their Facebook page: Lola Sayongs Eco-SurFarm 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.
I needed to take a breather from what was happening around me. It has also been a while since I last went on a solo backpacking trip and getting lost in the Philippines. Armed with the drive to get another PH province checked out, I went off to explore a province that has been on my list for years - Sorsogon!!! My first stop is its rising capital… Sorsogon City.  Finally conquered my 69th province... Sorsogon! Located at the center of the province, Sorsogon City is dubbed as the “Gateway to Southern Philippines”. Excavations in Bacon and in the upper streams of Sorsogon rivers have showed human settlements that pre-dates the arrival of the Spaniards in the area. Originally, Bacon and Sorsogon was a separate visita. It was merged in 2000 to create Sorsogon City. The city is now one of the emerging cities with its growing population and a vibrant economic climate. Museo Sorsogon Inaugurated and opened in 2021, the Museo Sorsogon serves as a repository of the province’s history and culture. This was going to be my first stop in my #GOT69Sorsogon travel. The museum is housed at the former provincial jailhouse building. It gave me a brief of the province and the destinations I intend to visit.
The building is the restored Old Provincial Jail of Sorsogon. It was renovated and adoptedly reused with its original structure largely retained. The first floor used to be the jail house while the second floor use to house the Court of First Instance. Its American-colonial architecture is largely intact even after it was renovated. It is considered an Important Cultural Property of the province.
The museum is divided into 10 galleries that will introduce you to the province and will walk you through the different time period of Sorsogon - from pre-Hispanic periods to its recent history. It is a repository of artifacts from the past that showcases the resiliency and bravery of the Sorsoganons. It also briefs you on its development as an economic capital and the products that it has been known for. All this information with the historical structure as its backdrop. Sorsogon Provincial Capitol and Rizal Park At the heart of the city is the Sorsogon Provincial Capitol - the center of governance of the province. The sprawling compound is complete with heritage buildings, open-space parks, and sporting facilities. This is one of the favorite early morning or late afternoon hangout spots of locals. Don’t be surprised if you also find young students practicing for their school presentations.  The Sorsogon Provincial Capitol is a sprawling complex with government offices, sports facilities, and parks. The Provincial Capitol Building was built and restored under a Neo-Classical architecture. It is considered as an Important Cultural Property for its heritage and historical value. It was restored during the term of Chiz Escudero as Governor and was re-opened in 2021 to the public. The structure stands sturdy and commanding at the heart of the city.
The Capitol Park is situated in front of the Capitol Building. The park is a sprawling open-space park complete with American-period fountains with images of female Sorsoganons with an empowered role in development. At the heart of the park is the Rizal Monument that was installed in 1923 to honor our national hero. The park can be as laidback on a Sunday morning or a buzzing space as locals enjoy a simple afternoon. St. Peter and Paul Cathedral (Sorsogon Cathedral) The Sorsogon Cathedral or the St. Peter and Paul Cathedral is the seat of the Diocese of Sorsogon. It was originally under the parish mission of Bacon and became an independent parish in 1628. It was declared a Cathedral and as the seat of the Diocese in 1951.  The St. Peter and Paul Cathedral serves as the seat of the Diocese of Sorsogon. The church was built facing the Sorsogon Bay. The original stone church was inaugurated in 1660 and the earthquake in 1954 prompted the parish to demolish and re-construct it under a neo-Gothic architecture. With its eclectic design, the two bell towers and its dome stand out on the skyline of the city. A carving of two keys and a sword is significantly emblazoned on the facade of the church.
The detailed designs on the facade extends to the interior of the church. The intricate ceiling designs and the pillars directs your attention to the altar. The retablo glows in gold with its intricate carvings. It is highlighted by the images of the Crucified Christ with two of the city’s patron saints, St. Peter and St. Paul, standing adjacent to the image of Jesus Christ. Overall, the church blends in the urban landscape of Sorsogon and remains to keep a strong hold on the faith of the Sorsogonons. Rompeolas Lighthouse and Park A short distance from the church is a baywalk esplanade that has become an early morning and/or late afternoon hangout spot of locals. Rompeolas is a Spanish term for breakwater. The park was historically a beach area and a tourist destination because it provides an amazing view of the Sorsogon Bay with Mount Bulusan on the background. It was developed as an esplanade that comes to life in the late afternoon rolling on to the night.
Pinaculan Island is now connected to the baywalk with a concrete road. The lighthouse of the pier stands atop the hill of the island. The road network to the island now makes it accessible to explore the lighthouse and enjoy its views and sea breeze. Previously a hanging bridge was the means to get to the lighthouse. At present, only a short part of the road is still being constructed that would complete the planned road connection to the island and the lighthouse.
The port of Sorsogon is also the best spot to catch the sunset when you are in the city. The baywalk gives you a 360-degree panoramic view of the city and hills that stands between Legazpi and Sorsogon, the coastal areas on the east of the city, Mount Bulusan on the south, and an amazing afternoon sunset on the west. You get to enjoy the view of the setting sun while enjoying the sea breeze from Sorsogon Bay. Colosseum Sorsogon As the night starts setting in, you can hop on a trike and visit the Colosseum Sorsogon. This newly constructed structure is fast becoming an icon and attraction in the city. The colosseum is a sports venue with a seating capacity of 12,000. The site was originally where the Balogo Sports Complex. It hosted the 2023 Palarong Pambansa.  Colosseum Sorsogon is fast becoming a tourism attraction in the city. The Duterte Administration was instrumental in the re-development of the old complex to what it is now. It alloted Php887 million to the project that aims to improve development of young talents from the region and the country. It was ONLY inaugurated by the present administration this 2024. Far beyond being an attraction, the Colosseum Sorsogon is a legacy that aims to promote sports among the youth. Paguriran Island and Lagoon Paguriran Island and Lagoon is THE tourism icon of the SorCi. This island beach spot is popular for its island that is just a few meters from the mainland. It is so near that you can walk going to the island when the tide is low. This unique feature along the north coast of the city creates a small lagoon between Paguriran and mainland Sorsogon.  Paguriran Island and Lagoon is a beauty to behold. The spot facing the island is a simple resort with basic accommodations and picnic huts that dot the shoreline. As I was just there to enjoy the place in less than an hour, I opted to stay under the shade of a coconut tree and just enjoy the view and the feeling of being present in the moment. I took off my shoes and just enjoyed the feel of its powdery cream colored sand on my feet. It was a feast for the senses as I breathed in the breeze, felt the sand and sun on my skin, and enjoyed the cold waters on my feet.
Paguriran Island and Lagoon will also make you realize how big the city of Sorsogon is. The fastest and shortest was to get there is to ride an aircon bus to Prieto Diaz and then hire a motorcycle to this beach spot. The trike trip would be a good 30-minute ride on a paved road. Just make sure to make an arrangement with the trike driver to pick you up at a designated time because public transport in the area is a challenge. POST TRAVEL NOTES Sorsogon City is definitely a fast-rising economic destination that also values its rich history, culture, and natural resources. It is finally stepping out of the perfect-cone shadows to create its own unique brand of tourism - from heritage to high adrenalin activities to its natural attractions. The city gives you a taste of what the province is all about in a quick brief before you go to the details as you visit other Sorsogon destinations. The city is a one-stop destination kaya SorCi na!  Let's continue my Sorsogon adventure on my next blog. Similar to what I have shared with Mike, one of the curators of Museo Sorsogon, there are a lot of beautiful destinations in the Philippines that is often hiding behind the shadows of the more popular destinations. But when given the opportunity to showcase their brand of tourism, they are able to bring to the front what makes their destinations uniquely amazing. We should explore the Philippines more, not the usual destinations, but destinations that trigger your interest. Who knows you might be discovering a destination that will soon become a “superstar” destination. Watch out for the release of my Sorsogon City Youtube Travel Video soon. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas Getting there: There are regular flights from major airport hubs in the Philippines to the most scenic international airport in the Philippines, Daraga in Albay. You can then take a van from the airport to SM Legazpi where you can take another van to SM City Sorsogon. Tricycle and jeeps are the best was to get around the city. 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.
There are two Philippine Presidents that I am a huge fan off - the Late President Ramon Magsaysay and Former President Rodrigo Duterte. Incidentally, both Presidents were endeared to the majority of Filipinos and this is one of the reasons why I am impressed by the two. While I have a first-hand experience of the FPPRD’s leadership, I have only read about all of Magsaysay’s work and legacy from textbooks. So, when I had the opportunity to hike up to the crash site of Magsaysay, I couldn’t pass up on the chance to explore Mount Manunggal in Balamban, Cebu.  Huffed and puffed to get to breathe in history and nature in Mount Manunggal. Mount Manunggal lies within the Central Cebu Protected Landscape that covers an area of 29, 062 hectares along the central spine of the island. It is the third highest peak on the island of Cebu standing at an elevation of 982 masl. The slopes of this mountain claimed the life of then President Ramon Magsaysay whose plane, Mount Pinatubo, slammed on its slope in the early morning of March 17, 1957 that killed 25 crew and passengers. Only 1 survived the disaster. At present, the peak of Mount Manunggal was turned as an attraction and memorial to President Magsaysay. A hike to the crash site and its peak has been a yearly activity to remember his legacy. An Uphill Hike to Manunggal Our original plan was to catch the sunrise at the peak of Mount Manunggal but van transfers from Cebu City, although starts at 4am, would only leave the terminal when the van is full. We ended up leaving city at 6am and found ourselves at the jump-off point around 40 minutes later. Since the sun was already up and we were in no hurry so we decided to hike to the peak. It was just an easy 5-kilometer hike based off from the blogs that we have read or so we thought.
The hike to the peak is mostly on a paved road that snakes through the mountain side of the Balamban’s rugged terrains. We were treated with amazing views of the adjacent mountains, the lowlands of Balamban, and the usual daily lives of locals in the area. The early morning sun and mountain breeze was a welcome break from our usual urban buzz. We started the hike amazed by the views of natural beauty and rural life. What they did not share in blogs was the road hike involves steep ascents. Halfway through, we figured that it was not a 5-kilometer stretch. It was more than that. We did stop for a short breakfast break in one of the camping resorts in the area. But in one of the steeper ascents, we decided to stop and just flag down a habal-habal to save us time and energy. The hike really caught us unguarded. So, I highly recommend taking a habal-haval The Peak of Mount Manunggal The peak of Mount Manunggal has been developed as a campsite. It now hosts a number of activities that caters to guests visiting the area - from camping facilities to ziplines to guided hikes in the area. There is a small store/canteen in the area where you can buy snacks and quick meals.
A hike trail was established in the area that allows you to explore the peak and the campsite under the shade of its moss forest covers. You would be passing designated areas to pitch tents for those who wish to stay overnight. There are picnic table and chairs along the open area at the top. A three-story viewing deck is the main highlight at the site and it offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the city, Balamban, and its surrounding mountains. The Ramon Magsaysay Crash Site Memorial The east slope of Mount Manunggal claimed the life of President Magsaysay on the early morning of March 17, 1957. After a full day of engagement in Cebu, the former President’s plane, Mount Pinatubo, slammed into its slopes. It claimed the lives of all onboard except for one, Nestor Mata. The whole country mourned the death of one of the most beloved President of the country.
There are two memorials that were erected in on the slopes of Mount Manunggal. You can visit these memorials through an established trail that snake along its slopes. The first memorial is a metal cross mounted on the cemented base with one of the plane’s engines. It has a cemented plate where the names of those who died were carved. The monument is surrounded by lush vegetation which gives the place a calm and peaceful vibe.  The bust and the historical marker of Ramon Magsaysay at Mount Manunggal.
Further down the trail, you will reach an opening where an amphitheater and the NHI Historical Marker recognizing the historical significance of the place. The marker is mounted on a square pylon with a bust of President Magsaysay on top. It also bears a tribute to the late president, by Amadeo Avellanado, for his legacy towards democracy. An annual hike is held to honor President Magsaysay. The Manunggal Rockies We continued along the trail where we got to enjoy the views of the peak, vegetable farms, and moss forest covers. We eventually found our way to limestone rock formations that jutted out of the green covers. We scrambled up the rocks carefully following on a trail that did not have moss covers, indicating that it was usually stepped on.  We finally conquered the rockies of Mount Manunggal all by ourselves. After the huffing while scrambling over the sharp rocks, we reached the top of the limestone rocks. The rocks jutted out of the forest covers. The rockies offered a magnificent 360-degree view of the surrounding forest covers and peaks. There are spots in the area where there are overhanging rocks will challenge your fear of heights. The view atop these rockies is a great reward after all the trail hiking and scrambling over the rocks.
What I enjoyed the most was the mountain breeze that refreshed us after the hike. The views and the breeze was enough to revive our bodies as we took our spot and breathed in nature. It was a perfect way to commune and enjoy nature. Mount Manunggal was not only historical but was a perfect spot to be one with the earth. POST TRAVEL NOTES Mount Manunggal caught us by surprise. We did not expect that the hike from the jump-off to the peak would be a challenge. But just like any challenge, the rewards were beyond amazing for both the mind and body. It was a perfect way to get grounded with nature and get recharged by the sun, wind, and the earth. We got tired but we got back to the city charged up by nature.  We are on the move again... The whole Mount Manunggal experience was an eye opener about life. Taking the challenge of hiking or riding the habal-habal or even both just to get the peak are three different experiences but that does not mean that one is better than the other. We always focus on what we want to achieve in the end and that we enjoy the experience. Remember that there are many ways to get to the top and what is important is not the how it was done but how you enjoyed the process. It is the moments that will make the experience memorable. Keep traveling!!! Watch out for the release of our Mount Manunggal Youtube Travel Video soon. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas Getting there: Mount Manunggal is in the province of Cebu. There are regular flights to the Mactan-Cebu International Airport from local and international airports. You can take a taxi from the airport to Ayala Center Cebu where you can take a van to the town of Balamban. Just ask the driver to drop you off at the jump-off point of Mount Manunggal. You can opt to hike or take a habal-habal to the Mount Manunggal camp site. 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.
This is the time of the year when Filipinos gather for a reunion in the most interesting location - the cemetery. Yes, you heard it right. The start of November gathers Filipino families at the final resting place of our departed love ones to remember and celebrate their lives here on earth. Cemeteries across the nation burst into a festive atmosphere, in the play of candlelights, flowers, and food, as both the living and the dead gather to celebrate life.  It is the time of the year where I love the spook with a pinch of adventure. I have a cool fascination for heritage cemeteries since I visited the Old Spanish Cemetery of San Joaquin in Iloilo. From then on, I will always check on heritage cemeteries in my intended destinations in hopes of exploring their old arches and/or simborios, or whatever is left of it. Some of these cemeteries carry stories with them that make it more interesting. In the spirit of Halloween, here are sone interesting cemeteries you might want to explore for its history and its stories. Paco Park, Manila Paco Park is the oldest Catholic cemetery in Metro Manila after its inauguration in 1822. Originally called Cementerio General de Dilao, it was built by the Dominicans for the affluent families of Intramuros who fell victims to a Cholera epidemic. Notable personalities who were once interred here were Dr. Jose Rizal, and the three martyred priests GomBurZa. It was de-commissioned in 1912 and was declared a National Park in 1966.
The cemetery now stands as a green space in the middle of the metro. Its circular design makes it unique and gives you a look at how cemeteries were built in the area during the Spanish period. Fun fact, the Remedios Circle was also a cemetery, of a similar design, before it was turned into a promenade area. At the heart of the park is the St. Pancratius Chapel. The former simborio church was re-purposed to serve as a fully functional church.
La Loma Cemetery, Manila The La Loma Cemetery is the oldest cemetery that is still in use to this day. Opened in 1884, the 54-hectare cemetery was originally called Cementerio de Binondo and was an exclusive burial grounds for the Catholics during the Spanish-period. Prominent personalities buried in La Loma are Josefa Llanes Escoda, Vicente Lava, and Victorino Mapa.
The La Loma Cemetery was one of the few areas in Manila that was spared from the destruction of World War 2. You can still marvel at its amazing collections of heritage Spanish-period structures to its art-deco mausoleums. At the heart of its heritage structure is the Chapel of St. Pancratius. This Spanish-period mortuary chapel was where the final mass for the dead is done before it is finally laid to rest. It was later de-commissioned when a newer church was built. At present, the chapel is being preserved, hopefully together with what remains of its Spanish-period gate, as a link to our colorful past.
Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery, Nagcarlan, Laguna The “Libingan sa Ilalim ng Nagcarlan” is the only underground cemetery in the Philippines and has been accorded as a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines. Built in 1845, the cemetery was a public burial site and the underground crypts were exclusive for Spanish friars and prominent families of Nagcarlan. The underground served as a meeting place for revolutionaries against Spanish authorities and a hide out for Filipino fighters during the Philippine-American War and World War 2.  The Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery is a National Historical Landmark in the province of Laguna. The sprawling cemetery is bounded by red stone walls that also serves as tombs. At the center of the cemetery is a small mortuary chapel where the final blessing is given. An image of the Santo Sepulcro is the main highlight of the chapel. A flight of stairs would lead you down to the underground cemetery. The tombs line the walls of the underground cemetery. There is a local story that shares that the cemetery and the church are connected by a tunnel and the access point is believed to be one of the crypts in the underground cemetery.
Hamtic Cemetery, Antique The Hamtic Cemetery is an unassuming cemetery in the middle of a rice field. Located a few meters from the main highway, the cemetery looks ordinary except for its Spanish-period baroque-style mortuary church. There’s very limited information about this mortuary chapel. However, there’s already a move to declare the chapel as a historical landmark by the LGU of Antique.  The baroque-style Hamtic Cemetery Church is being nominated to become a historical landmark in Antique. The chapel was made from coral stones, adobe, and bricks. The design follows a baroque design similar to the churches of San Joaquin, Molo, and Tigbauan in Iloilo. There are two belfries that flank the facade of the church. An image of the Risen Christ is the highlight of the three-tiered facade of the simborio. But beyond the history of this chapel, there are interesting supernatural stories. Locals who bury their dead often surround the grave to ward off “aswangs” from feasting on the dead.
Sagada Cemetery, Sagada Before all the stories of a place that mends broken hearts, Sagada’s original claim to fame are its hanging coffins. This century-old tradition of the Cordillerans have been a subject of interests of academicians and tourists. However, not everyone is accorded this kind of burial and it is reserved to prominent and respected figures in the community. In fact, the community has its own town cemetery just a few meters from the church. The Sagada Town Cemetery joins this list, not for its history, but for its unique practice during this time of the year. The cemetery stands along one side of one of its hills. The cool weather and tranquility of the place exude a peaceful vibe in the area. Locals have an interesting practice of setting up bonfires on the graves of their loved ones during November 1 instead of candles. This gives an impression that the hillside is on fire on the night of remembering the dead.
POST TRAVEL NOTES November 1 is a day that reminds Filipinos of our close familial relationships, even when our loved ones have already passed on to the afterlife. This makes cemeteries a repository of stories and memories. So, it is not surprising that we have cemeteries that has its own history and story to share. It is like a time capsule that capture age-old practices and beliefs that gives us a glimpse of the past and beyond.  Hiking to honor the legacy and death of a former Philippine President. As we remember our loved ones this long weekend, let us also remember to make the most of our life. Go around and make memories. Explore and make stories. So, when it is our time to go, we have tons of stories to be left behind and to be shared by the ones we have left behind. 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.
Who would have thought that a biscuit from this quaint town, one of my favorite, would put this humble town in the food tourism map of Cebu and the Philippines? But beyond its famed snack, traces of the town’s humble beginnings can be traced back starting from the Spanish-period. Exploring the town stitches the different periods of foreign occupations in the Cebu town of Liloan.  Liloan is a small town with an iconic biscuit and a ton of stories to share with any kind of traveler. Just about an hour away from Cebu City, the town of Liloan is part of the main urban center of the province. It was established as a pueblo and a parish in 1845, and has since been a mute witness to the province’s rich history. The name Liloan was derived from the Cebuano phrase “lilo-an” which means a place where whirlpools or “lilo” are created by the ebb and flow of the bay waters. From a quaint little town to a bustling municipality, Liloan has kept its history rooted in its food, attractions, and traditions. San Fernando El Rey Parish Church Right at the heart of Liloan stands the Spanish-period church, San Fernando El Rey Parish Church. Built in 1847, it is the oldest standing heritage structure in town. The church stands with two unique features among the historical structures in Cebu. - the church’s orientation and size. While most churches in the country faces the sea, the Liloan Parish Church faces the mountains on the west side of town. No plausible explanation has been accepted on the unique orientation of the church. The size of the church is relatively bigger compared to the other churches built in the province.  The San Fernando El Rey Parish Church is the oldest heritage structure in Liloan. The church is an eye catcher because its old stone architecture will grab your attention as you traverse along the national highway. The church’s impressive and simple facade, flanked by its two adjacent belfries, stands as a dominant structure of Likoan’s skyline. The sprawling tree-covered courtyard gives a refreshing vibe to the whole complex. Its arched entrance has an engraving, Ano 1847, the year of the church’s construction.
The church is shaped like a cross with a dome on its crossing. The three-tierred retablo, clad in gold, has the image of Liloan’s patron saint as its highlight. The transepts have smaller altars that honor St. Joseph and Mama Mary. You will also be amazed by the stained-glass windows that line the walls of its navel. You could really feel the sanctuary vibe while enjoying the view of the interior of the San Fernando El Rey Parish Church. Liloan Municipal Hall Just right across the Liloan Parish Church is the center of governance of the municipality. The complex houses the municipal offices that provide the basic services to residents of Liloan. Similar to other Spanish-period towns, the munisipyo follows the usual two-story structure with a lanay-style driveway. It was undergoing minor painting works at the time of my visit.  The Municipal Hall of Liloan at the poblacion. The municipal hall courtyard was also getting a refreshed look when I was there. A statue honoring Dr. Jose Rizal stands as its main highlight. There were small pop-up shops that sell local products and meals on one side. A miniature replica of the Bagacay Point Lighthouse stands along the junction across the complex highlighting one of the heritage structures in Liloan. Titay’s Liloan Rosquillos and Rosquillos Festival If there was one thing that placed Liloan in the tourism map, it will be its iconic biscuit Rosquillos. Its name was derived from the Soanish word “rosca” which meant ringlets, owing to its flowery shape with a hole in the middle where you can insert your finger into. The biscuit, made from flour, eggs, milk, and a secret ingredient, was originally given as a side snack for every soda bought from their store. It became an instant sensation with, no other than, former PH President Sergio Osmena taking notice of this unique snack.  Titay's Rosquillos is THE iconicsnack of Liloan and Cebu. The passion for baking of Margareta “Titay” Frasco has gone a long way since then. From its humble beginnings, the business has grown to having their own store/museum where you can see how the rosquillos has become an icon, not only in Liloan but in Cebu. Its popularity gave birth to its own celebration - the Rosquillos Festival. The festival is held every end of May to honor the Liloan’s patron saint, St. Ferdinand El Rey. The rosquillos is a personal favorite so I did not miss out on visiting the original shop in Liloan. Apart from the usual Cebu pasalubongs that you can buy in the store, you can also enjoy a light snack while reading through the history of this famous biscuit. It is interesting how a small snack, that was once just a side snack, has given a different tourism perspective for a town like Liloan. Pier 88 and Liloan By-Pass Road Liloan has grown to become a bustling town in Cebu. Its growth has attracted businesses in the area creating more economical opportunities for its residents. This has brought in the development of Pier 88 to connect them to other seaports in the region. To date, Pier88 is connected to Mactan and Camotes Island with regular daily trips to these ports.
Standing adjacent to Pier 88 is the development of the Liloan By-Pass Road. The road runs along the coastline of the town and offers an amazing view of the Camotes Sea. Although the road is the still in construction, the area is frequently visited by locals who enjoy a morning or afternoon walk or jog along its length. I enjoyed just taking a spot along its banks and took in the view of the sea. Silot Bay and Suba Bridge Silot Bay is a 100-hectare tidal lagoon within the poblacion area of Liloan. The area is complete with its mangrove forest, two islets, and recreational areas like Papa Kit’s Marina and Fishing Lagoon. The tides affect the depth of the lagoon and I was lucky to have caught the view of locals fishing as the water receded because of the low tide. The lagoon is weekend spot for locals who want a quick relief from the heat of the metro.  Silot Bay is a tidal lagoon at the heart of Liloan. At the mouth of the lagoon is the Suba Bridge. It is a crucial link between Brgy. Poblacion and Brgy. Catarman and once played host to yachts that brought in guests to Silot Bay. There are picnic huts and tables at the base of the bridge where locals can enjoy a quick dip with family and friends. Just like other bridges in the country, it has its own story to share, from the supernatural and myths to lovers professing their love by the bridge.
The most prominent attraction in Silot Bay is Papa Kit’s Marina and Fishing Lagoon. The sprawling resort has mangroves spots for fishing, villas for accommodations, swimming pools, and a number of restaurants where you can enjoy a wide selection of entrees. They also offer other recreational activities that you can enjoy with family and friends. It is a great destination if you are looking for a quick weekend escape from the metro. Bagacay Point Lighthouse Liloan lies along the entrance of the Mactan Strait so it is not surprising that lighthouses were built to serve as guides to seafarers entering the strait. In fact, there are two heritage lighthouses that can be found in Liloan - the Bantayan ng Hari and the Bagacay Point Lighthouse. Unfortunately, the Spanish-period baluarte or Bantayan ng Hari lies inside a posh private village so it is no longer accessible to the public.  The Bagacay Point Lighthouse is a heritage structure from the American period. The Bagacay Point Lighthouse is an American-period lighthouse that was once the center of the Liloan’s festival prior to the introduction of the Rosquillos Festival. Standing at 52 meters, the lighthouse guides seafarers that traverse the north coast of Cebu and the Mactan Channel. It started operations on April 1905 and has since been in service for more than a century. The octagonal lighthouse was declared a National Historical Landmark in 2004. Marina Sanctuary Bayview Unlike other beach destinations in Cebu, Liloan’s beach spots are not blessed with white sand shores. The coast that run along the national highway has a collection of dark-colored beach spots with great views of the sunrise. But Liloan has something to offer that is equally interesting on the coastal side along the Bagacay Point.
The Marina Sanctuary Bayview is a public campsite that lies along the southern coast of Liloan. The rugged shorelines are a mix of sand and mud dotted with mangrove covers. Its location, right at the mouth of the Mactan Channel, prides itself with a great relaxing view of the sea and the neighboring island of Mactan. You get to enjoy the views of passing ships and planes with Punta Engano in the background. It is a perfect laidback spot for an easy weekend escape in Liloan. Must-try: Masi Another quick snack that you can enjoy in Liloan is Masi. This glutinous rice balls is a treat with its fillings of chopped peanuts and muscovado. The balls are then boiled until it floats, indicating that it is already cooked.
Unlike the rosquillos, where it has a store where you can buy it, Masi is commonly sold by vendors in public areas. I chanced upon a vendor while exploring the poblacion and I quickly had to try it. These balls, about the size of a one-peso coin, became an easy favorite for me with its soft chewy texture that bursts into flavor in your mouth. A definite must-try snack when you find yourself in Liloan. POST TRAVEL NOTES Liloan is one of the three baking towns of Cebu. The humble beginnings of this town rooted on a side snack turned it into a destination with an iconic Cebu snack that everyone loves. But beyond its bite, we can always stitch up the colorful stories of Liloan that transcends centuries and has survived three foreign occupations. It just shows us that each town has a story that could fill your palate and your mind.  Go out, explore, and find your peace. We are hiking the mountains next. Every town has a story to tell and it comes in different sizes. Some may come in huge battle grounds while others come in smaller bite sizes. But it is not about the size but on how the community has grown from these shared tales. It is about how these stories bring to life the coming together of a community to become bigger and better in the years that come after. Ikaw, ano ang kwento ng lugar ninyo? Watch out for the release of my Liloan Stitch Youtube Travel Video soon. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas Getting there: There are daily flights to Mactan - Cebu International Airport from Manila and other provincial and international airports. You can take a bus from the airport to SM City Cebu where you can take an airconditioned PUV or bus (located at the North Terminal) to Liloan. You can ask the jeep or bus driver to drop you off at the Liloan Church. You can take a trike or habal-habal to tour around Liloan. For easier exploration, you can also contact my Cebu habal-habal guide, Mickey, at (0991) 2480431 and arrange for a tour of Liloan. 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.
The past days have been wet days in Luzon. With active weather systems affecting the Philippines, it was no surprise that it was bringing in the rains. Filipinos are used to these shifts in weather so we have already packed our stuff and prepared to stay home for the coming months… NOT!!!  Exploring the Philippines is an all-weather activity. The Philippines is a year-round destination. We have got a destination in dry days and in wet days. In reality, weather is not and was never an issue for Pinoys when exploring. It was just a matter of choosing the right destination to fit the prevailing weather system. In line with the p weather, here are 6 destinations that is worth exploring that to make you through the rain. Quirino This landlocked province is a treasure trove for adventure seekers and adrenaline junkies. The mountains that stand guard has a lot to offer from its peaks down to its caves under it. A large part of the region is under the Quirino Protected landscape, that lies along the upper portion of the Cagayan River, that preserves its natural attractions. This is where water dances with the curves and corners of the mountains.  Quirino is an off-beat destination that packs a lot of natural wonders. You really get the rustic vibe as you enjoy the amazing panoramic views of the mountains at Landingan View Point. The view perfectly fuses the flower gardens, the mountains, and the river that snakes through the landscape. The view of the river reminds you of the adventure of getting splashed around its rapids and enjoying a quick jump into its cold waters as you enjoy the rock walls that lie along its banks. Exploring the trails of these mountains brings you to breathtaking views of waterfalls, caves, and amazing rock formations.
Quirino is definitely an underrated mountain adventure that is best enjoyed during the wet seasons. It may not have the beach spots but the fresh waters that cascade and snake around its rugged terrains can give guests a good ride. The mountains of Quirino, not only protects its territory, but also holds a pack full of adventures for curious travelers. You can read about my Quirino travel adventure here: Liwliwa, Zambales Zambales is a year round Philippine destination. From its islands to its hiking trails to its beach coves, the province has a lot to offer for any kind of traveler. Liwliwa is a popular weekend spot among local travelers owing to its proximity to the metro and the chill vibe that it offers. It is an all-weather beach spot, whether you want to have fun under the sun or the melodramatics of an afternoon drizzle.  Chilling it out at Liwliwa, Zambales. Liwliwa has evolved from an off-beat surfing destination to a popular weekend spot of metro people. It has kept its laidback vibe but has more to offer to its guests, from the initial surfing and beach bumming to more diverse activities like ATV activities, waterfall chasing, beach bars, and yoga classes. Weekends at Liwliwa has become more crowded. But despite the crowd, I still got to enjoy what I love the most doing in Liwliwa - chilling down with a drink while enjoying the view of its sunset.
Liwliwa is one destination where I have seen it develop from a laidback vibe to a more vibrant experience through the years. Its popularity has grown, thanks to social media, and with it came development in the area. We have more options now in terms of dining and accommodation. We have more people enjoying the beach. And on my mind, I would still try to find my solitary and serene spot in Liwliwa where I can enjoy the place like the old days. You can read about my Liwliwa travel adventure here: Intramuros This spot in the metro exudes that melancholic vibe as the rains pitter patter on its cobblestone streets. The place transports you back to the good old days of Manila. The walls of Intramuros protected a huge chunk of history that we can literally walk its streets and learn from our distant Filipino past. Under the sun or under the rain, both seasons can offer a different perspective of Intramuros.  Intramuros is a destination that exudes a romantic vibe during the wet season. Behind the walls of Intramuros is a treasure trove to explore and discover for anyone who is interested or loves history. Its collection of museums gives you a glimpse of the old Spanish days whether it be the lives of its residents or the faith that bind these residents. The lavish lifestyle of its residents, the gates that open to other local communities, the horrors of its garrisons during the war, and the last days of our national heroes are all fused inside its thick walls. The stories of Intramuros makes you understand how we can be better at being a Filipino, and with a little rain, learning it can be a little more dramatic.
I strongly agree that EVERY Filipino should get to explore Intramuros at least once in their lifetime. We should be spending more to attract the younger generation to explore this historical destination at the heart of the metro to build their sense of pride and nationalism. We can build a better nation by cultivating nationalism among the youth by putting premium on our history. You can read about my Intramuros travel adventure here: Badian, Cebu The province of Cebu is another treasure box of amazing destinations. The province is an all-year round destination that has a lot to offer to its locals and guests from sun up to sun down and whether the sun is shining or the rain clouds are hovering. Its beauty rolls from the top of its mountains to the depths of its sea. Badian is one destination that gives you that fun-filled experience, rain or shine.  Our Kawasan Canyoneering had us splashing around the turquoise waters of Canlaob River. The main draw of Badian is its Canyoneering experience along the turquoise waters of the Canlaob River. The experience had us flying over the mountain slopes of Badian to the jump off point of the canyoneering adventure. From here, you would be trekking along and into the river, and I really mean INTO the river. The activity will challenge your fear of heights and water as you jump inthe cascading waters of Canlaob. The canyoneering will get you dripping wet, rain or shine.
The thrill and chill of Canlaob River adventure is perfect against the backdrop of the lush forests that surrounds you. The experience gives you a full sensory experience - the rustic views are relaxing to the eyes, the sound of water rushing down the river is relaxing to the ears, and the feel of the cold water on the skin soothes one’s tired muscles. The canyoneering adventure immerses you with nature, literally and figuratively, to be refreshed and re-energized by the nature. Badian is a perfect way to enjoy the wet season in the Philippines. You can read about our Badian travel adventure here: Siargao Island Beach spots are usually associated with the dry season in the Philippines but this island on the west side of Mindanao packs a punch with as an all weather destination. From beaches to lagoons to swimming with the jellies to night outs, Siargao Island is a must-visit destination. It is an island that fuses rural living with a touch of urban flare all hidden behind its coconut trees and white sand beach spots.  Siargao Island is one of my favorite destinations in the Philippines. Siargao Island has gained popularity for its “afam” guests and you can’t blame foreigners for radiating towards the beauty of this island. It does give you a laidback tropical vibe and fuses it with adventures that allow you to immerse and enjoy the beauty of nature. Where else can you find a destination where you get the thrill of riding its waves and the thrill of swimming with thousands of jellyfish. You can enjoy the sun and play beach volleyball with strangers at Guyam and/or find your self alone aboard a kayak enjoying the calming sound of nature, with a slight drizzle, at Sugba Lagoon. You can explore the rock pools of Magpupungko and indulge your palate with Siargao’s pan de coco. There is always something to do and enjoy at Siargao Island, rain or shine.
If there is one island that I would like to return to and explore again, Siargao island is on my top 3 list. It is a destination that brings back rustic childhood memories of vacations in the province. This island humbles you,m as you enjoy its natural beauty and the activities that it offers. It teaches you that life is best enjoyed by its simplicity. Whether you are under the Siargao sun or enjoying getting a wash from its rain, this island sends you home with a different perspective after an awesome adventure. You can read about my Siargao travel adventure here: POST TRAVEL NOTES The rains have been drenching us over the past days and weeks. Metro Manila has been lucky enough that, even with the billions spent on flood control, a little rain brings out the flood pools of the metro. But we should not let the weather dampen our spirit of adventure and exploration. Rain or shrine, there will always be a destination worth exploring in the Philippines! A sense of adventure is all you need to explore the Philippines, rain or shine! Traveling is not just about taking a flight or a bus to a destination. The best place to explore during the wet season is your own locality. Explore and discover the nooks and crannies of your place. Share it and, who knows, you might just unravel the next tourism destination in the Philippines. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas 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.
It was a warm and sunny day when I strolled around the Capitol area of Cebu City. The city was buzzing as the whole province was in anticipation for a celebration dubbed as Cebu’s “Festival of Festivals”. The event would include a competition between contingents from the different municipalities and cities of the province of Cebu vying for the top prizes in Ritual Dancing, Street Dancing, and Festival Queen. This was a showcase of Cebu’s best in one venue dubbed as the “Pasigarbo sa Sugbo 2024”  The Pasigarbo sa Sugbo is a gathering of the best festival performers of the province of Cebu. The Pasigarbo sa Sugbo celebration is one of the highlights of the province’s Foundation Day. It aims to bring together the different festivals from the different corners of Cebu in one stage. The goal is to showcase and promote the culture, product, and beauty of the municipality or city to those watching the showcase. This is done in an elaborate presentation of creative storytelling of dance, matched with colorful costumes and huge props. This year’s festival had a total of 51 contingents and brings back the celebration to the streets of Cebu City and the Cebu City Sports Complex. Kwento ng Pasigarbo The Pasigarbo sa Sugbo was the brainchild of the incumbent Governor Gwen Garcia. Launched in 2008, the goal was to bring on one stage the different festivals of the municipalities and cities of Cebu. “Pasigarbo” is rooted from the Cebuano word “garbo” which means pride. The festival highlights the pride of the Cebu’s colorful culture and celebrations of the province of Cebu.  We are ready to witness the Pasigarbo sa Sugbo 2024 at the Cebu City Sports Complex. Photo by: IG @zaridads. The first venue of the Pasigarbo sa Sugbo was at the Cebu International Convention Center in Mandaue City. It was later moved to the Cebu City Sports Complex after the former venue was deemed unsafe from the damages brought by the earthquake and Typhoon Yolanda. In its 9 years of staging, Bantayan’s Palawod Festival and Carcar City’s Kabkaban Festival has brought home the top prize for a total of 3 years each. This year brings together a total of 51 contingents on Cebu City’s streets and on the stage of the Cebu City Sports Complex. Pasigarbo Sa Dalan The street dance exhibition started at around 2pm that started along V. Rama snaking its way to the Provincial Capitol to Fuente Osmena down to Osmena Boulevard and finally to the Cebu City Sports Complex. The final stop is the venue for the Ritual Dance Showdown. There are stops along the way where the participants showcase their street dancing to the tune of the theme of the “Pasigarbo sa Sugbo”.
The streetdance ensemble includes the municipality or city’s float, their Festival Queen, the Festival Dancers, and their beautifully-designed carozas honoring their patron saints. The ensembles parades through the city and, at specific points (judging areas, I presume), they engage the audience with their ritual street dance routine. The participants continue the display of creativity and movement rain or shine and throughout the duration of the celebration. The smiles and the sways are all weather and time proof, I must say.
This year’s Pasigarbo sa Sugbo had the Cebu City contingent leading the front as guest performers. I was only able to catch the performers from Cebu City, Tuburan, San Remigio, and Toledo City at the start of the parade because it started to drizzle. We had to rush to the sports complex from Fuente Osmena which made me miss out on the street dancing of the first batch of the contingents. But I chanced upon the contingents who were still on the parade route at 10.30pm at Fuente Osmena. I was able to catch up with the contingents like Alegria, Cordova, Consolacion, and Minglanilla. The energy and smiles remain high and bright despite having been on the route for close to 10 hours. They were slowly inching their way to the venue but their energy remains high and they were always ready to give the audience a street performance with so much gusto. Pasigarbo sa Entablado The festivities of the Pasigarbo sa Sugbo 2024 culminates at the Cebu City Sports Complex where a huge stage serves as the main showdown area. This is where the Ritual Dancing Competition are held in front of esteemed judges and hundreds of spectators. The bleachers of the complex are filled to the brim as the entrance is free to the public. The huge stage has one entrance at R. Landon Extension and one exit towards Bacalso Avenue. This allows a smooth flow of contingents from their entrance to their exit. The rules of the competition are strict. Contingents have a minute to ingress their props as their mayor gives them their introduction. Their music plays as soon as the introduction ends, no cues given. As soon as the presentation is done, the team has a full minute to extract EVERYTHING offstage. Failure to follow these rules would mean a deduction and, if you are in luck, a mild scolding from their beloved Governor Gwen.
You might think that it is such an easy task but, when you have a battalion of dancers and a lot of huge props and backdrops to move around, it can be nerve wracking even for us in the audience. But I guess these performers have been trained perfectly as they seem to execute everything flawlessly. Everything seems to work like clockwork. Despite the event being a competition, each contingent all fully aware of the part that they play, cooperates, and understands how they are connected to each other’s performances.
I was totally not prepared that the whole festivities would run until early in the morning. I only had the chance to watch the first batch of 17 municipalities. I must say that I was impressed by how the whole program flowed flawlessly. It was a visual and audio treat for me who enjoys theater and artistic live productions. It was like watching 17 short theater productions with all the works. It was really impressive and amazing. Too bad though that I was not able to watch all 51 contingents. Pasigarbo Talagsaon The Pasigarbo sa Sugbo 2024 ended with a high in the wee hours of the next day. Naga City’s Dagitab Festival brought home the top prize when they dazzled the audience with their music and movement highlighted by an amazing light show. Carcar City’s Kabkaban Festival brought home the top prize for the Street Dancing Competition. My personal favorites from the batch that I watched was the Tuba Festival of Borbon finished at 7th Place and Toledo’s Hinulwan Festival finished at 9th Place.
On a personal note, Borbon’s Tuba Festival was my biggest winner. The group’s catchy rhythm and creative and fun presentation of work-life balance piqued my interest. Their music, movements, and OG style of performance really brought the house down. It was a performance that really made a mark for being fun and amusing. If the goal was to showcase and promote tourism and culture, Borbon’s performance successfully influenced me to read about the municipality and plan a trip there to explore the place and have a taste of their famed tuba. Borbon can expect me to visit their place after watching them at the Pasigarbo sa Sugbo 2024! POST TRAVEL NOTES I am no longer wondering how Cebu stands unified as one province. With an event like Pasigarbo sa Sugbo, the celebration effectively brings together the province into a friendly competition while enforcing the values of unity, resilience, and the sense of Cebuano pride. The province has effectively preserved and showcased its colorful culture and traditions to Cebuanos and to the world whilst instilling that sense of pride in my minds of the younger generation. Pasigarbo sa Sugbo fires up the creativity of its local talents and the Cebuano pride through world-class performances in one stage. Isang biskwit and nagdala sa akin sa lugar na ito. San tayo sunod? Local governments play a huge role in promoting tourism in their local communities. They should be opening opportunities for communities and groups to showcase their products, talents, and attractions to a wider audience. The exposure would create interest in the destination that would translate to alternative sustainable livelihood aligned with tourism. Local community fairs and festivities bring new and renewed interests to the destination. Like what I have already said that my biggest take away from the Pasigarbo sa Sugbo 2024 is that I will be exploring you soon, Borbon! #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #CebuSeries Getting there: Pasigarbo sa Sugbo is celebrated during the month of August, during the Founding Anniversary of the province. There are direct flights from major cities in the country and international airports to Mactan-Cebu International Airport, the main gateway of the province. From the airport, there are public transports, public taxis, and ride-hailing transport to the city. 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.
Picture this… sitting on the shores of an unadulterated public beach and enjoying its cream-colored sand under your feet. You are breathing in the beauty of the turquoise-colored waters and you are sharing the experience with locals and locals only. You don’t see flocks of tourists, not even a shadow of foreign guests. This is an off-beat destination and it is known only among Cebuanos. This is Tabuelan.  Enjoying a laidback Tabuelan weekend. Tabuelan is the youngest municipality in the province of Cebu. Established in 1953, the town is popular for its community spring pools and its white sand beach spots. It is an off-beat destination so you don’t get the usual touristy fanfare. It makes you experience an OG weekend the way locals do. Join us as we discover the hidden gems of Tabuelan over a weekend. Tabuelan Poblacion It was a three-hour old style of bus travel to the town of Tabuelan. Since the town is relatively off the usual tourist grid, transportation is usually limited to ordinary mini buses that ply the route of Tuburan or San Remigio. This means that going to is relatively easy while going from can be quite a challenge especially if you are coming off from a weekend. Our travel to Tabuelan went unhitched since we left Cebu City early in the morning.  The Tabuelan Public Market is a central point of the town. Tabuelan is a typical rural town that is slow-paced and simple. At the heart of the town is the bustling commercial center, the Tabuelan Public Market. This is where business happens for most of the day. It is the center of trade and transport and commercial buses make a quick stop here. Apart from a nearby 24-hour convenience store, there’s no other trace of modern-day convenience in and around town. Everything that you need, from daily supplies to meals for tourists, is found in the area.  The San Juan Bautista Parish Church with its serene vibe. The San Juan Bautista Parish Church is just a 10-minute walk from the market. Void of the usual Spanish-period structure found in most municipalities of Cebu, the Tabuelan Church stands in the most conspicuous part of town and exudes an air of peace and tranquility. Its belfry stands adjacent to its facade by its mosaic windows. The interior is high-ceiling and spacious with its simplicity. Angels line the pillars of the church that helps highlight its gold-lined retablo. Just a short ride away from the poblacion, one can find the Tabuelan Municipal Hall. The government center is tucked along the hillside of the town. The compound houses government offices and the town’s gymnasium which serves the town’s center for its activities. The hall, together with the town’s version of its Rizal Park, stands overlooking the poblacion. From this vantage point, you get a quick glimpse of its coastal areas and the poblacion. Tabuelan Municipal Plaza At the heart of the poblacion is the Tabuelan Municipal Plaza. The plaza is a sprawling park that lies along the town’s riverside. The plaza is complete with a bandstand and a playground making it an ideal place to enjoy watching the day pass by in Tabuelan. Just right across the plaza is the Tabuelan sign with the mangrove cover as its backdrop. I have read that there is a boat cruise activity that tourist can try that will tour you along the river that snakes through the town. Unfortunately, we were not able to catch it when we visited Tabuelan and I am not sure whether it is ceased operations.
At the heart of the plaza is a statue of one of the prominent figures of Tabuelan - Casiano Gerona. He is referred to as “Titi Casi” and served as a public servant for Tabuelan. He is the man responsible for the developement of Tabuelan from a sleepy rural town to a bustling center for commerce. The town honors this man with a monument erected at the plaza. Tabuelan Wharf Did you know that Tabuelan has a municipal port that connects it to Negros? It was Titi Casi who spearheaded the construction of the wharf that connected Tabuelan to Escalante. The port is located close to river’s mouth and it is about a 20-minute walk from the town’s public market. The opening of the wharf significantly improved commerce in the area with supply trucks plying the route. There is even a bus line that connects Cebu and Bacolod that ply this route.  The Tabuelan Wharf connects the province of Cebu and the town to the island of Negros. The wharf was busy when we visited the port. We came at a time where a RORO just offloaded their cargo from Negros and was about to load their cargo trucks to Negros. Since boat trips are limited, the wharf is not as busy as other ports. I had the chance to walk around the port and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the place. The view of the river meeting the sea was very relaxingly beautiful. Liki Spring Community spring pools are regular spots in Cebu, and Tabuelan has its own collection to show off. These freshwater pools are not the usual tourist attractions as it caters more to the community’s water needs. It is part of the locals’ daily lives and, for us urban pips, an attraction that really amazes us.
Liki Spring is one of the many spring pools in Tabuelan. Located along the hills of the town, the pool was developed to harvest fresh water for the community’s water needs in irrigation, household, and even potable drinking water. Liki Spring is a relaxing place to visit because the pool is surrounded by greens. Its clear waters offer a refreshing cold dip after we explored the town. It is a shallow pool and its depth varies through the day depending on the tide. On a usual day, you find locals washing their laundry or kids enjoying a quick dip in its cold waters. Gumbang Spring Among the three pool springs that we visited, Gumbang Spring was the busiest. The spring pool is small and is located along the highway going to the poblacion. It was developed into a concrete pool and its waters flow downstream to a stream that runs alongside the highway. It was a busy day when we arrived at the pools. The locals were probably surprised with our arrival in the middle of their usual Sunday chores. Mothers were doing their laundry and the kids were taking their usual baths. Concrete steps lead down to the pool and a concrete pool was also developed as a catch basin of its flowing fresh water. Who would have thought that there was a spring pool attraction right along the highway. Cantacoyang Spring Cantacoyang Spring is the most popular spring pool attraction in Tabuelan. Located just a few meters from the highway, you would have to take a quick walk through a trail to a concrete dam structure that collects freshwater into a pool before it drains out to a stream. Just like the two other spring pools, Cantocayang serves the fresh water needs of its surrounding communities. Do not be surprised to find locals enjoying its cold waters especially on a hot day.  The Cantacoyang Spring is the most beautiful and dramatic fresh pool spring spot in Tabuelan. What makes Cantocayang Spring different is it its picturesque downstream flow. As freshwater flows out of the pool. It makes its way down into a stream disappearing into its thick palm tree covers. This spot is a perfect spot for an IG-worthy picture. It gives the spring pool a dramatic view as you enjoy the cold waters of Cantocayang Spring. Maravilla Public Beach Located about 20 minutes from the Poblacion, Maravilla Public Beach is the most popular beach spot in Tabuelan. This is where you will find most local tourists enjoying the sun, sand, and sea on this side of Cebu. Unlike other popular destinations north of the province, Tabuelan is not a spot that foreigners often visit so you get to enjoy Maravilla Beach the way locals do and it does not come with a hefty budget. This is the real deal Cebuano kind of weekend beach spot.  Maravilla Beach is the most popular beach spot here in Tabuelan. The white sand shoreline is lined with private resorts but there is a public beach that you can visit that requires no entrance fees. There are beach tables and huts that you can rent if you intend to stay longer. We rented out a beach table before we checked out what we can get for lunch. We got a whole grilled chicken, puso, and 3 packs of steamed scallops. The scallops were a good deal for a hundred with around 15 pieces per pack. We ate in style using our hands as we enjoyed the view and the breeze.
Maravilla Beach exudes that OG beach vibe. You get to enjoy just chilling down and enjoying the beach without the usual touristy vibe. You get an occasional vendor coming through but they are not as pushy with their trade and the prices are not touristy. I enjoyed cooling down in the waters of the beach like the way I used to when I was younger. You get to enjoy the humdrum of a Sunday beach day the way local Cebuanos do. You simply just keep chilling the day until it is time to go home. Cansimon Bai Beach resorts line the coastal stretch of Tabuelan. These resorts cater to different kinds of tourists from the lavish spenders to budget-conscious travelers. In our case, we opted for a cheaper and a more laidback weekend accommodation at Carmeling’s Place in Barangay Olivo. It turned out to be a good decision as we got to enjoy the laidback vibe of the resort all to ourselves.  I have found a personal beach spot in Cansimon Point. Cansimon Bai is one of the beach spots that sit along the coast of Tabuelan. The beach is more laidback and, since it is relatively unknown, only guests of nearby resorts and locals get to enjoy the laidback and tranquil vibe of the beach. You get to enjoy the spot with its combination of white sand, rock formations, and mangrove covers. The northern side of the beach is home to a thriving mangrove forest where you can capture dramatic images of mangrove tree formations. This is also the spot where locals enjoy the beach here in Olivo.
Cansimon Bai is a pretty laidback beach spot. We enjoyed the unadulterated beach vibe of the place. It was untouched and was not crowded. It is one of the local’s best kept secret in Tabuelan. We enjoyed sipping on our fresh buko juice, sourced by one of locals, while enjoying the tranquil vibe of the beach. This was a perfect way to end a weekend in Tabuelan - away from the crowd, with just us and nature. POST TRAVEL NOTES Tabuelan was a great destination find. This off-beat spot, north of Cebu, gave us a perfect weekend escape from our usual urban hussle. It slowed us down, made use appreciate and commune with nature, and recharged us. It was a destination that unexpectedly gave us a perfect weekend that we enjoyed the time we spent there. It is THE destination that is perfect to unwind and recharge. I have found a weekend escape destination in Tabuelan.  Eeeeyyyyy to our next adventure! Exploring offbeat destinations often leads us to discovering a new and exciting spot that is not on the usual tourism trail. We are able to explore and enjoy the place in its unadulterated state, long before mainstream tourism gets its hand on it. We get to see its raw beauty and enjoy its local vibe before commercialism sets in. This is a great position because we can share the raw experience for others to start exploring and opening new opportunities for its locals and its community. Check out our Tabuelan Youtube Travel Video here:
#MahalinNatinAngPilipinas #CebuSeries Getting there: Major airlines have direct flights to Mactan-Cebu International Airport from local and international airport hubs. You can take a cab, a Grab car, or the Airport-SM City Cebu Bus to get to the North Bus Terminal from the airport. You can then take a bus to Tuburan via Tabuelan and ask the driver to drop you off at the Tabuelan Public Market. To get around Tabuelan, you can contact our Trike driver/guide Kuya Andrew at (0965) 499 3072. Make sure that you make an arrangement for your pick-up at the public market prior to your arrival. I highly recommend Carmeling’s Place for their rustic and serene accommodations near Cansimon Point. You can reach them at (0920) 4859646 or through their FB page: FB Page: Carmeling's Place 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.
I like staying in nice hotels and doing staycations but I rarely do contents for these stays unless the experience was totally extraordinary or something travel-worthy came around during my stay. Most of the time, I do get a nice experience but just not enough for me to make a content out of it. But a recent stay in this “heritage” hotel had me totally swept off my feet because I walked through its rooms of history. Yes, this is THE Manila Hotel and, most of you, are not aware that they offer a FREE history tour where you walk into its history.  The historical Manila Hotel is the oldest 5-star hotel in the country.
Built in 1909, the Manila Hotel is the oldest premier hotel in the country that is conveniently located in the historical core of Manila. It officially opened its doors in 1912 with 142 rooms and was constructed to rival the Malacanang Palace. The penthouse of the original structure eventually served as the official residence and office of General Douglas MacArthur from 1935 to 1941. From the damage it bore during the end of World War 2, it has undergone rehabilitation and expansion to become a 570-room hotel. It has played host to famous entertainment and political personalities like Michael Jackson, The Beatles, Ernest Hemmingway, Bill Clinton, and King Charles III. Unknown to many, the Manila Hotel offers a heritage tour for both guests and non-guests that walks you through the hallways and, if you are lucky, suites of its rich and colorful history. The Hotel The original 5-story structure was designed by New York architect William Parsons. The structure would be utilizing the sea breeze for its ventilation with rooms having amazing views of the Manila Bay Harbor on one side and Intramuros on the other. The renovation of the hotel in the 70s added the hotel tower behind the original structure that expanded its room capacity to 570.  The iconic lobby of the Manila Hotel is one of the best in Manila. The hotel lobby remains to be the icon of the Manila Hotel. It exudes elegance with its Doric columns, brass chandeliers, marble floors, and mahogany furnitures. The wide lobby is a great place to hold meetings, gather up with friends, or just enjoy a cup of coffee while reading a book. It also serves as an art venue where artworks are often on display for guests to admire.
The rooms are kept on old elegant styling with wooden bed frames and furnitures. Crafted wooden sliding doors frame its windows that offer amazing views of the Manila Harbor or the Walls of Intramuros. I prefer the rooms facing the bay because it gives you personal front seats to the famous beautiful sunset of Manila Bay. They offer a great staycation experience with their complete facilities from restaurants to the hotel’s swimming pool. One thing that really stands out for me are the complimentary small chocolate treats that you get when you stay with them.” Heritage Museum Located at the ground floor of the Manila Hotel, the Heritage Museum houses the hotel’s collection of pictures, personal items, and memorabilia of its beautiful past. It bears two historical markers of the hotel - the hotel being the first consular office of Australia in the country and Manila Hotel being the venue of the opening ceremonies of the 1971 Constitutional Convention led by former President Diosdado Macapagal. A miniature rendition of the present-day Manila Hotel is the main attraction of the receiving area of the Heritage Museum.  One of the historical markers installed at the Manila Hotel. The main gallery is a small room that serves as a repository of the hotel’s vibrant past. It has a collection of pictures of the hotel’s historical events and famous guests who have stayed here displayed on its walls. It has volumes of press clippings in its catalogue. Its collection also includes memorabilia from prominent personalities that was given to the hotel and antique furnitures from. These collections walks you through the century-worth history of the hotel from it construction to its devastation in World War 2 to it rehabilitation to its expansion in the 70’s. It was great to see that all these are properly documented and preserved for everyone to learn and enjoy.
The most prominent artifacts that really stood out for me was the hotel’s collection of memorabilia from its most popular resident, Gen. MacArthur, and the replica copies of Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. The hotel was able to save and preserve some of the personal effects of the famous general that are prominently displayed in the museum and in the MacArthur Suite. It was also great to be able to have a closer look at the handwritten novel of Dr. Jose Rizal with his own handwriting. You will get impressed at our national hero’s neat handwriting. The museum not only showcased their history but also linked the hotel with our country’s rich past. The MacArthur Suite We were lucky that we were able to step inside and explore the historic MacArthur Suite. You can make a request to include the suite in the tour but it is subject to its availability. The whole heritage tour is guided so you really get to explore the locations and also get facts during the tour.  The MacArthur Suite was once the official residence of General MacArthur during his stint as the Field Marshall of the country. The MacArthur Suite is located on the penthouse on the 5th floor of the original building. The sprawling suite served as the home and office of General MacArthur during his stint as the Governor-General of the country. As per our hotel guide, it was President Manuel Quezon who invited the general to assist in the creation of a Philippine Army as a Field Marshall. His conditions in accepting the position was to have a salary similar to that of the Philippine President and a residence that is similar to that of Malacanang. Hence, the refurbishing of the 5th level of the hotel to be converted into the general’s official residence. He was then appointed as Chairman and President of the hotel to justify his salary and residential requirements.
The two-bedroom suite was classy, elegant, and gives off a vibe of luxury with a pinch of history. It has 2 bedrooms, a dining area, a receiving area, a study, and a kitchen. Our guide, Rap, shared with us that you get a personal butler when you book the suite. The amenities also include luxurious brands for its hygiene kit. You get to enjoy the luxurious living in a historical site rolled into one. You get to live a day or two like a Field Marshall.  The elegant Master's Bedroom of the MacArthur Suite. The suite displays collections of personal artifacts of General Douglas MacArthur. The walls of the hallway and the dining area have photographs displayed of his family members and event highlights during his stint here in the Philippines. His office, complete with his table and chairs, are accessible to guests and you get a glimpse of his work area and how it feels to be on his seat with the view of Manila Bay on his window. The family of the general has also allowed the display of the general’s medals in his former office in the hotel.  Of course, I wouldn't miss out on checking out the office of General MacArthur. Staying in the suite is heavy on the pocket but worth the value. You get to experience living the way General MacArthur did in a modern hotel set-up. But our guide also shared with us that the Manila Hotel gives a HUGE discount on the historical suite during the hotel’s anniversary every July. POST TRAVEL NOTES Who would have thought that my attentiveness to hotel ads running on TV would open up a different and interesting staycation experience for me. We all know that Manila Hotel is significant in Philippine history and yet I never knew that they have a heritage museum in the hotel and they offer a free guided tour of the museum and, if luck is on your side, the historical MacArthur Suite. The neat part of it - it is FREE! You just have to make a prior appointment with the Front Desk and pray that no one is staying on the historical suite. Here is something that is worth checking out when you find yourself staying or sipping a cup of coffee at the Manila Hotel.  San maganda pumunta tuwing tag-ulan? Where to next? It’s interesting to find something new in a destination that you have become familiar with. Discoveries like these give you a different excitement and perspective that amplifies the experience. It doesn’t change what is already there but it does add more spice to the “usual”. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas Getting there: Major airlines have direct flights to Manila from local and international airports. You can take a cab or Grab car to get to the Manila Hotel. 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 Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/hull.stern/ Facebook : https://web.facebook.com/hull.stern Get 10% off on your Magwai purchase on Lazada, Shopee, and Magwai website when you use my code: marc7del10 Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/magwaiph/ Facebook : https://web.facebook.com/MagwaiPH
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Marc del Rosario
I believe in education, entrepreneurship, and caring for the environment. 
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July 2025
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