Manila Cathedral in the dark

Manila Cathedral or the Manila Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica is situated in the district of Intramuros, City of Manila. Originally, this church was the "Church of Manila" which was established under the management of the Diocese of Mexico in 1571, but in 1579 it became a separate diocese. Been here several times, but it's my first time to see the stunning golden lights on its structure after dark.

Miss Philippines Earth Romblon 2016

I found love with nature and I found happiness with beauty pageants, combining these two and it's Miss Earth. Meeting Kattline Joy Eranes, from Looc, Romblon, the reigning Miss Philippines Earth Romblon 2016 was remarkable. Initially, it was a long chit chat and in the end, I was invited to join them for a shoot For a Cause. The photos below will describe Kattline's advocacy in society. By the way, Kattline is now one of the Official candidates of Miss Philippines Earth 2016.

TAGONG PARAISO, TANAY, RIZAL

Tagong Paraiso is now one of best tourist spots in Tanay, Rizal; its name translates to "hidden paradise" in English because of its beauty hidden in the woods. The area is surrounded by hardwood trees, shrubs and other flowering plants that makes the area relaxing. Not only that, since the area still has a healthy bio-diversity, you will definitely have a lazy day because of the birds singing lullabies while the cool wind blowing. CLICK TO WATCH MY VLOG

Most Gorgeous Mosques in the Philippines

The Grand Mosque or the Masjid Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah in Cotabato City, Province of Maguindanao del Norte, is currently the biggest mosque in the Philippines. The minarets are 43 meters, equivalent to a 15-storey building, with a pilot's light on top. The walls are white, and the gigantic domes are covered with gold and crescent moons on top. 

Mt. Samat, Bataan: 2024 Travel Guide, History, Location, Entrance Fee

Mt. Samat is a mountain in Bataan, Philippines and on its summit, the Shrine of Valor or Dambana ng Kagitingan was built because of its huge historical contribution during World War II. Also, the province holds the record of Battle of Bataan including the controversial Death March. Anyways, from Bagac, we traveled to Pilar to discover and to know more about the significance of the Cross on top of the mountain.

VISITA IGLESIA: 9 HISTORICAL CHURCHES IN METRO MANILA

Guadalupe Church, Makati City - it’s a 400 years old structure with an amazing facade. Founded by the Augustinians, the construction of its foundation was laid in 1601 and was finished in 1629. Some parts of this church were rebuilt several times because of the earthquakes; and in 1880 the masonry roof collapsed because of the earthquake so it was rebuilt in 1882 by Rev. Jose Corujedo O.S.A. Later, this structure was burnt during the fight between Filipinos and Americans on February 1899. It was reconstructed and re-opened to the public in 1983.

Boracay Island (Travel & Vacation Guide + Places to Visit)

Boracay is an island in Malay, Aklan. It is absolutely the best island beach in the world. The fine and white sand by the shoreline can be compared to fine table salt; others would say it’s like baby powder. The cool, pristine and crystalline water is really adorable that mirrors the gorgeous clouds from the sky. The reflection is like a painting of Michelangelo, as the blue water and skies forming a golden horizon by the dawn.

Boracay Island: Travel Guide, Best Places, Nightlife, Activities

Boracay is a gorgeous island in Malay, Aklan, Philippines; it is special because it is described as one of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the world. It is famous for its fine white sand, crystal clear waters, spectacular golden sunset, and remarkable water activities. Recently, I received inquiries from foreign readers on how to get here, what activities can be tried, and asking for recommendations for hotels.

Puerto Galera: 2024 Backpacking Guide, Tourist Spots, Resorts, Nightlife

Puerto Galera is located in the north-westernmost part of Oriental Mindoro. If you're looking for a place with a good combination of beach and underwater experience, then, it is the perfect place for you. It has a perfect combination of fine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, wealthy marine bio diversity marine, stunning sunset and night life activities.

Sunken Cemetery, Catarman, Camiguin

Sunken Cemetery is a historical landmark and the top tourist spots in Camiguin. Before, it was a resting place and today, it is a tourist attraction that gives money to the government and jobs to the locals. This spot has a huge cross perched into the water. Tourists can cross and step on the base of the cross using boats, of course NOT for free. Souvenir shops and stores are available by the entrance. READ: Backpacking in Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte, and Camiguin.

Mararison Island, Antique: 2024 Itinerary, Overnight Tour

Malalison or Mararison is an island in Culasi, Antique. It can be considered a fishermen island because most of the residents are fishing as their livelihood. A few years back, its breathtaking beauty captured the attention of travelers after Typhoon Yolanda. It is Panay's next frontier because of its fine white sand beaches, and crystal clear waters with a diversity of aquatic flora and fauna – it is truly a perfect diving paradise.

Rizal Park and Shrine, Dapitan City

The Rizal Shrine in Dapitan (José Rizal Memorial Protected Landscape) was the place where our National Hero was exiled by the Spaniards in 1892. Today, this historical place shows his life while working as a doctor, sculptor, farmer, teacher and many others. He purchased this land after winning a lottery in 1892. Later, his mother, sisters and relatives transferred here from Calamba, Laguna. However, on January 15, 1897, the Spanish authorities confiscated all of his property. These were converted into a park and were declared as National Park in 1940 by President Manuel L. Quezon.

Paoay Church, Ilocos Norte: 2024 Itinerary, History, Location

Paoay Church or the San Agustin Church is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Philippines. The structure comprises baked bricks, coral rocks, tree sap and solid lumber. The 24 buttresses were also placed on each side of the church for support; the reason why it is still standing after the earthquakes in the 17th century up to this generation.

Asik-Asik Falls, North Cotabato: Itinerary, Hike, Travel Guide

Asik-Asik Falls is the top tourist spot in North Cotabato. It is a spectacular-curtain-like waterfalls hiding in the mountainous area of Alamada. Its unique landscape and breathtaking beauty spread online which captured the eyes of the world. Who says "no" to its majestic walls covered with lush green vegetation, such as moss and ferns, highlighted by the hardwood trees and the clear blue skies. In between these hanging ornaments are cold and crystal clear rushing water naturally falling on a shallow rocky pool surrounded by artistic rocks and boulders. Such a perfect place to relax and distress.

Tinuy-An Falls, Surigao del Sur: Location, Hike, Helpful Tips

The Tinuy-an Falls is the top tourist attraction in Bislig, Surigao del Sur. It is a huge waterfall with cool and crystal clear waters and is surrounded by greens that create the area a gorgeous and relaxing landscape. The ambiance is so cool, with the fresh air blowing. By the way, most part of the waterfalls are accessible, including the pool area. Water rafts, with a guide, can be rented.

Anguib Beach, Sta. Ana, Cagayan: 2024 Entrance, Rates, Cottages

Anguib beach is at Sta. Ana, Cagayan. It is one of the must-visit in the province because of its long-curvy stretch of fine white sand landscaped with greens on the side. The sand has a mixture of colorful shells, pebbles in different shapes and living crustaceans running back and forth. From the quaint cottages by the beach, the crystal clear water and emerald seas are visible separated by the horizon from the blue sky. Its preserved tranquility can definitely make your day a lazy day.

Explored Palaui Island: 2024 Travel Guide, Tourist Spots, Tour Package

Palaui is an Island in Sta. Ana, Cagayan. Aside from the Callao Cave, this paradise became one of the top tourist destinations in the province because of its beauty that stole the eyes of the world. Since the province is situated on the North East side of Luzon, due to its topographical location, the serenity and the breathtaking beauty are well preserved.

Mt. Batulao, Batangas: Day Hike Guide, Difficulty, Location

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

Mt. Tarak, Bataan: 2024 Hiking Guide, Location, Ridge, Height, Resort

Mt. Tarak is one of the top destinations in Bataan for hikers. This mountain has a good combination of breathtaking beauty, an elegant skyline, cool and temperate weather, and abundant flora and fauna. By the way, it was my first major hike and after five years, I am here again. Our journey is totally different because last time, it was the wet season and this time it was super dry.

Mt. Ulap, Benguet: Hike Guide, Difficulty, Height, Day Tour

Mt. Ulap is situated in Brgy. Ampucao, Itogon Benguet. It is one of the highest peaks in the Cordillera region with amazing flora and fauna. Because of its temperature, the trees, grass and flowers look so healthy making the mountain look gorgeous.

Mt. Banahaw, Quezon: Day Hike Guide, Location, Difficulty, Height

Mt. Banahaw is an active complex volcano located in Quezon Province. To plant more trees, that's our main purpose of our hike. We chose this mountain because we want to preserve its hidden and majestic beauty. Though it is hard to trek due to its terrain which is a rainforest, it is one of the must hiked mountains because it has healthy biodiversity, both plants and animals. Dubbed as the "Holy Mountain," this giant bears a trail with a very calm ambiance. Reaching the summit and heading back to the jump-off can give you a lifetime and unforgettable experience.

Mount Apo: 2024 Hiking & Camping Guide, Itinerary, Description

Mt. Apo is a dormant stratovolcano in Davao Region, Mindanao and it measures 2,954 meters above sea level. It is dubbed as the "bubong ng Pilipinas" because it is the highest and the father of all the mountains in the Philippines. Its circumference stretches to two provinces in the southern Mindanao region, the provinces of North Cotabato and Davao del Sur. Though this mountain is considered active, trekking on its terrain is safe and can provide a package of remarkable experiences and photos to be shared.

Mt. Hamiguitan: 2024 Itinerary, History, Difficulty, Hiking Guide

Mount Hamiguitan is one of the most beautiful mountains in the Philippines because it is the home of thousands of flora and fauna. Some are endemic or can only be found on the terrains of this mountain. Not just the richness of its bio-diversity, its mountain range showcases the spectacular and breathtaking natural beauty at its finest. Because of that, it was declared as a sanctuary by virtue of R.A. 9303. With its natural wonders, it was also included as one of the ASEAN Heritage Parks. In 2014, this mountain was added to UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites.

Mt. Halcon: Hike Guide, Difficulty, Height, How to Get Here

So far, hiking Mt. Halcon (2582 MASL) in Oriental Mindoro is the toughest. Though this mountain garnered a nine over nine rating in terms of difficulty, it is part of my "list of the must hiked mountains" because of its hidden and majestic beauty. It has a combination of long and difficult terrains, a wealthy rain forest, vast diversity of plants and animals, spooky stories, and unpredictable weather conditions which can bring a remarkable hiking experience (the reason why it's my hardest).

PULONG PASIG (PASIG ISLAND) AND SANDBAR, QUEZON

According to the locals, Pulong Pasig or Pasig Island is one of the tourist spots in Quezon province awaiting to be discovered because during low tide, a very long sandbar appears, as in, super long, as in, one of  the longest sandbars in the Philippines. Though the sand is beige, it has a mixture of small corals, gray sand, and some little crustaceans running back and forth. By the way, according to our boatman, the island is now private and no trespassing. CLICK TO WATCH MY VLOG

Caramoan Islands (6 Top Tourist Spots + Travel Guide)

A combination of stunning rock formations, crystal clear water, coves, and colorful underwater, Caramoan Islands is definitely the top tourist spot in Camarines Sur. It became became popular in the world when the Survivor franchise had their challenges on some of its islands. This beauty is situated in the far side of the province and almost twelve hours from Manila via land but the stress you’ll feel will be replaced with enjoyment – thanks to its beauty.

Alibijaban Island, Burias Island: Travel Guide, How to Get Here

Alibijaban Island and Burias Island are two beautiful islands in Quezon and Masbate, respectively. Traveling to these places is time-consuming travel but you'll be rewarded with breathtaking beauty. The island has a fine white sand shoreline with trees, bangcas, and local cottages. Mixed on the fine white sand are small living crustaceans and sea shells, and more sea shells by the seashore. The cool emerald crystal clear water is rich with underwater bio-diversity, such as fish, colorful starfish in different sizes and appearances, and many more.

Enchanted Cave, Bolinao, Pangasinan: 2024 Travel Guide, Location, Fees

A lot of tourist spots hides in the province but, the ENCHANTED CAVE is something that you shouldn't miss. Inside the cave is a pool with cool and crystal clear waters. There are stalactites and stalagmites in different forms - stunning background for groupies. Limited visitors are allowed inside the cave per interval. Also, tourists need to wear life jackets and must follow safety protocols inside to avoid accident. Entrance fees are being collected. CLICK TO WATCH MY PANGASINAN VLOG

Patar Beach, Bolinao, Pangasinan: 2024 Travel Guide & Accommodation

Patar Beach is definitely the top tourist spot in Bolinao, Pangasinan. This paradise has a long stretch shoreline with a mixture of fine white sand and shells. Of course, the landscape with not be complete without the palm and hardwood trees, and cottages on the side. The seawater is crystal clear and cool. During our visit, due to COVID, with fewer visitors, the relaxing ambiance is preserved which can make your day a lazy-sunny day. The blue sky is just an addition to the beautiful picturesque of the beach.

Bolinao Falls 3, Pangasinan: 2024 Travel Guide, Itinerary, Tourist Spots

BOLINAO FALLS 3 must be included in your list to visit in Bolinao. Its pool perimeter is longer and wider than the other falls in the area, so it is perfect for photo ops. Though passing the rough road was a bit challenging, you will be rewarded with a wide open area surrounded by greens, landscaped with cottages. The breeze is fresh and cool. Such an Instagram worthy place! By the way, it is a few minutes travel from the falls 1. Entrance fees are being collected. CLICK TO WATCH MY PANGASINAN VLOG

Bolinao Falls 1, Pangasinan: 2024 Travel Guide, Itinerary, Tourist Spots

BOLINAO FALLS 1 is a spectacular waterfalls in the middle of woods. It is always part of the itinerary of operated tours in the province because of its amazing landscape and relaxing ambiance. The cool blue green water is perfect for tired muscles. But, to reach this spot, visitors need to walk on a concrete stair with more than 50 steps, I think. Entrance fees are being collected. CLICK TO WATCH MY PANGASINAN VLOG

Top 5 Best Tourist Spots in Bolinao, Pangasinan: 2024 Itinerary, Places to Visit, Travel Guide

1. Patar Beach

Patar Beach is definitely the top tourist spot in Bolinao, Pangasinan. Why not, the shoreline has a long stretch of fine white sand landscaped by greens and cottages on the side. On the other hand, the horizon that separates the crystal clear water and emerald seas from the blue sky is just an addition to the beautiful picturesque of the beach. The relaxing ambiance is preserved which can make your day a lazy-sunny day.

QUEZON MEMORIAL CIRCLE AND SHRINE

For others, they find Quezon Memorial Circle as their perfect place for jogging, meeting someone, other activities, and the perfect spot for Pokemon Go gamer as their lure location but for me – this landmark commemorates the significance of the late President Manuel L. Quezon and the Commonwealth of the Philippines. I have visited this park several times, but it’s my second time entering the museum.

Mt. Pulag, Benguet: Hike Guide, Difficulty, Height, Weather

Mount Pulag is one of the highest peaks in the Philippines, measures 2,922 MASL. It is also one of the most beautiful mountains in the Philippines, therefore, you should include this on your list. On the other hand, on its summit, hikers can witness the famous “sea of clouds," a majestic phenomenon where visitors are literally above the clouds.

Paragliding in the Philippines (Sarangani, Rizal, now in Cavite)

Because of the pandemic, Paragliding in Carmona, Cavite created it's own spark to local tourists. Before, according to Philippine Tandem Paragliding, they are flying with an average of 10% local tourists per day while the rest are foreign. Today, majority are local, possible reasons? COVID-19 protocols, Filipinos are staying at home and wants something new, and the effect of "Crash Landing on You." Nevertheless, if you want something heart pounding and extreme, this activity is highly recommended. CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE & WATCH MY VLOG

Potipot Island, Zambales: Resorts, 2024 Itinerary, Travel Guide

There are a lot of gorgeous beaches in Zambales, one of these is Potipot Island, an islet situated in Brgy. Uacon, Municipality of Candelaria; a few hours of land travel from Manila. Before the coves of San Antonio were discovered, this island was first hailed as one of the finest gems of the province because of it's fine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and relaxing ambiance. Since it is separated from the mainland and it is in a remote area, a few visitors can only visit.

Bacolor Church, Pampanga: History, Location, 2024 Mass Schedule

Bacolor Church (San Guillermo Church) in Pampanga is considered as the Cagsawa of the North. More than twenty years ago, Mt. Pinatubo erupted and many municipalities were left devastated, including Bacolor. This church was built in 1576 and was named after their patron saint San Guillermo Ermitaño. Destroyed by earthquakes and fire then was rebuilt in 1886.

Borawan Island, Quezon

Borawan Island, a small island with a stretch of fine white sand shoreline, surrounded by crystal clear waters, cool and relaxing ambiance and amazing rock formation. It's name is the combination of Boracay, for its fine white sand, and Palawan because of the rock formation. A few years ago, this island once became a phenomenal island in the province because of its beauty.

Callao Cave, Cagayan: 2024 Travel Guide, History, Tour Packge

Callao Cave is definitely the top tourist attraction in Peñablanca, Cagayan. In Tuguegarao City, we chartered a tricycle to visit this historical site. It is a seven-chamber cave where scientists and experts discovered a 67,000 years old fossilized remains of a Callao man in 2007, that's a thousand years older than the Tabon Man in Palawan. This cave is situated on the Northern foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains. Peñablanca, the name of the municipality, is a Spanish word that means white rocks because of the limestone present in the area.

Aguinaldo Shrine and Museum, Cavite: History, Travel Guide, How to Get Here

Ang mansyon ng mga Aguinaldo o Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine sa Kawit, Cavite ay isa sa mga lumang istruktura na aking gustong maabot at ngayong araw, naabot ko rin ito sa wakas. Galing ng Baclaran, ang probinsya ng Cavite ay halos isang oras lamang  na biyahe dahil sa Cavitex na nagpagaan ng trapiko sa lugar. Sa post ko kahapon, ipinakita ko sa inyo ang maaliwalas na bakuran ng mansyon. Ngayon, loob naman ng mansyon ang aking ibabahagi.

Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral

Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral is the center of the Archdiocese of Cebu City.  It was established as a diocese on August 14, 1595 and became the metropolitan archdiocese on April, 28, 1934, with its first archbishop Gabriel M. Reyes. The construction of the structure was interrupted due to the lack of funds and other circumstances. The facade features a trefoil-shaped pediment decorated with floral carves.

Heritage of Cebu Monument

Heritage of Cebu Monument is a historical landmark situated at the original Plaza Parian. It occupies a triangular portion near the end of Colon Street. This Monument showcases the significance and symbolic events in history of Cebu during the reign of Rajah Humabon. It was a work of art by the National Artist Edgardo Castrillo on July 1997 in cooperation with Mayor Alvin Garcia and was inaugurated in December 8, 2000.

Magellan's Cross, Cebu City

Magellan's Cross is a historical landmark and the most visited tourist spots in Cebu City. It is Christian cross made up of wood erected by Ferdinand Magellan (a Portuguese explorer) during his exploration in Cebu, Philippines on April 21, 1521. This cross can be found inside an octagonal chapel in front of Cebu City Hall and beside Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. This one of the most prominent tourist spot in Cebu. But, the current cross is a tindalo wood where the splinters of the original cross were encased. The wood of the original cross were deteriorated because the people were chipping some parts and making it as a souvenir in the belief that it's miraculous.

Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, Cebu

The Basilica Minore del Santo Niño or Minor Basilica of the Holy Child is one of the minor basilicas in Cebu City. It is one of the oldest Roman Catholic churches in the country. Its current structure is situated on the same spot where the image of Santo Niño was found in 1565 by the Spanish explorers led by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. The said statue is the same with the statue given by Ferdinand Magellan to the wife of Rajah Humabon, 44 years later, as a gift during their baptism on April 14, 1521 at the exact location of Magellan's Cross today.

TINALISAYAN ISLAND, MASBATE (BURIAS UPDATED TRAVEL GUIDE)

Tinalisayan Island was our second destination during our adventure from the Alibijaban Island to Burias Islands. Traveling from Animasola Island to this island takes an hour, but among the three islands we visited, this is irrevocably number one. When I jumped off the boat and landed on the shallow crystal clear water, I easily felt the relaxing feeling because the water was really cool, a contrary to the heat and UV rays from the sun. Our boat was parked by the tip of the sandbar, so walking on the long stretch of a fine and powdery  white sand, with the other visitors on their colorful swimming attire, was just awesome! This long sandbar always greet the visitors with breathtaking beauty. CLICK TO WATCH MY VLOG

Top 4 Best Tourist Spots in Zamboanga City: 2024 Itinerary, Places to Visit, Activities, Travel Guide

"The Latin City of Asia" was given to Zamboanga City because of their language called "chavacano," similar to Spanish. The city is situated on the Southern side of the Zamboanga Peninsula and on the Northern side of Basilan. Aside from their language, the city is also prominent with their "vinta," a colorful and stunning sailboat or watercraft that is usually used by the locals. Using Google Maps, had a walking tour to their top tourist spots and destinations.

The Ruins (Mansion) Talisay (travel from Bacolod)

I was at the entrance The Ruins, in Talisay City, Negros Occidental, when I saw its artistic and gigantic shadow. With my backpack, of course on my back, that’s why it’s called backpack because it’s really on my back, right? Upon paying the entrance fee, I headed to the fountain area, sat on the bench and was staring at the structure for 20 minutes. The ambiance was relaxing because the area is surrounded by gorgeous landscape. Below are the facts written on the printed materials on the wall - courtesy of the Management.

Mt. Mantalingahan, Palawan: Hike Guide, Difficulty, Height

Mt. Mantalingajan or Mantalingahan is situated in Rizal, Palawan, more than 4 hours travel from Puerto Princesa City. Since Manta (another name given) is located on a secluded municipality, its beauty remains hidden to many hikers, thus, its richness is well preserved. A few hikers I met said that it is a combination of Mt. Halcon in Mindoro and Mt. Guiting-Guiting in Romblon.

Molo Church, Ilo-Ilo

Molo Church or the St. Anne Parish is situated in front of the town plaza.  Molo is actually one of the seven districts of Iloilo City which formerly called Parian (Chinatown) because the residents here were mostly Chinese. Then it was changed into Moro because of the frequent arrival of Muslim pirates from Mindanao, but later evolved in this name – Wikipedia.com.

Jaro Cathedral, IloIlo

Jaro Cathedral is another example of the historical baroque architecture in the country. Built in 1864 by the order of Mariano Cuartero, who is the first bishop of Jaro. In 1948, this structure was destroyed by an earthquake and was restored in 1956 by the order of the first archbishop Jose Ma. Cuenco. The famous orator, Graciano Lopez Jaena was baptized in this church. In 1976, this church was proclaimed as Historical Landmark by the National Historical Institute.