Lanao del Sur, Backpacking in Mindanao (BARMM, Regions 10 & 11)

Marawi City, the capital of Lanao del Sur, is one of the cities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao. It has a colorful culture and overflowing with stunning attractions and destinationsBefore my solo backpacking,  whenever I shared my itinerary, the common response of my friends was, "It is not safe in there," that negative statement did not affect my travel plan.

Bud Bongao

Bud Bongao, in Tawi-Tawi Province, is a sacred Muslim pilgrimage site where our Muslim brothers and sisters meditate and offer prayers to Allah. Not just the centre of religious activity, this mountain is an iconic landscape. Thus, it is the top tourist spot in the province. By the way, "bud" is a Tausug word that translates to "mountain" in English.

Ifugao Tourist Spots

1. Batad Rice Terraces

The amphitheater-like rice terraces of the Cordillera region captured the eyes of the world in 1995 as it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site List, and Batad Rice Terraces is one of the five spectacular rice terraces of Ifugao. Less than a thousand years ago, the people of Ifugao mastered agricultural practices that included the creation of terraces. This agricultural landscape is proof that the early civilizations already knew how to improve their crops by adapting to natural factors through terracing. READ: BATAD RICE TERRACES

Featuring Rizal (Attractions, Itinerary, Guide)

Bakasyunan Resort in Tanay.
A photo of Bakasyunan Resort in Tanay.

About Rizal

The Province of Rizal is part of Region 4A commonly known as the CALABARZON. Due to its proximity to Metro Manila, the province became one of top tourist destinations. There are mountains with stunning views on the summit, rivers and waterfalls with crystal clear waters, lakes surrounded by amazing landscapes, historical sites that reflects its past, and colorful festivals that show craftsmanship and talents. With that in mind, you must include Rizal on your next trip; I've listed some of the recommended attractions in the province.

Featuring Pampanga (Attractions, Itinerary, Guide)

Pampanga tourist spots
A photo of Bacolor Church.

About Pampanga:

The province of Pampanga is located in Region 3 or commonly known as the Central Luzon. This province is prominent for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant culinary scene, and historical significance. Often referred to as the "Culinary Capital of the Philippines," Pampanga is home to a diverse range of delicious dishes, including the world-famous sisig and tocino. Its capital, San Fernando, is known for its stunning Christmas lanterns and is also the site of historical events that shaped the nation's struggle for independence. Not only that, the Giant Lantern Festival and Sinukwan Festival are the most awaited event that showcase the province’s creativity and deep-rooted traditions. Below are list of the recommended destinations in Pampanga:

Bulacan Tourist Spots

Bulacan tourist spots

1. Barasoain Church

In Philippine history, Bulacan is one of those provinces with a lot of happenings and until today, the historical sites are still standing. Let's start with Barasoain Church, also known as Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish, a Roman Catholic church built in 1630 in Malolos City, Bulacan. From Bulacan Provincial Capitol, we rode in a tricycle to and alighted in front of the church. It was early in the morning so we had time taking photos without people on the background. Disadvantage? The church was open but the museum was closed. I was stunned by its structure, thus, standing in front of the facade was remarkable.

Tourist Spots in Negros Oriental

1. Negros Oriental Capitol Building

The capitol building is situated at the Freedom Park. This structure houses the influential people in the province. Similar to the other capitol buildings in the Philippines, its structure is covered with white and has four columns in front. On the other hand, the park has an open ground that serves as a playground for the children studying at the schools nearby.

PROJECT 81 PH: ALL PROVINCES IN THE PHILIPPINES

Project 81
Aim for 81 is my personal agenda for the next few years; other's call it Project81 or Project81PH. Its main purpose is to save money to be used for visiting and discovering the hidden treasures in 81 Provinces in the Philippines. I totally understand that it will not be as easy as my previous backpacking but, I know, I CAN DO IT! As of August 2020, I have 6 remaining in Luzon, done with all the provinces in the Visayas and one remaining in Mindanao.

Top 5 Best Bicolano Dishes (Authentic Recipes)


1. Laing

When we visited Caramoan islands in Camarines Sur, tasting their very own and authentic dishes as part of our itinerary. I am not a chef or a cook but according to some friends, I have good and active taste buds. Taray diba??? For the first time I will be a food critic. First is the famous Laing. This is a spicy dish with dried taro leaves, siling labuyo, and coconut milk as the main ingredients. There's a linamanam factor and the texture is smooth inside my mouth.

Silay City: Historical Sites (Top Tourist Spots)


1. Balay Negrense


Balay Negrense is one of the century old houses along Cinco de Noviembre Street, Silay City. This street is remarkable because of the historical value that transpires to the people. Balay Negrense is a Hiligaynon phrase which means: Balay or a house and Negrense refers to the people living in the province of Negros. It is a century old house in Silay City owned by Victor Fernandez Gaston, the eldest son of a prominent sugar baron Yves Leopold Germain Gaston and Prudencia Fernandez. It was built between 1897 to 1901, then abandoned in the mid-1970’s, repaired by the government and was inaugurated on October 6, 1990.