Jose Cojuanco Mansion

This is the old and original house of Jose Chichioco Cojuangco (July 3, 1896-August, 1976). He was the former Representative of the 1st district of the province of Tarlac from 1934 to 1946.  He is one of the roots of the Cojuangco clan, and he is the father of the late President of the Philippines, Corazon Aquino, and grandfather of the late President Benigno Aquino III. This historical landmark is situated on Paseo del Congreso Street, just a few meters from Barasoain Church and Casa Real Shrine.

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Plaridel Church

The Plaridel Church was established in 1581 and is one of Bulacan's oldest Hispanic churches. Its structure is a barn-style Baroque with Moorish ornamentation. During the British occupation (1762-1763), this church was the place where the money and jewels of San Agustin, in Intramuros, Manila, were kept. An octagonal chapel, locally called the Simborio Chapel, is surrounded by artistic windows. The people in this area, with the help of the local government, are preserving their historical value. Also, "Pintakasi ng mga Caballero," or a fiesta for horse lovers, is celebrated in Plaridel, Bulacan.

Another relaxing day at San Rafael River Adventure

San Rafael River Adventure offers a remarkable, unique, and modern way of camping - this generation calls it "glamping" or glamorous camping. With great facilities, this river resort can definitely give you a WOW factor: from the gorgeous surroundings, relaxing ambiance, water activities, and excellent amenities. Leaving work and relaxing somewhere is the perfect way to spend your rest days.

CAMILING PARISH CHURCH: Tarlac Travel Guide

Before hiking Mt. Damas, I visited the Camiling Parish Church or the St. Michael The Archangel Parish Church in Camiling, Tarlac. This historical structure is the oldest church built in the province. It was built at around 18th century but was destroyed several times and was rebuilt in 1880s after the major earthquake. This church was the death place of General Pedro Pedroche and his soldiers who were killed by troops of Francisco Makabulos.

Ramon Magsaysay Ancestral House

A stunning color of Magsaysay's ancestral house.

Another attraction in Zambales is the ancestral house of former President Ramon Magsaysay in the Municipality of Castillejos. After celebrating Batang Hamog Mountaineers' 7th Anniversary at Silanguin Cove, this ancestral house was our side trip. While heading back to Manila, we decided to stop by because it looked unique, and it was the house of the Seventh President of the Philippine Republic. It was Lucky 7; we were in the 7th Year and visited the house of the 7th President of the Philippines. Ma-connect lang talaga no?? This ancestral house houses furniture, photos, medallions, and other memorabilia.

Mt. Daguldol (Hiking Guide and Itinerary)

Batangas is prominent with its beautiful beaches and outstanding underwater activities, but if you want to strike two different destinations in one day, it is possible. Not so far from the shoreline of San Juan, you can find Mt. Daguldol, one of the hiking destinations in the province. This mountain is one of their assets in terms of mountain ranges with beaches in the background. Daguldol is perfect for first-time hikers because the trail is simple to moderate, but the beauty on the summit is remarkably beautiful.

Mt. Manabu (Hiking Guide and Itinerary)

Its name is derived from the phrase "Mataas Na Bundok." Mt. Manabu has gorgeous flora and distinct fauna on its terrain, which is usually composed of tall hardwood and fruit-bearing trees, coconuts, shrubs, and grasses. This type of terrain serves as a paradise for the civet cats that produce expensive coffee. In addition, its summit has a wide view of the mountain ranges from afar and the nearby villages and a cool and refreshing sea breeze.

Mt. Malipunyo (Hiking Guide and Itinerary)

It is one of the hiking destinations in Batangas because of the stunning views and extraordinary experiences that can be found on the trails of this mountain. Mt. Malarayat or Malepunyo is another name given to the Malipunyo ranges in Southern Luzon. Proximity wise from Manila and nearby provinces, it's a big check. Furthermore, it is also considered “first-timer friendly,” as it has simple to moderate trail types. The terrain is abundant, with different types of trees and colourful flowers that serve as a paradise for wildlife. 

Mt. Tibig (Hiking Guide and Itinerary)

This mountain offers a relaxing trek because of its trails and gorgeous picturesque on the summit. With reggae music in the background, the stunning mountain ranges, covered with greens, will definitely make your eyes relaxed while the fresh and cool wind will help your soared muscles recover - such a perfect place for bonding. Also, accessibility from Manila is super check because it is situated in Lobo, Batangas, a two to three hours land travel from the metro. Plus, hiking for one to two hours, you can easily reach the summit of Mt. Tibig.

Buntot Palos Falls (Itinerary and Guide)

As I've been saying in my Laguna posts, this province has a lot to offer. Today, I am bringing you to one of the majestic waterfalls of Laguna. Buntot Palos Falls, which others call "the hidden falls," is the grandest waterfall in Southern Luzon as it stands 80 meters with a high amount of water falling. Its name literally translates to "Eel's Tail" in English because, according to our guide, the trails to the falls a long, curvy, and slippery, similar to Eels's body or Palos in Filipino. Did you know that it has a hidden feature? It is a cave beneath the waterfalls, so passing through the water is needed.

Mt. Mabilog (Hiking Guide and Itinerary)

Aside from the historical sites, food, and rich culture, Laguna also has great flora and fauna that can be found in the mountainous and forest areas. Mt. Mabilog is just one of the mountains lying in the province where a vast diversity of wildlife can be found. Hiking this mountain can definitely bring an extreme and remarkable experience because of its muddy trail. Still, there's a wide picture of the Laguna and the nearby mountains, such as Mt. Banahaw and Mt. Cristobal. Not only that, the reflection of the skies can also be seen on the water of the seven lakes.

Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery

The Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery is a burial site 15 meters below a small chapel designed for funeral masses in 1845 by Franciscan Priests led by Fr. Vicente Velloc. In the Philippines, burial sites are situated in different spots, like hanging in Ifugao, placed inside the cave in Palawan and Cagayan, and concrete crypt (in the modern era). This burial site is unique because of its architectural design and purpose.

Pandin Lake (Itinerary and Guide)

Pandin Lake is just one of the seven lakes in Laguna, and it is a certified tourist destination because of its unique and amazing picturesque. With the reflection of the skies, the water greets the visitors with its Instagrammable landscape. The water is cool and crystal clear surrounded by forest which preserve the area's tranquility. This is also the perfect jump-off or side trip for hiking Mt. Mabilog. The province of Laguna has a healthy culture, stories, and travel destinations.

3B Rest House, Antipolo City

Planning to go out of town but how far is out of town? Though, it's a one to two hours land travel from Metro Manila, we chose 3B Resort in Antipolo City because we thought that it has a relaxing ambiance and a pool with the view of Manila's golden skyline. Since it is situated on the mountainous part, the wind is relaxing, cool and fresh. This is your Backpacking Guide, Affordable Place to Stay, and Other Things You Need to Know.

The Secluded Erin's Place Resort, Baras, Rizal

Rizal is the neighboring province of Metro Manila, therefore, it's a perfect destination for travel seekers, team buildings, family gatherings, and many more. If you're looking for a quiet place, surrounded by trees, that has cool fresh air, a good landscape, has a relaxing ambiance, Erin's Place Resort is the perfect place to be. Almost two hours from Metro Manila,  this resort is one of the resorts in the secluded area of Sitio San Roque, Brgy. Pinugay, Baras, Rizal.

Aliwan Fiesta

Introduction

Aliwan Fiesta, or Aliwan Festival, is an annual event where colorful festivals from different regions in the Philippines gather in one area to compete for the coveted title. Having said that, Aliwan Fiesta is known as the "festival of all the festivals in the Philippines." Aside from the given title, the winners will also bring home cash prices and many more. This event has a huge contribution to Philippine tourism because it is the best way to let the world know or the universe rather, those festivals are More Fun in the Philippines. Anyways, Aliwan has a series of events, such as the street dance competition, the float parade, and the Reyna ng Aliwan. Below are the winners:

Jolo, Sulu: Tourist Spots, Destinations, What to do and Where to stay

While the sun was still setting and we were a few kilometers away from the port of Jolo, I noticed the big picture and the stunning view of Sulu - an island province in the Bangsamoro Region. Although this province is always associated with "war," my solo backpacking in the province is proof that traveling to this part of the Philippines is safe. I even discovered that the people are friendly and accommodating. Below are the must-do and must-visit tourist attractions and destinations:

Mt. 387 (Hiking Guide and Itinerary)

It is one of the newly marked hiking destinations in Luzon because of its breathtaking beauty, spectacular and tantalizing golden sunset, and fresh and cool ambiance. This mountain can be considered one of the most scenic mountains in the Philippines. Mt. 387 is situated in the province Nueva Ecija which is dubbed as the “Rice Granary of the Philippines,” so expect a wide green surrounding.

My Solo-Backpacking in Capiz, Antique, Guimaras, and Ilo-Ilo

Day 1 - Itinerary: Manila to Roxas Airport:

• I rode in a tricycle from Roxas Airport to my first destination - Panay Church. Travel Time: 23 minutes. Fare: 200 pesos. ETA: 7:30 AM.
• Upon arrival, I easily felt the cool and fresh air blowing.
• I also noticed an event banner hanging by the side of the church; thus, with respect, I did not check the entire part of the Panay Church, including the largest bell on top. However, I stayed in the area for an hour and thirty minutes.
• Had my breakfast at 7-11, in front of the church, while starring on its gorgeous facade.

Mt. Tabayoc and its virgin forest

The video above was taken on the summit of Mt. Tabayoc. This mountain has the most preserved virgin in the Philippines; the trails that are covered with mosses, trees and other ornamental plants are the living proof. On the summit there's a 360 degrees view of the Cordillera Mountains, the shape of Mt. Pulag and the spectacular Sea of Clouds.

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VIDEO BLOG: A Drone Shot of Mt. Timbak

This video was taken during our hike on Mt. Timbak.
Check my YouTube Channel here -> SirangLente.

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Pililla Windfarm, Rizal

Holy week itinerary: Pasig Church, Cainta Church, Taytay Church, Tanay Church, Pililla Wind Farm, Rock House Restaurant.

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Camping by the Beach of Alibijaban Island

Alibijaban Island and Burias Island are paradise! It's been three weeks when we visited these islands and I still can't move on and forget its beautiful landscape. Traveling and backpacking was remarkable because it's really long and tiring, but you will be rewarded with a picture perfect and breathtaking place. Please see photos below because I am lacking descriptive words.

Mt. Batulao, your updated Climb Guide

Mt. Batulao is one of the famous hiking destinations in Batangas for those people searching for challenges and outdoor adventures. This mountain is another gem and pride of Southern Luzon which is 2-3 hours travel from the Manila, very accessible to both private and public vehicles. Batulao is famous because of the breathtaking view of its ranges and slopes. Its surface has an amazing shape covered with luscious and relaxing greens. Since it's just a few kilometers away from Tagaytay, which is the usual side trip, its ambience is really cool.

Processing a TIN ID Replacement

Personal Identification is one of the most important thing that you should bring if you're going somewhere; more important than your cellphones. If you have business transactions in any financial institutions or banks, government and private agencies, and even employment, government issued IDs are necessary. Some of these are SSS, Passport, BIR TIN ID, NBI and the other. Today, just want to share my experience how simple to request a replacement for my lost TIN ID is. Here's what I did: 

Ang Mahiwagang "Puting Ding-Ding" sa Aguinaldo Mansion

Dahil gugunitain nanaman natin ang Araw ng Kalayaan ng Pilipinas sa susunod na lingo, naisipan kong bisitahin ang isa sa mga pinaka sikat at makasay-sayang mansyon sa bansa -  ang mansyon ng mga Aguinaldo sa Kawit, Cavite. Dito lang naman iwinagayway at ipinahayag ang Kalayaan ng Pilipinas noong ika-12 ng Hunyo 1898. Ang larawan sa itaas ay kuha sa ikalawang palapag ng mansyon, kapansin-pansin ang mga antigong kagamitan at muwebles  na kadalasan hindi nawawalan ng mga nakakakilabot na mga kuwento.

Pure Bass Sound with JBL In-Earphone

As a replacement for my Hoomia earphones, I searched online for the best and affordable earphones in the market. A lot of choices were given, from brands, usage, quality and special features. Personally, I am looking for a not so expensive earphones but can give me a superb pure bass sound. It was a challenging task to choose for the right one especially if you're searching online because you can't do a testing. According to feedback and customer reviews, JBL T210 in-earphone is one of the best, so I purchased one.

Colgate PerioGard, a treatment for Gingivitis

It's been a while since my last visit to my dentist. So, a week ago, I visited her for my oral prophylaxis. She said that my teeth are still good, but the only problem is Gingivitis, or an inflammation of the gums. Need to learn what she was talking about. According to her, if not treated, it can result in a more serious infection, so she gave me a Colgate PerioGard. After using it for a week, bleeding while brushing my teeth stopped. Now, I have healthy teeth and gums and can confidently eat anything without thinking about bleeding.

Best 4K Action Cam from Lazada

 Today, the spread of action camera is really fast. Started by GoPro, now there are a lot of action cameras in the market that can be purchased at a very low price. I ordered one from Lazada and after receiving, I can't stop exploring what this low cost action camera can provide. So much excited because of its size, features, video and photo quality, usage, and accessories.

Cinco de Noviembre Festival

Sigabong sang mga Kanyon means “explosion of cannons.” It is also part of an annual Fiesta dubbed as “Cinco de Nobyembre” by the City of Bago, Negros Occidental, commemorating the uprising of the Negrenses and the somewhat “explosive” true story behind the province’s independence. History accounts relate to the siege of Bago City, then a poblacion, which was liberated by the Philippine revolutionary General Juan Araneta in the early hours of November 5, 1898. Info from Aliwan Fiesta Website

Maytime Festival is the Pride of Antipolo City

Tayo na sa Antipolo Maytime Festival promotes the city of Antipolo as one of the pilgrimage sites in the Philippines, celebrated every first Tuesday of May and ends on the first Tuesday of July. This colorful festivities include Unang Prusisyon, Santacruzan and Katapusang Prusisyon, together with the beautiful street dancing competitions. Antipolo's native delicacies like suman, manga and kasoy are always part of the event to showcase the wealth of their city. The art and colors signifies their colorful culture. Info from Aliwan Fiesta Website

The colorful Inaul Festival

Inaul or Inol literally translates to "weaved" in English. It is a hand-woven fabric by the Maguindanaon women weavers. It is traditionally used as a "malong" or a "bara-bangsa," which describes royalty. Before, the use of Inaul reflected the status symbol of the wearer in society. These fabrics are woven with stunning colors with their own meaning. Yellow and orange signifies royalty, red is for bravery, green is for peace and harmony, and white is for purity. The use of gowns made from Inaul during the Miss Universe 2016 pageant made this local product a world-class fabric.

Tugtog ng Aliwan Festival

This travel wasn't planned, Jean, my high school classmate, messaged me to witness this grandest festival battle in the Philippines. We were thinking that today April 20, 2017 is the street dancing competition and unfortunately we're wrong but it's fine because this day is the Tugtog ng Aliwan 2017, where the contingents from different  regions in the country compete with their unique and distinct sounds using their native instruments. Since it's unplanned, I don't my have my DSLR camera, so these photos were captured using my not so expensive phone. 

Centuries Old Churches in Negros Occidental and Iloilo

 This Lenten season, one of the cultural practices by some of the Filipinos is Visita Iglesia or visiting several churches. Here are some of the Centuries Old Churches in Negros Occidental and Ilo-Ilo. Let's start with Miag-ao Church, UNESCO World Heritage Site. Construction began in 1787 while Fray Francisco M. Gonzales. O.S.A. was the parish priest of Miag-ao and Domingo Libo-on  was the Gobernadorcillo. The Church was completed in 1797 and it served as the fortress against Muslim Raiders. During revolution, this church was destroyed but was rebuilt. Like other heritage churches, it was damaged by fire and earthquake. Restoration work began in 1960 and was completed in 1962.

Before the Human Drone Got Famous

Photo above: Britania Island, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur. This generation, technology evolution is really fast, especially with cameras. I can still remember the classic words like Fujifilm, AGFA, as endorsed by Aga Mulach, analog/film camera, rewind, pa-develop, pa re-copy, wag buksan baka ma-expose, and many others. It was in 2002 when I was able to use and capture a photo using my friend's digital camera. After fifteen years, here we are with the touch screen technology, hundred Millimeter lenses, filters, image stabilizers, underwater capabilities, more memory, and of course, the latest, which is the flying capabilities.

Reason Why You Shouldn't Miss Kanidugan Festival

Kanidugan Festival is one of the most awaited festivals in the Philippines. This festivities is celebrated on the first week of April in Odiongan,  Tablas Island, Romblon. The street dance parade and ground demonstration is composed of participants from the baranggay level. Each of the participants is wearing their best and colorful costumes made from the coconut products. It is showcasing the importance of coconut or "niyog" in Filipino or "nidog" a local term where its name came from. Photos below will describe why you shouldn't miss Kanidugan Festival 2016:

Rizal Park, Manila

Rizal Park is the well known landmark in the Philippines because of its historical values and beautiful landscape, near Intramuros in Manila. Its name is derived from Dr. Jose Rizal as a tribute to our national hero's patriotic act. It is also called Luneta (Lunette) because of its shape and was previously called Bagumbayan. This was the place where Rizal was executed by the Spanish Colonial Forces on December 30, 1896 which sparked the fire of the Philippine Revolution against the Spaniards.

Benefits of Getting a Beep Card

 I am planning to work for a company in McKinley Hill, Taguig and daily commuting is a bit challenging. Imagine, from Rizal I need to take a ride in an FX to Ayala and alight in Kalayaan and then a jeepney ride to Market Market or I can also wait for those with a direct route to Market Market. From there, I have to ride again in a jeepney to Lawton Avenue, McKinley Hill and wait for the shuttle roaming around area. As part of my plan, just purchased a Stored Value Beep Card at the MRT Ortigas station, costs 100 pesos with 80 pesos wallet value, to be used for my daily commuting. What can I get from this Beep Card?

Cucumber Benefits | You Should Know

We have a small farmland in the province, during rainy season we usually plant rice and string beans but during summer we plant water melon, melon, squash,  eggplant, and many other vegetables that grow without too much water; wait, I almost forgot pipino or cucumber. Among those veggies I mentioned, I usually rate cucumbers as the lowest because I seldom see them as important as the water melons and the others and usually forgot what they can give to people.

Mt. Talamitam | BHM on 3rd

Our original plan was Mt. Maculot, but two days before the climb, it was changed to Mt. Talamitam in Nasugbu, Batangas. Night trekking was certainly full of fun since there was no problem with the harmful sun UV rays. Talamitam is covered with cogon grass and shrubs; no hard wood or trees that can protect the hikers from the sun rays. Its highest point measures 630+ MASL with a gorgeous ambiance on top. There's one hundred meters assault to the summit which added an amazing adventure to the hikers. Mt. Batulao and Mt. Pico de Loro were just two of the well known mountains nearby.

Mt. Maculot

Mt Maculot is one of the mountains lying in southern Luzon which is prominent to mountaineers because of its special feature. Maculot is one of the best options for day hikes because of its minor trail type, terrains that are covered with trees and surrounded by grass and shrubs, the air is fresh, cool ambiance and a perfect location for a stunning shot with the world-famous and most active Taal Volcano on the background. The rockies is one of the best and famous part of Maculot.

Faces of Mt. Apo

 Mt. Apo is the tallest mountain in the Philippines, 2,956 MASL. It was a tough journey, but absolutely a life changing experience for us. Despite of its technical factors like the assault and steep trails, extreme coldness, tiring hike and etc. that measured my strength, I was able to conquer my own fears. It's hard to tell and explain, so these photos below will explain more.

Ortigas Center, Pasig City

When I was still in Romblon, I didn't expect that my career would be boosted here in Metro Manila, particularly in Ortigas Center, Pasig City. It was in 2008 when I started working in a BPO, but it's my first time adding this place in SirangLente or TravellingCup. Ortigas Center has a lot to offer, from the five-star hotels with world-class facilities, restaurants serving mouth-watering delicacies made by people from different parts of the world, call center companies serving different languages, and many others.

Featuring Cebu (Tourist Spots + Guide)

1. Magellan's Cross

Magellan's Cross is a historical landmark and the most visited tourist spot in Cebu City. It is a Christian Cross made 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 is one of the most prominent tourist spots 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 deteriorated because the people were chipping some parts and making it as a souvenir in the belief that it was miraculous.

Getting a Copy of NSO Birth Certificate at SM

NSO or PSA Certified Birth Certificate  is one of the most important documents that you should furnish from the government. Birth certificates are needed for employment, school, and for requesting other ID's. So, to get 1 valid ID, you should submit 2 valid IDs. Hahaha. Despite of the fast technology, let's accept the reality that requesting documents from the government agencies needs more time and effort. To resolve this old problem, government agencies like NBI, SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-ibig, DFA, and other offices placed their kiosk inside the SM Supermalls and Robinsons nationwide.

Cavite Travel Guide: Top Tourist Spots, Itinerary, Budget, and Tips

Jump to: About Cavite | Top Attractions | How to Get There | Suggested Itinerary | Estimated Budget | Where to Stay | Travel Tips | FAQs

About Cavite

Cavite, known as the “Historical Capital of the Philippines,” is rich in colonial heritage, nature parks, and vibrant food culture. From Tagaytay’s cool climate to Corregidor’s war stories, Cavite offers a mix of adventure and nostalgia just a few hours from Metro Manila.

Memories of my Olympus Camera

My Olympus Tough digital camera is now five years. With this span of years I was able to capture beautiful, stunning, and vibrant memories because of its lens. Regardless of scenes, either mountains, historical sites, beaches, underwater, nature, and many others, Olympus Tough is really strong in bringing a great outcome. Photos below are just some of the dramatic images taken outdoors using my Olympus Tough TG-320.

5 Days Backpacking in Mindanao (Surigao, Agusan, Camiguin)

Stunning photo of Hagonoy Island.

Our original plan was to hike Mt. Dulang-dulang and Mt. Kitanglad, but because of the question: “gusto nyo ba?” it was changed to backpacking in Northern Mindanao. It happened for a very, very short time. So from Malaybalay, Bukidnon, we rode on a bus with a Cagayan signboard and alighted at Agora Terminal. At the terminal, we rode in a bus with a Butuan signboard and alighted at Butuan Terminal. Then, another bus ride to Mangahoy, Bislig, Surigao del Sur. Our first destinations are the majestic tourist spots in Surigao del Sur.

A Portrait of Love in Romblon

My plan for the first week of January 2017 was to travel and visit all the islands of Romblon, capture stunningly gorgeous photos and publish them. What a good coincidence, my first photo for 2017 is not about gorgeous tourist spot or historical landmark – it is about love. These photos were taken when I was en-route to Romblon, inside a RoRo vessel, traveling on Romblon straight, with a not so calm weather.

Old Churches in Bicol - a Must Visit

Naga City is famous in terms of religious fluvial procession that usually starts and ends to a church. Speaking of which, did you know that Bicol region also has their own historical and heritage churches? Let’s start with the San Francisco Church in Naga City. I wasn’t able to touch or enter this old structure because we literally passed by this church. Good thing that my shutter was quick and was able to capture this gorgeous church. I did a research online and found out that this church was erected in 1578. Same as with the other old church in the Philippines, it was made up of bamboo, wood then reconstructed into a brick in 17th century. The structure that we are seeing today was constructed in 1957, after  the Second World War. Historically speaking, the church’s parish served as the interrogration and persecution site during the Spanish colonization in the Philippines.