Ilagan Japanese Tunnel – History, Entrance Fee, and Travel Guide

Jump to: About the Ilagan Japanese Tunnel | Historical Background | How to Get There | Entrance Fee & Schedule | What to Expect | Travel Tips | Nearby Attractions

About the Ilagan Japanese Tunnel

The Ilagan Japanese Tunnel is a historic World War II tunnel located in Barangay Santo Tomas, Ilagan City, Isabela. It was used by Japanese soldiers as a shelter and strategic hideout during the war. Today, it's a preserved war relic and a must-see attraction in Isabela for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Lussok Cave Travel Guide: Spelunking in Apayao’s Hidden Gem

Jump to: About Lussok Cave | How to Get There | Things to Do | Fees | Itinerary | Budget | Travel Tips | FAQs

About Lussok Cave

Lussok Cave is a multi-chamber limestone cave system located in Luna, Apayao. It's famous for its stunning karst formations, underground river, and boat ride experience inside the cave. As part of the Apayao eco-tourism zone, it's perfect for nature lovers and spelunkers.

National Museum of the Filipino People

I have been dreaming of visiting the Philippine National Museum since high school, but in 2015, that dream came into reality as they offered free admission for the whole month of October. I spent the whole day inside these historical buildings, from the Marikina Shoe Museum to the Museum of the Filipino People building.

The stunning interior of San Sebastian Church, Manila

After meeting up at TIP Manila for my cap distributed by Street Style Originals, I planned to visit Paco Cemetery, but due to unfriendly weather conditions, I chose to visit San Sebastian Church in Manila, just a few meters away. For the second time, when I entered the church, I was still fascinated by its uniqueness; from the walls, columns, floor, glass chandeliers, cabinets, and others parts look really stunning.

AMANDARAGA FALLS, EASTERN SAMAR: TRAVEL GUIDE, ITINERARY, BUDGET, WHAT TO DO, AND HOW TO GET

Amandaraga Falls is the top tourist destinations in Lawaan, Eastern Samar. This majestic waterfall has an artistic rock formation on the side, the cool and pressure of the falling crystal clear water is the perfect for body massage. Not only that, the sound of the rushing waters preserves the tranquility with the help of the relaxing green surroundings - it is just breathtaking!

Sumptuous Lunch at Balaw-Balaw Restaurant

It is one of the must-visit or best restaurants to dine at if you are looking for exotic foods. I am not into cooking, but I love eating, so I would like to share our amazing encounter with exotic foods at Balaw Balaw Restaurant in Angono, Rizal. This happened after enjoying the famous Higantes Festival; while our clothes were wet, we headed to this special restaurant.

The stunning and colorful Higantes Festival

Higantes Festival is an annual festivities held every November 23 in Angono, Rizal; its main purpose is to honor San Clemente, patron saint of the fishermen. His image is carried by male devotees during the procession, followed by the street dancers and participants. Higantes (Giants in English) is made up of paper mosaic handcrafted by the artistic minds of the people of Angono.

Animasola Island has a spectacular rock formation

Animasola Island is one of the sun-drenched islets of the Burias Group of Islands in San Pascual, Masbate. We travelled 3 hours via motorized banca from Alibijaban Island to witness its grandeur. It's true, it's a gigantic rock perched in the water that looks beautiful because of its unique formation, curved by nature. Just the journey itself while crossing the sea, with the huge waves, was remarkable. Our motorized banca was like hopping on and off the huge waves. From afar, this islet looks ordinary, the same as with the islets we've visited; however, as we were getting nearer, the view was just astounding because of its unique formation.

Night full of colors at the Giant Lantern Festival

This is an annual festival held in December in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines. The festival features a competition of giant lanterns. Because of the popularity of the festival, the city has been nicknamed the "Christmas Capital of the Philippines". The first Giant Lantern Festival was held to honor President Manuel L. Quezon. At that time, Quezon made Arayat his rest area and converted Mount Arayat into a tourist resort. As a show of gratitude to Quezon, the people of San Fernando held a Christmas lantern contest to honor the first family. Quezon himself donated the prize for his lantern contest, which was personally awarded to the winner by First Lady Aurora Aragon Quezon -WikiPedia.org

Maniwaya Island Travel Guide – White Sand Beaches, Sandbar, and Budget Itinerary

Jump to: About Maniwaya Island | How to Get There | Things to Do | Sample Itinerary | Budget and Expenses | Where to Stay | Travel Tips

About Maniwaya Island

Maniwaya Island is a hidden tropical paradise off the coast of Marinduque. Known for its powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and nearby Palad Sandbar, this off-the-grid destination is perfect for beach lovers, backpackers, and weekend warriors seeking peace and natural beauty.

Best Travel Destinations in the Philippines

Traveling to the best tourist attractions and destinations in the Philippines for the past twelve months is definitely rewarding. I was able to meet a lot of people from different provinces with different cultures and beliefs. The unique and explainable excitement that I feel every time I create my travel guide and itinerary always results in an exquisite experience. Thank you for all your support!

Rizal Visita Iglesia (Itinerary + Guide)

I have been planning to visit the historical and century-old churches in Pasig and the province of Rizal and the plan became a reality after 11 months. Today is the perfect day and the perfect season because it is my Visita Iglesia in a backpacking style. My itinerary started with the oldest church in Pasig, followed by the Marian Church of Cainta, then, St. John the Baptist in Taytay, and the stunning Tanay Church. And to close my good Friday adventure, together with my friends, we visited the gigantic Pililla Wind Farm.

Laguna's stunning Bunga Falls

During our Mt. Kalisungan and Mt. Mabilog hikes, Bunga Twin Falls was our side trip and post-climb destination. The ambiance in the area is cool and relaxing because it is surrounded by trees, coconuts, and other plants. Its name was derived from the "bunga" plant or "beetle nut" in English; that was many years ago, when the area was still abundant with this plant. Today, this twin falls is definitely one of the summer destinations in Laguna.

Romblon Travel Guide – Top Tourist Spots, How to Get There, Itinerary & Budget

Jump to: About Romblon | How to Get There | Things to Do | Sample Itinerary | Budget and Expenses | Where to Stay | Travel Tips

About Romblon

Romblon, dubbed as the “Marble Capital of the Philippines,” is a peaceful island province in MIMAROPA known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, unspoiled islands, and centuries-old churches. With fewer crowds compared to Boracay or Palawan, Romblon offers an off-the-beaten-path experience for backpackers, island hoppers, and culture lovers.

A relaxing overnight stay at Manuel Uy Beach Resort

Stunning beaches and resorts near Manila can be found in the province of Batangas in Southern Luzon; Manuel Uy Beach Resort is one of the must-visit places in Calatagan, a 3-4 hour road trip from Manila. Travel time might be tiring, but our journey to our destination was unforgettable. Our journey started after our respective shifts on a Friday. It was a bit challenging because all of us woke up early for work and passing on the roads of Tagaytay added a sleepy feeling due to its cool weather. There was a moment of silence, although most of the time, we killed that "sleepy ambiance" by talking about other people's lives. If who those people are? hhmm. No comment. Aside from that, our musicality was also measured by the Whitney Houston and Celine Dion's songs played while the car window's open.

The stunning sunset of Burot Beach

Burot Beach is a perfect place to relax and experience adventure. Situated in the Municipality of Calatagan, Batangas—just a few hours' travel from Metro Manila—it offers fine yellowish sand and a calm ambiance while the sunset is truly magical. History: This beach was formerly known as Elizalde Beach because it was owned by a wealthy clan in the Philippines, and then bought by the SM Group of Companies.

Agnaem or Agnain Cove, Zambales

Our group, group, Batang Hamog Mountaineers, is now at 8! The original plan was to celebrate in Talisayin Cove, in Zambales, however, due to inter-tropical convergence zone and a typhoon in Northern Seaboard, the Coast Guard did not allow all small motorized sea vessel to go farther. Instead, we were brought to Agnaem Cove, a secluded area which 10-15 minutes boat ride from Pundaquit.

8 Days Solo Backpacking in Regions 12, 13, and BARMM

Introduction:

So far, traveling to the provinces in Regions 12, 13, and part of the BARMM is the most expensive trip. Again, that's so far. Nonetheless, this part of Mindanao is one of the great tourist destinations in the Philippines. There are fine white sand beaches, gigantic waterfalls, lakes, historical sites, and many more.

The stunning Awao Falls of Davao de Oro

Awao Falls hides in the mountainous farming village in the Municipality of Monkayo. In terms of Eco-tourism, this stunning waterfall is the top destination in the province. There is no direct transportation to these majestic waterfalls, so having an hour bumpy habal-habal ride with a river crossing is necessary to see its hidden beauty. Getting here will certainly be challenging, but you will be rewarded with pristine and breathtaking waterfalls. The picturesque is perfect, the ambiance is relaxing, the water is cool, and the air is fresh.

Kaamulan Park

Kaamulan is definitely the most relaxing part of my travel in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. This government-owned park offers an outstanding and remarkable experience to all visitors. Why not? Inside the park, the wind is fresh, the temperature is cool, and the ambiance is relaxing because of the greens that surround the area. The landscape is clean and well-maintained. Thus, the entire area is picture-perfect - a perfect place to bond with your loved ones.

TRAVEL GUIDE: MATIN-AO COLD SPRING, Malaybalay, Bukidnon

Matin-ao Cold Spring is one of the public summer destinations in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon; it is a long river system where the cool and crystal waters are free flowing. The crystal clear pool lit by a natural skylight creates the picturesque more dramatic. Not only that, the area is surrounded with hardwood trees that preserve the tranquility and also serve as a perfect backdrop. And of course, the set up is not complete without the birds singing their lullabies to welcome the visitors. There are benches and has a wide open ground for family gatherings and picnic. A habal-habal is needed to visit these spots because they are located in a remote area on an adjacent location.

The stunning Nasuli Cold Spring in Malaybalay

Nasuli Spring is one of the top tourist destinations in Bukidnon. For the locals, it's a prominent place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, but a few travelers and backpackers know about its hidden beauty. This place is definitely a natural cold spring with cool and crystal-clear waters that can quench your body heat. Not only that, this resort in Malaybalay City is surrounded by trees, plants, and flowers, which preserves nature's tranquillity and creates a relaxing ambiance. To combine all, the landscape of Nasuli is picture-perfect and can be considered one of the must-visit attractions in Bukidnon.

Paseo de Santiago, Iligan City

My Iligan City habal tour ended at the Paseo de Santiago, a seaside complex with several food stalls and shops. Since it's seaside, of course, it's by the beach, and the sound of the waves makes the area cosy with the cool breeze - a perfect spot to relax. Others would call it a "hangout area" where you can have a few bottles of beer and "ihaw-ihaw," with someone performing on the mini stage. The area is wide with an instagrammable landscape which includes the gorgeous fortress (photo above), a wide map of the Philippines on the ground and the statue of Lapu-Lapu on the other side. The perfect time to visit this place is during sunset. It is privately owned; thus, entrance fees are being collected.

7 Days Solo Backpacking in Region 10, 11, and BARMM

Provinces visited in Regions 10, 11, and BARMM

1. Lanao del Norte
2. Lanao del Sur
3. Misamis Oriental
4. Bukidnon
5. Davao del Norte
6. Compostela Valley
7. Davao City

San Lorenzo Wind Farm (Guimaras Windmills)

My last destination was Guimaras Windfarm, with 27 gigantic wind turbines that harness electricity from the wind. The sea surrounds the island, so it’s a perfect location for renewable energy because of its breeze. According to Kuya Ken, the harnessed energy is transported to Ilo-Ilo City via cables submerged in the water. There’s a registration, but no entrance fee. We also discussed the proposed bridge connecting Guimaras to Iloilo; however, it was rejected because it could damage living underwater creatures. By the way, Bangui Windmills is the most prominent wind farm in the Philippines, and it has attracted a lot of tourists to Ilocos Norte. Just recently, I featured the Pililla Windfarm in Rizal. READ: SOLO-BACKPACKING IN CAPIZ, ANTIQUE, GUIMARAS, ILO-ILO

Tori's Backpackers Paradise

Tori's Backpackers Paradise is the cheapest place to stay in Siquijor. The receptionist greeted me at their small reception area with a smile and a genuine "Good Morning, Sir!". At that very moment, I thought that this place was perfect. I only paid 350 pesos for an overnight stay, a great deal, right? This resort is backpacker-friendly because of its low price, and they have a dormitory-type room where visitors can meet other visitors. I was sad because my visit was off-season, and only three visitors were in the resort. If you want privacy, that's not a problem because they also have private rooms.

Siquijor Church

The Siquijor Church greets all the visitors as it is situated near the port. It was established in 1783 by the secular priests. It was built using coral stones, and cogon was initially used for roofing. What's unique about this church is the bell tower, which was built a few meters away. Like some other old churches in the Philippines,  its convent was a hiding place from the pirates and other invaders. Today, it is the centre of Catholicism in the province, but for a non-Catholic like me, this church is the living witness of the past survived by the province and its people.

Enjoyed the ambiance of Salagdoong Beach

I can't deny that Salagdoong Beach has crystal clear waters with a fine white sand shoreline, but there are also sharp stones and corals. Want a more thrilling experience? This beach has two cliff jump stations that you can try. The ambience in the area is relaxing because of the man-made landscape, which is also picture-perfect. Your day will end with a stunning sunset, with the cool sea breeze blowing. Also, this beach is a prominent destination in Siquijor, so tourists are expected to visit it.

The Naked Island in Surigao

Experience the naked paradise of the Naked Island, one of the islets of the Britania Group of Islands, Surigao del Sur. I know you're thinking of something green, don't you? You're wrong! The name of this islet is derived from its characteristic - naked, which means that nothing can be found except the stretch of fine white sand. It's very short, more or less 10 meters, depending on whether it's high tide or low tide. 

HIYOR-HIYORAN ISLAND, Britania Group of Islands, Surigao del Sur

Hiyor-hiyoran is another stunning islands of the Britania Group of Islands in Surigao del Sur. It is also called the souvenir island because among islands, Hiyor-hiyoran is the only one with souvenir shops built by the beach, well' that's so far. Same as the other islands, it also has fine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and gorgeous limestone formation. Very Instagrammable.

BOSLON ISLAND, Britania Group of Islands, Surigao del Sur

Walk with happiness on the fine white sand that cover on the shore of Boslon Island. This islet is like a huge boulder dropped in the water. Because of the pressured, the fine white sand exploded and became - Boslon Island. Well, that's only my own story. Anyways, this islet is circular in shape, with plants and trees hanging on top of the gigantic boulder, creating a cool atmosphere in the area. This islet is the usual "pahingahan" of the tourists. Very conyo no??

Lazi Church and Convent

The San Isidro Labrador Parish Church, commonly known as the Lazi Church, is one of the main tourist destinations in Siquijor. I was stunned by the appearance of this Church and its convent. The parish became independent in 1857, but the current stone structure, which is neoclassical art, was completed in 1884. It was built using seashells, coral, and wood. In 1972, it was declared a national cultural heritage. Today, it is newly renovated, with the walls covered in white.

Century Old Balete Tree, Siquijor

The Century Old Balete Tree is one of the faces of Siquijor and must be visited in the province. It is a fig tree family, or the "stranger tree", because it grows beside other trees and sometimes kills the host tree by strangling it. In Philippine folklore, balete is the house of the tikbalang (horse demon), dwende (elves) and diwata (fairies). This old tree, according to stories, is mythical.

Tierra Alta Lighthouse

It is part of Tierra Alta Residential Resort, one of the prime event destinations in Valencia, Negros Oriental. This place is perfect for a wedding and other gatherings because of its breathtaking scenery, where the natural beauty and the man-made structures are combined with perfection. The lighthouse is comparable to the prominent lighthouse of Batanes, surrounded by well-maintained grass and ornaments.

Enjoying the relaxing Red Rock Hot Spring

Photo: Gorgeous view of Red Rock Hot Spring.

It is indeed another tourist destination in Valencia, Negros Oriental. It started as a family private pool but was expanded due to demand. Red Rock Hot Spring has become prominent among tourists and locals because it's relaxing. The temperature of the free-flowing spring water ranges from 37.5 to 39.5 degrees Celsius, which is perfect for tired muscles. Plus, the ambience inside the compound is very Asian because of the cottages and plants surrounding the pool.

Cata-Al World War 2 Museum

The Cata-Al World War 2 Museum started as a private personal collection but was expanded as a museum to let the new generation see what things were used during the Second World War. The collection includes ammunition such as guns, bayonets, and grenades. Also, there are old radios, transmitters, bags, army and navy uniforms and magazines related to the Second World War. Other Japanese memorabilia include costumes, tableware, and many more. Cata-Al is a newly developed tourist spot and destination in Valencia, Negros Oriental.

CAMPANARIO DE DUMAGUETE, Negros Oriental - a Travel Guide

You must include the Campanario de Dumaguete or Dumaguete Belfry in your list of the must visit places in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. It is the oldest bell tower in Visayas and one of the historical markers in the province. It was built to monitor and warn the locals of any danger. Standing beside the St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral and in front of the city's Rizal Park, it is very accessible from and to any points in the city. Having said that, it is one of the most visited landmark in the city.

Casaroro Falls and its irresistible beauty

The Casaroro Falls stand a hundred feet high, surrounded by lush greenery and healthy vegetation. This paradise has a cool ambience, and the fresh and cool water falling creates a relaxing rushing sound harmonized with the birds' lullabies and the wind blowing through the trees. To experience its beauty, I had to go backpacking to visit the Casaroro Falls location. Situated outside Dumaguete City, a 20-30-minute travel, this beautiful waterfall is hidden in the forest area of Valencia.

Antwet Backpackers Inn and Rooftop Bar

Antwet Backpacker's Inn and Rooftop Bar is the cheapest hotel or place to stay in Dumaguete City. I found this place using Google Maps and searched for it on Facebook. I texted the number posted and messaged them on Facebook about their rates. The owner responded in an hour, which started our everyday conversation. Every time I shoot her a question, she responds like a friend. So, this place is perfect. Also, it is a walking distance to the city's tourist destinations.

My Solo-Backpacking Itinerary in Negros Oriental, Siquijor, Bohol

Total Expenses: 11,015.84 Pesos

MONEY ON HAND: 10,424.00
EXPENSES WITHOUT AIRFARE: 9,175.4 PESOS
Flights via Cebu Pacific: MNL-DGT - 627.84 Pesos. TAG-MNL: 1,212.60 Pesos

Morong Church, Bataan

Morong Church (Bataan), or Our Lady of the Pillar Parish Church, is more than 400 years old, established in 1607, and is one of the oldest churches in the province. Its structure was made from Coral stones, erected by the locals under the Spanish coloniser who ruled the province. Based on how this church looks, the rusty color and lichen hanging on the exterior are proof that this church is considered one of the heritage churches. However, I did not see any Heritage or Historical markers placed here.

TRAVEL GUIDE: AGUINALDO CAVE, Biak na Bato, Bulacan

The Aguinaldo Cave is the most notable among other caves in Biak na Bato National Shrine.  It is the cave where Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo took a refuge while leading the resistance movement against the Spanish and American colonizers.  It is believed that this cave was the "La Mesa de Aguinaldo," the table which Aguinaldo signed the historic Peace Treaty.

 

Pinagrealan Cave

Ang Kweba ng Pinagrealan ay unang tinawag na "Kweba ng Minuyan" na matatagpuan sa paanan ng bundok ng Sierra Madre sakop ng Bayan ng Norzagaray. Ito ay ginawang kampamento ng mga rebolusyonaryong Pilipino sa pangunguna ni Heneral Sinforoso del Cruz. Ito ay naging pangunahing kuta at tanggulan ng mga manghihimagsik nang taong 1896-1897.

Barasoain Church

Barasoain Church is also known as Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish, a Roman Catholic church built in 1630 in Malolos City. We rode in a tricycle from the Provincial Capitol and alighted before the church. It was early morning, so we had time to take photos without people in the background. Disadvantage? The church was open, but the museum was closed. Nonetheless, I was stunned by its structure; thus, standing in front of the facade of this church was remarkable, making this church the top tourist destination in Bulacan.

Malolos Cathedral

The Malolos Cathedral is one of the historical churches in the Philippines, located in Bulacan. Construction started in 1814 and was finished in 1817, under Fray. Melchor Fernández. Like most of the century-old churches in the country, this Cathedral was severely damaged by earthquakes. Today, it is the seat of the Diocese of Malolos and has been the bastion of faith for centuries.

Baliwag Church

This church has a gorgeous Baroque architectural design, and according to the Spanish records, it was Fr. Juan de Albarran, OSA, who was assigned as the parish priest of Baliuag Church in 1733, the year that the church was officially begun. Then, between 1769 and 1774, the second church was built by Father Gregorio Giner. The structure of the church was completed in 1801. However, in 1863, the strongest earthquake damaged the church, but it was rebuilt in 1870. It's also known as the Saint Augustine Parish Church.

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Bulacan Provincial Capitol

This is where the other government institutions/offices are located. It is also where you can find the office of the province's most powerful man. This compound is the location of the leading university in Bulacan and the provincial museum, which houses the province's history.

The Church of Bulakan, Bulacan

It is one of the old churches located in Bulakan, Bulacan. Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion is a 19th-century Neo-Byzantine-Romanesque stone church declared a Marked Historical Structure of the Philippines in 2007. During Holy Week or the Lenten season, this church is the center of a famous presentation, locally called "Dakip," a Filipino word that means to arrest or to abduct. It is a play that portrays how Jesus Christ was captured before the crucifixion.

TRAVEL GUIDE: CASA REAL SHRINE, Bulacan

Casa Real Shrine is one of the must visit historical sites in Malolos City, Bulacan. It was built in 1580, became the town’s Casa Tribunal, Ayuntamiento, and Casa Presidencia Municipal and was the residence and Office of the Gobernadorcillo during the Spanish time.  It was the site of the Imprenta Nacional of the First Republic, where the revolutionary organs La Independencia, El Heraldo de la Revolucion, Kalayaan and Kaibigan ng Bayan were printed., the printing press of the 1896 Constitution and the Heraldo de Revolucion.

Guiguinto Old Trail Station, Bulacan

Built in 1661, the Estacion de Guiguinto (Guiguinto Train Station) is the towns most acclaimed historical landmark and heritage site.  It was upon this that the Katipuneros (Filipino guerillas during the Spanish Regime) ambushed a train from Dagupan, killing six friars, including the parish friar of Guiguinto, Fr. Leocadio Sanchez, and the Spanish doctor. The incident inspired Severino Reyes to author the novel "Opera Walang Sugar" which was later made into a movie entitled "Walang Sugat." - source: www.bulacan.gov.ph