Backpacking Misamis Oriental (CDO)

Cagayan de Oro City is the capital of Misamis Oriental. The thrilling white water rafting is the main attraction and destination in the city, but did you know that they are also known as the "City of the Golden Friendship?" Though there's a language barrier, they are the city of friendship because I was able to experience such hospitality from the jeepney driver and the taho vendor I met. By the way, nothing special happened during my stay here. Since it's the center of Northern Mindanao, transportation to my next destination (Bukidnon) is not a problem. It is also the gateway to the provinces of Camiguin, Bukidnon, Agusan, and the city of Davao.

Backpacking in Lanao del Norte

Tinago Falls hides in the mountainous area of Iligan, Lanao del Norte. Among the waterfalls in the Philippines, it is one of the must-visit because of the beauty it possesses. Not only that, there are historical sites, lakes, and cold springs that can also be visited. Let's not forget that the province has a rich history and colorful culture because the locals have a good combination of Muslim, Christian, and other Minorities.

Pulang Bato Falls - Things You Need To Know

Pulang Bato Falls is a 30-foot waterfall with a unique and picturesque view because the limestone walls by the water are covered with red due to sulfur deposits. By the way, its name translates to "red rock" in English. This waterfall is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including the man-made hanging bridge and colorful ornaments. It is one of the top tourist spots in Valencia, Negros Oriental.

Cambugahay Falls - Things You Need To Know

Cambugahay Falls is a 3-tiered waterfall with free-flowing, cool, crystal-clear waters. The area surrounding this stunning waterfall has luscious greens that create a relaxing ambience. If you want a thrilling experience, try the prominent "Tarzan swing." Get a water massage! Water rafts can be rented, with a local, to go to the spot where the waters are falling. Brace yourself because the sound of the rushing water will make your day a lazy day. Also, locals are great photographers.

Hagonoy Island, Bislig: A Secluded Paradise in Surigao del Sur

Jump to: About Hagonoy Island | How to Get There | Things to Do | Fees | Sample Itinerary | Travel Tips | FAQs

About Hagonoy Island

Hagonoy Island is a small, privately owned sandbar paradise just off Bislig City in Surigao del Sur. With powdery white or cream‑colored sand, clear turquoise waters, and a lush coconut-tree backdrop, it’s a relaxing escape perfect for sun‑lovers and campers.

Danao Adventure Park - Things You Need To Know

The Plunge at Danao Adventure Park, or a canyon swing, is an extreme activity now climbing to be one of the top tourist spots and destinations in Danao, Bohol. Situated in the area where the longest Philippine Revolutionary Movement took place, led by Francisco Dagohoy, a Boholano hero. The boulders and limestone formations in the area might have witnessed the most important stage of how these Boholano heroes plotted the revolution against the Spaniards. Today, the facility is being run by the local government, and it is a center of eco-tourism, recreation, and adventure in the province awaiting discovery.

Alubihod Beach - Things You Need To Know

After the Trappist Monastery, we headed to Alubihod Beach in Nueva Valencia. Travelling to this gorgeous beach via a habal is easy because the roads are all concrete. I was welcomed by the courteous staff of Raymen Beach Resort. Settled the entrance fee and walked to the beach area. The shoreline is pretty in its own way. The picturesque is Instagram-worthy because of the rock formation highlighted by the creamy white sand with corals and pebbles. The ambience by the beach is relaxing because the sea breeze is cool.

Guisi Lighthouse - Things You Need To Know

Touching the walls of Guisi Lighthouse or Faro de Punta Luzaran is the most exciting part of my backpacking in Guimaras. It is the second oldest lighthouse in the Philippines, lit up for the first time in 1894. This structure was erected in the 18th century to guide the mariners passing by the waters of Iloilo and Guimaras. Its structure is made of metal from France, tisa from Portugal, and cement from England. Based on the ruins, the floor plan is similar to Burgos Lighthouse in Ilocos Norte and the Cape Engaño Lighthouse in Palaui Island. Today, the thick walls are covered with mosses and plants, and the rusty metal lighthouse remains erect. The ambiance in the area is relaxing because of the cool sea breeze. 

Smallest Plaza in Guimaras – History, How to Get There, Tips & Travel Guide

Jump to: About the Smallest Plaza | Location & How to Get There | Why Visit the Smallest Plaza | Nearby Attractions | Sample Itinerary | Travel Tips

About the Smallest Plaza in Guimaras

The Smallest Plaza in the Philippines is located in Jordan, Guimaras, and holds a unique spot in Philippine records for its size. Despite being only a few meters wide, it features a statue of national hero Dr. José Rizal, a flagpole, and serves as a local landmark and symbol of Guimaras pride. It’s a fun and quick stop for tourists exploring the island.

Tappiya Falls, Banaue, Ifugao - a Travel Guide

In the middle of the mountains of Ifugao, we found a hidden gem called Tappiya Falls situated in "Batad," a secluded village in Banaue. Getting to this majestic beauty includes 7 to 12 hours of land travel and 2 hours of trekking. It's a bit challenging, but you will be rewarded with a breathtaking landscape that can only be found in this region, including the world-famous Batad Rice Terraces. Not just artistic in creating the terraces, the people of Batad also know how to value and preserve whatever their ancestors left, such as their rituals.

Featuring Bohol (17 Best Tourist Spots)

1. Danao Adventure Park

Bohol is one of the top tourist destinations in the Visayas region because of the stunning "chocolate hills" and the weird-looking primate called "tarsier;" these are just two of those in the limelight. As we dig deeper, we see that the province can offer a lot of gems. Historical landmarks and old churches are always part of the itinerary. Still, during summer or even the rainy season, the fine white sand beaches and the beauty of the flora and fauna underwater became top of the list of the most seen. In addition, extreme activities can be tried, like the Top 1 on my list - THE PLUNGE of Danao Adventure Camp.

Batad Rice Terraces - Things You Need To Know

The spectacular beauty of the Batad Rice Terraces captured the eyes of the world in 1995 when it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Less than a thousand years ago, the people of Ifugao mastered agricultural practices, including the creation of terraces. This agricultural landscape proves that the early civilizations already knew how to improve their crops by adapting to natural factors through terracing.

Guiwanon Spring Park Resort, Siquijor

The Guiwanon Spring Park Resort is a man-made resort in the middle of a mangrove forest in Luyang, Siquijor. Tourists need to walk on the wooden pathway, passing by some of the cottages that can be rented. The scenery in the area is good because of the greens, accentuated by the trunk and roots of the mangrove plants. At the end of the park is an open hall where you can stay and relax with the cool sea breeze. Entrance fees are to be collected. READ: My Solo-Backpacking in Negros Oriental, Siquijor, and Bohol

Mt. Manalmon - Hike Guide You Need To Know

Mt. Manalmon is a mountain in Bulacan that can give you a great experience. The trails are simple, there's a relaxing ambiance on the summit, there's a gorgeous landscape, and the rock formations are picture-perfect. Experience the extreme by hopping from one cave to another. There are other outdoor activities that you can try courtesy of the local government and the tourism office.

UCM Adventure Park - Things You Need To Know

UCM Adventure Park is a place with a gorgeous landscape and a stunning view of Metro Manila's shining skyline. It is one of the newest tourist spots and destinations in San Mateo, Rizal, yet it has become prominent because it’s 1 to 2 hours from Metro, and for a short travel time, you’ll enjoy the beauty that the province possesses. Free up your memory cards; you’ll need more to capture the spectacular scenery surrounding the area. What makes it relaxing? I think it's the fresh and cool wind blowing. VIEW MY VLOG HERE

Britania Group of Islands - Your Island Hopping Guide

The Britania Islands are just a few of the hidden paradises of San Agustin, Surigao del Sur. These are like huge boulders dropped into the water, and the fine white sand exploded from the sea bed. Every islet is surrounded by crystal clear waters and fine white sand. There are several islets, but we only reached a few because of the high tide. If you're in Surigao del Sur, add this group of islands to your bucket list.

5 Best Tourist Spots in Lanao del Sur - You Need To Know

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 is overflowing with stunning attractions and destinations. Before 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 - Things You Need To Know

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

3 Best Ifugao Tourist Spots - Irresistible to Visit

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 (10 Best Tourist Spots, Hotels, Festivals)

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.

Tourist Spots in Pampanga (Historical, Festivals, Hotels)

The province of Pampanga is located in Region 3 or commonly known as 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 events that showcase the province’s creativity and deep-rooted traditions. Below is the list of the recommended destinations in Pampanga:

Bulacan Travel Guide – Best Tourist Spots, Caves, and Itinerary

Jump to: About Bulacan | How to Get There | Things to Do in Bulacan | Sample Itinerary | Budget & Expenses | Where to Stay | Travel Tips

About Bulacan

Bulacan, just north of Metro Manila, is known for its deep history, heritage churches, natural wonders, and culinary traditions. Home to revolutionary heroes, beautiful rivers, and adventure destinations, Bulacan offers a mix of cultural immersion and outdoor activities perfect for day trips or weekend getaways.

Featuring Negros Oriental (10 Best Tourist Spots)

1. Negros Oriental Capitol Building

The capitol building of Negros Oriental 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

Aim for 81 is my personal goal for the next few years; others call it Project81 or Project81PH. Its main purpose is to save money to be used for visiting and discovering the hidden treasures in All 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 the Caramoan Islands in Camarines Sur, as part of our itinerary, we tasted their very own and authentic dishes. 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 or gabi leaves, siling labuyo, and coconut milk as the main ingredients. There's a linamanam factor, and the texture is smooth inside my mouth. To compare, my Nanay prepares young and fresh gabi leaves (grated), and adds dried tuyo to add saltiness and a unique aftertaste. Nonetheless, the Laging dish of the Bicolano is really good.

Silay City - Tourist Spots and Attractions

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-1970s, repaired by the government, and was inaugurated on October 6, 1990.

BIR: Guide to Changing or Updating Your RDO

I processed my employment documents that include Pag-Ibig and my tax updates (RDO and Tax Exempt). I have been working for more than five years now, and it's my first time processing these documents, and it's not a good experience. Since I previously worked for a BPO in Mandaluyong City (RDO: 041), I headed to the BIR Office in Boni to have my BIR Form 1905 stamped. Upon submitting to the clerk, he informed me that my record was already with RDO: 43A in Shaw (near SSS and Pag-Ibig), so I rode on MRT from Boni to MRT Shaw, then on Shaw Boulevard, I rode in a jeepney with “Pasig, Palengke” signboard. Get off in front of Pag-Ibig Bldg. (second Stop Light). Crossed the footbridge where BIR is located. Got the queue number from the guard and waited for my turn.

NBI Clearance Renewal Guide (Updated)

I processed my  NBI Clearance yesterday, and the change just came! My original plan yesterday was just to make a payment at LBC in Robinsons Metro East. But since the NBI transaction was OFFLINE, I proceeded to the NBI at the 4th Floor and asked what other payment channels I could choose for payment, and the polite guards said that I could make a payment at the NBI Counter - Step 1, which I did.

Shin Ramyun, Best Korean Noodle in the Market

BER months are almost here, meaning holiday is coming to town. Since it's holiday, I will be now posting foods on Sirang Lente, starting with the famous Shin Ramyun. I was influenced by the Korean dramas I've watched, from Descendants of the Sun, Doctors, W, Cinderella and the Four Knights and many more. Kimchi, Korean noodles and Soju are always part of their eating and drinking scenes, so I tried this.

FATHER'S DAY CELEBRATION: Sa Photo Collage Lang Nakasama si Tatay

Lingid sa kaalaman ng karamihan, nagmula ako sa isang pamilya na puno na pag-mamahal na binubuo ng anim na magkakapatid at mga magulang. Ang aming pamilya ay may malakas na pundasyon na sa kahit anung aspeto ng buhay ay napag-tatagumpayan sa pamamagitan nang pag-tutulungan. Ang aming tahanan bagamat hindi marangya, ang pundasyon nito ay ginawa, pinanday, at hinulma ng taong tatawagin kong Tatay – ang Haligi ng aming Tahanan at isang Karpentero.

National Museum of the Philippines - Things You Need To Know

National Museum of the Philippines Offers FREE Admission on selected months as part of the Heritage Month celebration. For updates, please check the National Museum Facebook Page. The National Museum has a collection of relics, artifacts, and antiques discovered in the Philippines and abroad, combined for the Filipino viewing. Some of these are the following:

Darwin Dalisay gave his hair to a progeria patient.

Almost a year ago, I cut my precious and beautiful hair. It was a remarkable decision. I gave my hair to a young and stunning lady who turned 18. She is Rochelle, a progeria patient. According to Wikipedia, Progeria is a specific type of progeroid syndrome, also known as Hutchinson–Gilford syndrome or Hutchinson–Gilford progeroid syndrome. A single gene mutation is responsible for causing progeria. The affected gene, known as lamin A, makes a protein necessary for holding the cell nucleus together. In short, it is a rare and fatal genetic condition in children that causes rapid aging.

Mindanao Reminders and Travel Guide

Mindanao is the second largest island in the Philippine Archipelago, composed of 27 provinces, and situated in the Southern part of the country. Since I was young, if I hear Mindanao, my mind automatically gives a negative description like fear, battle, chaos, abduction, NPA, MILF, MNLF, political problem and etc. News is a huge factor in that mindset.

Island Hopping: Dampalitan, Borawan and Puting Buhangin

The Province of Quezon is one of my favorite provinces in the Philippines because of its gorgeous beaches, which can be considered as one of the top tourist attractions and destinations in the region. Aside from that, they also have the colorful Pahiyas Festival and sumptuous pancit hab-hab. A few of the gems can also be found on higher altitudes of Mt. Banahaw – the Holy Mountain, and Mt. Cristobal – the Devil's Mountain. Now, for the third time, I am visiting three of the fine-looking islets of Padre Burgos, Quezon.

Mt. Tarak - Hike with Couch Surfing

Mt. Tarak is one of the mountains in the Philippines which is in debate if it’s a major or a minor climb; major because of its long trail and altitude and minor because of its trail class. Tarak is situated in Brgy. Alas-asin, Mariveles, Bataan, three hours travel from Manila. This mountain has an amazing and cool ambiance because of its rich forest areas.

Mountain Spring Resort in Odiongan, Romblon

Mountain Spring Resort is located in Brgy. Rizal, Odiongan, Tablas Island, Province of Romblon, Philippines. It is one of the top resorts in the town of Odiongan that has an amazing ambiance. Covered with green flowering plants and trees that is really refreshing to everyone’s eyes. The cool wind that blows the branches and leaves creates relaxing sounds.

How To Go To NAIA Terminal 3

How to Commute to NAIA Terminal 3:

From where I live in Cainta, Rizal, traveling to the airport in Pasay City can cost more than 500 pesos, and for a backpacker like me, this amount is too high. Aside from that, slow-moving traffic during rush hours is bad, which can cause more damage if you're late.

Orchids Resort, Boracay Complete Travel Guide

At first, when I booked my flight for Boracay Island on a Piso sale, I was hesitant because I was unsure about my schedule and had no idea about the budget. As part of that nerve-wracking feeling, a week before my trip, I posted on Facebook and asked my friends about the cheapest resort on Boracay Island, and the result was positive. A friend of mine referred her friend, who works at Orchids Resort. And there, my mind was at peace!

Mt. Gulugod Baboy - Hike Guide You Need To Know

It is one of the hiking destinations in Batangas with gorgeous slopes and a relaxing ambiance on the summit. Mt. Gulugod Baboy became famous because of its proximity and beauty. Its name literally translates to "pig's spine" in English and was given because of its slopes and shapes that are similar to the pig's spine. If you’re starting to explore the richness of the Philippines at a higher altitude, then this mountain is your perfect start.

HIKING GUIDE: Mt. Pundaquit, Zambales

Hiking Mt. Pundaquit is the perfect way to visit Anawangin Cove, well, for trekking enthusiasts. While walking on the flat surface at the entrance of the mountain, you can see its gorgeous scenery that awaits to be discovered. The mountain's entrance is just ten minutes from the shoreline of Brgy. Pundaquit and its trail start by passing across the grass and shrub lands.

Angeles Church, Pampanga - Things You Need To Know

The first chapel of Angeles Church in Pampanga was established in 1812. However, the current Renaissance-style structure was built through "polos y servicios," or forced and unpaid labor under the supervision of the Spanish government from 1877 to 1896. Dubbed as "Pisamban Maragul," a Kapampangan phrase for "big church" because it was the tallest church in Pampanga during that time. By the way, it was evening. We were heading back to Manila when we passed by this church, and we thought that this was stunningly beautiful. So, we parked and explored the area.

Crystal Beach Resort, Zambales - Things You Need To Know

Crystal Beach Resort in Zambales became prominent because of its golden and stunning sunset, cool sea breeze, and relaxing ambiance. Although it's a 3 to 4 hours land travel from Metro Manila, you will be rewarded with a long fine sand beach that is absolutely good for camping and playful waves, perfect for surfing. Well, the area is surrounded by pine trees that cover the camping area from the UV rays, which also provide a relaxing camping experience. Having said that, Crystal Beach Resort is one of the top destinations in the province.

Puraran Surf Beach Resort - Things You Need To Know

Catanduanes is an island province in the Bicol region. Thus, it is surrounded by magnificent beaches and resorts. Puraran Surf Beach Resort is one of the cheap resorts in Baras where you can enjoy crystal clear and calm water, cool and fresh sea breeze, and emerald seas. The resort is surrounded by greens such as coconuts, bananas, and other ornamental plants. For accommodation, there are quaint cottages that are also Instagram-worthy.

Magalawa Island - Things You Need To Know

Magalawa Island is a stunning place with crystal water and fine white sand beaches. Since Zambales is located in the northwest of Luzon, facing the West Philippine Sea, a lot of gorgeous beaches are yet to be discovered, and Magalawa is just one of them. There are a few stretches of fine white sand and island beaches that are picture-perfect. By the way, after our outreach program was held at one of the Aeta Communities in Iba, Zambales, we proceeded to this paradise. It's almost an hour's travel from Iba, passing on the concrete roads by the beach, yet we were rewarded with amazing beauty.

Mt. Romelo + Buruwisan Falls - Hike Guide You Need To Know

Hiking Mt. Romelo and rappelling the Buruwisan Falls was a fun and amazing experience because the area has rich biodiversity, both flora and fauna. There is a body of water that flows on its terrain; thus, this mountain has a high concentration of trees and other plants. It can bring a good combination of adventure and relaxation. Having said that, Laguna, together with the provinces of Batangas and Cavite, makes the region the centre for outdoor activities.

Puting Buhangin and Kwebang Lampas

In this generation, with just one click, you can easily see what to expect from a certain spot. Online, we found an itinerary for Kwebang Lampas and Puting Buhangin. Its beauty was intriguing because of its fine white sand shoreline, crystal clear waters, and the ambiance seemed to be relaxing. Situated in Padre Burgos, four to five hours of land travel from Manila, this destination is considered one of the gems of the province of Quezon.

Dampalitan Island - Things You Need To Know

Dampalitan Island is another top destination in Quezon province. It captured the eyes of so many travellers because it has a fine white sand shoreline, crystal clear waters, and a stunning sunset. Its name was derived from Dampalit or "shoreline purslane" in English (Sesuvium Portulacastrum), which is a type of perennial herb that grows in the coastal areas throughout the world, which is also visible on this island.  According to the caretaker, they can actually create a sumptuous salad out of this herb.

Borawan and Dampalitan Island

Borawan Island is a small islet located in Padre Burgos, in Quezon Province. According to the caretaker I spoke to, the name of the islet was given by Father Vargas who discovered the islet. This islet is made up of a large stone in irregular shape, covered with grass and trees.

Mt. Hapunang Banoi - Hike Guide You Need To Know

Mt. Hapunang Banoi is a dwarf and a hiking-friendly mountain in Montalban, Rizal, that can give you a tantalising view of nature's beauty. Together with Pamitinan and Binacayan, this mountain is one of the most hiked mountains in the area because it is also surrounded by Lucius green trees, which makes the area look relaxing. Plus, the exhilarating terrains added an adventure for hikers. In the centre of these mountains is Wawa Dam, a water reservoir built by the Americans. This area was chosen because it's a catch basin for the three mountains.

Mt. Pamitinan - Hike Guide You Need To Know

This mountain is one of the most hiked mountains because it became famous due to its accessibility from Manila. It's been a long time since we planned to visit Wawa Dam and hike the twin mountains, for some reasons, it resulted to "drawing." Hiking Mt. Pamitinan is a bit challenging, but will definitely give you an amazing and wide view of the greens surrounding Wawa Dam and part of the Sierra Madre.