SIRANG LENTE

Tuesday, 19 January 2021

Quiapo Church

Quiapo Church

The Quiapo Church, or the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, is canonically known as Saint John the Baptist Parish, and it is one of the most famous churches in the Philippines. The first structure was made of bamboo and nipa palm and built by the Franciscan Missionaries. But in 1574, the pirates, led by Limahong, destroyed and burned the church. In 1588, Fr. Antonio de Nombella, a Franciscan friar, founded this church and declared it the Parish of St. John the Baptist. It was again burned in 1603 and taken over by the “Society of Jesus” or the Jesuits. In 1686, the full construction was initiated by Gov. Gen. Santiago de Vera.

Sta. Cruz Church, Manila

Sta. Cruz Church, Manila

The Sta. Cruz Church, or Our Lady of the Pillar Parish, is situated in the Northern part of the city of Manila. It is said that the original structure was built in the same spot as the current structure. This was constructed by the members of the “Society of Jesus,” known as the Jesuits, from 1608 up to 1768. It is the first Roman Catholic church built in this area. Its structure is made up of blocks of adobe quarried from the nearby provinces. It was dedicated to the newly converted Chinese who lived in Manila.

Malate Church, Manila

Malate Church, Manila

The Malate Church, or the Our Lady of Remedies Parish Church, or Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, is situated in Manila. When I saw the façade from afar and while crossing the street near Plaza Sulayman, I was really amazed because of its architectural design and the dark color. When the British landed on the shores of Manila in 1762, they used this church as one of their headquarters. Because of its topography, the structure was damaged and rebuilt several times due to natural calamities like earthquakes and typhoons. During the battle in World War II, this church was destroyed by fire.

Sta. Ana Church, Manila

Sta. Ana Church, Manila

The Sta. Ana Church, or the Parish of Our Lady of the Abandoned, was established more than 300 years ago. The cornerstone was laid in 1720. It is also one of the churches spared by World War II, so most of what you see today, including the Camarin de la Virgen, was what churchgoers saw hundreds of years ago.

Guadalupe Church Makati – Nuestra Señora de Gracia Heritage Site

Guadalupe Church Makati

Jump to: About Guadalupe Church | Historical Background | How to Get There | What to See | Mass Schedule | Suggested Visit Itinerary | Where to Stay | Travel Tips

About Guadalupe Church

Guadalupe Church, officially known as Nuestra Señora de Gracia Church, is one of the oldest churches in Metro Manila, located in Guadalupe Viejo, Makati City. With its baroque architecture, stone walls, and historic charm, it remains a peaceful sanctuary amid the modern skyline of Makati.

Binondo Church, Manila

Binondo Church, Manila

One of the famous districts in Manila is Binondo, it is also known because of the Filipino-Chinese communities in the area. Since this district is said to be one of the centers of the trade and industries centuries ago and even today, some Chinese businessmen were converted to Christianity during the Spanish era, so Binondo Church was established in the area in 1587 by the Dominicans for them.

Sabang, Puerto Galera

Sabang, Puerto Galera

Our group, Batang Hamog Mountaineers, usually makes sure to participate in any Freedom-related activities to celebrate the freedom that was proclaimed on June 12, 1898. This year, to be out of our comfort zone, we organized a Freedom Dive held in Sabang, Puerto Galera, Province of Oriental Mindoro, which is one of the best diving spots in the Philippines. We all know that the Philippines is composed of more than seven thousand islands and is surrounded by water, so scuba diving is just one of the most tried water activities.

Sunday, 17 January 2021

Surigao del Sur - Backpacking to Tourist Spots, with Guides

Surigao del Sur tourist spots

About Surigao del Sur

Surigao del Sur, located in the CARAGA Region of Mindanao, is a province blessed with breathtaking natural wonders and unique attractions. From the enchanting Hinatuan Enchanted River and the majestic Tinuy-an Falls to pristine beaches and unspoiled islands, this destination offers both adventure and tranquility. Rich in culture and surrounded by lush landscapes, Surigao del Sur is a must-visit for travelers seeking a mix of mystery, beauty, and authentic local charm.

Negros Occidental - Tourist Spots, Travel Guide, and Hotels

Negros Occidental Tourist Spots

About Negros Occidental

Negros Occidental, known as the “Sugar Bowl of the Philippines,” is a province rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From its ancestral houses, heritage sites, and vibrant festivals to its breathtaking mountains, waterfalls, and pristine beaches, the province offers a unique blend of experiences that showcase both tradition and modern charm. Below are the top tourist destinations in Negros:

Isla Reta Beach Resort

Isla Reta Beach Resort

Isla Reta Beach Resort is located on Talikud Island, Samal. It is a perfect island for retreat and relaxation, well, if you're just looking for a relaxing ambiance by the beach. This is one of the island paradises in the Davao region that bears a white sand beach and an island that is surrounded by emerald and crystal clear water. In addition, the underwater world is a sanctuary of colorful flora and fauna.

My first Solo-Backpacking, A Walking Tour in Cebu City

Cebu City tourist spots

Cebu City is the capital city of the Province of Cebu. It is one of the largest islands in the Philippine Archipelago. It is considered the "Queen City of the South" because of its economic stability and other factors. Of course, in Philippine history, the province has a gigantic contribution in terms of religion. And with that, my curiosity was activated. This was my first flight and solo backpacking, so everything was remarkable.

Catanduanes - Tourist Spots, Travel Guide, Itinerary, & Hotels

Catanduanes Tourist Spots

About Catanduanes

Backpacking in Catanduanes is an adventure that blends pristine nature, rich culture, and serene island vibes. Known as the “Land of the Howling Winds,” this province offers breathtaking coastlines, lush rolling hills, and hidden waterfalls waiting to be explored. Whether you’re surfing the waves of Puraran Beach, hiking to Binurong Point, or wandering through sleepy fishing villages, Catanduanes promises a unique travel experience perfect for nature lovers and wanderers alike.

Biak na Bato National Park

Biak na Bato National Park
Biak na Bato National Park is situated in San Miguel, Bulacan, and is one of the top travel destinations in the province because of its historical contribution to the Philippine Republic. Its name translates to "split of the boulder" in English, and it's where Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo signed the Malolos Republic (the first Constitution of the country). Aside from its historical background, tourists and students visit this park to relax, breathe some fresh air, and witness the beauty inside the caves, especially the stunning Bahay Paniki Cave, the highlight of the area. By the way, it was declared a national park in 1937 by the former president Manuel L. Quezon.

Bataan White Corals Beach Resort

Bataan White Corals Beach Resort
Bataan White Corals Beach Resort offers relaxing accommodation with full access to its amazing facilities, such as the cool and artistic swimming pools, picture-perfect landscape, cool ambiance, sumptuous delicacies, and many more. Plus, they are very friendly and polite employees. Just so you know, we had no prior reservation, and we're already in Bataan when we started searching for beach resorts on Google Search and Google Maps. We visited several resorts in the Municipality of Morong, crossing our fingers to get an available villa for our overnight stay. Already passed 4 PM, but we hadn’t booked anything yet, so we proceeded to this last resort.

5 Mountains to Hike Near Manila – Perfect for Beginners

Mt. Batulao trail in Batangas for beginners

Jump to: Mt. Batulao | Mt. Pico de Loro | Mt. Gulugod Baboy | Mt. Pamitinan | Mt. Daraitan | Hiking Tips

1. Mt. Batulao – Batangas

Mt. Batulao is a classic beginner-friendly hike located in Nasugbu, Batangas. Its scenic ridges, rolling hills, and cool breeze make it ideal for day hikes. The “Old Trail” is more gradual, while the “New Trail” offers better views but steeper slopes.

Iloilo Travel Guide – Best Tourist Spots, Itinerary & Budget

Iloilo Travel Guide – Best Tourist Spots, Itinerary & Budget

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

About Iloilo

Iloilo is a province in Western Visayas known for its Spanish-era churches, heritage houses, vibrant festivals like Dinagyang, and world-class cuisine. Dubbed as the “City of Love,” Iloilo City is a gateway to both history and coastal escapes. Whether you're after architecture, food, or beaches — Iloilo has it all.

3 Best Museums in Metro Manila

3 Best Museums in Metro Manila
Today is a boring day! Question is: "Anu ang magandang gawin kapag wala kang magawa?" Sagot: " Pinturahan ang buong bahay gamit ang cutix." Pero wala akong cutix. So, after washing my clothes, without itinerary, my initial plan was to visit all the museums in Metro Manila including, Ayala Museum in Makati City, but the plan ended up visiting Marikina Shoe Museum (with 50 pesos entrance) and the two buildings of the National Museum of the Philippines with FREE Admission. Libre, aarte kapa?? Tara na!!

Siquijor – Backpacking in the Mystical Island

Siquijor

Jump to: Capilay Spring Park | Tori's Backpackers Paradise | Century-Old Balete Tree | Lazi Convent | Lazi Church | Cambugahay Falls | Maria Church | The Witch Broom | Salagdoong Beach | Guiwanon Spring Park | Siquijor Church

You will be under a spell of its beauty as you visit its top destinations. Siquijor Province is known as the "Esla del Fuego" or the "island of fire" because of the mystical fireflies. It is believed that if you see these luminous lights, it is an indication that magic is taking place. By the way, if the province of Capiz is known for its "aswang" and "manananggal," this province is commonly known as "Siquihorror" because of the shamanism and witchcraft. Regardless of whether it's true or not, I was enchanted by this mystical province.

Saturday, 16 January 2021

Siargao Island

Siargao Island

About Siargao Island

Siargao Island, located in Surigao del Norte, is the surfing capital of the Philippines. It's famous for its laid-back vibe, crystal-clear waters, island hopping spots, and of course, Cloud 9 – one of the best surf breaks in Asia. Siargao is a must-visit for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. If you're not into surfing, like me, you can still enjoy the pristine beaches, explorable caves, fresh surroundings, and unique island lifestyle. With time pressure from the province of Dinagat Islands, I travelled here to discover its beauty.

Sunday, 10 January 2021

Top 10 Best Places to Visit in the Philippines

Boracay Island

1. Boracay Island

Today, just noticed that the weather is changing from cool to warm, humid air - proof that summer is almost here. To help you, I listed the 14 best and must-visit destinations in the Philippines. First, the world-famous Boracay Island. It is listed as one of the best beaches in the world according to travel agencies, websites, blogs, magazines, and other people’s reviews. The shoreline has fine white sand, the waters are crystal clear, cool and fresh, and there are a lot of activities to choose from.

Thursday, 7 January 2021

Backpacking Guide in Albay, Sorsogon, and Catanduanes

Albay Tourist Spots
This article includes a detailed and updated backpacking guide for Albay, Sorsogon, and Catanduanes. The purpose of this journey was to complete my Region 5 league. Initially, it was solo backpacking, but Tin, my friend, joined me. Traveling via land from Manila to this region can take 12 hours, which is challenging. As I always say, time is just a number; in exchange, you'll be rewarded with the stunning tourist spots and destinations of its 3 provinces.

Backpacking in Cagayan, Apayao, and Isabela

Cagayan Tourist Spots
The provinces of Cagayan and Isabela are part of Region 2, while the province of Apayao is part of the Cordillera Administrative Region. Though these provinces are part of Luzon, due to their location, it's really hard to experience and discover the gorgeous tourist spots and destinations. Just recently, we visited these 3 lovely provinces and are now sharing the most updated itinerary.

Wednesday, 6 January 2021

7 Best Island to Visit Near Manila

Island to visit near Manila

1. Apuao Island

Apuao Island is situated in Mercedes, province of Camarines Norte, an 8 to 9 hours land travel from Manila and another 15 to 30 minutes boat ride to the island. It's better to take a rest while on the road because when you're on the island, you will definitely be busy enjoying its wealthy surroundings. Apuao has a long stretch and shapeless white sand shoreline. The white powdery sand has a mixture of shells, pebbles, and other crustaceans running back and forth. This island cannot be completed without a cool sea breeze and crystal clear waters. If you prefer an overnight, no worries, cottages or camping by the beach are the choices. Sari-sari stores, toilets, and baths are available on the island. If you love island hopping, Apuao is highly recommended because it is just one of the Mercedes group of islands. You can also visit Malasugui Sandbar (drone shot above), Canimog Lighthouse, and Caringo Island.

Inside the Walls of Intramuros

Inside Intramuros
You might be thinking about the location where this photo was taken; I have no money to travel abroad, so it's not from ancient Greece or Rome. It is one of the tourist spots and must must-visit attraction in Manila. Okay, it is from Intramuros or the "Walled City," one of the sites that has significance in Philippine history. I was captivated by the Intramuros Open House in Celebration of World Tourism Day. Entrance fees are free on three of the must-visit spots inside the walled city; these are Fort Santiago, Baluarte de San Diego, and Casa Manila. Not only that, there are free bicycle tours at Plaza Roma, and a picnic with performance grounds, food, and art at Baluarte de San Diego.

Vietnam: My Camera Captured 4 Stunning Tourist Spots

Vietnam Tourist Spots
As what I have mentioned in my Aliwan Festival 2017 posts, Thes, ang maganda kong pinsan (medyo napilitan ako sa statement na yan), borrowed my DSLR for her international tour. In return, I'll publish some of her photographs so we can have a glimpse of Vietnam and its tourist spots and destinations. By the way, every time I hear this country, I always think of the Vietnam War and Leah Salonga performing Miss Saigon. Let's see and widen our minds with the photos captured at Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon.

Balitok Ti Alicia, Isabela

Balitok Ti Alicia
Balitok in Ilocano means gold, from which the festival Balitok ti Alicia drew inspiration as they gratefully celebrate the golden era of the town of Alicia, Isabela. Being one of the prime palay producers of the province, this festival honors rice as the golden grain that helped this humble town, formerly called Angadanan Viejo, to become a prominent business hub in Central Isabela. It shows how its hardworking people put their heart into the tedious, muscle-numbing work in the fields for the golden grains to be served on the tables for the whole year. Info from Aliwan Fiesta Website

Niyogyugan Festival, Quezon Province

Niyogyugan Festival
From the words “niyog” and ”yugyog,” the Niyogyugan Festival combines all the colorful fiestas of Quezon Province like the “Pahiyas” of Lucban, “Arana’t Baluarte” of Gumaca, “Tagultol” of Atimonan, “Maubanog” of Mauban, and others. A province-wide celebration that celebrates the “Tree of Life,” Niyogyugan pays tribute to the coconut industry’s glorious past, which bore fruit in the form of lambanog distilleries, oil millers, heritage houses, and vast resort plantations. This amazing festival was created to move, shake, and bring back the vigor and dynamism of the industry and to promote the products, places, talent, and creativity of Quezonians. Info from Aliwan Fiesta Website.

Meguyaya Festival

Meguyaya Festival
Meguyaya Festival is an annual event in Maguindanao del NorteMeguyaya is a Teduray term for thanksgiving for the bountiful harvest. The Creator blessed them with fertile soil and a great climate, making them produce tons of corn. This annual festivity includes a street dancing competition showcasing the different cultures of Teduray, Muslim, and Christian, celebrated every December. One of the most awaited events is a long stretch of corn grills placed by the roadside where everyone enjoys roasting, a symbol of togetherness and feasting.

Calamansi for Pimples Marks

How to Remove Pimple Marks
Pimples or acne on the face is one of the most common problems that teens and even other adults are facing. In my case, this problem started when I was twenty one years old and I thought it was a problem with my beauty regimen. Since pimple is usually caused by bacteria, I changed everything, including pillow cases and towels. Consulted 3 dermatologists, applied everything they suggested but still the same. For three years, I was singing: "mga tagyawat sa ilong, at sa pisngi, at sa noo, at sa batok, at sa baba......."

Best Sunblock and Sunscreens in the Philippines

Best Sunblock in the Philippines
The temperature is getting hotter and hotter and hotter. According to studies, Global Warming is the reason why we are experiencing sudden climate change. UV rays are harmful to our skin, as they can damage our skin or make us prone to skin cancer. Having said that, a lot of products are out on the market to protect us from damaging UV rays. It is a MUST to use sun protection, especially for people like me who are always outside. I tried six different brands in the market, and now, I will be sharing three of the best sunblocks. Dermplus versus Beach Hut versus Belo SunExpert.

Venice Grand Canal Mall, McKinley Hill

Venice Grand Canal Mall, McKinley Hill
I saw a friend posting a photo on Facebook that looked familiar. Out of curiosity, I asked my friend where the photo was taken, and she told me the details. I told my travel buddies about this place, and they already knew it. Without any plan, we visited the Venice Grand Canal Mall in McKinley Hill, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City.

Tau't Bato Tribe

Tau't Bato Tribe
The Tau’t Batu, Tao't Bato, or Taaw't Bato (translates to "people of the rock" in English) are indigenous people in high-lying areas of Mt. Mantalingajan. Most of them are still using the ancient mode of living, like hunting and farming. They also use caves as their home, but some already have houses made of light and sturdy materials like nipa, coconut leaves, and wood. During our visit, I noticed that most women use clothes to cover their bodies while shirts and G-strings for the men.


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San Diego Church, Silay

San Diego Church, Silay
The San Diego Pro-Cathedral, formerly known as San Diego Parish Church or St. Didacus Parish Church, was declared a pro-cathedral in 1994. It is the only church in Silay City that features a dome, which is like St. Peter's in Vatican City. It was established in 1776 using bamboo, cogon grass, and nipa palm. Then it was in 1841 when this parish was constructed using stone and wood, led by Fr. Eusebio Locsin. A grander structure was made in 1925 and replaced the old church. A wealthy sugar baron, Don Jose R. Ledesma from Silay, donated some of the funds for building the new structure. Lucio Bernasconi, an Italian architect, was chosen to design the new structure, wherein he took inspiration from Italy.

Thursday, 31 December 2020

Mt. Binacayan - Hike Guide You Need To Know

Mt. Binacayan
Mt. Binacayan measures 426+ MASL, and it's a small but tiring hike because of its terrain. Though separated by the Wawa River from Mt. Pamitinan, Binacayan almost has the same features in terms of difficulty and trail types. Some fruit-bearing trees and shrubs bloom like ornaments, and the lullabies from birds can be heard. You will be certified as a "revel in trekking" because of the rock climbing and scrambling on the boulders and limestone cliffs with sharp edges. Below are its specifications:

Mt. Marami - Hike Guide You Need To Know

Mt. Marami
By elevation, Mt. Marami measures 405+ MASL, and it is a mountain in Cavite that can give you relaxation because everything is surrounded by green, while the slopes from afar are picture-perfect. With that in mind, this mountain is getting its own record as one of the hiking destinations in Southern Luzon. Not only that, it is also one of the most visited mountains in the province because of its simple and gradual trails. You can't stop yourself from a death-defying pose on the rock formation called "silyang bato." Fruit-bearing trees, coconuts, bananas, and other crops can give you a Farmville feeling while the birds are singing their lullabies. Below are its specifications:

Mt. Talamitam - Hike Guide You Need To Know

Mt. Talamitam
Though no trees are dancing and birds singing, the nude shape of Mt. Talamitam, with elevation: 630+ MASL, makes it one of the hiking destinations in the Province of Batangas. Considered a friendly mountain for beginners, yet it can bring a remarkable hiking experience to seasoned hikers because of its soil type, which is slippery and muddy during the wet season and hot during summer. As you can see in the photo above, it is covered with green, which brings a relaxing aura to the eyes.

Mt. Pico de Loro - Hike Guide You Need To Know

Mt. Pico de Loro
Mt. Pico de Loro or Mt. Palay-palay, located in Ternate, Cavitehas a combination of beauty and trekking adventure; it has a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty and richness. Birds are singing, colorful flowering plants on the ground, orchids hanging on the branches, bananas, and fruit-bearing trees like coconuts and mangoes. Reaching the top of the Monolith or the Parrot's Beak is a must-have because it will test your fear and agility. Its name was given by the Spanish seafarer because it looks like a parrot’s beak from afar. Refer to the details below for its specifications:

Mt. Damas - Hike Guide You Need To Know

Mt. Damas
Mt. Damas, with an elevation of 685+ MASL, is a mountain in Tarlac with amazing views from its summit, healthy forest areas, and cool weather. Although until now, it is under debate whether it’s a minor or a major hike. Others would say it’s minor because of its elevation, but others would say it's major because of its trail type and technicalities. During our ascent, they were both correct; the entire journey was composed of an uphill and downhill trek with a river crossing. That doesn't end there; since it's wet season, the muddy and slippery terrains made our journey remarkable.

Mt. Daraitan - Hike Guide You Need To Know

Mt. Daraitan
Mt. Daraitan, with the stunning view of the Tinipak River, is a perfect place to relax and re-energize your body. When we saw the gorgeous photos of this mountain, we thought it had calmness and the positivity that nature possesses. Also, hiking this mountain and crossing the river can give you a unique experience because the place is surrounded by relaxing greens, and the sound of the rushing water by the river preserves tranquility. Aside from this mountain, the province of Rizal has a lot to offer, from arts, crafts, food, rivers, and caves.

Mt. Maculot - Hike Guide You Need To Know

Mt. Maculot
I'll place Mt. Maculot as the second highly recommended mountain to hike in Batangas because of different factors. Can also be one of the best options for day hikes because of its minor trail type and terrains that are covered with trees and surrounded by grass and shrubs, the air is the fresh, cool ambience and a perfect location for a stunning shot with the world famous and most active Taal Volcano on the background. In addition, the Rockies are the best and most famous part of this mountain range.

Mt. Lubog Traverse to Mt. Hapunang Banoi

Mt. Hapunang Banoi
Mt. Hapunang Banoi is situated beside Mt. Pamitinan, and separated by Wawa Dam from Mt. Binacayan. These mountains in Montalban, Rizal are now famous in the mountaineering world because it is surrounded by luscious green trees, making the area look so relaxing, and the wind is cool, clean, and fresh. Plus, the exhilarating terrains added an adventure to hikers; a perfect place to relax and an Instagram-worthy worthy.

Mt. Cristobal - Hike Guide You Need To Know

Mt. Cristobal
Mt. Cristobal, lying in Quezon Province, is one of the famous mountains in Luzon because of the countless stories, rumors, and legends about "ghosts" and other extraterrestrial events. As a result, it is called the "Devil's Mountain." On the other hand, Cristobal hides amazing terrains, surrounded by dense forest areas. There are mosses, ferns, and orchids hanging on the branches, proof that this wildlife sanctuary is still preserved. Also, the ambiance and weather are cool.

Wednesday, 30 December 2020

Mt. Guiting-Guiting Travel Guide – Conquering the Knife-Edge of Romblon

Mt. Guiting-Guiting

Jump to: About Mt. Guiting-Guiting | How to Get There | What to Expect | Suggested Itinerary | Travel Budget | Where to Stay | Travel Tips

About Mt. Guiting-Guiting

Mt. Guiting-Guiting, towering at 2,058 MASL, is the crown jewel of Sibuyan Island, Romblon. Renowned for its razor-sharp ridges and technical knife-edge trail, it is considered one of the most difficult and dangerous climbs in the Philippines. The mountain sits within a protected natural park and is a sanctuary for rare flora and fauna, including endemic pitcher plants and cloud rats. A dream climb for experienced mountaineers, G2 is not just a test of endurance, but of grit and mental toughness.

Mt. Ugo Travel Guide – Scenic Hike in Benguet and Nueva Vizcaya

Mt. Ugo summit ridge with pine trees and clouds in Benguet

Jump to: About Mt. Ugo | How to Get There | What to Expect | Suggested Itinerary | Travel Budget | Where to Stay | Travel Tips

About Mt. Ugo

Mt. Ugo (also called Mt. Ugu) rises 2,150 MASL along the boundary of Benguet and Nueva Vizcaya. Known for its pine-covered trails, breathtaking ridge walks, and sea of clouds, it is one of the best hikes for beginners transitioning to multi-day treks. Once the crash site of a tragic plane accident, Mt. Ugo has since become a peaceful trekking destination for those seeking adventure and solitude in the Cordilleras.

Mt. Timbak Travel Guide – Easiest 2,717 MASL Hike in Benguet

Mt. Timbak

Jump to: About Mt. Timbak | How to Get There | What to Expect | Suggested Itinerary | Travel Budget | Where to Stay | Travel Tips

About Mt. Timbak

Mt. Timbak (also called Mt. Singakalsa) is the third-highest mountain in Luzon and the ninth-highest in the Philippines at 2,717 meters above sea level. Located in Atok, Benguet, it’s known for its scenic vegetable terraces, sunrise views, and cultural heritage. The summit can be reached via a short hike or even by vehicle, making it one of the most accessible major peaks in the Cordillera region.

Backpacking in Tawi-Tawi (7 Best Tourist Spots)

Tawi-Tawi Tourist Spots
For me, the Province of Tawi-Tawi is the hardest province to penetrate because of its geographical location. Not only that, it is always associated with "war" and, most of the time, being judged and considered as "unsafe" for travelers, which I disagree with! Bongao, its capital, is the busiest municipality in the province but has a lot of stunning tourist spots and destinations that are just waiting to be recognized.

Featuring Basilan (4 Best Tourist Spots)

Basilan Tourist Spots
The Province of Basilan is an island province in the Bangsamoro Region. Its old name was Tagime, and it was named after a Datu who ruled the island before the arrival of the Spaniards in the province. Its name was changed several times until BasihBalan, derived from their legendary weapon called “pira”, which was made of basic iron, and Balan, meaning magnetic, which was shortened to Basilan. Not just history, the province also hides amazing tourist attractions.

Featuring Butuan City (Top 3 Tourist Spots)

Butuan City Tourist Spots

1. Butuan National Museum

This branch of the National Museum houses a collection of relics discovered in the region. There are ceramics, earthenware, locally woven fabrics, paintings, books, jars, skeletons, and many more. Each of the items is enclosed in glass cabinets, while the others are on the walls.

Featuring Sultan Kudarat (7 Best Tourist Spots)

Sultan Kudarat Tourist Spots
The Provincial Capitol of Sultan Kudarat is situated in Isulan, and according to reviews, it is one of the most beautiful capitols in the Philippines - it's definitely a big YES for me. The capitol compound is 9.2 hectares covered with well well-maintained landscape, while the artistic structures are based on Islamic architecture, painted with white and gold. On the other hand, in the middle of the capital ground, there's a gigantic golden statue of Sultan Kudarat, whom the province was named after.

Isla Jardin Del Mar - Things You Need To Know

Isla Jardin Del Mar
Upon arrival, I easily heard the relaxing rushing waves hitting the shoreline. After paying the entrance fee, with excitement, I headed to the side where the sound came from and found a stretch of fine white sand and playful, crystal clear water. Not only that, this beach has emerald seas, and the coconuts and the trees by the beach serve as a perfect backdrop. By the way, the wind is cool and fresh, and the area has a relaxing ambiance - perfect for a family outing and a weekend getaway.