The Taal Basilica is also known as the Minor Basilica and Parish of Saint Martin of Tours and is considered the largest church building in Asia, standing 88.6 meters (291 feet) long and 48 meters (157 feet) wide. I am eager to visit this old church because an earthquake hit the province and it created a crack in its wall.
The National Museum of Natural History, located in Manila, recently opened with a bang! They open their doors, cases, and glass cabinets to everyone, offering extremely rare items that can only be found here with no entrance fee. The museum staff and researchers exerted their effort to preserve and keep these items for the next generation. It is my and your wealth! So, what are you waiting for? Tara na!
The Chinese Garden is located in Luneta and is one of the tourist spots, attractions, and destinations in Manila. This garden can give you an amazing feeling of what's inside a typical Chinese park and temple. I was searching for the National Museum Planetarium, but Google Maps gave me an idea about this place. When I saw its entrance, I was amazed by the artistic and colorful gate, with Chinese characters.
Just a few days ago, the National Museum Planetarium in Manila opened its door to the public for FREE until April 30, 2017, so money is not a problem to see and appreciate the wealth inside its dome. By the way, there are daily presentation showing the facts about planets, satellites, stars, sun, milky way, galaxy, solar system and many other things around the sun that will definitely wake up your sleeping interest about celestial bodies and Science and Technology.
The Cattleya Resort is situated in Antipolo City and is one of the best resort spots in Rizal Province. Its location faces the vibrant lights of Metro Manila, the breeze is cool, the air is fresh, everything is calm, and it has a homey feeling. The area is also surrounded by plants with an artistic landscape, and the pool has a unique shape filled with crystal-clear water. Not only that, the sound of the lashing water on the pool added a relaxing feeling during our stay.
Baluarte de San Diego is a historical site and the oldest stone fort in Manila. Built in 1586, it was called the Nuestra Senora de Guia designed by Jesuit priest Antonio Sedeno. Fell into disrepair and was renovated in 1593. Incorporated as part of the walls but later abandoned due to its unstable foundations. The new structure was constructed with orillons (curved corners) masking cannons on the flanks. Destroyed during the British invasion in 1762. Repaired and renovated in 1764. American Army ordinance section was built on-site during the American occupation. Destroyed during World War 2 and is now a major tourist attraction of the Intramuros Walled City.
Fort Santiago is one of the historical landmarks inside Intramuros. It's a fortress that is a part of the structures of the Walled City. This historical structure was first built by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi for the newly founded City of Manila. This fort is the most important historical sites in Manila as Dr. Jose Rizal was imprisoned here before he was executed in 1896.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Jump to: About Guadalupe Church | Historical Background | How to Get There | What to See | Mass Schedule | Suggested Visit Itinerary | Where to Stay | Travel Tips
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.
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.
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.
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 a bus with a Cagayan signboard and alighted at Agora Terminal. Then, we rode another bus with a Butuan signboard and alighted at their central terminal. Then, another bus ride to Bislig, Surigao del Sur. Below was our 5-day backpacking trip in Mindanao covering Surigao, Agusan del Norte, and Camiguin.
Negros Occidental holds most historical sites in Western Visayas. The first attraction you should visit is The Ruins, a mansion that was owned by the sugar baron Don Mariano “Anoy” Ledesma Lacson (1865-1948). The construction of this mansion was non-stop until the entire structure was completed. It was the largest mansion built during that time; however, it was burned to prevent the Japanese forces from making it their headquarters during World War II. Because of the A-grade mixture of concrete that was used, its ruins remain today.
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.
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.
Jump to: Mt. Batulao | Mt. Pico de Loro | Mt. Gulugod Baboy | Mt. Pamitinan | Mt. Daraitan | Hiking Tips
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.
Jump to: About Iloilo | How to Get There | Things to Do in Iloilo | Sample Itinerary | Budget and Expenses | Where to Stay | Travel Tips
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.
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.
Jump to: About Siargao | How to Get There | Where to Stay | Things to Do | Sample Itinerary | Estimated Budget | Travel Tips
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.
Jump to: About Mt. Guiting-Guiting | How to Get There | What to Expect | Suggested Itinerary | Travel Budget | Where to Stay | Travel Tips
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.