Siquijor Church: A Complete Backpackers Guide

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 initially used cogon for roofing. What's unique about this church is the bell tower built a few meters away. Like some other old churches in the Philippines,  its convent served as the hiding place from the pirates and other invaders. Today, it is the center 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.

Salagdoong Beach, Siquijor: A Complete Backpackers Guide

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

The Naked Island in Surigao

Experience the naked paradise of the Naked Island, one of the islets of 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 if 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, Siquijor

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

Century Old Balete Tree, Siquijor

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

Tierra Alta Lighthouse, Valencia, Negros Oriental

The Tierra Alta Lighthouse 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 type of gatherings because of its breath-taking picturesque 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 the well maintained grass and ornaments.

 

Red Rock Hot Spring, Negros Oriental (Travel Guide)

The Red Rock Hot Spring is another tourist destinations in Valencia, Negros Oriental. It started as a family private pool but was expanded due to insistent demands. Red Rock Hot Spring became prominent to tourists and locals because it's a great place to relax. The temperature of the free flowing spring water ranges from 37.5 to 39.5 degrees Celsius; perfect for tired muscles. Plus, the ambiance inside the compound is very Asian because of the cottages and plants that surround the pool.

CATA-AL WORLD WAR II MUSEUM, Valencia, Negros Oriental - a Travel Guide

The Cata-Al World War 2 Museum is a newly developed tourist spots and destinations in Valencia, Negros Oriental. It started as a private personal collection but was expanded as a museum to let the new generation see what are things used during the second World War. The collection includes ammunition such as guns, bayonets, and grenades. Not only that, there are old radios, transmitters, bags, army and navy uniforms and magazines related to the World War II. Other Japanese memorabilia such as costumes, table wares and many more.

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, Negros Oriental (Travel from Dumaguete)

Casaroro Falls is the must visit and the top tourist attraction in Valencia, Negros Oriental. Situated outside the city, it is a 20-30 minutes travel from Dumaguete City. This beautiful waterfalls stands 100 feet and is surrounded by luscious greens and healthy vegetation.  Because of its height, the fresh and cool water falling creates a relaxing-rushing-sound harmonized with the birds lullabies and wind blowing the trees.

Antwet Backpacker's Inn, Dumaguete City

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

Backpacking Guide: Tourist Spots in Negros Oriental, Siquijor, Bohol

MONEY ON HAND: 10,424.00
TOTAL EXPENSES: 11,015.84 PESOS
EXPENSES WITHOUT AIRFARE: 9,175.4 PESOS
Flights via Cebu Pacific: MNL-DGT - 627.84 Pesos. TAG-MNL: 1,212.60 Pesos

TRAVEL GUIDE: MORONG CHURCH, Bataan

Morong Church or Our Lady of the Pillar Parish Church is more than 400 years old, established in 1607, which is one of the oldest churches in Bataan. Its structure was made from Coral stones, erected by the people of Morong under the Spanish Colonizer 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 as one of the heritage churches in Bataan. 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.

 

Bulacan: Pinagrealan Cave, Lioness Rock

Pinagrealan Cave or 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: 2024 Travel Guide, History, Architecture, Mass, Wedding

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

Malolos Cathedral, Bulacan

Introduction | Immaculate Conception Parish Cathedral & Minor Basilica

The Malolos Cathedral is one of the historical churches in the Philippines, located in the city, Bulacan. The construction of this church 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 the past centuries.

Baliwag Church, Bulacan: Travel Guide, History, Mass Schedule

The gorgeous Baroque architectural design of the Baliuag Church or the Saint Augustine Parish Church is outstanding from afar. We were still inside the tricycle traveling, when I noticed the stunning brownish-golden color of the massive bell tower. Though the rear side is visible, for some reason, I was very positive that it was the church we were looking for.

Bulacan Provincial Capitol: Architecture, History, Location

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

Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Nuestra Señora de la Asuncion, Bulakan, Bulacan

It is one of the old churches located in Bulacan which is a 19th-century Neo-Byzantine-Romanesque stone church. It was declared as 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 as "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 

Jose Cojuanco Mansion, Bulacan

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

Plaridel Church, Bulacan: Saint James the Apostle Parish Church

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

 

San Rafael River Adventure, Bulacan: Location, Rates, How To Get Here

San Rafael River Adventure offers a remarkable, unique and modern way of camping - this generation calls it a "glamping" or glamorous camping. Leaving your work and relaxing somewhere is the perfect way of spending your rest days, agree? But where is that "somewhere?" and "how?" I want to share another stunning tourist attraction and must visit destination in Bulacan. With great facilities, this river resort can definitely give you a WOW factor: from the gorgeous surrounding, relaxing ambiance, water activities, and excellent amenities.

CAMILING PARISH CHURCH: Tarlac Travel Guide

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

President Ramon Magsaysay’s Ancestral House

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

HIKING GUIDE: Mt. Daguldol, Batangas

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

 

MT. MANABU (Hiking Guide, Itinerary, Things you need to know)

Derived from the phrase "mataas na bundok," Mt. Manabu hides something that is breathtaking in its forest areas. Gorgeous flora and distinct fauna can be found on the terrain that is composed of tall hardwood and fruit-bearing trees, coconuts, shrubs and grasses. This type of terrain serves as a paradise for the civet cats that produce expensive coffee. In addition, its summit has a wide view of the mountain ranges from afar and the nearby villages and has a cool and refreshing sea breeze.

 

HIKING GUIDE: Mt. Malipunyo, Batangas

Mt. Malarayat is another name given to the Mt. Malipunyo ranges in Batangas, one of the hiking destinations in Southern Luzon. Proximity wise from Manila and nearby provinces, it's a big CHECK. For two to three hours land travel and a whole day trek, you can enjoy the stunning views and extreme experience that can be found on the terrains of this mountain. It is also considered as “first timer friendly,” as it has a simple to moderate trail types. The terrain is abundant with different type of trees and colorful flowers that serve as as paradise of the wildlife.

 

HIKING GUIDE: Mt. Tibig, Batangas

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

 

Buntot Palos Falls, the Hidden Falls in Laguna

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

HIKING GUIDE: Mt. Mabilog and Pandin Lake

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

 

Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery, Laguna

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

Lakes Pandin and Yambo

The province of Laguna has a healthy culture, stories, and travel destinations. Pandin Lake is just one of the seven lakes in the province that is certified tourist destination because of its unique and amazing picturesque. The lake, with the reflection of the skies, greets the visitors with its instagrammable landscape. The water is cool and crystal clear waters surrounded by forest which preserves the tranquility in the area. This is also the perfect jump off or side trip for hiking Mt. Mabilog. Pandin Lake is definitely one of the must visit tourist spots and destinations in San Pablo, Laguna.

3B Rest House, Antipolo City

Planning to go out of town but how far is out of town? Though, it's a one to two hours land travel from Metro Manila, we chose 3B Resort in Antipolo, Rizal because we thought that it has a relaxing ambiance and a pool with the view of Manila's golden skyline. Since it is situated on the mountainous part, the wind is relaxing, cool and fresh.

The Secluded Erin's Place Resort, Baras, Rizal

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

ALIWAN FIESTA: Street dance, Best float and Reyna ng Aliwan

Aliwan Fiesta is an annual event where colourful festivals from different regions in the Philippines gather in one area to compete for the coveted title. Having said that, Aliwan Fiesta is known as the "festival of all the festivals in the Philippines." Aside from the given title, the winners will also bring home cash prices, and many more. This event has a huge contribution to Philippine tourism because it is the best way to let the world know, or the universe rather, those festivals are More Fun in the Philippines. Anyways, Aliwan Fiesta 2019 has a series of events, such as the street dance competition, the float parade and the Reyna ng Aliwan. Below are the winners:

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

While the sun was still setting and we were a few kilometers away from the port of Jolo, I noticed the big picture of and the stunning view of Sulu - an island province in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao. Honestly, this province is always associated with "war." With my statement "I will be traveling to Tawi-Tawi, Sulu and Basilan," I always receive a response like "it's not safe, don't go there." Sad to hear right? But that's the reality. My solo-backpacking in the province is the proof that traveling to Jolo, Sulu is safe and I discovered that the people here are friendly and accommodating. Below are the must do and must visit tourist spots and destinations in Jolo, Sulu.

Hiking Mt. 387 and the Batong Amat

Mt. 387 is one of the newly marked hiking destinations in Luzon because of its breathtaking beauty, spectacular and tantalizing golden sunset, fresh and cool ambiance – this mountain can be considered as one of the most scenic mountains in the Philippines. Mt. 387 is situated in the province Nueva Ecija which is dubbed as the “Rice Granary of the Philippines,” a three to four hours travel from Manila. Our photos below will explain more about what Mt. 387 can offer.

Backpacking Guide: Tourist Spots in Capiz, Antique, Guimaras, Ilo-Ilo

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

Video Blog: Mt. Tabayoc and its virgin forest

Mt. Tabayoc has the most preserved virgin in the Philippines; the trails  that are covered with mosses, trees and other ornamental plants are the living proof. On the summit there's a 360 degrees view of the Cordillera Mountains, the shape of Mt. Pulag and the spectacular Sea of Clouds. For gorgeous photos and our itinerary, click here: Sirang Lente.

Check my YouTube Channel here -> SirangLente.

VIDEO BLOG: A Drone Shot of Mt. Timbak

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

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ABOUT ME: SIRANGLENTE

Pililla Windfarm, Rizal

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

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ABOUT ME: SIRANGLENTE

Alibijaban and Burias Island Contact

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

Mt. Batulao Dayhike, Batangas

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