ILAGAN JAPANESE TUNNEL: TRAVEL GUIDE, ITINERARY, HISTORY, AND HOW TO GET HERE

Ilagan Japanese Tunnel is a war tunnel that was used for defense, as a prison, garrison and a headquarter by the Japanese government and military officials. It's a man-made tunnel created by the locals through force labor. This tunnel is one of the tourist destinations situated in Ilagan City, Isabela. Aside from Ilagan Japanese Tunnel, the Giant Butaka is an attraction that welcomes everyone who passes by the highway.

Lussok Crystal Cave, Apayao (Tourist Spots + Travel Guide)

Lussok Cave is one of the prides of Apayao and the Cordillera region. This cave is composed of four chambers, with artistic limestone formations. Not only that, Lussok offers a remarkable caving experience because of the spectacular sceneries that can only be seen on the small caverns. Also, did you know that the countless bats residing inside Lussok produces the most expenssive fertilizer called "guano?" With our Lussok cave experience, I learned that motto: "kapag ang pumatak sayo malamig, that's Holy water, but if it's warm, that's holy sh_t."

National Museum of the Filipino People, Manila

Philippine National Museum, Museum of the Filipino People Building

I have been dreaming to visit the Philippine National Museum since high school but in 2015 that dream came into reality as the Philippine National Museum offered a free admission for the whole month of October. I spent the whole day inside the museum, from Marikina City Shoe Museum to the National Museum, in Manila. Below are 20 photos captured at the Museum of the Filipino People building.

San Sebastian Church, Manila

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

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

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

Balaw-Balaw Restaurant + Art Gallery

I am not into cooking, but I love eating! One thing that I would like to share was an amazing encounter with exotic foods at Balaw Balaw Restaurant in Angono, Rizal. So, after enjoying the famous Higantes Festival, while our clothes are wet, we headed to this specialty restaurant, which is one of the prominent restaurants outside Metro Manila. I consider it as one of the must visit, best place to dine, and the best restaurants serving exotic foods.

Colorful History of Higantes Festival, Angono Rizal

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

Animasola Island, Masbate

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

Giant Lantern Festival, Pampanga

The Giant Lantern Festival is an annual festivities held in December in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines. The festival features a competition of giant lanterns. Because of the popularity of the festival, the city has been nicknamed the "Christmas Capital of the Philippines".

Maniwaya Island, Marinduque: Resort, Entrance Fee, How to Get Here

Let's accept the reality that when Boracay island was closed, the other comparable beaches were recognized - Maniwaya Island in Marinduque is one of those. The province of Marinduque is considered the heart of the Philippine archipelago and the neighbour of my hometown - Romblon. Gorgeous images of this island spread on social media which captured my interest. There's fine white sand beaches, amazing landscape, crystal clear water, a vast diversity of underwater creatures and many more; photos below will explain more.

Best Travel Destinations in the Philippines

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

VISITA IGLESIA: Old Churches in Rizal (Travel Guide)

I have been planning to visit the historical and century-old churches in Pasig and the province of Rizal and the plan became a reality; today is the perfect day and the perfect season. It is my Visita Iglesia 2018 in a backpacking style. My itinerary started with the oldest church in Pasig, then the oldest Marian church in Cainta, St. John the Baptist in Taytay, and the stunning Tanay Church with Baroque architecture. And to close our good Friday adventure, we visited the gigantic Pililla Wind Farm, also in Rizal.

BUNGA FALLS, LAGUNA: 2020 TRAVEL GUIDE, ITINERARY, BUDGET, WHAT TO DO, AND HOW TO GET HERE

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

Top 11 Best Tourist Spots in Romblon: 2024 Itinerary, Places to Visit

Romblon is my home town and I am very proud that I was raised in this small archipelago. My early years was surrounded by rice field, trees, and marbles, I thought the province of Romblon is composed of such but I was wrong. When I started traveling that's the time that I discovered that my home town has a lot to offer. From the untouched beaches, unexplored caves, mountains, underwater richness and may others. This article will show you how beautiful Romblon is. Allow me to introduce to you the gorgeous tourist destinations in Romblon.

Manuel Uy Beach Resort, Batangas

Looking for a gorgeous place to relax near Metro Manila? How about a beautiful landscape by the beach, sounds interesting right? Stunning beaches and resorts near the metro can be found in the province of Batangas in Southern Luzon; Manuel Uy Beach Resort is one of the must-visit place in the Calatagan, a 3-4 hours road travel from Manila. Travel time might be tiring but our journey to our destination was unforgettable. More photos and read our story below:

Burot Beach, Batangas: Travel Guide, Itinerary, Things You Need to Know

Looking for a place to relax and at the same time wants to experience adventure? Burot Beach is the perfect place for you. It is situated in the Municipality of Calatagan, Batangas – just few hours travel from Metro Manila. It is another spot that this province can be proud of. History: Burot Beach was formerly known as Elizalde Beach, because it was previously owned by Elizalde family - a wealthy clan in the Philippines and then bought by the SM Group of Companies. Today, it is privately owned by the SM Group and still open to the public.

Agnaem or Agnain Cove, Zambales

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

9 DAYS SOLO-BACKPACKING: Sarangani, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Maguidanao, North Cotabato, Surigao del Norte, Dinagat Islands, Agusan del Sur

MY MINDANAO ACTUAL TRAVEL GUIDE AND ITINERARY:

COVERED 8 PROVINCES: SARANGANI, SOUTH COTABATO, SULTAN KUDARAT, MAGUINDANAO, NORTH COTABATO, SURIGAO DEL NORTE, DINAGAT ISLANDS, AGUSAN DEL SUR

EXPENSES WITHOUT AIRFARE: 18,486 Pesos
AIRFARE: 2,235 Pesos Back and Forth

TOTAL EXPENSES: 20,721 Pesos

TRAVEL GUIDE: AWAO FALLS, Compostela Valley

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

TRAVEL GUIDE: KAAMULAN PARK AND ZOO, Bukidnon

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

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

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

TRAVEL GUIDE: NASULI COLD SPRING, Bukidnon

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

TRAVEL GUIDE: PASEO DE SANTIAGO, Iligan City, Lanao del Norte

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

SOLO-BACKPACKING: Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley, Davao City

CASH ON HAND: 10,300 PESOS
SUB-TOTAL EXPENSES WITHOUT AIRFARE: 9,464 PESOS
AIRFARE: 2,189.84 PESOS
TOTAL EXPENSES: 11,653.84

 

San Lorenzo Wind Farm (Guimaras Windmills)

My last destination in Guimaras was Guimaras Windfarm with 27 gigantic wind turbines that harness electricity from the wind. The island is surrounded by the seas, so it’s a perfect location for renewable because of its sea breeze. According to Kuya Ken, the harnessed energy is being transported to Ilo-Ilo City via cables submerged into the water. There’s a registration but no entrance fee. Also, we talked about the proposed bridge that will connect Guimaras to Ilo-Ilo, however, it was rejected because it can damage the living underwater creatures. By the way, Bangui Windmills is the most prominent wind farm in the Philippines which brought a lot of tourists in Ilocos Norte and just recently, I featured the Tanay Windmills in Tanay, Rizal.

Tori's Backpackers Paradise, Siquijor

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

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