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Dinagyang Festival (Hala Bira, Iloilo!)

Iloilo is the next big thing! I am an Ilongo and I’ve been living here my whole life. In January, we annually celebrate one of the grandest festivals in the country, Dinagyang Festival. The Dinagyang Festival is a religious and cultural festival in Iloilo City, Philippines held on the 4th Sunday of January, or right after the Sinulog in Cebu and the Ati-Atihan Festival in Kalibo, Aklan. This to commemorate the Christianization of the natives and to honor the Holy Child Jesus. It is a very colorful parade coupled with a dramatization in honor of the patron Saint Sto. It is usually a one week celebration. Locals and tourists enjoy the food festivals. A lot of food kiosk can be found on the streets downtown. Filipinos love grilled dishes - beef, pork, fish, squid and many more to choose from. They are perfect for meals or pulutan (dish that complements in any alcoholic drink you like). They are concerts held in many places. Many famous bands are invited to entertain the people, even at night, streets, pubs and restaurants are filled with lively and fun party-goers. Body tattooing is also a famous activity. A lot of artists can be found anywhere to offer great designs. Street dancing, or our own version of Mardi Gras, is enjoyed by the tourists of all ages. The highlight of this event is the tribe competition.  On the Saturday, we celebrate the KASADYAHAN FESTIVAL. It is a cultural dance parade and contest held on a Saturday before the Ati competition of the Dinagyang Festival. It is participated in by the municipalities and local government units and schools in Western Visayas. It has become a major cultural event that has a soul of its own, completely distinct from that of Ati-based performances. It focuses on celebrating the goodness of the Creator for the bounties given the Western Visayans through a grand dancing parade filled with color and grace. The place is also known for its superb La Paz batchoy, traditionally brewed coffee from Madge Cafe, mouthwatering Lechon in Molo, Iloilo and famous delicacies for a perfect pasalubong when you get back home. You can visit different old churches like Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral, Molo Church and Miag-ao church. When in the city and you love partying, foods and nightlife are everywhere. There are plenty of hotels, pension houses or inns nearby. Iloilo boasts its summer-perfect getaway islands in Carles. It has an international airport to cater not only the local tourists but also foreign tourists. Come in Iloilo and have a wondeful vacation! Read the full article

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Epic Groupie

The first thing landscape photographers like I do, look for in a travel destination is a picture-perfect spot to witness the sunrise. This includes having a foreground view of the nature. If you are located around the center of Baguio, don't go elsewhere to behold the epic sunrise! It's just a five-kilometer ride away from the heart of Baguio at its Northern Outskirt, passing through Botanical Garden and Mansion House. Mines View is a park with a view deck overlooking the mining town of Itogon, Benguet. The gold and copper mines were already abandoned by the mining corporation. Sunrise is the best way to enjoy the view of Mines View Park because the foggy mountain is back lighted with sunrays producing a surreal and moody landscape view. Also, the relaxing feeling of the combination of gentle warm morning light, touching your skin and fresh cold air from the mountain and pine trees. In addition, during early mornings, only early bird tourists are seen at this point of time, assuring anyone to freely enjoy taking  personal, group and family portraits with the view. Don't forget to bring your selfie stick to get a wider view of your groupie! After sunrise, the view deck will be jam-packed with tourist so it's advisable to be there at sunrise. After witnessing the sunrise at the view deck, one can sip native coffee from stores found just outside the park, taste the newly prepared sweet strawberry flavored Baguio taho, and they are serving newly cooked Filipino foods like beef bulalo (boiled bone marrow and beef shank flavored with onion , garlic, peppercorns, fish sauce and Baguio vegetables.) and beef papaitan (made of beef tenderloin and innards flavored with garlic, ginger, onion and beef bile or apdo). These foods will surely complement the cold climate in Baguio. Okay, now what's next on the list after breakfast at mines view park? Surrounding the park, anyone can shop at the stores of souvenir items, unveiling wide ranges of Mountain Province products. You can also shop ornamental plants at the park, do a family photo shoot with lovable St. Bernard dogs. The dogs are safe because  they have undergone vaccination records, deworming and other veterinary health records supported by training certificates by Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Animal Industry and the Philippine Animal Welfare Society. Not only the dogs are safe but also the dog handlers and watchers have undergone proper training to fully unsure safety. You can also rent an Igorot traditional dress at the park and have bursts of photo at the view deck and finish it with a quick captivating shot with a horse! Sunrise are very common, but Mines View's sunrise is one of a kind moment, people don't want to miss! Read the full article

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Water is Life

This photo is taken in Rapu-rapu, Albay. I always dreaming about going to the places where is very unique same to this place and it is very nice that this place is also my birth place. When i was a younger of age i saw alot Beautiful views here and that is the reason I\'m dreamed about to become a photographer, I like taking landscapes and macros photos. Taking  pictures is my stress kiler that\'s why when  i got a budget for dslr camera i decided to buy it. Now  I had My camera ready for Capturing beautiful views, when I go back to my birth place I dont leave there without any beautiful photos like this.     This photo is taken in Rapu-rapu, Albay. I always dreaming about going to the places where is very unique same to this place and it is very nice that this place is also my birth place. When i was a younger of age i saw alot Beautiful views here and that is the reason I\'m dreamed about to become a photographer, I like taking landscapes and macros photos. Taking  pictures is my stress kiler that\'s why when  i got a budget for dslr camera i decided to buy it. Now  I had My camera ready for Capturing beautiful views, when I go back to my birth place I dont leave there without any beautiful photos like this. This photo is taken in Rapu-rapu, Albay. I always dreaming about going to the places where is very unique same to this place and it is very nice that this place is also my birth place. When i was a younger of age i saw alot Beautiful views here and that is the reason I\'m dreamed about to become a photographer, I like taking landscapes and macros photos. Taking  pictures is my stress kiler that\'s why when  i got a budget for dslr camera i decided to buy it. Now  I had My camera ready for Capturing beautiful views, when I go back to my birth place I dont leave there without any beautiful photos like this. This photo is taken in Rapu-rapu, Albay. I always dreaming about going to the places where is very unique same to this place and it is very nice that this place is also my birth place. When i was a younger of age i saw alot Beautiful views here and that is the reason I\'m dreamed about to become a photographer, I like taking landscapes and macros photos. Taking  pictures is my stress kiler that\'s why when  i got a budget for dslr camera i decided to buy it. Now  I had My camera ready for Capturing beautiful views, when I go back to my birth place I dont leave there without any beautiful photos like this.     Read the full article

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Blue Serenity

Tagbak Marine Park is my favourite place for standup paddle (SUP) boarding so far. It is one of the best SUP sites I ever visited with its clear azure waters.  Interestingly, you can choose on which part of the sanctuary to paddle as different parts have different water currents. Aside from stand up paddle boarding, kayaking can also be enjoyed at the park. Snorkelling is highly recommended. The marine ecosystem is very rich as we get to see diverse groups of corals, fish, sea turtles and sea grasses as we do snorkelling. Underwater landscape is indeed amazing!  Actually, what I did is, paddle towards the area for snorkelling, get off the board and enjoy the underwater landscape. The marine park is very suitable if you want to have the best time communing with nature. Another thing I like in this place is that, it is not so crowded as the tourism office will only allow one group of visitors in a day, that is, not more than 20 people in a group! I went there with my officemates and we really have a good time having the place to ourselves. We even planned for our next visit while we are still at the marine park. To visit this marine park, a reservation has to be made at the Tourism Office of the Municipality of Liloan. The jump off point along the highway is 5 to 10 minute drive from the town proper of Liloan. The marine park is very accessible as it is only a 5-minute motorised banca ride from the jump off point from the highway. Upon arrival at the park, a short briefing about the park will be given by the tour guide about what to enjoy on particular areas of the marine park. The park also has a two- storey gazebo built on the rocks in the middle of the park which also allows you to have a 360-view of the sanctuary. This also provides shade especially for those who just wanted to feel the sea breeze. But for sure, it is hard to resist the inviting clear blue water for a swim.  Make sure to bring food (for lunch and some snacks) especially if the visit is for the whole day. Visitors are also allowed to grill food near the gazebo. You can bring along some fresh fish you bought at Liloan public market for grilling! I will definitely visit this place once again soon!   Read the full article

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Fun at Quezon City Circle

Fun at Quezon Memorial Circle

If you’re near Quezon City, come and head over to the Quezon City Memorial Circle (Q.M.C.). One can liken it as a haven within the ever so busy city life. Seeing the happy faces of children, families break their monotonic routine can really light up your day. It’s the perfect place to have a picnic, practice your dance routine, play with your pet dog, or even have a barbeque. Quezon City Memorial Circle is not only a historical landmark, but also a place to relax, have fun, and enjoy yourself. If you just want to enjoy the view, jog, or just sit to watch people come and go, you can go there any time and any day of the week. But if you want to see more attractions like the dancing fountain, the glowing monument, and the market where you can buy cheap stuff, I suggest that you go there on a late weekend afternoon. You should go check out the garden side of Quezon City Circle, located near Circle of Fun, and have a nice long stroll. Take the time to breathe in the fresh air and relax. In this area, you will be able to bask in the vividness of the different kinds of flowers and admire the great scenery like visiting a garden without having to pay for a fee. As dusk falls, the Q.M.C. begins to light up with constantly changing sparkling colors. Spectators are captivated by the colorful fountain that moves with the rhythm of the music. The monument begins to change color, giving off an enthralling glow. Kids and kids at heart are entranced with Circle of Fun’s bizarre attractions like the Sky Bike which allows you to pedal aerially and see the view of the amusement park. There are swan boats that allow you to drift freely on the man-made lake. The “Food Tiangge sa QC Circle”, on the other hand, is filled with different food stalls that can surely satisfy your hunger. The variety of local street foods can surely make your mouth water. You can even get fresh “buko” to quench your thirst. And before going home, enjoy the rest of the night with one final stroll. My overall weekend evening experience of bonding with my family was truly a memorable and enjoyable one without having the need to spend a lot of money. Experience and make your own memorable moments at QC Memorial Circle. Read the full article

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Comfort zone

It wasn’t just another day, I won’t let that happen. Whenever i wake up in the morning, i literally want to be productive, shoot, create music or even just reading a book with a cup of hot chocolate. It was afternoon when I asked my friend to go out with me and have a stroll near a lakeside in Angono. It wasn’t that hot and the weather was just chill. i was also carrying my Fuji film xT20 with me with a 23mm F1.4 that time. I’ve been doing a lot of photo walks and recently joined competitions for photography. I’m more of a portrait photographer and does my work for the development of my portfolio but I love to explore things out, that’s why I tried street photography and others styles like landscapes and even macro. On this day I was starving since I forgot to eat food before going out. After eating, I notice a group of kids having a great day jumping off and swimming in the lake. I took pictures and some wasn’t that great since the daylight was too harsh, so i waited and took some more. I got a lot but this was one of my favorite. It delivers a sense of comfort zone to the kid sitting in front of me. and it somehow strike me, telling me to always explore, get out of the things that makes your world smaller and start being the person who you want to be, making the world a bit bigger by my own imagination through a lens. Photography really is life changing, you’ll realised a lot about life. Especially when you're sitting down in front of your computer editing the pictures you've taken. You'll notice that it was really good, it provides good feeling because I know something great will come out soon with all the hardships I've been facing. Also, the feeling of being productive enough getting good results and sharing to other people the work I've done. It's great, even if some critics to my photos are not that good. I accept them and learn because at some people that's what they thought I can't do anything about it, it's their opinion. All I can do is apply what i learn, take the critics as lessons from the past and keep doing what I love. Love the work I've been doing for the past years I can say that I'll continue doing this in the future. Read the full article

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Feel the Cordillera Breeze

Baguio City— the Summer Capital of the Philippines situated in Benguet Province, has lot to tell about. Being a part of the Cordilleras, Baguio City is more than a destination; their history and civilization sets them above the rest. Cold breeze blaze through my skin as we reached the Lion Arch. The zigzag road up to the Kennon Road is a different feeling though. As we arrived at Burnham Park it feels like we are living in history. Everything is civilized— from rules and regulations and how people are conforming to those standards, to the locals and how they are interacting with their tourists, to the municipality efforts to uphold the sanctity of the Cordilleras. Mines View Park, a mini park, boasts of its wonderful Cordillera beauty; you can buy some plants and souvenirs there. A short drive will take you to The Mansion which is a history tourist spot; you can buy Baguio's famous Strawberry Taho; you can walk to Wright Park where you can rent a horse. The next is the Colors of Sto. Bosa- it is a group of homes painted with a mmon design. When I saw those houses, I admire how locals are doing their efforts to boost their tourism. Behold how good and how pleasant it is for the people to dwell together in unity! There are many tourist spots in the city. You can go beyond Baguio and see the beauty of other places like Atok, Itogon, La Trinidad (Strawberry Capital of the country), Kabayan and Bokod where you can climb several mountains— Mt. Ulap, Mt. Ugo, Purgatory Circuit, Mt. Pigingan, Mt. Yangbew, Mt. Kalugong, and the legendary Mt. Pulag. What struck me here in Baguio City isn't just the tourist spots, it's the people. Cordillera people are very hospitable; the treat tourists more than tourists, They treat us more like a family, something that's stronger than a rubber. I really like how local residents are doing their work not just for ecological balance (I haven't seen any garbages around) but their overall care as a solid Pinoy sets them above the rest. I will come back again, expecting bigger adventure and really nice bonding with people who for once treated me like a family. I will treasure these moments, I will leave nothing but footprints, collect nothing but pictures. I'll never forget my stay here in the summer capital of the country and one of Cordillera's gem.   Read the full article

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The Priceless Pebbles of Nature

It was the first time that I have visited the Municipality of Luna, La Union Philippines.   The place is a typical peaceful province with a simple type of a living environment. Town folks are doing their daily routine to make a living. One caught my attention, is that most of them can be seen sorting pebbles in the open area of their houses. To my amazement, I asked one of them for the source of their shinning pebbles, they pointed me to the so called “Pebble Beach”, where the Baluarte Water Tower is situated. Immediately I gather myself to visit the place. It came to my perspective that the beauty of the place was surely one of nature’s best. The shoreline is filled with pebbles where numerous locals do the picking, carefully selecting the colored stones that are placed in their bags, which again are sorted out to be both traded and exported. They said that these pebbles are used for interior design and landscaping of houses for aquarium design.   I can see that this is the local’s main source of income here in La Union. I hope that if these unique pebbles give them source of living, in return they must take care of the beauty for their future children to see. Luna is also known for its beaches, particularly in Nalvo Sur and Darigayos. Beach shades, cottages and resorts are found in these barangays. The municipality is also known for its native delicacies and pottery products which are comparable to San Juan's. The town is a pilgrimage site as it enshrines the Apo Baket Namacpacan, a wooden Marian image. On the beach of barangay Victoria rests the ruins of an old Spanish watch tower, locally named as Balauarte. The tower was intended to guard the shores of the town primarily from Muslim and pirate attacks during the Spanish period. During World War II, the tower served as the communication tower post for a temporary airfield for the USAFIP-NL forces. Due to years of quarrying within the site of the tower (1980 to 2000), the coastline receded and sea waves severely damaged the foundation of the tower, which eventually caused major damage to its structure. At present, efforts were initiated to preserve the tower from further damage.  To be able to go there, from Luna town proper, go to Valdez Street near St. Catherine of Alexandria Parish. There’s another road there going to the Pebble Beach. There are some sacks of pebbles along that road for sale. Read the full article

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Carabao Painting in Vigan

Perhaps, a lot of people already know that Vigan City was officially recognized as one of the New7Wonders Cities last 2015. But what are the things that come to mind when one thinks of Vigan? The cobblestoned street of Calle Crisologo? The iconic pottery place, Pagburnayan? Maybe the intricately woven product called "abel"? Or the palatably mouthwatering Vigan longganisa? But has anyone heard or witnessed the carabao painting event there? The moment I heard about it, I started doing my research (I found one article online written by a Vigan blogger) and learned the date of the next carabao painting activity. It is usually held every first Monday of May as part of the week-long Binatbatan Festival of the Arts. On May 4, 2015, I got the chance to observe participants of different ages and from all walks of life as they showcased their painterly skills. Princess, a housewife with one child, showed her Ilocano patriotism by portraying the lesser-known Vigan surfing. Another artist, Dennis, who finished a Fine Arts degree, exuded his innate deftness by creating a lifelike image of kids playing along the famous heritage street. Princess and Dennis were just two of the many artists participating in that one-of-a-kind event. What makes this activity fascinating and unique from other carabao festivals in the Philippines (there’s one in Pulilan, Bulacan and another in Pavia, Iloilo) is the fact that humans and carabaos work hand in hand for art’s sake. Instead of using a real canvas, the participants paint on the carabao’s body directly. Attention to all animal welfare and rights advocates: The paints used are water-based and wouldn't cause harm to the animal’s skin or to the animal’s health in general. Carabao painting is not rocket science. First, the animal has to be washed clean. It would be easier for the artist to do the painting if the carabao is shaved too. Then its rotund body would be painted all-white (leaving the muzzle out and the part around the eyes untouched). Now that the animal looks like a 3D canvas, the artist can now begin painting. During the painting session, it is not unexpected that the animal would relieve itself repeatedly. But that’s not what’s challenging to the artist. Time and again, the animal would flip its tail, jerk its head or pivot its body. They do these when they get itchy (like when they’re trying to shake off flies) or when they feel ticklish everytime the brush touches their sensitive body parts (e.g. face, thigh or hooves). The artist has to be cautious especially whenever the carabao wobbles its head since its horns might cause him injury. This is why the bovine’s owner is always in close proximity for support – he needs to hold the animal by its nose ring while the artist does his thing. Nonetheless, the carabaos are generally docile during the painting session. The carabao painting event is not only where the beasts of burden can relax from their strenuous farm chores and be models for a day. It is also where talented painters get to showcase their virtuoso and frustrated artists express their inner Van Gogh. Moreover, it’s where transformations are possible and can be seen live – just like witnessing a grey carabao metamorphose into a black-striped orange tiger. Don’t mind the protruding horns though. Postscript: Curious at how those carabaos are washed after the painting activity, I intentionally had a pre-agreement with one carabao owner that I would visit his place to witness the “bathing” session. They live near a farm and they have a wide man-made water repository used for irrigation. The painted carabao was brought there and two local kids happily helped in washing the paint off of the animal. It was a delightful sight! Read the full article

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Don't Settle for Less

La Union and Baler, Aurora both shares the Surfing Capital of the North. Elyu is a 4 to 5-hour drive from Manila and it's more than just a surfing destination. You can choose from land tours, highlands, falls (Tangadan), seas (San Juan), to night life (Flotsam & Jetsam) and grapes picking. It is totally cool to see the beauty of La Union. I have this friend who always go the beach to unwind. They said BEACH is Best Escape Anyone Can Have. Well, at some point that is true. How satisfying it is so feel the salty breeze of the blue sea rushing towards the shore, touching your skin. She enjoys being in her vitamin sea, fulfilling her soul. As she walk along the sea shore, photographing her, I wondered. We were exhausted at work up to the point where we couldn't no longer make ourselves happy. Yes, you're making money but at the expense of your own consuming happiness. There is a common endpoint where you can enjoy both sides and that requires a matter of management. Do not settle for less— make yourself happy by getting your dose of vitamin sea. Go to vacation every once in a while and do not be a workaholic one. It is good to feel those breeze once more, to fill those emptiness in your soul. Everyone is longing for a quick break from all loads we're carrying right now. Work, school, career and business will consume you fully if you don't loosen up a bit. And also, research shows that people who love to go the beach makes us even more happier. It's true— that feeling to see the waves rushing towards you, to feel those sands on your feet, to see the beauty of beaches, to swim and seize the moment, that is genuine happiness money can never buy. Settle for good by avoiding settling for less. Loosen up, get your daily dose of vitamin S, and feel that inner satisfaction that everyone is longing for. As we leave La Union, I have learned one thing from my friend: enjoy life and explore the wonders God had already created for us. Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time, and collect nothing but memories. In that way, you'll enjoy life even more. So what are you waiting for? Get your daily dose of water vitamins— go and get that beach paradise! Read the full article

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attitude

Hi im from leyte, I'm Alex an HRT ( Hotel & Restaurant, Tourism ) student  my dream is to travel the world but firstly I want to travel the most beautiful and ever wonderful Philippines does not just possess beautiful places that can be visited but also has a lot of unique and different people and who are not just pretty but also very hospitable. The place that I went in the photo was in Isabel Leyte as you can see the beauty of nature, on how clear the water is and how much happiness and excitement it can bring to its visitors or tourists that go there. I'm more like an adventure seeker type of person. I want to visit places wherein its breathtaking   I knew this place through a medium called facebook. As a millennial I want to travel places wherein my friends who have gone there so I can take pictures and selfies to such breathtaking places. When we arrived to the place, we observed and we ate our food because there is no food that is sold or catered but only cottages. This place we went to was very exhilarating and was about on how aesthetic nature can get. The native people who lived there accepted as whole heartedly even though we are members of the LGTBQ community. From my hometown to Isabel is just one ride if you are commuting but if you have your own means of transportation it may take you just about an hour to get there and when you've arrived there it you have to do some 30 minute trekking to arrived at the fall. The best time visiting the falls should be before the summer season.   Hi im from leyte, my dream is to travel the world but firstly I want to travel the most beautiful and ever wonderful Philippines does not just possess beautiful places that can be visited but also has a lot of unique and different people and who are not just pretty but also very hospitable. The place that I went in the photo was in Isabel Leyte as you can see the beauty of nature, on how clear the water is and how much happiness and excitement it can bring to its visitors or tourists that go there. I\'m more like an adventure seeker type of person. I want to visit places wherein its breathtaking   I knew this place through a medium called facebook. As a millennial I want to travel places wherein my friends who have gone there so I can take pictures and selfies to such breathtaking places. When we arrived to the place, we observed and we ate our food because there is no food that is sold or catered but only cottages. This place we went to was very exhilarating and was about on how aesthetic nature can get. The native people who lived there accepted as whole heartedly even though we are members of the LGTBQ community. From my hometown to Isabel is just one ride if you are commuting but if you have your own means of transportation it may take you just about an hour to get there and when you\'ve arrived there it you have to do some 30 minute trekking to arrived at the fall. The best time visiting the falls should be before the summer season.   Read the full article

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Kneeling Carabao

Farmer command his trained carabao to kneel down in front of San Isidro Labrador church to give respect and thankful for the bountiful harvest during the “Kneeling Carabao Festival” in Pulilan, province of Bulacan. Honoring a saint is one of the principal reasons why Filipinos celebrate numerous fiestas. This is the reason why the people in Pulilan, Bulacan never fail to commemorate and pay tribute to San Isidro Labrador, who is the patron saint for farmers. Although the festival officially begins on May 15 every year, there are traditions which the locals need to observe prior to this day. For 24 days, they must perform the Paseo or the procession of the image of San Isidro to the different towns comprising Bulacan. They ought to complete the Novena for nine consecutive days. Based on historical records, many years ago, individuals are identified not by their given surnames but by the work, they perform. Such is the case of San Isidro, whose occupation was that of a Labrador or a laborer. He was a hired hand in a farm and had no personal land to till. His landlord was amazed that San Isidro was capable of completing his assigned task despite his coming late to work most of the time. Prompted by his curiosity, the landlord investigated and saw that the person plowing the field was an angel. In awe, he knelt before San Isidro. This image of a kneeling man is often associated with this patron saint. Carabaos play a vital role during this occasion. They are the creatures responsible in assisting the farmers in doing their jobs. One of the most astonishing sights to see during the celebration of this festival happens in the morning of May 14. The carabaos are thoroughly cleaned and prepared for the parade. During the march, the carabaos are trained by their owners to kneel in front of the church as they pass it one by one. A priest is there to bless each one of the creatures as they pay homage to their patron saint. On the 15th, carabao races are held as part of the festivity. The town is famous for its Carabao Festival where carabaos are paraded and kneel as they pass through San Isidro Labrador Parish Church, in honor to the town's patron saint, San Isidro Labrador. Many years ago, Pulilan was primarily a little-known rural town in the northern part of Bulacan where its economy heavily dependent on farming and poultry raising. Most of the population committed their entire lives on farming as their livelihood. Today, the town is moving towards commercialization and industrialization as it is becoming one of the major growth-rate area and center of commerce and industry in the province. Because of the major economic growth, due to presence of commercial establishments, real estates, industrial plants and major road projects. Pulilan has experienced increased in the total gross income in the past few years. The town's income in year 2016 was P323.86 million, an increase of P69.27 million from its previous income in 2014. It surpass the income of fifteen municipalities inBulacan such as San Miguel, Bocaue, Plaridel, Hagonoy and Calumpit. With the continuous expansion of Metro Manila, the municipality is now included in Manila built up area which reaches San Ildefonsoin its Northernmost part. Read the full article

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PANULO is one of the SAMARNON traditional way of catching fish at seashore during dawn.

Sta. Margarita is a fourth class municipality in the province of Samar. The municipality is a rural area where most of its inhabitants depend largely on agriculture and fishery products as a source of income.  Its major crop and primary source of income are rice and coconut where almost 70% of its total agricultural land is planted with coconut trees. Sta. Margarita is a fourth class municipality in the province of Samar. The municipality is a rural area where most of its inhabitants depend largely on agriculture and fishery products as a source of income.  Its major crop and primary source of income are rice and coconut where almost 70% of its total agricultural land is planted with coconut trees. Administratively, the municipality of Sta. Margarita is subdivided into 36 barangays:  twelve (12) are along the national highway, two (2) are island barangays and twenty two (22) are situated at the upland area of the municipality. The town used to be a barrio in Calbayog named Magsohong, but on June 29, 1878, the principalía of Magsohong, petitioned the Gobierno Superior to establish Magsohong as an independent pueblo. They argued that Magsohong was four hours away from Calbayog, it already had a casa real or a Juzgado de Paz of nipa, a church with a techada (roof) of nipa; a convent; an escuela also made of wood and nipa; and had more than 300 tributos. The petition was endorsed by the cura parroco, the Gobernadorcilloas well as the principalía of Calbayog. Fourteen years later, Royal Decree No. 25 dated September 25, 1892 approved the establishment of the pueblo of Magsohong renamed Sta. Margarita. The new pueblo had three visitas: Balud, San Bernardo, and Londara. However, it remained under the parish of Calbayog. The municipality has a total land area of 12,912 hectares. It is 52 kilometers from the City of Catbalogan and 8 kilometers from the City of Calbayog, the commercial and trade centers of the province. Located in the western part of Samar, Sta. Margarita is bounded by the upland barangay’s of the City of Calbayog on the North, the city of Calbayog on the west, the municipality of Gandara on the East and the Samar Sea on the southern part. \"PANULO\" is catching fish during dawn at the seashore and it is one of the SAMARNON traditional way of catching fish. I know this place sense i was a kid because my friends always invited me to go in this place, once a get in this place i always go to the beach and wait for the sunset comes up and enjoying every moment of it. This place  is nature because of the beach and sunset. It is located in the western part of Samar, the main city of SAMAR is CALBAYOG City more or less 12-13 klm from calbayog to Sta. Margarita, Samar, you can travel by boat, motorcycle or car. The best time to visit Sta. Margarita, Samar during 4-5 in the afternoon.       Read the full article

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Callao Cave

It was month July when me and my girlfriend (Arlie) decided to travel up northern part of our country. After finalizing our itinerary and packaged all the things we need. We head straight  to the terminal of Florida Bus in Sampaloc. One of the many bus companies that offer’s daily trip to Tuguegarao and Cagayan Valley. We take the 9:00PM schedule so that we can arrive at Tuguegaro the next morning. After 11hours of land travel and lack of sleep,  we arrived at Tuguegarao around 7AM in the morning.  First we go to Tuguegarao Public Market to eat our breakfast.  It was around 8AM when we go to the terminal of trike (motorcycle) that is bound  to Penablanca where  Callao Cave Resort is located. After couple of minutes haggling for the price.  We found a driver that is will to take us to Callao Cave for PHP600 (Roundtrip). We recommend hiring your own tricycle to avoid the hassle of hailing one going back. The tricycle will bring you directly at the Callao Cave jump-off. Register and pay the minimal entrance fee. We also recommend getting a guide. They have student guides they could assign to you if you request for one. Do not worry, the guide fee is completely upon your discretion as to how much. We arrived at Callao Cave around 10AM. After arriving at the jump off point and pay the necessary fee.  You are going to start your adventure by going up a flight of stairs, 184 steps to be exact. At the top you will be welcomed by Callao Cave’s huge opening and the 1st of seven Chambers, the Aviary. The cave is comprised of 7 chambers: Aviary, Divine Chamber, Dark Room, Cream Room, Jungle, Danger Zone and the Dead End. It is also one of the 300 caves in the area. The aviary is where they discovered the fossil of the Callao Man that was found to be at least 67,000 years old. For us this adventure is one truly memorable  because we were able to see a one of a kind cave  that has a has seven chambers with a chapel inside. Surely this place is included on our list as one of amazing place that will get back.   Tips : If you planning to go to Callao Cave. You must also include Palaui Island as part of your itinerary because it’s just 2hrs land travel from Tuguegarao to Sta.Ana Cagayan where the jump off Palaui Island is located. Happy Travel :) Read the full article

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Last Corals of Land

Bukidnon is finally catching on to what many mountaineers and adventurers have known all along:  home of one of the country\\\'s best mountain destinations. It has drawn and continue to attract hundreds of visitors every year and yet more exciting destinations are beginning to emerge drawing attention to the natural wonders of the Philippines. Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park, an ASEAN heritage Park, stands proudly at the heart of Bukidnon province in the island of Mindanao boasting its preserved forest lands unharmed by human civilization since its existence thousands of years ago. A Natural Park and Preserves is a unique public lands within a country, set aside by the government to protect ecosystems, plant and animal species, scenic landscapes, geologic formations, or historical or archaeological sites. Natural Parks are managed primarily for public recreation, providing exceptional locations where visitors can view wildlife and enjoy the outdoors. Generally, these protected lands are off-limits to hunting, livestock grazing,  logging, mining, and other activities  that exploit natural resources. Declared as a Protected Area through RA 8978 in 2000 known as the Mt. Kitanglad Protected Area Act of 2000, it is the home of the Philippine Brown deer (Salarong), home of the Philippine Eagle (Agila), home of Rafflesia Schadenbergiana, world's largest flower and other endangered species. Thee forest lands of Kitanglad are not just picturesque but are also storehouses of overflowing biodiversity and harbor some of the richest ecosystems in the Philippines. As such, the forest lands of Kitanglad Mountain Range is among few of the remaining corals of Philippine land (Forests are considered as Corals of the Land). Through tourism, we are opening the doors of appreciation, awareness then to advocacy of protecting our natural ecosystems. Bukidnon is finally catching on to what many mountaineers and adventurers have known all along:  home of  Philippine's best mountain destinations. It has drawn and continue to attract hundreds of visitors every year and yet more exciting destinations are beginning to emerge drawing attention to the natural wonders of the Philippines. Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park, an ASEAN heritage Park, stands proudly at the heart of Bukidnon province in the island of Mindanao boasting its preserved forest lands unharmed by human civilization since its existence thousands of years ago. A Natural Park and Preserves is a unique public lands within a country, set aside by the government to protect ecosystems, plant and animal species, scenic landscapes, geologic formations, or historical or archaeological sites. Natural Parks are managed primarily for public recreation, providing exceptional locations where visitors can view wildlife and enjoy the outdoors. Generally, these protected lands are off-limits to hunting, livestock grazing,  logging, mining, and other activities  that exploit natural resources. Declared as a Protected Area through RA 8978 in 2000 known as the Mt. Kitanglad Protected Area Act of 2000, it is the home of the Philippine Brown deer (Salarong), home of the Philippine Eagle (Agila), home of Rafflesia Schadenbergiana, world's largest flower and other endangered species. Thee forest lands of Kitanglad are not just picturesque but are also storehouses of overflowing biodiversity and harbor some of the richest ecosystems in the Philippines. As such, the forest lands of Kitanglad Mountain Range is among few of the remaining corals of Philippine land (Forests are considered as Corals of the Land). Through tourism, we are opening the doors of appreciation, awareness then to advocacy of protecting our natural ecosystems. Read the full article

[ptpc2-blog]

Last Corals of Land

Bukidnon is finally catching on to what many mountaineers and adventurers have known all along: home of one of the country's best mountain destinations. It has drawn and continue to attract hundreds of visitors every year and yet more exciting destinations are beginning to emerge drawing attention to the natural wonders of the Philippines. Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park, an ASEAN heritage Park, stands proudly at the heart of Bukidnon province in the island of Mindanao boasting its preserved forest lands unharmed by human civilization since its existence thousands of years ago. A Natural Park and Preserves is a unique public lands within a country, set aside by the government to protect ecosystems, plant and animal species, scenic landscapes, geologic formations, or historical or archaeological sites. Natural Parks are managed primarily for public recreation, providing exceptional locations where visitors can view wildlife and enjoy the outdoors. Generally, these protected lands are off-limits to hunting, livestock grazing, logging, mining, and other activities that exploit natural resources. Declared as a Protected Area through RA 8978 in 2000 known as the Mt. Kitanglad Protected Area Act of 2000, it is the home of the Philippine Brown deer (Salarong), home of the Philippine Eagle (Agila), home of Rafflesia Schadenbergiana, world's largest flower and other endangered species. Thee forest lands of Kitanglad are not just picturesque but are also storehouses of overflowing biodiversity and harbor some of the richest ecosystems in the Philippines. As such, the forest lands of Kitanglad Mountain Range is among few of the remaining corals of Philippine land (Forests are considered as Corals of the Land). Through tourism, we are opening the doors of appreciation, awareness then to advocacy of protecting our natural ecosystems. Aside from the rich biodiversity of the mountain, it is the dwelling land of the indigenous peoples of Bukidnon who nurtured the place as a paradise handed down from their ancestors. Talaandig, Higaonon and Bukidnon tribes dominate the foothills of the mountain range who practices their indigenous beliefs believing in one one supreme God, Magbabaya. Before entering the mountain range amoung mountaineers and visitors, a ritual by offering a chicken is needed, performed by a tribal Datu to appease the guardian spirits of nature for a safe journey. It is therefore important to be aware of the tribal practices, the dos and dont's in this sacred mountain. It is a sacred ground of the indigenous people and everyone is obliged to pay respect to the tribe, to the environment and to the nature guardian spirits. Read the full article

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Filipinos Festive Smile

When visiting various places in the Philippines, what do we usually appreciate? Isn't it the joyous and warm greetings of the locals seen in their wonderful smiles of welcome? This is the story behind this photo that showed the warmth smile, rich culture, tradition and well maintained architecture which is inherited from the past, are the reasons on why Heritage City of Vigan is delightfully revisited. This is the street dancing of Viva Vigan Binatbatan Festival of the Arts that is held during the last week of April until the first week of May, yearly. The festival promotes the traditional weaving industry of Vigan, called Abel Loom weaving which has been existence before the Spanish colonization in the Philippines. What makes this street dancing different from Philippine Festivals is, it is performed along the historic Calle Crisologo, the main attraction of Vigan which showcase rows of Spanish Style houses from the Spanish Colonial time. It is definitely not a typical street for it is designed with cobbled stones making an extraordinary backdrop for the cultural show street dancing by the locals.  The costumes used by the dancers was made with loom woven cloth called Abel Iloko produced by the tradition of weaving industry in Vigan. The dancers incorporate two pieces of bamboo stick called "Batbat" in their dancing routine. These sticks are used by hand loom weavers to separate the cotton from the seeds of a fruit in a tree called Kapas Sanglay which is then used as raw material for weaving.  They beat the "Batbat"  to the tune of trumpets cymbals lyre and drums while shouting , Viva Vigan!  As you can see, the façade of the  houses were accessorised by colorful Abel Iloko, this is one of the tradition of the City every Binatbatan Festival. Not only the houses of Calle Crisologo is decorated with Abel Iloko fabric during the Binatbatan Festival but even the commercial establishments, making the whole City festive and picturesque. One of the best time to visit Vigan is during the Binatbatan Festival of the Arts. It showcase the traditional arts such as Carabao Painting, Boklan Art (creating images through the use of seeds and grain), Contemporary to traditional dances, Music Festival, Spoken Poetry, Abel Fashion Show , Abel House Décor and Calesa Décor and parade. Truly the Filipinos' warm smile, joy, culture, tradition and heritage from the past makes locals and foreign tourists visit again and again, the Heritage City of Vigan, Philippines. Read the full article