TRAVEL PILIPINAS

Panglao - Bohol Island

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 12:44:00 +0000


	Panglao has some beautiful beaches. Among them, Alona Beach has manyhotels and diving services. This would be the best place for people whowants to enjoy diving and relaxing. Bohol island is located between Cebu island and Leyte island, and Panglao island is a small island next to Bohol. There is the bridge between Panglao and Tagbilaran, Bohol, so you can access to Panglao by car. There is Balicasag island near Panglao, which is one of the most famous diving spots in the world. Panglaois a 4th class municipality in the province of Bohol, Philippines. Itis an island situated in the Central Visayas, particularly locatedsouthwest of the island of Bohol and in the east of Cebu. Politically,it is divided into two municipalities: Dauis and Panglao, both BoholProvince. Panglao is well-known for its world class diving locationsand many tourist resorts. The island is one of the mostdiverse and attractive destinations in the Philippines. It is an anchortourist destination and one of the 7,000 times more islands that makeup the Philippine archipelago. It is a small island knownfor its quiet beach resorts and several great wide variety of divesites. It has everything - the reefs, several kinds of corals, walls,big and small fishes, starfishes, and other life forms under the sea.You can find good snorkeling around the northwest and southeast coasts.This area is filled with lots of sea stars, sea snakes and corals. Thearea has been the center of seashell trade. It is said thatthe Spanish explorers who came to this island in 1803 named it Panglaoafter the world 'mapanglao', meaning 'lonesome place'. It is also oneof the old towns of Bohol. It is of historical meaning that it was theplace where the Spaniards went after an unfortunate experience in Cebu. The Panglao Island Nature Resort in Bohol. Thebeauty of Panglao Island Nature Resort is an ideal vacation spot fromthe mess of the metropolitan environment. Starting with the white sandbeach, built around the natural curve of the premises and dotted theresort with high-ceiling, thatched roof huts. Each guest room has abalcony with drying rack, coffee table & chairs and is equippedwith individually remote controlled air-conditioning, satellite cabledTV, IDD/NDD telephone facility, refrigerator, in-room coffee & tea,private bathroom with hot & cold shower, personal cafe, 220-voltelectrical points, key-card security lock system, gym facilities, spatreatment and the innovative "wi-fi" technology for internet gurus.Business conventions, extended vacations, weekend stays, and day-longsunbathing are just few of the events best spent in this lovely beachresort. The perfect getaway from the clutter of the urbanjungle. Business conventions, extended vacations, weekend stays, andday-long sunbathing at the beach are just few of the activities bestspent in the beauty of Panglao Island Nature Resort. Superb service and exquisite cuisine are natural complements to the paradise that is Panglao Island. Starting with a priestine white sand beach, we built around the natural contour of the premises and dotted the resor twith high-ceiling, thatched roof huts. Panglao Island is a fifteen-minute trip by land from downtown Tagbilaran, and an hour and a half by fast ferry from Cebu City.

Panglao has some beautiful beaches. Among them, Alona Beach has manyhotels and diving services. This would be the best place for people whowants to enjoy diving and relaxing.

Bohol island is located between Cebu island and Leyte island, and Panglao island is a small island next to Bohol.

There is the bridge between Panglao and Tagbilaran, Bohol, so you can access to Panglao by car.

There is Balicasag island near Panglao, which is one of the most famous diving spots in the world.

Panglaois a 4th class municipality in the province of Bohol, Philippines. Itis an island situated in the Central Visayas, particularly locatedsouthwest of the island of Bohol and in the east of Cebu. Politically,it is divided into two municipalities: Dauis and Panglao, both BoholProvince. Panglao is well-known for its world class diving locationsand many tourist resorts.

The island is one of the mostdiverse and attractive destinations in the Philippines. It is an anchortourist destination and one of the 7,000 times more islands that makeup the Philippine archipelago.

It is a small island knownfor its quiet beach resorts and several great wide variety of divesites. It has everything - the reefs, several kinds of corals, walls,big and small fishes, starfishes, and other life forms under the sea.You can find good snorkeling around the northwest and southeast coasts.This area is filled with lots of sea stars, sea snakes and corals. Thearea has been the center of seashell trade.

It is said thatthe Spanish explorers who came to this island in 1803 named it Panglaoafter the world 'mapanglao', meaning 'lonesome place'. It is also oneof the old towns of Bohol. It is of historical meaning that it was theplace where the Spaniards went after an unfortunate experience in Cebu.

The Panglao Island Nature Resort in Bohol.

Thebeauty of Panglao Island Nature Resort is an ideal vacation spot fromthe mess of the metropolitan environment. Starting with the white sandbeach, built around the natural curve of the premises and dotted theresort with high-ceiling, thatched roof huts. Each guest room has abalcony with drying rack, coffee table & chairs and is equippedwith individually remote controlled air-conditioning, satellite cabledTV, IDD/NDD telephone facility, refrigerator, in-room coffee & tea,private bathroom with hot & cold shower, personal cafe, 220-voltelectrical points, key-card security lock system, gym facilities, spatreatment and the innovative "wi-fi" technology for internet gurus.Business conventions, extended vacations, weekend stays, and day-longsunbathing are just few of the events best spent in this lovely beachresort.

The perfect getaway from the clutter of the urbanjungle. Business conventions, extended vacations, weekend stays, andday-long sunbathing at the beach are just few of the activities bestspent in the beauty of Panglao Island Nature Resort.

Superb service and exquisite cuisine are natural complements to the paradise that is Panglao Island. Starting with a priestine white sand beach, we built around the natural contour of the premises and dotted the resor twith high-ceiling, thatched roof huts.

Panglao Island is a fifteen-minute trip by land from downtown Tagbilaran, and an hour and a half by fast ferry from Cebu City.

Makati Attractions .........

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 11:44:00 +0000

Makati is the financial center of the Philippines, being the location of choice for the regional headquarters of multinational companies and the country's largest conglomerates. It is also home to the Philippine Stock Exchange.

Ayala Center is home to several shopping malls and restaurant rows. It is also surrounded by a number of hotels such as Oakwood Premiere Hotel (now Ascott), Hotel Intercontinental, Makati Shangri La, Dusit Hotel Nikko, and Renaissance Hotel. Also within walking distance are the Peninsula Manila and the Mandarin Oriental.

Towering buildings line up the streets of Ayala Avenue, Gil Puyat (formerly Buendia), Paseo de Roxas, and Makati Avenue. Across Buendia from the commercial business district (CBD) is a thriving tourist district, where hotel rates are more affordable.Hotels in this area (Makati Avenue, Burgos Street, Jupiter Street) include Oxford Suites, City Garden Hotel, CEO Suites, Saint Illian's Inn, Somerset, Perla Mansion, Great Eastern Hotel, Millennium Plaza Hotel, Fraser Place, Citadel Inn, among others.

Top Ten Beautiful Sights that the Philippines has to Offer

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 10:00:00 +0000

By Jonathan Williams

The Philippines is an archipelago made up of about 7,100 islands. This archipelago country is located in Southeast Asia. In Asia, it is also one of the popular countries that get visited yearly by tourists, and here are the top ten places that they love going back to.

1.) Intramuros
This walled "city" is located in Manila. It served as a walled settlement of the Spaniards during their occupation of the country and, as such, has its own museums as well as churches and wonderful ruins. Today, this well-preserved Intramuros is one of the visited places in the Philippines.

2.) Rizal Park
Also called Luneta, this is a very good place if you want a leisurely walk. This park is dedicated to the Philippines' national hero, Jose Rizal, who was not only a poet but a very good writer during the Spanish era, and this was also the place where he was executed. Now, this is a popular place for picnics.

3.) Baywalk
This is a walking distance from the Rizal Park. You can find here numerous restaurants and bars offering wonderful foods and drinks. This is also a nice place to stroll along as well as listen to the many bands that play at night.

4.) Mount Pinatubo
This majestic volcano that wreaked havoc in the lives of Filipinos during the early 1990s is located in Pampanga. Here, you can take guided hikes on some parts of its slope. You can also take a refreshing dip in Pinatubo's crater lake.

5.) Nayong Pilipino
If you want to tour famous destinations of the Philippines in one spot, then visit Nayong Pilipino. This cultural park has a miniature Philippine Islands including some of the beautiful spots of the country. You can also buy here some native foods as well as souvenirs.

6.) Camp John Hay
When you visit Baguio, the country's summer capital, be sure to visit also Camp John Hay. This used to be an American Military area but was later given to the Philippine government. Now, it is a recreational center with golf club, and it also offers horseback riding as well as camping.

7.) Boracay
Boracay Island is located in the Visayas Region. What this beautiful island offers is its majestic white sand beaches. This is a popular tourist destination of not only the locals but the foreigners as well, and there are a lot of activities here like the usual water sports as well as trendy bars and discos during summertime.

8.) Mount Apo
This magnificent mountain can be found in Davao. Here, you can go nature tripping as well as hiking. You will also see here the Philippine Eagle, which is said to be one of the biggest eagles of the world.

9.) Mayon Volcano
This wonderful and perfectly cone-shaped volcano can be found in Bicol. What makes this a major tourist spot is that you will find here the bell tower of an old church that was buried when it erupted during the early 1800s, and also, with that major eruption, it buried the Cagsawa town. Now, this is a must-see when you visit the Philippines, and you can also buy your souvenirs here as well as the famous pili nut candy.

10.) Camarines Sur Water Sports Complex
Located in Pili, Camarines Sur in Bicol, this is fast becoming a must-visit place whenever you visit the Philippines. If you love cable wakeboarding, then this is the place to be as it boasts of a wonderful cable wakeboarding experience as well as modern amenities. You can also find quaint cabanas here where you can spend your summer or vacation, plus, the services here are excellent.

Amanpulo Resort Palawan, Philippines

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Sun, 08 Jun 2008 04:44:00 +0000

Pamalican Island

Amanpulo Resort Palawan is an idyllic, tropical haven for the beach lover, Amanpulo Resort Palawan is set on its own private island surrounded by white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and a coral reef.

LOCATION:

Amanpulo Resort Palawan is accessed by scheduled charter flight from Manila, which has flights to several major international destinations. Guests are met at Manila's international airport and taken by complimentary transfer to the Amanpulo Resort Palawan lounge, adjacent to the departure point. Amanpulo Resort Palawan staff arranges all transfers and flight vouchers. Guests fly directly to Pamalican Island in a 19-seat, twin-engine turboprop, landing at the resort’s private airstrip. The cost of the roundtrip air transfer, Manila-Amanpulo-Manila, is US$300 per adult. The fare for children under seven is 50 percent of the adult fare, while children under two years are charged ten percent. Baggage is limited to 20kg per adult, including carry-on luggage.

EXPERIENCE:

Amanpulo Resort Palawan (which means “peaceful island” and opened in 1993) is an idyllic, tropical haven for the beach lover, Amanpulo Resort Philippine is set on its own private island surrounded by white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and a coral reef. All manner of water sports are available including diving, fishing and sailing. Enjoy some Romance or an Underwater Experience.

Amanpulp resort’s 40 casitas (65-square-metre cottages in hillside and beachfront settings) are modeled after the Philippine bahay kubo (native dwelling). Inside, decorative details pay homage to neighboring islands: pebble-washed walls, coconut-shell tables, rustic Palawan rice and knife baskets, a king-size bed with a rattan headboard and sliding-glass doors that reveal outdoor decks with his-and-her divans.

ABOUT NORTHERN SAMAR

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 06:17:00 +0000

Northern Samar occupies the entire northern portion of Samar Island on the eastern edge of the Philippines archipelago. It is bounded on the north by the San Bernardino Strait, on the east by the Pacific Ocean, on the west by the Samar Sea, and on the south by the province of Samar.

Capital : Catarman
Land Area : 3498 sq km
Population : 382 830
Cities : none
Number of Towns: 24

The Land

The province has extensive lowland areas along the coast and up to the valleys of the Catarman, Catubig, and Palapag rivers. The remaining portion has rugged terrain that becomes rolling and moutainous towards the interior.

The province has no distinct dry and wet seasons but rainfall is pronounced from October to January.

Brief History

The San Bernardino Strait was along the route of the Spanish galleons that plied between Manila and Acapulco during Spanish times. A royal port was established in Palapag, as a refuge for galleons during storms.

In 1649, a general uprising against Spain took place. It took a year for the Spaniards to quell the rebellion.

In 1898, Americans landed on the beach of Catarman.
On June 19, 1965, the provinces of Northern Samar, Eastern Samar and Western Samar were created out of Samar Island.

The People

Like the rest of Samar Island, the people here speak the Waray dialect.
Commerce and IndustryCoconut is the main crop produced by the province. Other crops produced are rice, corn, abaca, etc.

The province, however, is considered a "food-deficent" area as it has a shortage not only of rice but also fruits, vegetables and legumes.

The three bodies of water that surround Northern Samar are major fishing grounds.

Other industries in the province include furniture-making, ceramics, metalcraft, garements, food processing, and related crafts.

Getting There and AwayDomestic flights are available from Manila to Catarman daily.

Baguio City

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Sat, 31 May 2008 06:28:00 +0000

By Jiri Doucette

The Tourist capital of the Philippines also known as the "City of Pines" or the "Summer Capital" Baguio City is known for its cool crisp climate in relation to other cities in the Philippines, you can expect the tempter to be on average 8-10 degrees lower then in the lowlands, Baguio is approx. 1400 - 1500 meters above see level and is located in Northern Luzon about 250 kames. from Manila. How to get to Baguio, there are a number of ways to get to Baguio from Manila, by land you can take the bus either Philippine Rabbit or Victory liner. There are 3 Hi-ways that can be taken, Marcos Hwy. Kennon Rd. also known as "Zig-zag rd" for it's numerous bends and turns and there is Naguillian rd. each route is about equal give or take an hour depending on the weather and traffic conditions. Travel time is about 6 hours from Manila.

Traveling by air with Asian Spirits, there are one or two flights a day to Baguio from Manila the cost is under a hundred dollars and takes approx. 55 min. take note that the Baguio airport (Loakan airport) closes due to dense fog certain times of the year, it would be a good idea to call ahead to make sure there are flights available.

Baguio is also the jumping off point to other great locations in Northern Luzon such as the world famous Banaue Rice Terraces and Sagada Mountain Province famous for their hanging coffins.

Once in Baguio, you will find a bustling little city, you will not find Tricycles like in the low lands, but you will see your share of Jeepneys and taxi's, getting around town is never a problem. Session rd. is the main strip it's also the main business district, you will find great little shops on either side of the road there is lower and upper session rd, to help guide you, from specialty shops, restaurants, and American franchises like McDonalds you will also see your share of street vendors selling everything from kids toys to small home appliances, water heater act. Public Market, now this is the heart of Baguio it is spilt into wet and dry, regardless of where you are from, there is a good chance you will find what you are looking for, not only your basic food groups are sold here but you can also find the freshest fruits and veggies, food is not the only products you can find in the public markets, you can also find clothes, shoes and just about everything under the sun including have your clothes tailored while you shop, there is an entire section dedicated to tailoring and repairs, I brought a bag to be repaired while I did my shopping and I could not believe the quality of the repair when I got back, I thought I was looking at a new bag, very professional service.

SM (Shoe mart) is the newest addition to Bagnio’s sky line, it is a very modern, open air mall with literally everything under the sun, from Furniture stores, Brand name clothing, Movie house, department store, hardware store, modern Dental office, modern Americanized supermarket, Food court, coffee houses, bake shops, Barbers, Pizza hut, and other eating establishments, you can also get a great view of Baguio from one of the second and third floor outlook decks.

What to see and do while in Baguio, Even though Baguio is only about 49 sq. Km. there is always a lot to see and places to go, some of the more popular attractions are Mines view park, Wright Park, Burnham Park, Mansion house, Botanical garden, Lion's head Park, Rizal Park, Lourdes Grotto, Camp John Hay, Baguio Catholic Cathedral, PMA (Philippine Military Academy), Bell Church, Tam-awan village, Teacher's Camp, Easter weaving room, Aguinaldo Museum, Crystal caves, Good shepherd Convent, Dominican Hill, there are also two quality golf courses one at Camp John Hay and the other Baguio Country Club they are both in close walking distance from one another.

Horse back riding can be found at Wright Park and Baguio Country Club Village, great rates and guides are available. Camp John Hay also has 5 star accommodations and dinning, the Manor is Baguio's crème' de la crème' of class and style. You can also find things for the kids, like Bumper cars, bike riding, Roller skating/blading, video arcades, pool hall, play ground, picnic areas can also be found at Camp John Hay, not to mention shopping, miss some of thing you had back home? It can all be found in the shops and stores in John Hay. If night life is what you crave you can find a number of popular night clubs as well as pub style bars with live bands that are very good, there are also plenty of Karaoke bars and Pool halls. Baguio City has something for everyone, not only is it a very clean City but it's my favorite City that I call it home as it has stolen my heart with its charm and the people are just great, you can also find many foreigners both living and traveling in Baguio.

So if you are planning a trip to the Philippines, you owe it to yourself to spend a couple day's in Baguio and just let it all soak in, you be glad you did and hey who knows maybe we'll run into each other.

The Top Five Island Tourist Destinations in the Philippines

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Mon, 26 May 2008 08:22:00 +0000

To ensure a 100% satisfaction-guaranteed summer vacation, here's a list of island tourists destinations in the Philippines. For a wonderful and unforgettable summer experience, whether you're a local or a tourist, check this out.

Summer is around, and everybody's excited to spend the summer vacation once again. A place that is cool, with awesome scenery and wonderful people is most likely the most popular choice to spend it. A place where they can escape the heat of the sun, enjoy swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving or simply watching scenic views.

Boracay

Number one on the list, of course, a world class resort, the most popular island destination and the number one tourist spot in the Philippines - Boracay. It is regarded as “the finest beach of all Asia”. Likewise, popularly known as, “the number one tropical beach in the world”. Everyone will surely enjoy swimming and sunbathing on its 4 kilometer “white sand beach”. You will definitely like this island paradise. It is situated in Panay Island, Philippines, about 300 km south of Manila.

Palawan

Next on the list is Palawan known as “the last Philippine frontier “. It is blessed with beautiful tourist attractions like Club Paradise Resort, El Nido Resort, and many others. The famous underground river is also here, and the Tubbataha Reef Marine Park which is the best place for snorkeling in Asia is also located on this island.

Dakak

Third on the list is another world class beach resort, Dakak. It is famous not only for its “powdery white sand” but also famous for its coral reefs and diving that is why it was named the “Diving Mecca in Mindanao”.

Surigao

In the fourth spot, we have Siargao, the haven of surfers from all over the world. Popularly known as, “the surfing capital of the Philippines”. International Surfing Cup is held here annually.

Batanes

And the last, but certainly not the least, we have Batanes, the northernmost province of the Philippines. It is the smallest province in terms of land area and population. You will surely love this place. It is the best place for nature lover and people who love tranquility and serenity. This is where the Pacific Ocean merges with the South China Sea. Batanes is great for summer vacation, fishing, diving and hiking.

Enjoy your summer vacation on these island paradises.

EL NIDO, PALAWAN, PHILIPPINES

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Wed, 21 May 2008 06:46:00 +0000

El Nido really is a magical place. From its ageless towering marble cliffs to its white sandy beaches with crystal clear water, many refer to it as paradise. There are over 50 beaches to discover, so many in fact that sometimes you feel as if you are on your own secluded private beach. You will also find enchanting lagoons with tranquil turquoise-green water, caves that can take you to hidden beaches, and a very diverse variety of wildlife.

El Nido is a top destination for island hopping, book your boat, take some food, some drinks in a cool box and disappear into the heavenly marine reserve that is Bacuit Bay. It is a truly relaxing and inspiring place; Alex Garland wrote "The Beach" while living here. Scuba diving is also a popular activity here with over 30 dive sites for varying levels and skills; from taking the plunge and learning to dive for the first time, to perfecting your expertise and advancing your qualifications.

Yet El Nido has so many different treasures to offer beyond the obvious. Further activities available include cliff climbing, waterfalls, kayaking, cave exploration, windsurfing, plus you can also hire a motorbike and discover the surrounding north of Palawan.

The dry season is from around November to May with temperatures above 30 degrees centigrade and rain is rare. The most popular tourist times in El Nido are Christmas and Easter. With the Philippines being 95% Catholic the celebration of these two events in the Catholic calendar bring out another side to El Nido. Especially in Easter where there is a week long festival including town parades and markets.

Seafood is a local speciality, in fact many fish are exported to Manila, and on to other South East Asian countries. There are restaurants scattered around the town offering various foods to suit most palates. From seafoods to meat dishes, salads, pastas, stews there is something for everyone. Particular restuarants also have foreign influence including French, German, Swiss and Australian.

A number of bars offer different entertainment including billiard, dancing, live music, karaoke, and of course along the beach front the chance to unwind and watch the beautiful view as the day comes to a close.

There are many eccentricities to El Nido, for example the electric power is from 1pm to 1am. Also you will not find any banks here, although you can change foreign currency and travellers cheques at a couple of places albeit at an increased rate. There are also no telephone lines so communication is mostly via mobile phones plus there are two internet cafes.

Two airlines offer direct flights to El Nido; there are at least 2 flights every day. The only road out of the town is a long dust track which is serviced by 4 buses a day going to the capital of the Palawan, Puerto Princesa City. There are also jeepneys catering for shorter trips. One can also travel by boat direct to Manila from the Port situated in the bay.

Palawan is frequently referred to as "The Final Frontier". Once you have been here you realise why. Enchanting El Nido is truly breathtaking; many leave, their lives changed by this magical place.

CAMIGUIN ISLAND

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Mon, 12 May 2008 04:03:00 +0000

The Island of Desire Camiguin is a pear-shaped volcanic island lying in the Bohol Sea, some 54 kms. southeast of Chocolate Hills and some 90 kms. north of Cagayan de Oro airport; 120 kms. southeast of Mactan International Airport and 10 kms. north of Misamis Oriental. Composed of 5 municipalities namely: Mambajao (Capital town), Catarman, Sagay, Guinsiliban and Mahinog, Camiguin has two other attractive islets better known as White Island and Mantigue Island. Each of these has unique endowments.

Camiguin is about 300 sq.kms. or approximately 29,00 hectares; its length measures 33 kms.; width at widest point is 14 kms. with road circumferential measuring to 64 kms. Cool climate is attributed to vegetation and natural springs. Daytime temperature averages at 26°C. Coldest months are December, January and February. Maximum rainfall had been recorded on months of June to December.

In the heart of the island bubbles the flowing mineral pools of Ardent Hot Springs. Mists rise from the heated waters running down from the vents of Hibok-Hibok Volcano, the only active one among the seven on the island. Revel in the therapeutic waters. Picnic beneath the sheltering trees. Enjoy a game of darts or table tennis, comfortable dormitory - type rooms and duplex cottages are available for overnighters.

Camiguin is an island paradise surrounded by natural wonders like hot springs, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes. It is also here where you can taste arguably the sweetest lanzones fruit in the country. Exotic varieties of flora and fauna can be found in the island depicting the richness of this small but charming island in the South. By day, take a side trip to some of Camiguin Island's attractions: the clear pools of Sto. Nino Cold Spring, the slender beauty of Katibawasan Falls, and the isolated white-sand bar called simply White Island.

This is also the favorite jump-off point for trekkers and mountaineers in search of adventure in the slopes of Mt. Hibok-Hibok.

GETTING THERE

There are three ports operating in the province of Camiguin. The main port of entry is in Benoni, with minor ports at Balbagon and Guinsiliban. Balbagon Port links Cagayan de Oro and Cebu, Benoni Port links with Balingoan and Cagayan de Oro, and Guinsiliban Port which also has a roro landing facility links with Balingoan and Cagayan de Oro. Camiguin can be reached either by ferryboat or small aircraft. The fastest way to get to the island from Manila is to take any of the commercial flights to Cagayan de Oro City. In Cagayan de Oro, one can either hire a taxi right outside the airport terminal or take the bus in the city center to Balingoan Port in Misamis Oriental. The bus terminal is located at Agora, Lapasan. Depending on the weather condition, it takes about one hour and a half to two hours by land to reach Balingoan Port, which is 84 kilometers from Cagayan de Oro. This port is the nearest jump-off point to Camiguin. The ferryboat ride to Benoni Port in the Municipality of Mahinog takes about one hour. This port is 17 kilometers from Mambajao, the capital of Camiguin Province which can be reached by jeepneys. The six photographs portrayed below should give an idea about the Port at Balingoan and one of the ferryboats that regularly plies the Balingoan-Benoni route. A new terminal building has recently been constructed and when the planned improvements are completed, 737 jet planes will be able to land in Camiguin linking major destinations as Manila, Cebu and Davao. Camiguin is only 35 minutes by airplane from Mactan (Cebu) International Airport. SEAIR is now serving the Cebu-Camiguin-Cebu route every Monday and Saturday.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Old Catarman Church Ruins - Located in Barangay Bonbon, 10 kms. from Catarman Poblacion - Remnants of the 1871 Vulcan Daan Eruption. Cross Marker and Sunken Cemetery - 15 kms. from Bonbon, Catarman, huge cross was installed in 1982 as marker of a cemetery which sank in 1871 vulcan eruption. Katibawasan Falls - 5 kms. southeast of Mambajao; the falls measures 250 ft. high. Tuasan Falls - 6 kms. northeast of Catarman Potential source of mini hydropower. Ardent Hot Spring - 4 kms. North uphill of Catarman proper. Pool has an area of 25 meters by 40 meters; deep water. Tangub Hot Spring - 12 kms. west of Mambajao;

Diving is good at about 10 to 20 meters temperature is determined by high or low tide. Mt. Hibok-Hibok - Approached thru base of Barangay Esperanza, Mambajao. The 1,250 meters slope, loose rocks and boulders are among the challenges. Old Vulcan - 13 kms. west of Mambajao; has a 70 to 80 meters drop-off; Landmark or "Panaad". White Island - 2 kms. across Agoho or Yumbing beaches; uninhabited sand bar. Mantigue Island - 3 kms. offshore across Brgy. Hubangon and San Roque, Mahinog, 4 hectares of forest-fringed with white, sand beaches. Cabua-an Beach - Nearest beach in Mambajao proper; Venue of San Juan Hibok-Hibokan Festival. Agohay Beach - 7 kms. from Brgy. Agoho, Mambajao Camping area for Hibok-hibok mountaineers.

FAST FACTS

Capital: Mambajao

Area: 229 sq km

Municipalities: 5
Towns of Camiguin Province Zip
Catarman 9104
Guinsiliban 9102
Mahinog 9101
Mambajao 9100
Sagay 9103

The Island of Camiguin is surrounded by seven volcanoes, the most famous of which is Mt. Hibok-Hibok which rises to 1, 250m above sea level.

Photo Credits to : http://www.camiguin.us/camiguin_2002_01.htm

TARSIU SYRICHTA (Philippines Tarsiers)

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Thu, 08 May 2008 22:18:00 +0000

“Tarsius Syrichta” or as we all know, the “Philippine Tarsiers” can be found in Bohol, Samar, Leyte and parts of Mindanao.

Tarsiers’ eyes are 150 times bigger than humans relative to body size. Their head can rotate 180 degrees and their ears move to the direction of sounds. They have elongated leg bone, elongated feet and toes that grip. Tarsiers can jump up to 5 meters and uses its long tail for balance.

Tarsiers eats grasshoppers, crickets, locusts, ants, bees, wasps, dragonflies, beetles, stick insects, butterflies and moths. These nocturnal species are very sensitive and tends to kill themselves if in captivity by holding their breath, refuses to eat or bang their heads in the cage until they die. Tarsiers can only live for 30 days in captivity.
They prefer to live alone in their own territory and they will only come together if mating season arrives. Tarsiers only breed or mate from October to March. Male tarsiers mate with a female tarsier, then leave to find another female to mate. Tarsier females only give birth to one tarsier per year. Baby tarsiers stay with their parent for 6-7 months only and then they are left on their own.

Tarsiers in the wild can live up to 15 to 20 years old. Tarsiers can start mating when he reaches 2 years of age. The age of a tarsier can be defined by body size and body color. Grey brown color indicates a young tarsier, while a brown color indicates an old one.

Back in 1998, Tarsiers are captured to be sold as household pets, but they only live for a month in cages. It was then that the Philippine government financed to establish the Philippine Tarsier Foundation’s sanctuary in Canapnapan, Corella, Bohol, with 7.4 hectares having 20+ tarsier to start.

Aside from protecting the tarsiers, the foundation also exists to bring awareness and education the people to protect and care for these animals. Proclamation # 1030 declares the Philippine Tarsier as a specially protected faural species of the Philippines.

To date, the sanctuary is now 8.4 hectares and protects around 100+ tarsiers in the area. The foundation receives donations from different organizations and individuals and receives continuous support from the Bohol Integrated Development Foundation. Tarsiers are very tame and lives harmoniously with nature. Having the opportunity to visit their sanctuary made me aware and had gained respect to their right to live.

CEBU CITY

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Thu, 08 May 2008 21:05:00 +0000

Cebu is a city in the midst of overwhelming growth that blends its ancestral heritage and modern business savvy with flair. Standing as the country's top business and tourist destination, Cebu was crowned as the Queen City of the South. Finding its own place under Cebu's friendly skies, business and leisure breathe together with office buildings and beach resorts.

Relics of the past are found aplenty as Cebu is the country's oldest city. The street with the distinction of being the oldest in the Philippines is Colon Street. Colon Street was paved lat in the 16th century by Miguel Lopez de Legaspi and now houses malls, office buildings, theaters as well as museums and monuments. Other historical places are the oldest fortress in the country, Fort San Pedro, Liloan Lighthouse and the Bantayan sa Hari.

Cebu was named the country's capital by the Spaniards in 1565 and has been a bustling trade port since pre-Hispanic times. Since that time, Cebu has been able to maintain its stature as the center of trade and commerce in Southern Philippines.
More than just a city of increasing sophistication, Cebu still retains much of its provincial warmth and charm, with its colorful past. Apart from Cebu's numerous man-made landmarks and institutions, it also features many miles of forest greens - a haven to wildlife and the place for a perfect picnic. There's the 15,393-hectacre Central Cebu National Park, the 696-hectare Sudian National Park, the Kawasan Falls and the Bolok-Bolok Mineral Springs. nearby Mactan Island boasts of world-class beach resorts.

Tourist Attractions
Basilica Minore De Santo NinoThe Santo Nino de Cebu,

the oldest religious relic in the country, is housed at the Basilica, one of the country's oldest churches. It was a token of friendship by Magellan to Queen Juana in 1521 and has survived fires and other catastrophes throughout the years. The Chapel of the Last Supper in Mandaue, the Taoist Temple and the Phu-Sian Temple in Beverly Hills, Naga Church and Argao Church are other religious institutions worth seeing.

Casa Gorordo Museum
Once the residence of the first Filipino Bishop of Cebu, a tour of the Casa Gorordo gives a glimpse of the Filipino lifestyle from 1860 to 1920. Paintings, religious relics, a courtyard, antique household items and furniture are featured in the museum.

Island Hopping

Without a view of its numerous tropical islets, a vacation in Cebu would be incomplete. A few of the attractions found in Cebu are sun-kissed and white sand beaches, colorful corals and abundant marine life. Explore the caves and lagoons of Calanggaman and Gato. Swim the beaches of Argao, Oslob and Carmen. Experience the divespots of Moalboal, Badian, Mactan and Olango. The choices are infinite.

Lapu-Lapu Monument
Proudly standing at Marangay Mactan in Mantan Island is Lapu-Lapu's bronze form. He is the first Filipino leader to resist Spanish attempts at colonization and is revered to this day. His statue ironically stands across the street from that of rival, Magellan.

Magellan's Cross

In 1521, Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan planted a cross on the very spot where the first Filipinos were baptized People started chipping off parts of the cross because of supposed supernatural powers until the city government encased it in tindalo wood and housed it in a monument. It now stands at the corner of Magallanes and Burgos streets.

University of San Carlos MuseumThe country's oldest university, San Carlos was founded by the Jesuits in 1595. Various archeological artifacts are housed in the museum as well as religious relics from all over the Philippines.

Antiques

Some of the gastronomic bite delights to be had in Cebu are dried mango preserves, otap (crunchy sugar-coated biscuits), turrons (rolled wafers with peanut/cashew filling), danggit (dried fish), and fresh fruits. For some of the best food buys, Carbon Market, Gullas Market and Tabuan Market are good choices.

Furniture and Home Accessories

One of Cebu's top export earners is rattan furniture with over 2/3 of the country's rattan furnishings made in Cebu. Cebu has also attracted international recognition with the Cebuano's craftsmanship in making furniture of bamboo, stone and other indigenous materials. Many good buys can be found in Mandaue City furniture shops.

Handicrafts

Cebuanos have managed to produce all sorts of handicrafts as they are blessed with an inherent entrepreneurial spirit and creativity. Cebu has practically everything from silver jewelry and hand-woven cloth to Capiz lampshades and ashtrays, abaca bags, and coral jewelry boxes. At Carbon Market, which is Cebu's biggest public market, there are many great bargains. Another choice is to take a stroll down Colon Street, with its many stores and malls it offers the best of Cebu.

Travel
Getting There An international destination with flights from Tokyo, Singapore and Hong Kong arriving almost daily, Cebu is home to the Mactan International Airport. Cebu is just a short flight - an hour - away from Manila by plane or 22 hours by boat. It is an ideal jump-off point for other tourist attractions in the Visayas and Mindanao.

Getting AroundThe American dollar, next to to the Philippine peso, enjoys wide acceptance. For a pleasant trip, it's recommended to have a substantial amount of cash on hand as foreign credit cards may be accepted only at major hotels and establishments.

Getting around Cebu is not a problem as there are an abundance of taxis, other modes of transportation are the jeepney, bus or tricycle. Staying InNumerous accommodations have sprouted all over the province from world-class hotels and resorts to modest hostels and apartelles, being as Cebus is the country's top tourist destination. During the peak summer season it's best to make reservations early.

Top Eight Best Diving Spots in the Philippines

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Sun, 04 May 2008 04:27:00 +0000

Here's a list of world-class diving sites in the world.

Looking for the best diving spots in the world? Here's a list of the top eight best dive sites in the Philippines with world class diving facilities and white sand beaches.

The Philippines was cited as one of the top three best diving spots in the world, together with Maldives and Palau. Among the internationally recognized best dive spots in the country are;

Tubbataha Reef Marine Park,Sulu Sea
It is famous for its diverse marine life. Tubbataha Reef Marine Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world and the best place for snorkeling and diving in Asia.

The Tubbataha Reef Marine Park covers 33,200 ha, including the North and South Reefs. It is a unique example of an atoll reef with a very high density of marine species; the North Islet serving as a nesting site for birds and marine turtles. The site is an excellent example of a pristine coral reef with a spectacular 100-m perpendicular wall, extensive lagoons and two coral islands.

Malapascua Island, Cebu
It is famous for its rare sharks.

Malapascua is one of the least spoiled tourist spots in the Philippines. Labeled as the next Boracay by the Lonely Planet, Malapascua has everything for the traveling diver.
Malapascua diving offers: the only daily thresher shark sightings in the world, white tip sharks, mantas, hammerheads (seasonal), wrecks, mandarin fish, pygmy seahorses, cuttlefish, beautiful unspoiled coral gardens and a huge diversity of marine life.

Puerto Galera, Mindoro
This diving site is noted for its colorful reefs.

A little further from Anilao using Batangas Pier as jump-off point, Puerto Galera is a natural harbor with fine beaches, green scenery and sheltered coves. Puerto Galera has grown to become a diving haven due to its marine diversity, complemented by other activities. At least two dozen sites have been identified, each providing good opportunity for photography. Most divers prefer to go to Puerto Galera from March to October.

Anilao, Batangas
Anilao's proximity makes it a popular destination for weekend diving trips.

Even excursions are ideal in this southern town where resorts are situated within short boat rides to excellent dive sites. Diving is mainly in coral slopes and shallow gardens among sandy patches. Choose from any of the 24 dive sites between the coast of Anilao and Maricaban Island. The most popular site is the Cathedral (average of 60 ft.), a roofless cavern with a blessed cross flanked by two large sea mounts.

Balicasag Island, Bohol
Balicasag is considered as one of the best dive spots in the country.

Balicasag is considered as one of the best dive spots in the country. The waters are brimming with schools of tuna, snappers, groupers, mackerel and surgeonfish. Dolphins and pilot whales can also be viewed from a distance.

Apo Reef, Negros Oriental

Apo Reef National Park is another UNESCO World Heritage Site

Apo Reef National Park is acclaimed as one of the best diving sites in Asia. It is a 34-kilometer reef, with a narrow channel running east to west, dividing this reef into two lagoon systems, north and south. Apo Reef is the second largest contiguous coral reef in the world and the largest in the Philippines.

Palawan's Surrounding Islands

Coron, El Here's a list of world-class diving sites in the world.

Nido and Busuanga are just three of the many dive sites in Palawan.
Coron Bay is one of the most popular diving destinations in the Philippines. This site is one of the most famous wreck diving destinations in the entire world due to the amount of historic sunken ships which can be visited and seen with great clarity due to this area's waters usual transparency.

El Nido is one of the world class diving destinations in the Philippines. El Nido dive sites are also the home of the exotic and colorful tropical marine life. With its unexploited underwater scenery, divers will have a good look on the colorful tropical fishes and corals. In El Nido alone, there are 20 dive sites already.

Boracay, Aklan
Boracay is the best tropical beach in the world.

Boracay is one of the most popular diving areas in Southeast Asia. Boracay is a great dive holiday location, simply because it combines a wide range of dive activities with one of the best beaches in the world plus the numerous good quality resorts, restaurants, bars and night time events. There are 15 diving sites in the area.

Boracay - Beach Capital Of The Philippines

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Sat, 03 May 2008 06:41:00 +0000

BRIEF DESCRIPTION
The palm-studded island of Boracay – with its white, talcum-fine beach, balmy weather, and warm, crystalline waters – is like a hypnotic magnet. In this tiny, butterfly-shaped island at the northwestern tip of Panay in Western Visayas, days can be spent simply lazing on the beach while nights are for indulging in the tropical party lifestyle.The best part of the island is the four-kilometer White Beach hailed as the “finest beach in the world.” The surrounding water is shallow and the sand is finer and brighter than most beaches in the archipelago. White Beach is so, soooo fine, it feels like treading on miles of baby powder!The code in Boracay is strictly informal. There is an undeniably easy atmosphere in the island, where walking barefoot than shod is the rule rather than the exception. Even swinging discos have the beach for a floor, giving dance a new twist. There are no hang-ups here. During the day, tourists having a soothing massage under the shade of a coconut tree beside the shoreline is a common sight. And from dusk to dawn, Boracay turns into one big party place where everyone is welcome to join in. But first, let’s toast that sunset cocktail!Diversions are not a problem, with leisure activities calendared throughout the year and amenities offered by some 350 tourist establishments. There is plenty to do other than beachbumming and partyhopping. For the adventure-driven, there is ""Mambo Number 5"" – a little bit of boating and wind surfing, a little bit of scuba diving, a little bit of trekking, a little bit of mountain biking, and a little bit of golf. On the eastern side of the island is Bulabog Beach, a boardsailor’s mecca that draws enthusiasts from all over the world, especially during the peak season from November to March. In January, it is the site of an International Funboard Cup.Sailboating and kayaking are popular sporting activities, with Boracay playing host to the annual Paraw Regatta, an international sailboat race that makes use of the native outrigger. Dive sites surround the island and are learning venues to both novice and professional divers, guided by competent instructors of the many dive shops that operate in the area.Trekking and mountain biking can also bring the intrepid to the island's quaint interior villages and to the edges' scenic rocky cliffs, discovering along the way many hidden coves with isolated beaches far from the tourist crowd. And for golf bugs, Fairways and Bluewater Resort Golf and Countryclub has an 18-hole championship course.

Geography
Boracay Island belongs to the Western Visayas island-group, Region 6 of the Philippines, along with the western part of the province of Negros, the island of Panay, and many smaller islands. The westernmost island in Western Visayas, Boracay borders the provinces of Mindoro to the northwest and Romblon to the north.

Languages/Dialects
Other than Tagalog/Filipino and other local dialects, English is widely spoken in Boracay. Akeanon is predominantly spoken in Aklan, the gateway to the island.

Climate
March to June are the summer months in Boracay, with temperatures reaching as high as from 28 to 38 degrees Celsius. November to February are spent with pleasant winds, cool nights, and occasional rain showers. July to October are the wettest months.

Laguna Is Famous For...

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Thu, 01 May 2008 22:29:00 +0000

Laguna Is Famous For...

Rizal Shrine

This two-storey, red-tiled-roof, Spanish-vintage house is maintained as a national shrine by the national government. It houses Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s childhood, ranging from pictures of and early sculptures by the late hero to laminated excerpts of some of his best written works. The house is by no means in its original state – except for the old well, everything is a reconstruction of the original house of Rizal, the country’s national hero. However, the house has maintained much of its colonial appeal.The museum on-site offers guided tours for groups. It has a gift shop on the ground floor. There is no entrance fee but donations are welcome. Museum hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, and 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., everyday except Monday.

Pagsanjan

The town of Pagsanjan is blessed with natural wonders – the awe-inspiring gorges, the roaring rapids, and the Pagsanjan Falls, a plus factor that made Pagsanjan one of the premiere tourist attractions of the country. The gorges teem with wild orchids, ferns, and vines, and in early morning, chattering monkeys and beautiful sunrays and peaceful water. Inside, multi-colored birds flirt in the bushes.The thrill of shooting the rapids here is an experience of a lifetime, starting with boarding a banca paddled by two expert Pagsanjeño boatmen. The only way to the falls is through the Bumbungan River of Pagsanjan. The upstream trip, three miles from outside town on the rugged Cavinti highlands, is relatively slow as the boatmen paddle and drag the banca against the currents. But the half-hour trip back provides an unforgettable experience in shooting the 14 rapids.The rainy season is the best time to view the series of mini-falls, over 19 in all, first of which is the Talahib Falls. Farther on are the Kalukuy Falls and the misty Bridal Veil Falls. Some of these mini-falls are unnamed and rarely seen in the summer. Huge stones called Pusong Bato lay at the center of the river.Pagsanjan is further known for beautiful and quality shoes and locally made slippers. The shoe store located at Gen. Taiño Street is a tourist favorite.

Mount Makiling

The mystical Mount Makiling is an inactive volcano rising to about 1,109 meters above sea level. The vegetation consists of approximately 2,048 different species of plant. The lower slope is a tall dipterocarp forest while the summit is a dwarf mossy forest. The slopes of Mt. Makiling are shaped to resemble a woman reclining, hence, the air of mysticism that surrounds the mountain. Legend has it that it is the profile of the sleeping Maria Makiling, a mythical goddess. Still others say that Maria Makiling dwells in this mountain and protects dwellers and travelers from harm.

Mount Banahaw

Yet another popular spot with great tourism potential is Mount Banahaw. A unique experience awaits mountain climbing enthusiasts who venture to a part of the mountain so-called “Banal na Lugar,” or Holy Place, found in the depths and alleged to be mystical. In fact, Majayjay situated at the foot of the mountain is considered holy ground amongst amulet makers, faith healers, and seekers of the divine. Mystical Mount Banahaw is 2,188 meters in height.

Laguna de Bay

The province owes its name to this body of water that forms its northern boundary which, in turn, was named after the first provincial capital, the town of Bay. Laguna de Bay is known to be Southeast Asia’s largest fresh water lake. It stays pristine throughout the year as the area is blessed with regular rain showers.

Underground Cemetery

Built in the 18th century by the Franciscan Missionaries, the Underground Cemetery is enclosed by a circular structure. The intricately designed wall and wrought iron gate with a red-tiled walk leads straight to the small chapel, where an altar-like structure is located. The tombstones are embedded on the brick walls of the cemetery and the basement. At the crypt of the cemetery, according to history, is where the local Katipuneros, or followers of the secret revolutionary societies collectively called the Katipunan, plotted against Spanish rule.

National Arts Center

Managed by the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the National Arts Center is a show window of cultural development and performing arts education the country. More than this, It is an ideal vantage point for a panoramic view of Laguna de Bay, Talim Island, Crocodile Lake, and the International Rice Research Institute. It boasts 62 cottages, an auditorium, and seminar and convention facilities. Reservations may be coursed through the CCP Main Office on Roxas Boulevard, Manila.

Lake Caliraya

The man-made lake was built by American engineers in the 1930s in order to provide hydroelectric power in the region. Lake Caliraya is situated at 1,200 feet above sea level. It is endowed with cool winds, clear water, and the surrounding greenery.

Boy Scouts of the Philippines Camp

The BSP grounds are an ideal camping area. The Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of the Philippines usually hold their jamborees and other relevant activities in this campsite.

Woodcarving & Papier-Mache

There is a proliferation of small to large woodcarving and papier-mache factories in the town of Paete. That practically all the townsfolk are involved in these businesses either as factory workers or owners has become a tradition passed on through generations. The artistic ingenuity of Paeteños dates back to the pre-Spanish period, during which the artists created mostly religious articles. Skillful artisans patiently fashioned lanite, amlang, kamagong, lauan, acacia, and santol wood into world-class miniature décor items. The old creations of Paete are among the most valued antiques today. At present, Paete’s artists carve not only religious figures but also furniture and other items. The hard work that each Paete artist devotes to his craft indeed puts meaning to the label, “made in Paete.”

Center for the Philippine Raptors

Situated in Los Baños, Laguna, the site serves as a rescue and rehabilitation center for rescued, confiscated, or donated diurnal and nocturnal raptorial birds. It is also a venue for scientific research and public education as well as a captive breeding facility for Philippine birds of prey, with emphasis on the highly endangered Philippine Eagle, the world’s largest eagle.

Caliraya Boardsailing

Ironically, one of the finest sailing sites in a country with thousands of kilometers of coastline is an artificial lake created by a dam. Caliraya, only three hours’ drive from Manila, is a favorite destination for city-based boardsailors. The wind comes in just above the water, leaving the surface glassy smooth, even in winds of up to 30 knots. These are perfect conditions for speed.

Jeepney: The Undisputed King of the Road

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 05:54:00 +0000

Jeepney: The Undisputed King of the Road

Jeepneys are the most popular means of public transportation in the Philippines. They were originally made from US military jeeps left over from World War II[ and are well known for their flamboyant decoration and crowded seating. They have also become a symbol of Philippine culture.

When American troops began to leave the Philippines at the end of World War II, hundreds of surplus jeeps were sold or given to local Filipinos. Locals stripped down the jeeps to accommodate several passengers, added metal roofs for shade, and decorated the vehicles with vibrant colors and bright chrome hood ornaments.

The jeepney rapidly emerged as a popular and creative way to reestablish inexpensive public transportation, which had been virtually destroyed during World War II. Recognizing the widespread use of these vehicles, the Philippine government began to place restrictions on their use. Drivers now must have specialized licenses, regular routes, and reasonably fixed fares. Due to recent fuel price increases the Metro Manila fixed fare has increased from 5 pesos to 7.50 pesos (currently about 10 to fifteen cents American.)

Read more about (click please here) jeepney.

FEASTS & FESTIVALS IN THE PHILIPPINES

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 12:00:00 +0000

FEAST OF THE BLACK NAZARENE January 9th - Quiapo, ManilaA grand Fiesta, this festivalcenters on the image of the Black Nazarene which was transported by galleon from Mexico to Manila in the 17th century. The festival is marked by an afternoon procession by thousands of devotees.

ATI-ATIHAN January 16-22 - Kalibo, AklanOne of the most popular of the Philippine festivals, the Ati-atihan is a celebration in honor of the Sto. Niño. Revelers don colorful costumes and paint their bodies black and dance to the distictive beat of "Hala bira!" around the town.
PASUNGAYEvery 2nd Saturday of January - San Joaquin, IloiloA festival of bulls on the hillsides of San Joaquin. Prized bulls from the town and neighboring areas fight amidst wild cheering from spectators.

SINULOG Every third weekend of January - Cebu City, CebuThe Feast of the Sto. Niño is celebrated in Cebu with a procession, street dancing competition and a fluvial parade. Much like the Ati-atihan, the Sinulog Festival is marked by frenzied reverly to the chant of "Pit Senor!"

DINAGYANG Every fourth weekend of January - Iloilo City, IloiloSpectacle characterized by a frenetic stomping of feet and hypnotic drumbeating. It is a colorful whirl of thousands of people dressed in unique costumes dancing and chanting all day and night.

ZAMBULAWAN Every third Sunday of January - Pagadian City, Zamboanga del SurThe founding of Pagadian City showcases the Subanon tribe's rich cultural heritage by way of songs, dances and exhibits of musical instruments.

FEAST OF OUR LADY OF CANDLES February 2 - Jara, Iloilo CityThe biggest and most opulent religiuos pageanty in Western Visayas. The blessing of candles and the yearly procession of the patroness, the Nuestra Senora de Candelaria is followed by the fiesta queen and her court which highlights the celebration.

PARAW REGATTA First Sunday of March - Iloilo CityAn exciting race among native outriggers in the strait between Guimaras Island and Iloilo City. This is an activity every summer hedged with rules, umpires and kibitzers.

EID-EL-FITR March 9 - Region XIIA worldwide Muslim festival celebrating the end of the month-long fasting period of the Holy Month of Ramadam by the Muslims.

VIA CRUSIS April 1 - Cebu CityA lenten activity where devotees from Cebu City and its neighboring cities and towns do their penitential procession through cities the Station of the Cross built on 12 hectares of rolling hills. the life-size statues of the 14 Stations of the Cross have been patterned after the Way of the Cross in Lourdes, France.

PAK'KAAT KALLO Holy Week - Magpet, CotabatoAn anuual feast of the Manobo tribal community of Magpet in celebration of a bountiful harvest.

MORIONES FESTIVAL Holy Week - Boac,Magpoc, MarinduqueOne of the most famous of Philippine festivals. Colorfully garbed and masked as Roman soldiers and centurions, locals reenact the life of Longinus culminating in his beheading. The entire towns of Boac, Morpog and Gasan are virtually converted into huge stages as the story as Longinus unfolds.

TURUMBA Good Friday - Pakil, LagunaA procession of the centuries-old image of the Virgin Mary through the streets, procession, singing and dancing to the Turumba.

ANG PAGTALTAL SA GUIMARAS Good Friday - Jordan, GuimarasLenten presentation on the hillside of Jordan with locals as actors. This ala-Oberrammergou event has been attracting hundreds of foreign and domestic tourists: Local devotees' visit usually culminates in the trek to "Balaan Bukid" or Holy Mountain where a huge cross is planted by the chapel overlooking Guimaras Strait and Iloilo City.

LAMI-LAMIHAN FESTIVAL 2nd or 3rd Week of april - Lamitan, BasilanA yearly festival coinciding with the founding of Lamitan Municipality; showcases the traditional Yakan customs and traditions, music and dances, and traditional crafts.

MANAOAG PILGRIMAGE 2nd Week of April - PangasinanAnnual pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Manaoag. Known to local pilgrims / tourists as miraculous, the Virgin's image has become one of Manaoag's main attractions. Pilgrims' vehicles are blessed every Saturday.

PISTA'Y DAYAT May 1 - Lingayen, PangasinanA day of thanksgiving for bountiful harvests and abundant fishing observed all over Pangasinan traditional with mass offering on beautiful beaches and fluvial parade.

SANTACRUZAN May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 - NationwideThe Santacruzan is a procession commemmorating St. Helena's finding the "True Cross"; preceded bya nine-day Novena in honor of the Holy Cross. On the ninth day, usually on a weekend, the Santacruzan is held. The Reina Elena, accompanied by a little boy representing King Constantine, and the other sagalas representing biblical characters and the attributes of the Blessed Virgin, walk under gaily decorated arches.

CARABAO FESTIVAL May 14 - Angono, RizalFarmers pay tribute to their patron saints; a procession of carabao carts bearing a myriad local produce is held; prizes are awarded to the strongest and most beautifully decorated carabaos.

PULILAN CARABAO May 14 - Pulilan, BulacanHundreds of festively adorned carabaos are paraded by theis farmer-owners on the street leading to the church; there they are made to kneel down homage to San Isidro de Labrado, the patron saint of farmers.

PAHIYAS SA QUEZON May 15 - Sariaya, Lucban, Tayabas, QuezonHomes are decked with kiping (multi-colored paper thin, leaf-shaped rice kropeck) and harvested vegetables; trade fair; civic parades, procession and other activities.

OBANDO FERTILITY RITES May 17 to 19 - Obando, BulacanA three day fiesta celebration in honor of San Pascual, Baylon, Sta. Clara and Nuestra Senora de Salambao. Childless couples, thankful parents, grateful farmers and fishermen dance along the streets together with colorfully customed women to pray for children and a good harvest.

TAPUSAN SA KAWIT May 30 - Kawit, CaviteA procession of gaily decorated floats decked with flowers of Maytime honors the Blessed Virgin. The participation of the town's most beautiful young ladies symbolizes the purity and innocence of the Blessed Mother.

ANTIPOLO PILGRIMAGE May - Antipolo, RizalA month-long celebration that brings devotees and pilgrims to venerate the Lady of Peace and Good Voyage enshrined in Antipolo Church and afterwards, picnic to nearby Hinulugang Taktak.

INDEPENDENCE DAY June 12 - Kawit, CaviteIndependence Day Celebration, marked by a flag raising ceremony on the balcony of the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine, where the first Philippine flag was unfurled.

PARADA NG LECHON June 24 - Balayan, BatangasThe parading on the Feast of St. John the Baptist of "dressed" and decorated "lechons" (roasted pigs) around town. Revelers partake of the lechons after the parade.

PINTADOS FESTIVAL June 29 - Tacloban CityStreet pageantry and contest focusing on the Leyteños' old custom of tattooing that signifies courage and status in the community.

PAAWAY SA KABAYO (Horsefight) July 25 and December 25 - Tanjay, Negros OrrientalAn exciting, thrilling and oftentimes bloody fight among studs for supremacy over a female horse. More than 100 horses have been trained solely for this twice a year event.

BOCAUE RIVER FESTIVAL First Sunday of July - Bocaue, BulacanA famous river festival held in honor of the miraculous Cross of Bocaue (Krus ng Wawa). During the fluvial procession, devotees ride in the "pagoda" and douse each other with water.

RAJAH BAGUINDA FESTIVAL 2nd Week of August - Jolo, SuluA three-day cultural show and festivites commemorating the arrival of Rajah Baguinda who was responsible for the spread of Islam and reinforcing the Sultanate Government in the Sulu Archipelago.

KADAYAWAN SA DABAW 3rd Week of August - Davao CityA celebration of the bountiful harvests of fruits and orchids during the season. Activities include fruit and flower show, trade fair, tribal/civic/military parade, traditional sports activities, horsefight, Search for B'yaneng Kadayawan and street dancing.

LEMLUNAY (T'BOLI TRIBAL FESTIVAL) Septermber 16-18 - Lake Sebu, South CotabatoAn annual authentic T'boli tribal festival staged at Lake Sebu. Features tribal rituals that start at early down amidst sounds of gongs and native music, culminating at the town plaza where cultural dances and ethic sports like horsefight are held.

FEAST OF NUESTRA SEÑORA DE PEÑAFRANCIA, 3rd Saturday of September - Naga City, Camarines SurA religious festival held in hornor of the Feast of Our Lady of Peñafrancia. Bicol's most revered patrones highlighted by the fluvial procession of the Lady's image down the Bicol river. The week-long-celebration includes civic-military parade, sportsfests, exhibits, cultural shows, beauty pageants and colorful competitions.

MASSKARA FESTIVAL October 19 - Bacolod City, Negros OccidentalThe biggest annual event that reflects the Bacoleños love for fun and gaiety. Coinciding with Bacolod City's charter day celebration, the festival features sports competitions, cultural programs, carnivals, beauty contest and a long Mardi grasstyle costumed and masked street dancers.

IBALONG FESTIVAL October 19-22 - Legaspi CityA celebration depicting Bicol's early beginnings as portrayed in the "Ibalong" epic that tells of super heroes Handiong, Batlog and Oryol and villains and wild animals that roamed in the ancient times. In music and dances, revelers parade on the main streets wearing masks of these heroes and villains. Festival activities include tours, trade fairs, exhibits and beauty pageants.

LA NAVAL DE MANILA 2nd Sunday of October - Sto. Domingo, Quezon CityA festival revolving around the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary of La Naval carved in 1533 and given as a gift to the Dominican Fathers. Borne on an elaborately decorated and well-lit carriage in the form of a ship, the venerated image is brought out of the church preceded by a dozen or so images of Dominican saints. The procession goes around the main streets of Sto. Domingo parish and then returns to the church amidst applause until it reaches the altar pedestal.

FEAST OF SAN CLEMENTE / HIGANTES FESTIVAL November 22-23 - Angono, RizalAngono's joyous fiesta in honor of San Clemente whose image, resplendent in papal vestment, is borne by male devotees during a procession accompanied by "pahadores (devotees dressed in colorful local costumes, wooden shoes and carrying boat paddles) and higantes" (giant paper mache effigies) The street event culminates in a fluvial procession in Laguna de Bay amidst revelry that continues until the image is brought back to its sanctuary.

GRAND CORDILLERA FESTIVAL November - Baguio CityOne of the region's major events held annualy featuring the gathering of tribes in a week-long event to "celebrate life" marked by tribal dancing and performances of thanksgiving rituals.

MARIAN PROCESSION December 8 - Intramuros, ManilaA revival of religious tradition with more than 60 images of the Blessed Virgin Mary from various parishes and provinces paraded.
PAGDIDIWATADecember 8 - Puerto Princessa, PalawanA thanks giving celebration by the Tagbanua natives of Palawan in ritual dances and food offerings to their deities and souls of departed kin.

FEAST OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPCION December 8 - Intramuros, ManilaAn Eucharistic celebrabration of the Feast Day of the La Immaculada, patroness of Intramuros, capped by a grand procession of more than 50 Marian images from all over the country and participated in by thousands of devotees.

BIKOL PASTORES December 18 - Legazpi City, AlbayA unique Christmas celebration believed to have originated in the province where "pastores" - young men and women dressed in colorful shepherd costumes - joyfully dance and sing "Pastores a Belen" through the city streets.

SAN FERNANDO GIANT LANTERN FESTIVAL December - Ermita, ManilaA fiesta in honor of one of the oldest Marian images in the country (it was found by Legazpi's soldiers amidst the foliage of a pandan shrub on the shores of Ermita in 1571) - the La Nuestra Señora de Guia, patroness of seafarers and also known as Our Lady of Expectations. The main event of the fiesta is the Bota de Flores, a reenactment of a select group of young ladies and their escorts in sailor costumes of the procession returning the La Nuestra Señora de Guia to its reconstructed shrine in 1918.

BINIRAYAN FESTIVAL December 28-30 - San Jose, AntiqueA festive commemoration of an episode in the history of the Filipino race through colorful pageants acted on the beaches of Maybato in San Jose and Malandog in Hamtik. Particularly interesting is the drama of the first Malay settlement at malandog which runs for several days and nights. Binirayan is also an occasion of reunion with families, relatives and friends of homecoming Antiqueno expatriates.

THE PHILIPPINE MAP & Brief Details.....

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 06:03:00 +0000

The Philippines (Filipino: Pilipinas), officially the Republic of the Philippines (Republika ng Pilipinas; RP), is an archipelagic nation located in Southeast Asia, with Manila as its capital city. The Philippine archipelago comprises 7,107 islands in the western Pacific Ocean bordering countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Palau and the Republic of China, although it is the only Southeast Asian country to share no land borders with its neighbors. The Philippines is the world's 12th most populous country with a population approaching 90 million people. Its national economy is the 47th largest in the world with a 2006 gross domestic product (GDP) of over US$117.562 billion.

The Philippines was formerly a Spanish then an American colony. The Philippine Revolution was an attempt to gain independence from Spain, and later from the U.S. in the Philippine-American War. The Philippines ultimately gained its independence from the United States on July 4, 1946 after the Pacific War (the Second World War) via the Treaty of Manila. The Philippines then became a fledgling democracy until the authoritarian rule of Ferdinand Marcos led to his overthrow in the People Power Revolution of 1986. Political upheavals alternated with peaceful transition of power on the period that followed.

Today, the Philippines has many affinities with the Western world, derived mainly from the cultures of Spain, Latin America, and the United States. Roman Catholicism became the predominant religion, although pre-Hispanic indigenous religious practices still exist. There are also followers of Islam. The two official languages of the Philippines are Filipino and English.

Know Philippine History (3)

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 04:39:00 +0000

Changes in the American period

Consequences of the American colonial rule

During the Spanish period the Spaniards had given enormous land properties to the Catholic church. One of the first things the Americans did was to take care for the redistribution of these land properties. To do so they first had to pay an amount of US $7.2 million to the Vatican in 1904. The small farmers or tenants didn't get any land however. The land became property of some large landowners. Most of the small farmers couldn't pay the asked price or couldn't prove that they were the former owners of the land.
The economic development during the 'American period' was rather typical colonial. The Philippine economy was strongly related to and depending on the United States. The Philippine economy was focused on mining and exporting crops. Industrial growth didn't take place.

Quezon, the first Philippine president

The Philippines was controlled by the Americans from
1900-1942. In 1934 an act was established, which made
it possible that the Philippines could have a
"Commonwealth of the Philippines".
The first president of this Commonwealth was Manuel Quezon. The first president was given certain power
for some internal affairs.

The Japanese occupation

The Americans were still in the Philippines when the next
foreign ruler came. Japan. The Japanese army and rulers
occupied the Philippines from 1942 - 1944.

President Quezon

The first step to liberation

In October 1944 the American general Douglas Mac Arthur landed with his troops at the east coast of Leyte, one of the bigger islands in the central part of the Philippines.

This was the first step in the total liberation of the country. With 700 vessels and 174,000 army and navy servicemen, McArthur arrived in the Philippines. In December 1944, the islands of
Leyte and Mindoro were cleared of the Japanese army.

Many casualties

The casualties of the Americans in this operation is estimated 4000 - 6000.
Filipino casualties: estimated about one million!

Freedom at last!

The Philippines was granted it's independence in 1946. Freedom at last, 148 years later than the freedom which was written down by Julian Felipe in the Philippine anthem called "Lupang Hinirang".
The Republic of the Philippines was proclaimed on July 4, 1946.

Know Philippine History (2)

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 04:28:00 +0000

The Spanish colonial period

Resistance of the locals

Wall of Intramuros in Manila, a remnant of the Spanish colonial period

After the Spaniards succeeded in 1556 to break the last good organized resistance, a long period of Spanish influence followed. The Spaniards ruled the country, brought the Christian religion to the country and were responsible for a lot of colonial and religious buildings throughout the country.
The results can still be seen in places as for instance Cebu City and Manila.
Revolts against the colonizers.

The Spanish colonial period wasn't without resistance of the Filipinos. On the contrary. There was a succession of revolts against the European colonizers. Aguinaldo was the great leader of the big revolt of 1896. However, the Filipino rebels didn't succeed to defeat the armed Spaniards at that time. A helping hand came a few years later from the Americans.

Liberty, brought by the Americans?

At the end of the nineteenth century, on April 25,1898, the United States declared war on Spain. The main reason was that Spain possessed several colonies and the United States wanted the independency of these regions. The American navy decided to attack the Spanish fleet in the Philippine waters. The battle took place in Manila Bay. On May 1 in 1898 the Spanish fleet was destroyed. After 327 years under Spanish rule, the Philippine people thought that they won independence at last. The Americans however, thought quit different about that at that time.

Aguinaldo
The Philippines, sold for a amount of less
than 20 million dollars

After the end of the American-Spanish war in 1898,
the Spaniards sold the Philippines and other colonial properties for 20 million dollar to the Americans. Aguinaldo didn't want to accept American rule and proclaimed the first Philippine Republic.
The Americans decided that the Filipinos were not
yet capable to be independent. A hostile period started. The United States needed more than 125.000 soldiers to subdue the Philippines. The Philippine rebels were forced to retreat and were driven into northern Luzon. From here they started a guerrilla. This "Philippine War of Independence" continued for two years and ended when Aguinaldo was captured on March 23, 1901.
Only sporadic resistance continued until 1903.

Know Philippine History (1)

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 12:32:00 +0000

The Philippines in earlier times......

The First Inhabitants 40.000 years ago.

It is thought that the earliest inhabitants of the Philippines lived some 40000 years ago. On Palawan, the long and small island in de western Visayas, human bones were found dating to about 22.000 years ago. Stone tools from ancient times were found too on Palawan. The age of the tools is estimated to be about 30.000 years old. A analyses showed that the tools have similar features as tools which were found on Kalimantan (Indonesia).

The original people of the Philippines were ancestors of the people known today as Negritos or Aeta. They are very small people with a dark skin and curly brown hair.
Picture: © University of Hohenheim

The Aeta came 13000 - 10000 years ago from the Asian continent. In earlier times they lived widespread throughout the Philippines. Today they are living in the remote highland areas of Luzon, Palawan, Panay, Negros and Mindanao. About 2300 years ago Malayan people arrived from the mainland in the Philippines and brought a more advanced culture; dairy, iron melting and production of iron tools, pottery techniques and the system of sawah's (rice fields).
In the tenth century Muslim traders come from Kalimantan (Indonesia) to the Philippines. A few centuries later, the Islam spread out in the southern part of the Philippines. Until now, the Islam is strong rooted on Mindanao and the other (smaller) islands of the southern part of the Philippines.

The arrival of the first Spaniards

In 1521 the Spanish period started with the arrival of a small fleet in the coastal waters of Mactan island, just east of Cebu island. It was Fernao de Magelhaes (Ferdinand Magellan), a Portuguese in service of the Spanish King. He claimed the country for the Spanish King.
Lapu Lapu, the national hero

There was great resistance of the local people. In the battle that took place that day, the locals with their leader Lapu Lapu succeeded in forcing the Spaniards to retreat to their ships, after their leader, Magellan, was killed by the spears of the Lapu Lapu warriors. Lapu Lapu became the first Filipino hero.

Philippines Festivals and other Cultural Events

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 10:33:00 +0000

Philippines is celebrating many festivals all year round. Every region, provinces and Cities has different kinds of festivities, events and schedule. On any given day, there is sure to be a festival in a town or city somewhere in the Philippines. People celebrate every festival with excitement, enthusiasm and high spirits. Filipinos enjoys every moment when celebrating the festival. The event or fiesta is characterized by the community to express the warm welcome of the harvest, express religious fervor, or commemorate a historic event. It is among the ties that blind, showing and strengthening the shared history, values, and experiences of a specific group of people.

Philippine celebrates many kinds of fiesta or festival. People paint their faces and even the whole body, dress in colorful costumes and do the street dancing with the beat of the drums. Street dancing is the most popular and highlight in the festival. Many Groups are preparing for this event not only to win the prize but also serves as an offering. The best months of the Philippine festivals are January, April, May, October and December.Many foriegn people around the world visit Philippines to witness the festivities that are being celebrated. They were how Filipinos celebrate the fiesta. The popular festivals are Sinulog in Cebu, Masskara in Bacolod, Ati-atihan in Aklan, Dinagyang in Iloilo, Moriones in Marinduque and many more. These festivals also portrays the culture that are handed down from generation. Visitors around the world feel the unifying power of the fiesta and the Filipino's irrepressibly festive spirit.

World Famous and Most Popular Philippine Festival or Fiestas :

Sinulog Festival - Ati-atihan Festival - MassKara Festival - Dinagyang Festival - Panagbenga Festival - Kinabayo Festival
Kadayawan sa Dabaw Festival - Moriones Festival - Feast of Black Nazarene - Sandugo Festival - Pahiyas Festival
Maradjao Karadjao Festival - - More Festivals

TRAVEL PILIPINAS

noreply@blogger.com (borriz) — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 05:21:00 +0000

Welcome to the Philippine Island. Discover the beauty of the tropical country with fascinating landscapes, astounding cultural and historical background and offer you one of the most popular tourist destination. “MABUHAY”.