Philippines Hotels and Resorts

Pampanga, Philippines is 83 Kms. away from Manila (Rizal Monument). just like any other town in Central Luzon, Pampanga has two pronounced season. Dry from November to April and wet the rest of the year.

In summer, the climate is very hot due to the humid temperature of Mt. Pinatubo while during the rainy season, residents and guests are advised to take precautionary measures due to lahar flows and flood which occasionally visit some lower portion of the city.

TOURIST ATTRACTION

HISTORICAL BETIS CHURCH (Betis, Guagua) - Pampanga's oldest church is a fascinating work of architecture with its classic altar in antique carved design and décor blending with religious frescoes reminiscent of neoclassic works of European Art. Built between 1754, this church has impressive paintings on its ceiling and walls with fine sculpture and paintings in gold dust.

SPECIAL INTEREST

BIRD WATCHING - WILD DUCK SANCTUARY (Candaba, Pampanga) - Hundreds of thousands of wild ducks from China maker their home during the winter season. This is an ideal site for birdwatching. But bird hunting is strictly prohibited in response to environmental protection.

MOUNTAIN TREKKING/BIKING - Mt, Arayat/Magalang, Pampanga

FESTIVALS

CUTUD LENTEN RITES - A re-enactment Christs's passion and death is done every year during the lenten season at Cutud, San Pedro, San Fernando, Pampanga. The re-enactment is complete with the passion play and culminates with the actual nailing of at least three flagellants on wooden crosses a top a makeshift calvary.

SABAT-SANTACRUZAN - A moro-moro feature of the Santacruzan that occurs at certain places. During the procession, the Goydo, said to be non-christian knight errand, confronts St, Helen and her handmaiden and tries to stop her search for the cross. After armed skirmies between the two groups and a series of drmatic dialogues in vernacular jousts, the Goydo and his men are converted into Christian faith.

APUNG IRU FLUVIAL FESTIVAL - Celebrated every June 27-29 of every year, the feast of St. Peter and Paul is observed with a fluvial parade with gaily decorated motorboats and colorful bancas roving up and down the Pampanga River. The 3-day celebration honoring Apung Iru starts on June 27 and culminates on June 29 when the image is brought back to its shrine at Capalanagan.

PAMPANGA DAY ( December 11) - The people of the entire Pampanga province celebrate its foundation day with various programs and festivities such as cultural shows, trade exhibits and other socio-economic projects.

GIANT LANTERN FESTIVAL - Days before Christmas, giant lanterns made of colored crepe and japanese paper with frames of intricate tinwires skeletons containing electrical mechanism and a thousand bulbs, highlight the San Fernando Giant Lantern Festival. The lanterns dance, blink and brilliantly twinkle in kaleidoscopic pattern in cadence with the band music.

Baguio City as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, is the most frequented destinations in Northern Luzon by local and foreign tourists alike.

BRIEF HISTORY - During the Spanish Era, Benguet was not a remote area for the Spaniards to explore. The vastness and promising economic potential of the place lured the Spaniards to conduct series of expeditions. Early explorers included Juan Salcedo in 1572 and Don Q.M. Quirante in 1964. Series of attempts were made to pacify the "Igorots" but failed. Finally in 1846, Commandante de Galvey established his Commandancia at La Trinidad, Benguet (named after his wife). Galvey went to establish the province of Benguet with 31 rancherias. The first Kapitan of Benguet was Pulito of Kafagway, now Baguio, a minor rancheria of about 20 houses.

Geography and Land Area - Baguio City, approximately 250 kilometers north of Manila, is situated in the Province of Benguet. The area of the city is 49 square kilometers enclosed in a perimeter of 30.6 kilometers. The developed portion of the city corresponds to a plateau that rises to an elevation of 1,400 meters. Most of it lies in the northern half of the city.

There are two great valleys found in the south and north of the city. The more famous Guisad-Lucban Valley has an elevation that ranges from 1,300 to 1,400 meters and is centrally located towards the north. The southern valley is composed of long and narrow vales surrounded by low hills and transected by a network of hills. Some of the more important vales are Camp 7, Loakan, Bakekeng and Crystal Cave. These valleys are arables as they are rich with alluvial deposits.

Population - The population of the city as of 1995 is 226,883. The youth constitute nearly half of the population. There is a trace of longevity among the people, of whom are aged over 60. The middle aged group numbers 70,511.

During the peak of the annual tourists influx, particularly during the Lenten period, transients triple the population. The numerous government offices and private businesses keep the transients flow to a stable 14% of the resident count at any time.

Language Spoken - English is widely spoken and understood. It is the medium of instruction in all public and private schools. Most newspaper and magazines are printed in English, hence, an English speaking traveler would not find communication problems. The national language, Filipino, language is of course spoken by everyone. Ilocano is also spoken by almost everybody.

Major Industries -The three dominant industries in the city are tourism, education and integrated circuits. Tourism remains to be a dominant industry, especially with the improved access roads. Lowlanders come to the city during the hot summer months. Baguio has about 50,000 college and vocational students. Texas Instrument initiated the Export Processing Zone. Today, they export six hundred million dollars worth of products.

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS -Baguio is the gateway to the wonders of Northern Luzon. The calm beaches of La Union; the fabled Hundred Islands of Pangasinan; the world famous Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao; the ancient churches, Spanish influenced houses, historical and cultural relics of Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte, the Kabayan mummy caves of benguet; and the distinct culture and colorful traditions of the tribes of Benguet, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Kalinga, Apayao and Abra.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

1. Baguio Ecumenical Holy Week (Holy Week) - Focuses on Baguio as a spiritual center. The first commemoration initiated by the religious sector of the Non-Government Organization started last March 1991. The theme was, "Baguio, a journey to spiritual renewal."

2. Baguio Floral Festival (February) - Focuses on Baguio as the "Flower Garden City of the North". Highlights included, flower, flower exhibits, lectures, garden tours, floral contest and a parade of floats.

3. Baguio Foundation Day (September 1st) - Commemorates the anniversary of Baguio since it became a chartered city in 1909. Art exhibits, parades, programs, cultural shows and sister-city programs are often scheduled.

4. Baguio Arts Festival (November to December) - An event annually sponsored by the Baguio Arts Guild, the Department of Tourism and the Cultural Center of the Philippines was started last November 1989, envisions to turn Baguio into a permanent venue for art festival. The festival features: visual arts (photography, film, video, sculpture and art installations); performing arts (modern dances drama, music, poetry reading) and ethnic arts.

5. Christmas in Baguio - An annual Christmas activity highlighting numerous activities like cantatas, children's mardigas, sports competition, etc. and sponsored by the national Correspondents Club of the Philippines.

a. Silahis ng Pasko
b. Share-A-Toy
c. Lucky Foreign Balikbayan
d. Phil-Am Golf Tournament
e. Himig ng Pasko

6. IMPAKABSAT (November) - A Trade and Tourism Fair showcasing the products and services of the Cordilleras.

Capital : Batangas City
Area : 316,580 hec.
Population : 1,658,567
Cities : 2
No. Of Municipalities : 32
Special Interest Areas : Adventure, Natural and Cultural

Batangas is the home of sages and the birthplace of the country's notable nationalist. These historical places are the legacies of the old colonial era.

The province is also widely known as the home of baraco coffee (rich, robust-tasting coffee beans) and dedicate embroidery crafts on locally woven jusi and piña fibers.

Nature has endowed Batangas with natural resources and picturesque sceneries. Coconut, orchids and mango trees lie alongside smooth sand beaches and their submarine gardens. Just a few kilometers from the shore will bring you to diverse dive sites - from the ones fit for novices (relatively shallow, constant water current), up to those which can pose a big challenge to experts. Without question, the most popular attraction is the Taal Volcano and Lake.

Batangas used to lie along the route of the Spanish Galleon Trade from Mexico to Manila. The recent discovery of the San Diego Galleon in Nasugbu, Batangas yielded precious artifacts, including Ming dynasty jars which were exhibited in Paris, France during this decade. The San Diego is considered one of the foremost archeological finds of the 90's.

Batangas is the characterized by elevations such as Mt. Makulot where the trainee pilots of the Philippine Air Force Flying School in Lipa City practice their maneuvers. The blue waters of Anilao Beach can prove alluring to swimmers. The well-preserved town of Taal boasts of its old churches, handicrafts, and historical landmarks. Batangas is the home of one of the country's national heroes, Apolinario Mabini who is known as the "Sublime Paralytic".

The proximity of Batangas to Manila and the good quality of most of the main roads make the province very accessible thereby fueling the local tourism industry and the provincial economy.

Batangas' pre-eminence in the area of eco-industrial growth cannot be disputed. It ranks as one of the country's richest provinces for being the producer of high grade coffee varieties among the other agriculture products, which won world acclaim in the past.

There are more possibilities to unravel about Batangas which investments can nurture, with eco-tourism and the controlled use of natural resources as strategies for socio-economic development. To date, the intensified development of Batangas Port as an alternative port to Metro Manila augurs well for the province.

FEAST AND FESTIVALS

Parada ng mga Lechon
A celebration the coincides with the feast of St. John the Baptist is being observed by the townfolks of Balayan town. It is called "Parada ng mga Lechon" (Roast Pig) and is celebrated every June 24 at Balayan town. Lechons coming from each barangay of the town are paraded and capped with a grand viewing of the Lechons at the plaza. After the parade, the townspeople and guests partake in the fete. The roasted pigs are dressed in accordance with the theme for the fiesta, while the townspeople engage in water-dousing.

Location : Balayan Town
How to get there : Bus companies travel direct to the town from M Manila terminals.
Travel time : About 3 hours and 45 minutes' drive from Manila.

Subli-an sa Batangas
Held every July 23 is the Subli-an sa Batangas. The festival, originally started as a religious devotion to the Holy Cross, which later developed into a dance form calledthe Subli, a dance indigenous to Batangas. Subli is danced to the accompaniment of a song in four voices:the first voice is sung by the performer, t the second voice extolls the Holy Cross of Bauan and narrates the history of Batangas, the third voice is the "Subli" proper which combines poetry, dance and music, while the fourth voice features the observer in his search for the lost self.

The Subli is therefore an art form the culls the insights of the townsfolk and congeals this into the musical structure so designed that it is regarded as a "lesson in grace." The Subli tradition, however, has lately expanded into a festival featuring street dancing and involving the town of bauan and Batangas City, and
was lately held to coincide with the province's Foundation Day.

Location : Batangas City
How to get there : Take BLTB or any Batangas-bound bus from Manila.
Travel time : Approximately 2 1/2 hours from Manila.

Tapusan Festival
Tapusan honors the Holy Cross. It is a whole day activity which starts at about
7:00 a.m. on the first day of May. Floral offerings are laid down during the afternoon ceremonies before an old cross in the town church. The observance peaks on the 31st of May with a colorful procession. The cross is mounted on a gaily decorated float together with other floats with flowers carrying other Marian images. All the floats are radiantly and are drawn along the principal streets of the town by the participants.

Locations : Alitagtag Town

BATANGAS SERVICES

Communication Services - The Philippine long distance Telephone Company connects Batangas to the rest of the country. New digital exchanges and more remote subscriber units are consistently in the rise. Public calling offices can be found in most areas. There are several telegraph operators in the province. All major national and local newspaper are widely-available. Local and foreign television broadcasts are aired or transmitted through satelite and cable networks.

Security Services - The headquarters Batangas Provincial Police Office provide peace and security services with the support of the provincial, city and municipal administration. Police stations and checkpoints network by radio are spread in strategic locations in all municipalities and cities of Batangas. Emergency police station number (043) 725-3008.

Capital : Trece Martires
Area : 142,706 hec.
Population : 1,610,324
Cities : 3
No. of Municifalities : 20

Cavite Province is rich in culture and history. Imus, Cavite is the site where the first successful Philippine revolution was waged. It is also the place where the flag of the Philippine Republic was first hoisted to proclaimed the country's independence.

The province is the birth place of Filipino heroes, among them Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, the first president of the republic. It is similarly where many of the country's foremost decisions which caused a turning point in its political cycle were made.

Cavite is one of the gateways to the booming business capital of the Metro Manila from the south, making it one of the , most accessible of the southern provinces. It is not only largely affordable to the foreigners but alaso to millions of Filipino residents of Manila. The Manila-Cavite coastal road greatly facilitates traffic flow to the different historical-scenic travel lures of Cavite. North of Cavite, large-scale industrial estate development and urbanization is rapidly taking place.

Vast tracts of land have been identified for the massive development likewise of leisure estates, including world class golf courses.

By air, Cavite is a checkerboard of residential and commercial complexes catering not only to local Cavitenos but also to the working class of Metro Manila. Local and foreign investors find it conductive to invest in the province as industrilization is being prodded by the increasing number of companies locating in the Cavite Export Processing Zone. Closely coordinated development of existing facilities greatly boost tourism in this part Luzon.

FESTIVALS

Maytinis Festival
Date : December 24
Location : Kawit

This is a re-enactment cum parody-in-song of St. Joseph's and the Blessed Virgin's search for a place to stay on that fateful night of Christ's birth in Bethlehem. A young man and woman knock at every house but are always refused entry. However, at every house they visit, the house owner afterwards shakes the hand of the choir leader who accompanies 'St. Joseph' and the 'Blessed Mother' them sends them off with provisions.

Water Festival (St. Johns the Baptist Festival)
Date : June 24

This annual festival features the dousing of water on citizen along the streets to commemorate the life and martyrdom of St. John the Baptist.

SPECIAL INTEREST

Sightseeing
Cavite is the perfect destination for travellers wishing a glimpse of the Island's historical, natural and man-made attractions nearest to the mega-city of Manila.

Tour can be completed within a day's time, without missing any of the places innate allure. Drive around the Tagaytay-Taal Ridge to view the spellbinding concert of volcano, lake and sky through an oftentimes foggy mist. For the religiously-inclined, take a round of old monasteries and churches. Take a hop around historical sites, monuments and culminate in the Island of Corregidor.

Museum

Aguinaldo Shrine
Kawit, Cavite
Telephone No.: (096) 434-8573; 435-2611

HISTORY - During the Spanish era, the island was a fishing village replete with a lighthouse and signal station through which all ships entering and leaving Manila Bay had to stop, thus earning it the name "Corregidor" which means "corrector."

When the Americans came, a hospital was built for wounded soldiers. In 1906, because of the strategic importance of Manila and the Bay, the Americans built a full-scale fortification on the island, equipping it with long-ranged and tractor-drawn guns, minefields and anti-aircraft guns.

During the last Pacific War, Corrigidor became a theater of war between the Japanese
Imperial Forces and the combined defenders of Filipino and American troops, thus, its valiant last stand against the superior invasive forces came to be written in history. The occupying forces, however, were to be vanquished upon the return of the Americans in 1944.

On October 12, 1947, Corregidor was turned over by the US Government to be Philippine whose flag was hoisted in place of the American flag, witnessed by President Manuel Roxas. The Filipinos regained final ownership of the island fortress.

Location : Off Bataan Peninsula

How to get there : Trips to Corregidor may be arranged with local travel offices in Manila although daily tours via passengers yachts could be availed At the Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex at Roxas Boulevard for a very affordable package rate.

Travel time : About 1 hour cruise from the Manila Bay area.

The municipality of El Nido is located in the northern most tip of mainland Palawan, approximately 430 kilometers from Manila, 517 kilometers from Cebu, and 238 kilometers from Puerto Princesa, Palawan's capital. It is about one hour and fifteen minutes to two hours away from Manila by plane. El Nido is bound in the north by the Linapacan Strait, in the south by the Municipality of Taytay, in the east by the Sulu Sea and the west by the South China Sea. El Nido covers a total of 48,820 hectares and is composed of 18 barangays (barrios).

El Nido traces its roots to a small village called "Talindak" by its first inhabitants, the Tagbanua tribe. The village was renamed "Bacuit" when the Spanish conquistadors arrived in 1890. Finally, in 1954, Bacuit became EI Nido after the edible nests of the swiftest that abound in the area. These nests are the main ingredient in the delicacy, "Nido" soup. Almost 20,000 people call El Nido their home. Fifty percent of the total populations are native Palawenos while the rest are Visayans, Bicolanos, Tagalogs and Ilocanos who have migrated to El Nido in search of better opportunities.

Palawan is known for the discovery of the Tabon Caves, where archaeological findings reveal the ancient remnants of Philippine many centuries ago. Similarly, El Nido boasts of its majestic limestone cliffs that are estimated to be 250 million years old, based on studies conducted by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology.

Visitors have marveled at the unspoiled beauty of El Nido . . . lush green forests that are home to endemic flora and fauna; and crystal clear waters teeming with a plethora of multi-coloured fishes and corals. To conserve this rare natural resource, the Bacuit Bay area of El Nido has been established by the Department of Natural Resources as a Marine Reserve and to many who have experienced it, El Nido is an indication of
"paradise on earth".

Getting There - Access to El Nido is normally via a Dornier 228 aircraft which you board at the A. Soriano Aviation Terminal. This 19-seater aircraft flies twice daily to El Nido from
Manila, from October to May and once a day from June to September. Travelling time is one hour and fifteen minutes at a cruising speed of 180 knots. Should there be more than 19 accepted reservations for the flight, additional types of light aircraft will be made available. In most cases the flight is smooth although slight turbulence is felt during heavy rains, in which case travelling time may take longer.

The approach to El Nido Airport may occasionally be bumpy due to the mountainous terrain. In case you experience this turbulence, please do not be concerned as our pilots are all experienced and well-trained to handle such situations.

Flight Schedule
January to December
Depart Manila 7:30 a.m./Arrive El Nido 8:45 a.m.
Depart El Nido 9:30 a.m./Arrive Manila 10:45 a.m.

October to May (additional afternoon flight)
Depart Manila 3:30 p.m./Arrive El Nido 4:45 p.m
Depart El Nido 5:00 p.m./Arrive Manila 6:15 p.m.

In the peak season, we may schedule a mid-day flight. Should it be necessary to do so, our reservations staff will advice you of this information at time of booking.

Check-in at the A. Soriano Aviation Terminal is at least one hour before departure time. Should you be sensitive to the cold, we recommend that you bring a light jacket as the air temperature may drop once the plane is airborne.

Coffee/tea/ light refreshments are served at the terminal.

FOR YOUR SAFETY, PLEASE BE REMINDED OF THE FOLLOWING:

1. Keep distance from the plane's propellers to avoid accidents.
2. Do adhere to the instructions of the plane crew when boarding and while airborne.
3. To prevent any obstruction in the aisles, place your hand luggage under your seat or the seat in front of you.
4. Weapons, spear guns and dangerous or flammable materials will not be allowed on the plane.
5. As a courtesy to other passengers, kindly refrain from smoking inside the plane.
6. Please remain seated throughout the flight with your seat belt firmly fastened.

Airport - Resort staff will meet you and escort you to the terminal lounge at our El Nido Airport in El Nido. To facilitate proper identification and prompt release of your luggage, please give your baggage claim stubs to the attending airport staff. Your Resort guide will then take care of your luggage as they are transferred to the Resort boat while you refresh yourself or take a brief respite at the lounge.

At the terminal lounge, coffee, tea or juice and homemade delicacies provide a refreshing merienda or snack while waiting for your luggage to be loaded on the transfer boat.

Our boat transfers will normally take approximately 35 minutes to Miniloc Island, and to Pangulasian Island, 45 minutes. Occasionally weather conditions suggest a different route: a jeepney will take you on a 20-minute ride from the airport to the El Nido town pier or to Barangay Corong-Corong where a boat waits to transfer you to the Resort.

As you travel to the Resort, the wonders of El Nido will unfold before you - your first taste of paradise. Enjoy the architecture of the limestone cliffs, white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and perhaps even a school of fish jumping out of the seas as if heralding your arrival.

La Union was created by virtue of a "Superior Decreto" issued on March 2, 1850 by Governor General Narciso Zaldua Claveria out of nine towns of Pangasinan, three of Ilocos Sur and settlements of the Eastern Pais del Igorotes in the Cordilleras. Its creation as a province was formally approved by a Royal Decree issued by Queen Isabela of Spain on April 18, 1854.

From its incepcion as a province up to the Second World War, La Union
experienced transformations in the socio-cultural and politico-economic aspects. After the War, rehabilitation and reconstruction were done eventually propelling the province as the center of commerce and trade and the administrative center of Region I.

Climate - The climate condition prevailing in La Union is dry from November to April and wet from May to October. The southwest monsoon brings about the abundant rainfall experienced during the wet season. The relatively dry season is caused by the northeast monsoon passing over the Cordillera Mountains. The average temperature is 27.21 decree celcius.

Population - Population of the province in 1990 was 584,742 with a density of 368 persons for every square kilometer. The population is concentrated in the coastal municipalities. The capital town of San Fernando registered the most with 84,949. The preliminary population count in 1995 recorded a 2.02% increase in the population of La Union while San Fernando increased by 7.71%.

Language/Dialect - Ilocano is the common dialect. The residents of the coastal barangay of Sto. Tomas and Rosario also speak Pangasinense while the cultural communities in the towns bordering the Cordillera speak Ibaloi or Kankanacy. English and Filipino remain as basic tools of instruction in schools.

Major Industries - Agriculture remain to be the primary industry. Cottage industries are blanket weaving, basketry, bamboocraft, pottery, and broommaking. Commercial activity consists mostly of wholesale and retail business.

FEAST AND FESTIVAL

Agoo Semana Santa. In the oldest town of La Union, the life-sized statues depicting the Stations of the Cross are pulled by devotees along the proccessional roads during the Good Friday procession. During the Holy week the town people of Agoo come up with religious activities to make the occasion more meaningful and sacred.

Rambak. A yearly Holy week celebration spearheaded by the Provincial Government f featuring water sports, band concerts, fluvial parade and reenactment of the resurrection rite at the Bauang Beach after the Easter Sunday mass.

Feast of Our Lady of Caysasay. The Filipino-Chinese community in San Fernando celebrates the Feast of Our Lady by bringing the original statue from Taal, Batangas to the temple for the weeklong activities held on the second week of September which is the 5th day of August in the Lunar calendar.

San Fernando Town Fiesta. The capital town of San Fernando is the center of festivities on February 6 to 12 to honor St. William, the Hermit.

SPECIAL INTEREST

Surfing - The surf fronting Monaliza in Urbiztondo, San Juan is the best site for board surfing from November to February. Surf boards can be hired at the Surf Camp nearby. Other recommended sites are in Carlatan and Wallace in San Fernando.

Trekking - The upland municipality of Bagulin offers trails and sites for treckking. Its terrain is predominantly hilly and mountainous with second growth forests and traversed by the winding Bagulin-Naguilin River. One passes through geological formations, scenic spots and some areas which are being threatened environment degradation. Trekking time starts in October. Other sites recommended for trekking activities are the Bebeco, Condura and Dacanay Reforestation in Sto. Tomas, Rosario and Pugo respectively.

Scuba Diving - Fagg Reef. Large reef at 40 feet with sharp drop-offs to the north and west sides characterized the Fagg Reef located at 330 degrees approximately 2 miles from the tip of Poro Point. The best area is to north, drop in and with the current to the north where the coral heads are big enough for 10 divers to crawl under. Sharks, barracuda, sea snakes, Moray eels and other friendly sea creatures adorn the area where visibility is excellent most of the time.

Reseach Reef - Adjacent to the Bauang Beach, the Research Reef has tunnels, caverns and crevices. Beginners must beware of narrow caverns that extend quite far.

Golf - Wallace Golf Course. This-18-hole course located within the former Wallace Air Station is open to the public upon payment of fee. Golf equipment and accessories are also for sale.

PNP Frienship Ridge Golf and Country Club - Located at the PNP Regional Command in Parian, San Fernando, this-9-hole golf course is open to players for a fee of P250.00.

More Islands |Laoag Hotels and Resorts

Ilocos Norte was created by virtue of the Spanish Royal Decree on February 2,1818. At that time, the province occupied the coastal plain bordering the China Sea and guarded by the Cordilleras in the northwestern corner of Luzon.

Political Subdivisions - Ilocos Norte has 22 municipalities namely: Adams, Badoc, Bacarra, Bangui, Batac, Burgos, Carasi, Currimao, Dingras, Dumalmeg, Espiritu, Marcos, Nueva Era, Pagudpud, Paoay, Pasuquin,Piddig, Pinili, San Nicolas, Sarrat, Solsona and Vintar.

Laoag converted into a city on June 19, 1965 under R.A. 4584, remains as capital.

The municipalities and Laoag City are further subdivided into 550 barangays and 2 districts.

Climate - The province experience's dry season from November to April and wet season from May to October. Annual rainfall is 2,067.2 mm while average temperature is 26.8 degree celcius. The province is occasionally visited tropical cyclones and storms during the southwest monsoon season.

Population - Population of the province in 1990 was 461,661. Average annual growth rate is 1.68% while the density is 135.81 per square kilometer. The preliminary population count in 1995 recorded a 4.53% increase. Laoag City had a population of 88,300.

Language/Dialect - Ilocano(Iloko) is the major dialict. English and Filipino are the tools of instruction in schools.

Major Industries - Agriculture is the main livelihood of the people. Garlic is the principal cash crop. Fishing and manufacturing are other industries. Cottage industries include pottery, blacksmithing and furniture making.

FESTIVAL - Laoag City celebrates the Feast of St. William and St. Joseph on February 10 and March 19 respectively.

SPECIAL INTEREST

Pasuquin Cave. Travel time to the caves is 45 minutes from the townproper through a dirt road. A special permit has to be secured from the Mayor's Office.

Taal Volcano is reputed to be the world's smallest and yet most active. It stands on its own island amid a landscape of ash and cinder.

Tagaytay, considered as the country's second summer capital because of its crisp and cool climate all year around, is a treasure box of pleasure points in by itself. At nightfall, one sees the lake sparkle with the pinpoint lights of fishing boats. It is a perfect picnic spot. Here, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Philippine Tourism Authority built Picnic Groove, a public park in the city which generates public patronage through user fees and the sale of low priced goods, thus contributing to the industrial growth of Tagaytay.

Tagaytay, however, is more than a picnic haunt. The place has given rise to many congregational houses and retreat centers. It is also conductive to spiritual meditation, that is earned yet another title for being the "Center of Spiritual Retreat."

Thus, the masterpiece of nature that is Tagaytay is a not to be missed item in a tourist itinerary. It should always include a visit to the Volcano Island, and its enumerable side spots.

Tagaytay City, located 2,500 feet above sea level enjoys a cool and invigorating climate characterized by a relatively low temperature, low humidity, and abundant rainfall. Average temperature is 22.7 degrees Celsius. For this reason, Tagaytay with its cool weather, balmy winds and foggy mists is called the "second summer capital" of the country after Baguio City.

TOURIST ATTRACTION

Tagaytay City is the Philippines' second summer capital, next to Baguio. The accessing highway offers a breathtaking sight of the world famous Taal formation, a crater within an island within a lake. Coconut groves dot the ridges of Tagaytay and classy accomoda tions give the visiting tourist the pleasures of relaxation and at the same time, wide opportunities to enjoy the magnificient view of Taal.

Location : Tagaytay City
How to get there : The area could be reached from Metro Manila via the Coastal Road or the South Superhighway. BLTB buses from Pasay, Metro Manila having a destination signboard of Nasugbu or Balayan ply the route passing Tagaytay City. If going through the South Superhighway, take the Carmona exit and drive down through Silang up to the entrance of Tagaytay City.
Travel time : 1 1/2 to 2 hours' drive from Manila.

Palace In The Sky - Originally designed to be the presidential guest house of former president Ferdinand Marcos, this complex was not completed. It is, however, now open to the public as a vantage area for viewing a 360 degree profile of Taal Volcano. It is within the Tagaytay environs.

Location : Tagaytay City
How to get there : The place is a short drive from the Aguinaldo Highway in Tagaytay City.
Travel time : 15 minutes' drive from Aguinaldo Highway.

The Flower Farm - On a windy slope of a hill in Tagaytay City sprawls a flower farm that keeps Manila abloom whole year round. The five-hectare flower farm has many varieties of flowers such as chrysanthemums with assorted colors, gerberas, carnations, roses, and anthuriums.

Location : Barangay Guinhawa, Tagaytay City
How to get there : From Tagaytay City, the farm is a brief 10-minute drive from the Aguinaldo Highway.

St. Anne's Shrine - The shrine is a small garden where a grotto of the Virgin Mary stands. The shrubbery and flowers are well-trimmed and well-cared for. There is even a small grass clearing in front of the grotto which is conducive to quite reflection.

Location : Barangay Sungay, Tagaytay City
How to get there : From Manila, take BLTB buses that pass by Barangay Silang Crossing to the Tagaytay Marker. Here, one can alight to take a utility jeep leading to the Barangay Sungay where the gate of the Shrine can be spotted along the road.
Travel time : About 2 hours' drive from Manila.

SPECIAL INTEREST

Sightseeing - Cavite is the perfect destination for travellers wishing a glimpse of the Island's
historical, natural and man-made attractions nearest to the mega-city of Manila.
Tour can be completed within a day's time, without missing any of the places innate allure. Drive around the Tagaytay-Taal Ridge to view the spellbinding concert of volcano, lake and sky through an oftentimes foggy mist. For the religiously-inclined, take a round of old monasteries and churches. Take a hop around historical sites, monuments and culminate in the Island of Corregidor.

Food Tripping - Relish local fruits in season at the picnic grove of Sungay and the mushroom restaurants of Tagaytay, or partake of native cuisine at the Taal Vista Hotel and other resorts around the province.

Outdoor Sports - Engage in outdoor sports like golf and horse backriding at Tagaytay City and pany rides for the kids. For quieter afternoons and evenings, watch cultural shows at the Taal Vista Hotel and other local folk theters during town fiestas and civic observances.

Volcano Treckking - It can be adventure-filled for neo-visitors to Cavite. Take a boatride around volcano island, or visit the small farming communities within the destination. Or dare a mountain climb to the rim of the active volcano during its sleeping lull.

Souvenir - Shop for souvenirs, in particular shellcraft all over the seaside municipalities, or for fine bridal wear at the town of Taal which specializes in the weaving of hand- crafted barong (native organza). Try basket wares as extra shopping items.

Laguna is a quaint, rustic province south of Metro Manila. It is a place packed with history and culture.

To get there, you can take the bus that leaves from Manila for Los Banos or Calamba. From here, you can take a jeepney to go to the other towns.

Tourist attraction

Mt. Makiling in Los Banos is Laguna's main come-on especially for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Its mystique originates from the many folk tales and legends woven centuries before by the local residents. Aside from its majesticity and awesome view, it boasts of abundant natural hot springs on its slopes that provide therapeutic benefits and are the sources of the province's bottled water industry. You can also climb this 1144-meter volcanic mass via different trails. If you are in San Pablo--the City of the Seven Lakes-you can also climb the 2188-meter high Mt. Banahaw. This dormant volcano, with its springs and waterfalls, is believed to have mystical powers. Three days are needed for the climb.

About 10 kilometers south of San Pablo is Villa Escudero-a coconut plantation- cum-resort with a museum that has many valuable historical and cultural artifacts. Rooms and facilities are available here. Admission fee includes a guided tour, a lunch buffet, a trip on a raft, and use of the facilities.

If you want to experience adventure, head for the Pagsanjan Falls in Pagsanjan. The Pagsanjan River, which flows through a lovely canyon from Magdapio Falls, will give you the thrill of adventure as you take a boat ride down to shoot the rapids. Trips can be arranged with the Pagsanjan Youth Hostel, Pagsanjan Falls Lodge, and Willy Flores Lodge. Organized tours from Manila can be arranged at the various travel agencies and tourist offices.

Several resorts in Los Banos and Calamba have harnessed hot water from volcanic Mt. Makiling and channeled it into baths and spas where people go for medicinal cures. In Los Banos, you will find the University of the Philippines, which has a forestry institute with botanical gardens and a swimming pool. You will also find here the International Rice Research Institute and the Philippine Art Center, from where you can get a good view over Laguna de Bay.

The Rizal Shrine in Calamba is yet another must-see. This place will give you a feeling of nostalgia and a kind of historic sentiment as you go through the priceless Rizal memorabilia and take a look at the replica of the house where Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippine national hero, once lived. The Nagcarlan Church and its centuries-old underground cemetery and the church in Liliw that gives you good views of Laguna de Bay from its bell tower, are also some of the sights that will provide you with the scattered pieces of Laguna's history. In Binan, you will also find many old Spanish houses with heavy tiled roofs.

The wood carvers and papier mache makers in Paete are also significant attractions of Laguna. They keep alive the skill and artistry of its people and preserve its traditions. Beyond Paete is the manmade Caliraya Lake. There are a few resorts in Caliraya's fringes where you can swim, windsurf, fish, and hike.

In the sleepy town of Pakil, you will see the pretty San Pedro de Alcantara Church, which houses the statue of the Virgin of Turumba. You will find interesting wood carvings here. Across the church is the house and gallery of well-known political cartoonist and artist Danilo Dalena.

Every Friday preceding Palm Sunday, the townspeople celebrate the Feast of the Virgin of Turumba, where they do the turumba, a strange, rhythmic dance.

The country's premier business distric, Makati, throbs with different life. Busy sidewalks and avenues lead to hushed office sanctums, sparkling malls, elegant shops, swank galleries and boutiques, and some of the most valuable residential real estates in the country. Evenings, this classy entertainment city pulsates with the thousand and one light of discos, pubs, bistros, restaurants, music lounges, jazz bars, karaoke bars and 24-hour diner.

Where to stay is never a problem in Metro Manila. The visitor can choose from any of the wide range of accomodations to suit every taste and budget - from the most prestigiuos hotel chains to deluxe motels to cozy pensions and family-run inns.

A wealth of diversions and attractions await the visitor. Museum tours offer glimpses of the rich historical and cultural heritage of the islands. At Ayala Museum in Makati, colorful dioramas depict scenes from Philippine history.

The Cultural Center of the Philippines Museum showcases archaeologial and ehtnological finds, as well as contemporary artworks. The Metropolitan Museum of Manila mounts exhibits of classical and modern masters. There are also private galleries and specialized museums, like Casa Manila, the model turn-of-the-century Spanish house at Intramuros, the Rizal Shrine in Fort Santiago, the Ecclesiastical Art Collection of the San Agustin Church, and the Museo de Malacañang at the Presidential Palace.

Ballet companies, symphony orchestras, theater guilds and pop artists regularly take to the stage. Hotels and restaurants beckon nightly with band music, folk and jazz singers, and ethnic dance troupes. Open-air concerts and performances entertain weekends crowds at Paco Park, Puerta Real Gardens and Luneta Park.

Metro Manila has 13 greens, which offer some of the best golfing in Southeast Asia. Affordable rentals and green fees, coupled with the balmy weather and friendly, English-speaking caddies, make for a perfect golfing holiday.

Because of its peculiar geographic location - the Zambales mountains on its three sides, Bataan and Subic Bay at its base - development of city land is limited. Also, the territorial borders from nearby towns are not properly marked.

HISTORY - The story of Olongapo is derived from a colorful legend about a well loved chieftain called Apo, whose headless body is one day found at the beach of the fishing village. A long and andent search ends when his missing head is found impaled atop a bamboo pole. The announcement of the discovery becomes a rallying cry for unity for the demoralized tribe. So "Ulo ng Apo" or head of the Chieftain became the name of the fishing village on the shores of lovely Subic Bay.

Well endowed with natural beauty, legend and lore paint Olongapo as a romantic spot in Western Luzon. A fishing village inhabited by peace-loving, Tagalog speaking people, Olongapo became host to a Spanish navy arsenal and shipyard in the late 19th century. The Spaniards were attracted to the place by the deep waters of the natural harbor and the protection from fierce storms offered by the surrounding mountains, the same factors that attracted the Americans several years later.

As can be expected in any military setting, the imperatives of war shaped the form of the community. The naval station became a naval base which was later complemented by a naval air station. In between, the Japanese used what facilities they found to produce patrol boats of the sampan type. The second world war saw increased military activity at the Subic Naval Base which resulted in a marked demand for civilian support services.

Corollary to the growth of the US Military establishment in Subic Bay, the host community of Olongapo grew from a simple provincial village into a bustling town. On December 7, 1959 it gained municipality status after the US Government reliquished its naval reservation to the Philippine Government. In 1966, Municipal Mayor James L. Gordon agitated for city status and got it on June 1 of the year.The chartered city become the first highly urbanized city in Central Luzon on December 7, 1983 and gained independence from the mother province Zambales.

Climate - Cool and dry from November to February. Warm and dry from March to May. Wet from June to October. Temperature ranges from 25.6 degrees celsius during the coldest month. If January to 28.3 degrees celsius during the warmest month of May.

TRANSPORTATION

By Sea - Olongapo City is accessible through the international seaport of the Subic Bay Freeport. At present, it is being utilized as a general cargo port by the Investors of the Subic Bay Freeport but is envisioned to be developed into a fully-operational international port.

By Land - Olongapo City is a two hour drive from Manila via the North Expressway, passing through Bulacan, Pampanga and Bataan. Turning right at the San Fernando exit, you can head straight to Olongapo via the Olongapo Gapan Road, which will lead you to Dinalupihan, Bataan and eventually, Olongapo City. From Zambales to Pangasinan, Olongapo City can be reached through the National Road, going Southward.

There are buses that ply the Olongapo - Manila route - Victory Liner with terminals at Pasay City, Monumento and Cubao. And Saulog Transit located at Dr. Lopez Jaena St., Cavite City.

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

Nature has blessed Olongapo City with beautiful scenario. Subic Bay's calm waters can be viewed by everyone in just one easy ride from Olongapo proper going to the North. In viewing Subic Bay, one also sees its natural harbor protected by mountains on three sides and its recreational area for tourists and visitors. One may explore other interesting places in Olongapo City such as:

Gordon Memorial Park - This is where the late Mayor James L. Gordon, dubbed as the "Father of Olongapo City" was interred. From its landscape location at the edge of the Kalaklan bridge (near the public cemetery), the beautiful and breathtaking Subic Bay can be viewed.

Subic Bay Lighthouse - A panoramic view perfect for picture taking, this old lighthouse is found along the National Highway going to the North. It overlooks the Subic Bay Area.

Grotto of Our Lady of Pardon - Located near the side of Kalaklan Bridge in Barangay Mabayuan, Catholic devoteed, pray and pay homage to the Lord of Pardon at this Sacred Place.

Marikit Place - Designed for the enjoyment of children and the young at heart, this park located at the center of the city features a scenic playground and a scattering of benches for relaxation.

Friendship Park - Adjacent to the main gate of the Subic Bay Freeport, this long, narrow park stretches along the Perimeter Road. A mini-children's park lies at the Northern side. The Olongapo Bremerton Sisterhood Marker, symbolizing the sister city relationship between Olongapo City and Bremerton City can also be found here.

World Peace Memorial - The dove that greets visitors at the entry point to Olongapo City stands as a sign of peace, in memory of those who died during the battle of Zigzag Pass, one of the longest and most hazardous battles during World War II.

Magsaysay Drive and Rizal Avenue - Chains of bars, nightclub, restaurants, hotel and sauna baths can be found here. Definitely the business center of Olongapo City.

FESTIVALS

First Quarter (January to March)

New Year's Celebration
Chinese New Year (Chinese Community)
Valentines Day Celebration
Holy Week
Graduation Day (Schools)

Second Quarter (April to June)

Holy Week Activities (Sinakulo, Pabasa)
Santa Cruzan
Barangay Fiesta
Independence Day

Third Quarter (July to September)

Fil-Am Friendship Day
Intramurals (School)

Fourth Quarter (October to December)

October Fest (Mardi Grass)
All Souls Day
Christmas Celebration
Olongapo City Town Fiesta

PUBLIC UTITIY JEEPNEY SERVICES

Sta. Rita/Pepsi to Main Gate - Yellow Jeepney
Gordon Heights to Main Gate - Red Jeepney
Gordon Heights to Pag-asa - Orange Jeepney
Gordon Heights to Balic-Balic - Beige Jeepney
Cabalan/New Cabalan to Public Market - Brown Jeepney
Mabayuan to Public Market - Green Jeepney
Subic to Olongapo City - Blue Jeepney

Palawan is approximately 586 kilometers southwest of Manila, between Mindoro Island on the North, Borneo on the South, China Sea on the west, and Sulo Sea on the east.

Its total and area of 1,489,655 hectares is spread across the peripheral islands of Busuanga, Culion,Linapacan, Cuyo, Dumaran, Cagayanes, and Balabac. Its main island measures 425 kilometers long and averages 40 kilometers wide.

Puerto Princesa, the capital City, is the chief seaport and the center of trade and commerce.

Climate - The province has two types of climate: the first type which occurs in the northern and southern extremities and the entire western coast, has two distinct seasons - six months dry and six months wet. The other type, which prevails in the eastern coast, has a short dry season of one to three months and no pronounced rainy period during the rest of the year. THe southern part of the province is virtually free from tropical depressions, but northern Palawan experiences torrential rains during the months of July and August. Summer months serve as Peak season for Palawan viewing. Sea voyage is most favorable from March to early June when the seas are calm.

Language/Dialects - There are 52 dialects in the province, with Tagalog being spoken by 28 percent of the people. Other major dialects are Cuyunin (26.27), Pinalawan (11.08 percent) and Ilonggo (9.6 percent).

How to get there? - Palawan can be reached within an hour and five minutes' flight from Manila to the capital city of Puerto Princesa or a 20-hour trip by sea. A choice of regular Philippine Airlines (PAL) or direct chartered flight can be made depending on the desired destination.

PAL flights will take one directly to the heart of the province where connectoing trips to nearby premier sites can be made. Charter flights via Soriano Air or Pacific will take one to the Island of desire, be this Cuyo,Curon, Busuanga, or El Nido. WG & A Shipping Company plies the Manila-Palawan routes regularly.

FESTIVAL

Pagdiwata Ritual Festival - A Tagbanua tribal ritual asking the gods to heal the sick and as a thankgiving ceremony.

Tarek Festival - For the Tagbanua, a dance ritual comprising the observance of the Pagdiwata. For the Batak tribe, it is a form of war dance.

Lambay Festival - A Batak ritual that signals the start of the hunting and gathering season.

Cuyo Fiesta - Soot-covered revelers perform the At- street dance to frenzied drumbeats in this celebration.

SPECIAL INTEREST

Archaeologic Exploration - It can be fun and endlessly appealing to both new and perennial visitors to Palawan. Visit the Tabon Caves and be enthralled by the chambers which yield knowledge about life 50,000 years ago.

Canoeing / Boat Riding - In the Subterranean St Paul River and be mesmerized by the crystal stalagmites and stalactites which illumine the river ripples with their sheen.

Wildlife Center - Visit wildlife conservation centers like the Wildlife Sanctuary on the Calauit Island and the Crocodile Farm at Irawan.

Puerto Galera has one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world.

Puerto Galera was the place of refuge for the Spanish Galleons in times of storm or for a recreational stop-over for the crews after months at sea when this was a gateway for the galleons on the way to and from Spain, Mexico, China, India, Sumatra and Java.

Mindoro, the island on which Puerto Galera is located at the North East Coast, was named from a contraction of "mina del oro" or "mines
of gold" after the Spanish founded the local community with the consecration of the Church in 1572.

Puerto Galera has a very rugged topography. The land is generally mountainous and is crisscrossed by numerous streams and rivers. Back by the Cabarian Ridge and the 680-meter high pyramidical Mt. Malasimbo, its 35.25 km.-long hilly landmass extends towards the sea and spreads out to a maximum of 13.4 across.

Three mountain ranges covering a total of 11.755 sqm. rise above Puerto Galera's coastal barangays: Mt. Alinbayan in Barangay Balatero, Mt. Talipanan in Barangays Aninuan and San Isidro, and Mt. Malasimbo in Barangay Aninuan. These mountains reach peak elevations of 1,400 meters above sea level and are home to rare animals such as deers, wild boars, monkeys and even the endangered tamaraw (a local buffalo endemic to Mindoro; bubalus mindorensis).

Likewise, its numerous mountain springs provide natural habitats to orchid varities such as the tawa-tawa, tiger orchid, and mariposa.

Popularly known as the tourist haven by the sea, Puerto Galera's coast is 42 km. long, consisting of irregular shorelines rimmed with dazzling white beaches, coconut plantations, and delightful scenery. At the eastern side of the coast, crescents of white beaches are interspersed with limestone cliffs and escarpments that are penetrated by inland bays and coves. These numerous coves and water channels support a rich marine life, forming "non-reef coral communities". Whereas, its tube-like harbor with two natural entrances provide home to dozens of ships seeking safe anchorage.

The Bay of Puerto Galera has a total area of 4.2 sqm. It is framed by the short projections and numerous points of Mindoro Island on the east west, and by the two small islands of Medio and Paniquian on the north and nortwest. The two latter islands project Puerto Galera's famous Muelle Bay from the open sea, thus making it one of the world's safest harbors.

About 23.45% of the entire town is used for agriculture, 0.04% are agro-industrial lands, and the rest are wet alnds and built up areas.

CLIMATE -Puerto Galera has a tropical climate with the relatively high humidity (the average annual humidity is 84.6%). There's no definite dry season and rainfall is pronounced the whole year round.

ADVENTURE - Easily accesible from Puerto Galera are many places of interest including Tamaraw Waterfalls, Mangyan (indigenous native) villages, gold panning, day trips to neighboring islands, trekking in the jungle and exploring the many hidden valleys and streams or climbing Mt.
Malisimbo are a part of your adventure.

There is a golf course with a spectacular views, 600 meters above sea level five kilometers west of Puerto Galera.

Water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling, sea kayaking, wind surfing, sailing or simply swimming in beautiful crystal clear waters off white sand beaches are the favorite activities on the Island.

With the organization of Tondo and La Laguna during the Spanish regime, Rizal Province was composed of towns. Some of the towns like pasig, Parañaque, Taytay and Cainta were already thriving because long before the Spanish conquest, the Tagalog settlements had already carried on trade with the Chinese.

From 1582 to 1583, the Encomienda (Morong was under the jurisdiction of La Laguna and Passi (Pasig), Taitai (Taytay), Tagui (Taguig) belonged to Tondo. In 1591, the Encomeindas of Moron and Taitai were under the jurisdiction of Franciscan Order in La Laguna.

The Augustinians in Tondo had jurisdiction of Nabotas (Navotas), Tambobo (Malabon), Tondo, Parañaque, Longalo (Dongalo), Taguig and Pasig.

A new political subdivision was formed in 1853 consisting of the towns of Antipolo, Boso-Boso, Cainta, and Taytay from Tondo and the towns of Morong, Baras, Tanay, Palilla, Angono, Binangonan and Jalajala from La Laguna. Then in 1860, Tondo became the province of Manila, placing its towns under the fiscal supervision land control of the Governor of the new province. It was during the revolutionary government of General Emilio Aguinaldo when Mariquina (Marikina) became the capital of Manila. In 1898-1899, Antipolo became the capital of Morong, then in 1899-1900, Tanay became its capital.

On 5 June 1901, the first Philippine Commission, headed by president William Taft and Commissioner Wright Ide and Dr. Trinidad Pardo de Tavera proposed the unification of Manila and Morong which resulted in the creation of a new province named after Dr. Jose P. Rizal, the Philippines' National Hero.

Rizal Province was officially and legally created by virtue of Act No. 310 by the Philippine Commission. It was composed of 26 municipalities, 13 from the old province of Manila comprising Las Piñas, Malabon, Makati, Parañaque, Mandaluyong, San Juan, Navotas, Muntinlupa, Taguig, Pateros, Marikina, San Mateo and Rodriguez (formerly Montalban). The 12 other municipalities were from the district of Morong which include Angono, Baras, Binangonan, Cainta, Antipolo Cardona, Jalajala, Morong, Pilila, Tanay, Taytay and Teresa. But in 8 November 1975, the formed Metro Manila area was created by virtue of Presidential Decree No. 824 which resulted in the incorporation of the 12 towns of Las Piñas, Parañaque, Muntinlupa, Taguig, Pateros, Makati, Mandaluyong, San Juan, Malabon, Navotas, Pasig and Marikina. The remaining 14 towns were left to Rizal.

When the Metro Manila Commission incorporated Pasig, the former capital, Rizal became the only province in the Philippines to have no capital town. But there is a proposal to make Antipolo as the new capital of the province.

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

Rizal boats of several tourist attractions like Daranak and Batlag Falls, Villa Virginia Resort and Conference Center, Hinulugang Taktak National Park, Boso-Boso Ruin Church, Baras Church, Antipolo Cathedral, And Kalbaryo, Manansala Landmark and other galleries.

It is also rich in cultural heritage. Various cultural plays, enactments and dances are held throughout the year to commemorate certain occasions. The town fiestas are celebrated during the birth of patron saints of the different municipalities.

Perhaps the most outstanding point of its heritage is in the field of the arts created by many distinguished artists. Some are world renowned and already proclaimed national artists. Thus, the title, "Crade of Philippine Art".

FEAST AND FESTIVAL

Palaspas / Domingo De Ramos Festival - Date: Palm Sunday
The most colorful celebrations may be witnessed in Angono. The parish priest, sacristan and disciples parade around the town together with the townspeople and a brass band. As the procession commences, people wave their palm fronds in the air and sing religious songs. The men lay down their mats and the veils of the ladies for the barefoot priest to walk on as they visit and bless four floral stations located in the four corners of the town. The stations also serve as platforms for children to stand on a as they shower abd bless the townsfolk with flower petals and confetti while they beat the ryhthmic pattern of the tunes which the brass band plays.

Cenaculo - Date: Holy Week
A re-enactment of the Passion of Christ which starts on the night of Palm Sunday (Palaspas) up to the night of Easter Sunday (Salubong). The Cenaculo, is conducted in the Plaza square on public theaters constructed for purposes, with the participation of village thespians with perpetual vows. They render their services for fee.

Penitencia - Date: Good Friday
Rituals in observance of the suffering, passion, and death of Jesus Christ are observed with steadfast intensity throughout the province, specially in Cainta, sometimes with the actual enactments of the stations of the cross and mailing. From early morning until noontime each Good Friday, members of non-sectarian "cenaculo" companies, walk throughout the main streets of Cainta, usually in the company of penitents.

Pabasa - Date: Holy Week
This is a Holy Week practice which includes religious singing of the Passion of Christ. Salagat and other native dishes/delicacies are served during the activity.

Giwang-Giwang - Date: Good Friday
It is a play executive every Good Friday by replaying the funeral of Jesus Christ through a procession.

The Subok - Date: Good Friday
A group of men, after feasting and overnight meditation, gather around the church to wait for the flowerdecked carroza of the Santo Sepulcre, a wooden statue of the dead Christ. They rush forward to insert various objects in the folds of the robes, under the feet, in the hollows of the hands. The image is then loaded with handkerchiefs, bronze medals and pieces of paper inscribed with Latin phrases. The float is encircled by the men with linden hands. After the procession, these men retrieve the objects from the image. Now it is the time for the "subok"-the testing of the talismans by using whips, revolvers, knives and machetes (bolo) throughout the afternoon and evening, or till Saturday. Each one tests the effectivity of his talisman by requesting another man to shoot , whip or stab him.

Salubong Festival - Date: Sabado de Gloria/Easter Sunday
Black Saturday is highlighted by a 3-hour presentation at the patio of the church wherein high-tech stage decorations and sound system are used. Trained production staff assist in the presentation of the "Vigilia ng Muling Pagkabuhay." Easter Sunday Celebration is held in a place called Galilea where the reunion of the Risen Christ with the Virgin Mary is re-enacted. It is facilitated by the removal from Mary's head of the mourning veil by a young girl inside an inverted giant paper flower suspended from bamboo trellis. The petals are mechanically opened by giant toy birds toy birds to reveal the girl inside. It is then followed by a religious dancing of young ladies called Kapitana and Tenyenta, to the tune of "Bati"

Santakrusan Festival - Date: May
This evening parade is usually graced by the town's crop of beauties portraying the Marian Litany of Titles and assorted biblical characters, dressed in the fairytale clothes and escorted by good-looking bachelors. Under flower-decked arches held by aides, they walk down the towns thoroughfares like kings and queens of yore.

Flores de Mayo Festival - Date: May
The Flores de Mayo or Flowers of May is an offering to the blessed Virgin Mary. On the first day of May, a procession is held where little girls are dressed immaculate white finery and carry flowers (mainly sampaguita) as an offering to the Image of the Blessed Virgin Mary. A mass is held everyday and devotees offer flowers up to the end of the month.

Paalay Festival - Date: May
The traditional celebration of the month of flowers in May is celebrated by processions of little girls, offering flowers-locally called the "Paalay". Another activity held is the "Salapang" a practice among townsfolk wherein local officials and their wives offer foods to the people who joined the procession.

Tayo na Antipolo Festival - Date: May
A month-long celebration to honor the Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage. Devotees are seen taking the much-trodden pat leading to Antipolo. The image, which is already three centuries old, is said to exhibit supernatural powers. On the evenings of April 30, thousands of pilgrims from several places in Metro Manila and the nearby towns begin an annual trek on foot.

San Isidro/Carabao Festival - Date: May 15
Farmers pay tribute to the carabao during the feast day of San Isidro Labrador, their patron saint. On this day, before all the festivities begin, the carabaos are shaved, leaving aesthetic patterns on their back. They are bathed and scrubbed till they glow, theirs toes manicured, their tail combed, plaited and beribboned, and they are crown
With colorful flowers and buntings. A mass is held followed by a procession that ends at the town square where prizes are awarded to the strongest, healthiest, longest- horned, most beautiful and best-trained carabaos. The climax of the day's activities occur when the carabaos race each other across the ricefields.

Higantes Festival - Date: November 22 and 23
This is also a thanksgiving festival in honor of San Clemente, the patron saint of the fishermen. On the actual feast day, the image of San Clemente is carried on a barge on the lake with a fluvial procession participated in by most of the residents of the town. Little children of every barangay called "parehadoras" are dressed in colorful costumes bearing boat paddles and bakya. Then the townfolk and the "higantes" (giants) accompany the image back to the church through a joyful parade with a brass band and "parehadoras."

Santo Entierro - Date: Good Friday
On Good Friday, Christ symbolically dies at three o'clock in the afternoon. His carved image is interred in a niche-like carroza or float covered with glass. Hundreds of male devotees scramble for the chance to bear the image and bear towards the church where it is laid to its final resting place.

San Clemente Festival - Date: November 23
One of the major festivals celebrated by the townfolks of Angono. San Clemente is the patron saint of fishermen, highly revered by the people of Angono, most of whom are fisherfolk. On the actual feast day, the image of San Clemente is carried on a barge in Laguna Lake, in a fluvial procession joined in by most of the residents of the town. The fishermen and their families are dressed in their fishermen's clothes bearing occupational gear- boat paddles, fish nets, traps, etc. and accompany the image back to the church. Little children called "parehadoras" are dressed in colorful costumes and put up a mardi gras-like procession in salutation to the image of San Clemente.

Tagaytay City is the Philippines' second summer capital, next to Baguio. The accessing highway offers a breathtaking sight of the world famous Taal formation, a crater within an island within a lake. Coconut groves dot the ridges of Tagaytay and classy accomoda tions give the visiting tourist the pleasures of relaxation and at the same time, wide opportunities to enjoy the magnificient view of Taal.

Location : Tagaytay City
How to get there : The area could be reached from Metro Manila via the Coastal Road or the South Superhighway. BLTB buses from Pasay, Metro Manila having a destination signboard of Nasugbu or Balayan ply the route passing Tagaytay City. If going through the South Superhighway, take the Carmona exit and drive down through Silang up to the entrance of Tagaytay City.
Travel time : 1 1/2 to 2 hours' drive from Manila.

Palace In The Sky
Originally designed to be the presidential guest house of former president Ferdinand Marcos, this complex was not completed. It is, however, now open to the public as a vantage area for viewing a 360 degree profile of Taal Volcano. It is within the Tagaytay environs.

Location : Tagaytay City
How to get there : The place is a short drive from the Aguinaldo Highway in Tagaytay City.
Travel time : 15 minutes' drive from Aguinaldo Highway.

The Flower Farm
On a windy slope of a hill in Tagaytay City sprawls a flower farm that keeps Manila abloom whole year round. The five-hectare flower farm has many varieties of flowers such as chrysanthemums with assorted colors, gerberas, carnations, roses, and anthuriums.

Location : Barangay Guinhawa, Tagaytay City
How to get there : From Tagaytay City, the farm is a brief 10-minute drive from the Aguinaldo Highway.

St. Anne's Shrine
The shrine is a small garden where a grotto of the Virgin Mary stands. The shrubbery and flowers are well-trimmed and well-cared for. There is even a small grass clearing in front of the grotto which is conducive to quite reflection.

Location : Barangay Sungay, Tagaytay City
How to get there : From Manila, take BLTB buses that pass by Barangay Silang Crossing to the Tagaytay Marker. Here, one can alight to take a utility jeep leading to the Barangay Sungay where the gate of the Shrine can be spotted along the road.
Travel time : About 2 hours' drive from Manila.

Source of Information: Department of Tourism Philippines