A PARK IS THE MIRROR OF THE PEOPLE

          

         Rizal Park as we see it today is the product of years of painstaking work by thousands of unknown citizens who gave of their time and their labors to create something of beauty where there was nothing but yawning wilderness in the very heart of our premier city. Its continued cleanliness and order is a tribute to the people who use it more than to those who tend to it. Here is a park that is used, loved and nurtured by the people who saw it shape up from nothing. Few realize how Rizal Park symbolizes the neutral meeting ground of the national government and the government of the city of Manila. The President and the Mayor of Manila have had their differences off and on but they have never allowed Rizal Park to be part of that struggle for power. In a sense, city and national officials realize that Rizal Park is a people’s park, not a political arena for combat. Here, it is that the varied segments of our fragmented society coalesce and live in harmony, even if momentarily. Few realize that Rizal Park is the mirror of our national greatness. I have had a small part in this enterprise. I am proud of it. I am prouder of the public response to the idea of a neutral ground for public recreation and relaxation. It means that there is a natural hunger for peace that we find every day in the park. If we look back to the one single achievement of the past few years, we can point out the Rizal Park as the product of common endeavor. People enjoy the park because they know they own it. They know they built it. What’s more, they love it.

http://rizalpark.nationalparks.ph/articles.htm
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/

Fort Santiago

Fort Santiago

One of the most important historical sites in Manila, Fort Santiago was built by the Spanish conquistad

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or Miguel López de Legazpi as a defensive fortress designed to protect the newly formed city of Manila. It is a key feature of the famous Walled City of Manila, which is referred to as Intramuros. José Rizal, considered a national hero in the Philippines, was imprisoned at Fort Santiago before his execution in 1896, as were countless others. It played a role in the city’s penal and defense system all the way up to World War II, and has been occupied by: the Spanish, free Filipinos, the US (the Stars and Stripes were raised there in 1898), and the Japanese Imperial Army.Today, this beautiful, 16th century structure is home to a shrine dedicated to Rizal, which includes an eerie set of footprints painted onto the street outlining the great man’s final steps as he was led to his death. That said, it’s not a particularly macabre destination, despite its long and sordid history. It is frequented by both foreign visitors and locals seeking a pleasant afternoon of leisure with family and friends. While there, be sure to check out the Intramuros Visitors Center, which gives an overview of the various other attractions in the district.Fort Santiago is ideal for picnics and scenic walks, and there are even open-air theater performances (some of the best that the city has to offer, in fact). The extensive military history and impressive architecture make it an absolute must for visitors to the city, so be sure to include it on your agenda. Plan at least a few hours to explore the grounds and soak up the long history of the place. It is located on Santa Clara Street along the Pasig River. Admission is 65 PHP for adults, and 50 PHP for children. The hours of operation are 8am to 6pm daily.

http://www.viator.com/Manila-attractions/Fort-Santiago/d4674-a8021

CAMSUR

The Best Cable Park in The World!

http://www.sunnytoast.com/2012_11_01_archive.html#.UwnqFvna7gs

DESIGNED TO GIVE YOU THE RIDE OF YOUR LIFE

The Camsur Watersports Comlex is the first world-class watersports complex in the Philippines and in Asia. CWC aims to bring cable skiing to a whole new level and attract watersports enthusiasts from all over the world with its top of the line facilities and relaxing environment. This six (6)-hectare complex, with its 6-point cable ski system, is sure to draw guests, riders and spectators by the thousands. Because of good weather conditions, cable skiing in the park can be done all year round.

WHERE TO RIDE THE CABLE

The CAMSUR WATERSPORTS COMPLEX is located within the Provincial Capitol Complex, Cadlan, Pili, Camarines Sur. The province of Camarines Sur, situated in southeastern part of Luzon is found in the Philippines, Southeast Asia.From Asia, Europe or the USA, fly to Manila, Philippines (NAIA or CENTENNIAL 2 Airports) and take a 35 minute domestic flight via Philippine Airlines to Naga Airport, Pili. The CAMSUR WATERSPORTS COMPLEX is a 3-minute or 1.5 kilometer drive from the Naga Airport. If you’re up for a road trip, air-conditioned and ordinary buses ply the 8-hour route daily to and from Manila

RIDE ON WATER

Cable skiing is simply water-skiing where the skier is pulled by an overhead cable suspended 8-12 meters above water surface by specifically designed pylons. The cables run counter clockwise around the lake. It is powered by a variable speed electric motor which can maintain speeds between 20 - 65 km/h.

WAKEBOARDING

Wakeboarding was created from a combination of water skiing, snow boarding and surfing techniques. Instead of using skis, the rider rides a single board with stationary non-release bindings for each foot, standing sideways. Wakeboarding, besides being one of the world’s fastest growing sports and is gradually being recognized globally, has become a lifestyle for others.

KNEEBOARDING

Kneeboarding is an aquatic sport where the participant is towed on a buoyant, convex, and hydrodynamically-shaped board at a planing speed behind a motorboat or cable. In the usual configuration of a towsport kneeboard, the rider sits on his heels on the board, and secures himself to the deck with an adjustable strap. As in wakeboarding or water skiing, the rider hangs onto a tow-rope. The forte of kneeboarding vis-à-vis other towsports seems to be an easier learning curve, and not requiring as much effort to have fun.

WATERSKIING

Water skiing is a sport where the rider is pulled along by a rope with a handle fitted at one end and the other attached to a powerboat. Within the confines of being pulled along by the boat or cable, skiers can control their direction by balancing their weight on different sides of their ski. This is used to zip back and forth behind the boat. Recreational skiers usually learn to ski with a ski on each foot, but as they improve, they progress to using a single ski, placing the other foot into another binding behind the main one. Beginners on two skis are usually pulled along at around 25-35 kilometers per hour, whereas more advanced social skiers travel between 40 and 55 kilometers per hour - once confidence is gained it is actually easier to travel faster than at slower speeds because of the greater lift and stability.

WAKESKATING

Wake skating is an adaptation of wakeboarding that employs a similar design of board manufactured from plywood or from fibreglass. The fact that the rider is not bound to the board in any way gives wake skating its own unique challenges from wakeboarding. Instead, the top surface of the board is coated in grip tape in a similar fashion to a skateboard or soft, high-traction foam covering that is kinder to riders in the inevitable crashes. Riders usually wear shoes while riding to afford themselves extra purchase on the board, again in the manner of skateboarding.

http://cwcwake.com.s182697.gridserver.com/about_cwc_info/p2_articleid/7

Cagayan de Oro

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Cagayan de Oro may very well be the happiest place in the country. The “City of Golden Friendship,” as it is sometimes called, is home to especially friendly and warm Filipinos. Their ready smiles are a fitting welcome, with Cagayan de Oro’s accessible location also making it the “Gateway to Northern Mindanao.”

Region 10

Northern Mindanao

Cagayan de Oro’s much talked-about white-water rafting and river trekking make it the premier white-water destination in the country. The Cagayan de Oro River is famed for challenging rapids that quickly follow one after the other. It’s really an experience like no other and well worth the initial scare. They say the wild river helps you discover your inner strength and endurance. Nice! Character-building fun! Still not enough thrills for you? Make sure you visit the Macahambus Hill Cave and Gorge. Ask your Tourism officer about the Battle of Macahambus Hill, the first Filipino victory against the Americans. Admire the view from the 120-meter long Sky Bridge suspended 120 feet from the ground, and then take the 120-meter breathtaking zip line. More action-packed fun awaits you at Jatico Adventures. A five-course zip line, ATV rides, and hiking trails are among the many things on offer. Not to be missed are the Mapawa Nature Park for its waterfalls, trekking, and rappelling. It’s not all thrill rides though. What’s a great adventure without culture and heritage? Understand local customs and traditions at the Museo de Oro. Or acquaint yourself with the people of Northern Mindanao at the Museum of Three Cultures, and the Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village for its showcase of tribal houses set amidst nature trails.At the General MacArthur Marker, you’ll learn more about the role played by Cagayan de Oro in history and about US General MacArthur, one of the most important figures of World War II.

Admire the centuries-old stained glass panels of the Gothic St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral. While nearby, the tree-lined Gaston Park is a relaxing haven in the city.In Cagayan de Oro, the month of August is synonymous with the Kagay-an Festival. This almost two week-long celebration has a carnival-like atmosphere, and is dedicated to its patron, St. Augustine. It’s a full-blast party, with activities such as agricultural trade fairs and a cultural street dancing parade and competition. The highlight of the celebration is the Golden Float Parade. Make sure to bring your shades! The bright colors will dazzle you.Cagayan de Oro has something for the eco-tourist as well as the sports lover. So, grab your backpacks and head to where nature’s beauty will thrill you. This happy place could very well leave you with a smile on your face.

http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com/cagayan-de-oro/

BALER AURORA

https://www.facebook.com/secretspotbaler

Baler, a beautiful town bordering the Pacific Ocean along the eastern coast of the Philippines became a well-known tourist spot after the Hollywood classic, Apocalypse Now, was filmed in the area. The famous scene from the movie, which had U.S. soldiers surfing, was shot in the high waves at Charlie’s Point near Sabang Beach. The movie not only put the small town in Aurora province on the international surf map, but also fuelled local interest in the sport, thanks to the surfboards left behind by the film crew. Baler boasts of one of the best surf spots in the country and is home to some of the famous Filipino surfers.

While surfing is one of the main reasons that visitors come to the area, Baler has many places to see and things to do for keeping non-surfers busy. The beautiful beaches, coral formations off shore and the mountainous terrain of the Sierra Madre ranges in the surroundings present opportunities for snorkeling, trekking, scuba diving and other outdoor activities. The Aurora province also has a few historic sites that are worth a visit, such as the Baler Church, which was held under siege for over a year by Spanish resistance fighters during the war against the Americans. In addition, the region has several places of natural beauty, including waterfalls, springs, caves and islets, all within easy reach. There are many resorts and inns in Baler that cater to tourists, and most activities can be booked at these resorts. While English is widely spoken in the Philippines and Filipino is the official language of the country, in Aurora the population comprises mostly of Tagalog and Ilocano people, so you can expect to hear the locals communicating in these dialects. Baler Aurora Philippines Sabang BeachAurora province, of which Baler is the capital, is located in the east central region of Luzon, which is the main island group of the country. From Manila, you can either travel by road or take a short flight for getting to the city. The drive is around 230km and takes approximately four to six hours. Genesis Transport Services, which offers the most regular services to the region, has six buses a day connecting Manila and Baler. If you want to take a flight, SEAir has services twice a week from Manila. The journey time is 45 minutes.

If you are going to the city for surfing, the months from October to March have the best waves. June to September has the wettest spell due to the South West monsoon, and this is also the typhoon season. The hottest months are from March to May. However, this is the ideal time for diving and snorkeling as the sea is at its calmest during this period. The summer months are also best suited for other outdoor activities such as mountain climbing, mountain biking and trekking.

So before you plan your vacation, be sure to consider the weather in Baler and the type of activity that you want to experience.

http://www.balerphilippines.com/

Siargao Island (Surfing Capital of the Philippines)

http://www.bubblews.com/news/133495-siargao-isle-making-waves-worldwide

Siargao Island is composed of 48 islands and islets-politically divided into nine municipalities: Burgos, Dapa, Del Carmen, Gen. luna, Pilar, San Benito, San Isidro, Santa Monica, and Socorro. Siargao Island contains the largest mangrove forest reserves in Mindanao, at Del Carmen. Long stretches of wetlands indicate a potential for commercial seaweed propagation. Siargao Island is greatly influenced by the winds and currents coming uninterrupted from the Pacific Ocean, intensified by the Mindanao current running westward through the Siargao Strait.

Siargao Island is situated at a coordinate of 9°52′N, 126°03′E.

Offshore, a classic tropical island lies protected within its surrounding coral reef with dozens of coconut palms dressed in the center circle of the island. Off to the right, well within the massive coastal reef, lies a shining white sand bar, (Pansukian, or Naked island) some 200 meters long. The tide of Siargao is diurnal with tidal curves typically present, especially on the east coast of the island. The Island's Pacific-facing reefs are situated on the edge of the Philippine Trench, and the extremely deep offshore waters assure the ocean swells have undiluted power when they encounter the many coral and rock reefs. Siargao has excellent  surfing conditions, particularly during the southwest "habagat" monsoon from August to November, when the prevailing wind is offshore. The best known surfing wave on Siargao with a worldwide reputation for thick, hollow tubes is "Cloud 9". This right-breaking reef wave is the site of the annual Siargao Cup, a domestic and international surfing competition sponsored by the provincial government of Surigao del Norte.

The tide of Siargao is diurnal with tidal curves typically present especially on the east coast of the island. It is the Surfing Capital of the Philippines.

http://www.siargaoislands.com/about-siargao

El Nido Palawan

Palawan El Nido is a perfect place for island hopping, kayaking, snorkeling and diving. It has 250 million year-old limestone cliffs, 888 species of fish, 4 archaeological sites, 45 islands and 2,645 hectares of mangrove.The limestone cliffs of El Nido were naturally carved out of extensive and thick layers of coralline deposits. They formed 250 million years ago in the shallow sea covering the area that North Vietnam and South China now occupy. These layers slowly rose from the sea as a result of the collision ofIndia and mainland China about 60 million years ago. El Nido is part of the Eurasian Plate, an entirely separate plate from the Philippine Mobile Belt to which the rest of the country belongs. A proof of this fact is that Palawan has no active volcanoes, unlike the rest of the Philippine archipelago. Another is that limestone cliffs similar to those in Palawan can be found in Ha Long Bay in Vietnam and Guilin in China, countries which are part of the Eurasian Plate. It is believed that Palawan was detached from mainland China some 40 million years ago. Palawan drifted southward and linked up with the rest of the Philippines around 15 million years ago. El Nido is composed of 45 islands and islets, each with its own unique features. Most of the islands have pockets and coves of fine white sand beaches, perfect for sunbathing and picnic lunches. Within some of the islands are ancient caves with fascinating dripstone formations. In other islands, limestone walls open up to lagoons. Weathering and erosion created and continue to shape these interesting geological formations.

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http://www.palawanelnido.com/

Coron Island Palawan

Coron Island Palawan is a wedge-shaped limestone island, with few of its coastal areas being covered by mangrove forests. It has seven lakes, famous of which is the nationally-acclaimed cleanest lake in the Philippines, the Kayangan Lake. It also has a number of islands with white beaches and clear blue waters perfect for snorkeling, deepsea fishing and shipwreck diving. Coron is a 2nd class municipality in the province of Palawan, Philippines. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 32,243 people in 6,264 households. Municipality of Coron from the Mount Tapyas view deck Coron PUV Terminal The municipality covers part of Busuanga Island and all of the nearby Coron Island. Both islands are part of the Calamian Group of Islands in northern Palawan. The main industries of Coron are fishing and tourism, being a popular diving location. The aquatic views from the sunken Japanese warships off Coron Island are listed in Forbes Traveler Magazine’s top 10 best scuba diving sites in the world.

http://www.coronphilippines.com/

http://www.corontours.com/

Father Burgos Museum of Vigan

Father Jose Burgos was born in this ancestral home to Florencia Garcia and Jose Burgos in February 1837. He finished his primary schooling in Vigan but his higher studies were completed in Manila’s San Juan de Letran and the University of Santo Tomas, where he studied priesthood. He showed remarkable characteristics even as a young student; and as a young priest fought with quiet courage for equal rights for the Filipino clergy. The just cause he took on made him a target of the machinations of Spanish friars. When a mutiny broke out in Cavite, the Spanish friars saw it as an opportunity to get rid of Father Burgos, including him amongst those who they accused as supporting the rebellion. He was tried in Fort Santiago and executed in February 1872 at Bagumbayan, presently known as Luneta Park in Manila. He died by strangulation with an iron collar together with two other priests, Fathers Gomez and Zamora. The priests’ deaths further fueled the efforts of Filipino revolutionaries and awakened the lukewarm hearts of some countrymen.  Father Burgos’ home is now a satellite museum of the National Museum. Walking to it from Plaza Salcedo or the center of Vigan City will only take ten minutes. It stands near the provincial jail made famous by being the site of President Elpidio Quirino’s birth, and a school named after the martyred priest. The ancestral home is well-managed and charges only a minimal fee. It is open to the public Tuesdays up to Saturdays, closing for around two hours during lunch time. Tour groups may also schedule viewing during weekends and holidays. Inside the museum, visitors will see a collection of Father Burgos memorabilia and photographs, family antiques and jewelry, Father Burgos’ quarters and a mini library containing his student Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere, which the teacher received as a gift. Visitors will also be able to view dioramas depicting local history, Ilocano and Tinggian archeological and ethnographic displays and a hall of fame for the heroes and achievers of Ilocos.  Visitors are also enjoined to allot time to take a special look at 14 paintings that were done by Esteban Villanueva which shows scenes of the 1807 Basi Revolt.

http://www.vigan.ph/father_burgos_museum.html

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Vigan Cathedral

            The St. Paul’s Cathedral is also known as the metropolitan Cathedral. It is considered a major religious landmark not only of northern Luzon but the country as well. Visitors must include a visit to the cathedral when in Vigan as it has been a center of Roman Catholic devotion for centuries. The church as it stands now was completed in 1800. The original structure was built in 1574 upon the command of the Spanish founder of Vigan, Juan de Salcedo. It was a mere chapel then, made of wood and thatch. In 1641, the chapel was replaced by a church.

When the seat of the Nueva Segovia Diocese was transferred to Villa Fernandina de Vigan from Cagayan’s Lal-lo in 1758, the church was elevated to the status of a cathedral and became the center of Catholic faith in the north. Another structure was ordered by then Governor Jose de Basco to be built to replace the existing church in 1786. With the Augustinians, the cornerstone of the new church was laid in the beginning of 1790. Overall, the cathedral follows a Baroque architectural design that has been modified by Ilocanos to strengthen the structure against earthquakes. This is now known as earthquake Baroque. Testament to the style’s effectivity is the fact that the structure’s original interior walls have remained complete. Other influences can be observed from the architecture of St. Paul Cathedral, that of neo-Gothic, pseudo-Romanesque and Chinese craftsmanship.  Facing the cathedral, visitors are greeted by the statue of St. Paul above the main opening. There are also carvings of Fu dogs or lion dogs by the outermost doors. In the alcove are scenes of Saint Paul’s conversion. Though some people may find that the façade is not as impressive as other churches, the cathedral’s interior is something to be admired. The presence of a silver-paneled main altar, three naves, 12 minor altars and brass communion handrails forged in China gives the inside of the church a feeling of grandeur. The area for the choir is located at the loft, making use of the big church’s acoustics.  Surrounding St. Paul Cathedral are the other historic buildings of the city. There are the Episcopal Palace or the bishop’s residence, the diocesan seminary and the Vigan Municipal Hall. It is also beside two plazas, one named after Vigan’s founder, Plaza Salcedo, and another named after a revolutionary hero, Plaza Burgos. It shows how central the cathedral’s role is not only in the religious life of the people, but the social, economic, educational and political aspects as well.

http://www.vigan.ph/st.paul_cathedral_vigan.html

http://www.fabulousphilippines.com/st-pauls-cathedral-vigan.html

Camarines Sur

        If you fancy a rough, rugged, and wild getaway — Survivor style — then Bicol’s Caramoan is for you. Even castaways can’t get enough of the island. The 2008 seasons of the French and Bulgarian versions of the hit reality TV show Survivor were shot on location here, and now the Israelis are filming in these Virgin Islands as well. You can hire a boat to take you from one island to the next, until you find your dream getaway. Then you can ask the boatman to leave you there with only your camping gear. (Of course, he can come back for you too.)

http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com/off-the-beaten-track-islands/#

Palawan Honda Bay

Palawan Honda Bay is one of the tourist spots in Palawan that any traveler should go to. Famous for its clear water and the different islets scattered around it, you can experience the best of Honda Bay by going in an island hopping day trip adventure. The islets that comprise of Honda Bay Palawan have their own specialties and all of them are perfect for water sports such as diving, swimming and snorkeling.

How to get to Palawan Honda Bay

Honda Bay is only 12 kilometers away from Puerto Princesa City proper. From Puerto Princesa City, one can either take the jeepney or get in a tricycle to get to Santa Lourdes wharf and the ride should take less than half an hour. From the Santa Lourdes wharf, several pump boats await ready to take one to any island that one desires and all one has to do is simple tell them to go to Honda Bay.

You can also ask your hotel or travel agency to arrange a Honda Bay Island Hopping day trip. It would only cost PhP 1,100 per person and that is inclusive of land transfer to Sta. Lourdes Wharf, boat ride for the island hopping, entrance fee to the islets, lunch, and a tour guide.

http://philippinetouristspots.net/tourist-spots-in-palawan-honda-bay/#more-87