3 Places to Explore in Dinagat Island

Posted on July 10, 2019 by Juan

Dinagat Islands is the 80th province of the Philippines. It used to be a part of Surigao del Norte but has gained independence in 2014.

A group of islands located on the south side of the Leyte Gulf across Surigao Strait, it is bounded on the west by Leyte province, Mindanao to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west.

Local and several foreign tourists enjoy the marvels of this unexplored paradise. However, please don’t take our word for it. Visit the Dinagat Islands and discover for yourself this piece of paradise.

Philippine_Benevolent_Missionaries_Association_Shrine,_San_Jose,_Dinagat_Islands,_Philippines

Philippine Benevolent Missionaries Association Shrine in taken from the PBMA Presidents house San Jose, Dinagat Islands, Philippines.: Hero122 [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Moreover, for those who have yet to set foot into the lush sands of Dinagat Islands, here is the place worth visiting.

Lake Bababu Underwater Cave System

An enchanting lake at the heart of the mainland Dinagat hidden by towering limestone cliffs and lush greenery. What’s extraordinary in this lake is that is the lake has freshwater on the surface while the underground cave feeds saltwater from the sea to the lake. There is a very minimal wind in the area, thus exuding a very different ambiance.

Pagabangan Island

One of the paradise islands of Dinagat, one will fall in love with its white sand beach with coconut trees at the fringe, the massive limestone rocks, and clear waters. It also boasts of a blue lagoon where good swimmers can enjoy. It is also perfect for snorkeling.

Punta Buena Suerte Resort

If water activities are your thing and if you suddenly craved for an adrenaline rush. The Punta Buena Suerte Resort will fill those needs. Aside from impressive views, the resort also offers rides, a sumptuous feast of seafood, and water activities such as jet skiing, banana boat riding, paddle boarding, kayaking, cliff diving, and a lot more.

While you’re there, why not take a tour to the nearby Siargao Islands, which is only a boat away from Surigao City?

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See You in Lake Sebu

Posted on July 8, 2019 by Juan

A far-flung town in South Cotabato, Lake Sebu has a raw appeal, thanks to the surrounding mountains clad in forest and a lake. Recognized by UNESCO as a cultural landscape, Lake Sebu is a laidback municipality serving as a melting pot of cultures.

Aquaculture is the primary industry in this part of South Cotabato. There is quite a handful of areas to visit in Lake Sebu and here, we present to you some of them.

the_picturesque_view_of_Lake_Sebu.

Lake Sebu, South Cotabato: GinaD [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

The Lakes

Go lake-hopping from Lake Sebu to Lake Lahit and Lake Seloton. Mind you, these lakes are not connected with each other, and one needs to rent different boats to explore each one.

The Falls

Inside Lake Sebu, there are seven waterfalls, namely Hikong Alu, Hikong Bente, Hikong B-lebed, Hikong Lowig, Hikong Ke-foi, Hikong Ukol, and Hikong Tonok. These seven waterfalls are located inside the Lake Sebu Eco-Tourism Park. Adventure-seeker will have their cravings satisfied as there is a zip line inside the park that runs for 400 meters—from Hikong Ke-foi to Hikong Bente, and another 750 meters from Hikong Alu back to Hikong Ke-foi.

The Hallmarks of Culture and Traditions

The T’Boli are the indigenous people of South Cotabato, and they have such a colorful culture that is captured in their traditional tapestry called T’nalak. The Lang Dulay T’nalak Weaving Center is one area in Lake Sebu where one can find handcrafted fabric.

The T’Boli Museum or otherwise known as the Baay’s Family House of Gongs is a traditional T’Boli house with a collection of antiques, gongs, T’nalak, and artifacts of the T’boli culture.

The School of Living Traditions is where the old generation of T’Boli pass their knowledge and culture to the younger generation. Handcrafter T’Boli souvenirs such as T’nalak and beaded jewelry are being sold here, as well.

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‘Sama ka!’ sa Samal Island

Posted on July 2, 2019 by Juan

Priceless sceneries and a warm welcome from the locals—that’s what you’ll get the first time set foot in Samal Island. Located in the Davao Gulf around two kilometers away from Davao City, the Island Garden City of Samal is made up of former municipalities of Samal, Babak, and Kaputian.

Samal_Island

View from Samal Island towards Talikud Island, with mainland Mindanao and Mt Apo in the distance.: Lachlan Fearnley [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Hagimit Falls

Inside the Samal Island is a gem called Hagimit Falls. Made up of five to six levels of waterfalls, the Hagimit Falls is one cool place you should not miss. With a minimal entrance fee, you can enjoy the cold water and relax the entire day in one of its cottages. If you are more adventurous, you can bring your own tent and stay overnight!

Mount Puting Bato

Samal Island is not only suitable for water activities. In fact, it also has a hiking trail that can be enjoyed even by beginners. The highest peak in Samal, Mount Putting Bato stands 1,755 above sea level so reaching its peak will reward hikers with a magnificent view of the entire island and other nearby provinces.

Talicud Island

To reach Talicud Island, one has to take a boat heading to either Isla Reta or Sta. Cruz Wharf from Sta. Ana Wharf. Upon entering Talicud Island, one will see a long stretch of beautiful white sand beach and ultra-clear water. Peaceful and relaxing, one can go to this place to swim, snorkel, and dive. Indeed, a perfect getaway!

Kaputian Beach

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZu5Jou4Bcw

Facing the northern tip of Talicud Island, Kaputian Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Samal. At the entrance, visitors will be greeted by the preserved remains of a dugong or manatee. On the beach, one can spend an entire day relaxing under the shade of the trees.

Pearl Farm Beach

The Pearl Farm Beach is not only a popular destination among the Filipinos, but it is also globally recognized as a tourist spot. Equipped with 5-star amenities, Pearl Farm offers not only breathtaking views and serene beach experience, but one can also enjoy healthy food and not to mention, an ultimate relaxing experience.

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‘Tara Doon sa Bukidnon!

Posted on June 29, 2019 by Juan

When we hear of Bukidnon, what usually comes to mind is pineapple. Who’s to blame? The cold climate of Bukidnon made it an ideal place for pineapple plantation. Aside from the pineapples, there are other reasons to visit this city in Northern Mindanao and let us share with you some of those.

Impasug-ong_Plaza,_Bukidnon,_Mindanao,_Philippines

Rizal Monument, Impasugong Plaza, Bukidnon, Mindanao, Philippines: Emmanuel Caneda [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Go for an adventure in Dahilayan Forest Park and Dahilayan Adventure Park

Located in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, the forest park is uphill so you can expect a cold climate as you explore the park and enjoy the rides. The entire place is surrounded by tall pine trees, and every spot is true ‘Instagrammable.’ The park has amenities such as a café, function area, bar, souvenir shops, lagoons, playgrounds, and picnic grounds.

If you are the adventurous type, head on to the Dahilayan Adventure Park where you get to enjoy fun outdoor activities such as the Forest Luge, the ATV, Buggy Trail, Barrel Train Ride, the Zipline, and so much more. Tthe adventure park is almost in the same area as the forest park.

Go on a pineapple tour

It is almost a mortal sin if you have been in Bukidnon but have not taken a picture together with its giant pineapple. It is a landmark that you will be able to pass by on your to Dahilayan Forest Park and Adventure Park.

You should not also miss the Del Monte Club House, Golf Course, and Country Club. They will let you in inside their pineapple plantation area. If you get hungry while you’re there, they have a restaurant that serves unlimited pineapple juice.

Craving for more adventure? Visit the kampojuan Adventure Park

Another popular destination in Bukidnon and also located in Manolo Fortich, the kampojuan adventure park is where you will get to see and ride the anicycle or the sky bike.

Also, you will get to see the Acosta Heritage House, a repository of the family’s possessions from their ancestral homes in Northern Luzon and Central Visayas.

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Places to Visit in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte

Posted on June 26, 2019 by Juan

The story of Dapitan City dates back beyond the Spanish era. The area it presently occupies has been home to different tribes of people. However, the significance of Dapitan City in Philippine history was during the time the country’s national hero had been exiled in this place. This is also the reason why the mere mention of Dapitan City immediately brings to mind, Dr. Jose P. Rizal.

Though he is exiled, Rizal fell in love with Dapitan City. Surrounded by green mountains and rugged coastlines, one will quickly understand why the great national hero easily fell in love with the place. Unaffected by modern commercial touch, Dapitan City is not just a tourist spot, but also an ideal place to retire to.

City_Hall,_Dapitan_City

Modernized city hall of Dapitan City: Iamjepoi [CC BY-SA 4.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Dapitan City Plaza

One of the works of Dr. Jose P. Rizal, the city plaza was inspired by the different places he visited during his days in Europe. With giant acacia trees and perfectly-manicured flowering plants, you’ll get to refresh your mind and your lungs with fresh air. At the center of the plaza is a statue of the great hero himself.

Dakak and other beaches

Dakak Beach Resort might be the most popular beach in Dapitan, but there are lots of equally beautiful beaches in the city. Though it is not easy to ignore the call of the turquoise water of Dakak, you might also want to tour Aliguay Island, check out the talcum-white beach of Senilog Island, or get chummy with the locals while basking in the glory of Sitio Guimputlan beach.

Dakak_Beach_Resort

Beautiful Dakak Beach Resort in Barangay Taguilon, City of Dapitan, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines. Photo by Jose B. Cabajar: Cabajar [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Trace Rizal’s life in exile

While in Dapitan City, you might want to check out how Rizal spent his life in this city. There are lots of spots in the city that will remind people that the national hero once lived here and the time he spent here had been one of the most significant parts of his life.

Aside from Rizal monument at the Dapitan City Plaza, there is also the Rizal’s landing site in Sta. Cruz beach and the Rizal National Park.

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3 Spots You Should Visit in Baybay City, Leyte

Posted on June 22, 2019 by Juan

Located in the western part of the coast of Leyte, Baybay City’s history dates back to the time the first foreign invaders arrived in the country. It became a religious hub for Jesuits and Augustinians while both Chinese and Moro invaders attempted to invade the area.

Today, Baybay City is a business, industry, and commercial center in the western coast of Leyte with banks, restaurants, cafes, and night spots. However, despite these developments, it remains as an agricultural city with most people engaging in farming and fishing as their primary source of livelihood.

It is also an emerging tourism hub in Eastern Visayas, as it continues to attract local and foreign visitors.

Immaculate_Conceptio_Church,_Baybay_City,_Leyte,_Philippines

The facade of the Immaculate Conception Church, Baybay City, Leyte in the Philippines: Aldenescabarte [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Here are three of its top tourist spots.

Linta-on Peak

A vast stretch of a highland measuring about 10 kilometers, reaching the Linta-on Peak will reward you with a magnificent view of the city, the Camotes Sea, and the Leyte Cordillera. And, no, getting into the peak will not require too much effort. The area is an ideal spot for afternoon picnics and overnight camping. The city lights at night will tuck you in while the sunrise will wake you up.

San Antonio de Padua Church

The church is home to a century-old image of San Antonio de Padua. As the image is believed to be miraculous, many people from different places visit the church every 13th day of the month, as an act of devotion. With almost 300,000 devotees flocking to the church every year, the San Antonio de Padua Church is one of the top cultural attraction in the Eastern Visayas region.

Baybay Parish Church

A Spanish friar, Vicente Cronado initiated a baroque structure that dates back in 1852, the construction of the Baybay Parish church and completed by Maestro Proceso. The fire destroyed the church in 1866 but reconstructed entirely in 1870 by the renowned sculptor and painter, Capitan Mateo Espinoso.

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