CAVITE
I. ACCESSIBILITY
 The main route is via the South Luzon Expressway ( SLEX )
with exit at Carmona that leads to the towns of Silang, Gen.
Mariano Alvarez, Dasmarinas, Maragondon Ternate and cities
of Trece Martirez and Tagaytay City;
 Cavite can also be reached from Manila through Roxas
Boulevard-Coastal Road going to towns of Bacoor, Imus, Kawit,
Rosario, Tanza, Naic and Noveleta;
 An alternate route is via Sta Rosa that leads to Tagaytay City
and adjacent towns of Alfonso, Amadeo, Silang and Indang;
 Public transport services are available during the day hours and
early evening:
 Buses like Saulog and St. Anthony going to Cavite have
terminals in Vito Cruz cor Harrison Plaza and Park n Ride in
Plaza Lawton in Manila:
 Mini Buses going to the towns of Bacoor, Imus, Kawit, Noveleta,
Rosario, Naic and Tanza are available from Baclaran in
Parañaque;
 Taxis and FX transport also service the nearby towns of Cavite;
 Corregidor Island is accessible by fastcraft ferry located at
Terminal 2, CCP Complex, Manila.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
The province of Cavite abounds with historic sites and landmarks; museums,
world class golf courses, outstanding gardens and facilities for leisure. It is the
birthplace of a number of Filipino heroes and it has an interesting range of sites
associated with the Philippine Revolution. Found in the province is the residence
of the first president of the Republic, Gen Emilio Aguinaldo, which was also the
site of the proclamation of independence from Spain on June 12, 1898.
Cavite teems with natural resources and unique landscapes. It is home to
Tagaytay City, which is situated 2,500 feet above sea level and a popular
summer and holiday destination. The highway drive offers a breathtaking sight of
the world-famous Taal Volcano and Lake which is a crater within an island within
a lake. Vegetation dot the ridges of Tagaytay with a wide range of
accommodation establishments and restaurants for tourists to savor the
pleasures of leisure and relaxation with a magnificent view of Taal Lake and
Volcano.
II. HISTORY
Cavite got its name from the Filipino word Kawit, which means hook, owing to the
hook-shaped mass of land recorded on the old Spanish maps. The land formerly
known as Tangway was the site of a Spanish colonial fort on which the city of
Cavite rose. Archeological evidence in coastal areas shows prehistoric
settlements. According to historical records, the earliest settlers of Cavite came
from Borneo. In the 1600s, encomiendas or Spanish royal land grants were given
in the towns of Cavite, Ternate and Maragondon. Jesuit priests brought in
settlers from Moluccas. These people known as Mardicas, settled in the abovenamed sites.
Other settlements grew during the Spanish era and by the turn of century,
Cavite’s progressive towns were already trading with Manila and with one
another. Traditional industries began to thrive as Manila’s commerce grew.
In 1872, Filipinos launched their rebellion against Spain. Three Filipino secular
priests, Jose Burgos, Mariano Gomez and Jacinto Zamora, were implicated in
the Cavite mutiny when 200 Filipinos struck the Spanish garrisons. On August
25, 1896, when the spark of a revolution against Spain broke out, Cavite became
a bloody theater of the Philippine Revolution.
Led by Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, Cavitenos made lighting raids on Spanish
settlements and soon liberated the entire province of Cavite. Aguinaldo
commanded the Revolution to its successful end, which preraged the
proclamation of the first Republic in Asia, the Republic of the Philippines on June
12, 1898 in Kawit, Cavite.
III. BASIC FACTS
o Total Land Area : 142,706 hectares
o Population
: 1,907,000 (NSO 2000)
o Name of Municipalities
Cities
1. Alfonso
1. Cavite
2. Amadeo
2. Trece Martires
3. Bacoor
3. Tagaytay
4. Carmona
5. Dasmarinas
6. Gen. Aguinaldo
7. Gen. Alvarez
8. Gen. Trias
9. Imus
10. Indang
11. Kawit
12. Magallanes
13. Maragondon
14. Mendez
15. Naic
16. Noveleta
17. Rosario
18. Silang
19. Tanza
20. Ternate
o Capital : Imus
o Seat of Government : Trece Martires City
o Climate
*
*
November to April - dry season
May to October
- rainy season
IV. ATTRACTIONS
o Historical
1. Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine
Kawit, Cavite
On June 12, 1989, Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo of the Filipino revolutionary
forces declared independence from Spanish rule on the balcony of his
residence in Kawit, Cavite. The house is declared as a Shrine and houses
the memorabilia dedicated to these historic events. In 1998, a park named
Liwasang Aguinaldo was built in front of the house to celebrate the
Centennial of Philippine Independence.
2. Gen. Baldomero Aguinaldo Shrine
Bisita, Binakayan, Kawit Cavite
Gen. Baldomero Aguinaldo was a cousin of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo and
became his right-hand man. He was the president of the Magdalo Council
that was established in Imus, Cavite. He was the First President of the
Association de los Veteranos de la Revolucion Filipina.
3. Battle of Binakayan Monument
Governor’s Road, Kawit, Cavite
This was the site of a significant encounter between Spanish forces and
Filipino revolutionaries from November 9-11, 1896 wherein hundreds of
Spanish soldiers were killed. It was the most decisive battle of the
revolution as it marked the first defeat of the Spanish forces and is
commemorated as the first major victory of the Philippine Revolution.
4. Gen. Candido Tirona Monument
Poblacion, Kawit, Cavite
Gen. Candido Tirona, a trusted aide of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, was the
first Capitan Municipal in the Philippines. He was instrumental, together
with the revolutionaries in the successful defeat of the Spanish forces led
by Gen. Ramon Blanco.
5. Battle of Alapan Marker
Bernadina Salud Elementary School, Alapan I, Imus, Cavite
A memorial on the grounds of the Alapan Elementary School which
commemorates the Battle of Alapan that took place on May 28, 1889. It
was the site where the Philippine flag was first displayed in victory during
the revolution against Spain.
6. Tejeros Convention
General Trias, Cavite
It was in the estate house of the Dominican hacienda in Barrio Tejeros in
Rosario and General Trias, Cavite where the Tejeros Convention was held
on March 22, 1897. The convention created the Philippine Armed Forces
with Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo as the head of government after he
distinguished himself on the battlefield during the first seven months of the
Revolution.
7. General Trias Monument and Park
General Trias, Cavite
A monument and park developed in memory of General Mariano Trias y
Closas, famous son of the town. He was a general of the Revolution and
Vice President of the First Philippine Republic.
8. Diego Mojica Marker
Gen. Trias, Cavite
A marker in honor of Diego Mojica who was the president of the
Magdiwang faction in General Trias. He led a group of revolutionaries who
attacked the Spanish headquarters of the town on August 31, 1896
9. Corregidor Island
Cavite City
The largest of the five islands guarding the entrance to Manila Bay,
tadpole-shaped Corregidor island was once a fishing village with a
lighthouse and signal station for all ships entering and leaving the Manila
Bay. During the American period, full scale fortification was installed on
the island, complete with long-range tractor guns, anti-aircraft guns,
tunnels, an underground command center and hospital for wounded
soldiers. In the last Pacific War, Corregidor became a vital combat zone
between the Japanese Imperial Army and the Allied forces. Today, it is
memorial to peace and to those who died for freedom. The island is now a
favorite tour destination with hotel and resort facilities. Ferry services to
the island depart from Terminal 2 at the Cultural Center Complex on
Roxas Boulevard.
10. Fort San Felipe
Sangley Point Naval Base, Cavite City
Fort San Felipe is an old structure dating back to 1609, when the
Spaniards built it to protect part of the then growing city. The structure is
made of granite blocks, with walls approximately 30 feet high. A wide
stairway leads to the top of the port where a concrete house can be found.
Naval memorabillia including antique cannons which decorate the lawns. It
is at present managed by the Philippine Navy. Visits can be arranged with
prior coordination with the Philippine Navy Headquarters.
11. Andres Bonifacio Trial House
Maragondon, Cavite
The site where Andres Bonifacio, founder of the secret revolutionary
society called the Katipunan was court martialled. The Spanish colonial
period house has been restored several times to restore it to its original
design.
12. General Mariano Trias Marker
Poblacion, General Trias, Cavite
The marker is installed in front of his house in the town plaza. General
Trias was a leading hero during the Philippine Revolution against Spain.
The marker is made of white concrete and a solitary lamp post stands
behind it. A monument in his memory is located in the town named in his
honor.
13. House of General Reigo de Dios
Poblacion 2, Maragondon, Cavite
The old house is made of wood with architectural features dating back to
the Spanish period. It is considered one of the oldest houses in the area.
14. 41st Division USAFFE Marker
Kaybagay South, Tagaytay City, Cavite
Tagaytay played a significant role in the Philippine history. During World
War II, Filipino soldier found refuge in its vast forest and ridges. It was
used as landing site and sanctuary for paratroopers on their way to
liberate Manila. The 41st USAFFE marker is one place where you will
know more about Tagaytay’s rich political history.
15. 11th Airborne Division Marker
Tagaytay City, Cavite
On February 3, 1945, the 11th Airbone Division of Lt. Gen. William
Krueger’s of the U.S. Army air dropped military supplies and personnel on
the Tagaytay ridge amidst enemy groundfire. Their mission was to secure
Tagaytay City and guarantee the easy flow of troops and supplies to
Manila. The action later proved significant to the liberation of Manila and
environs. A marker was installed at the Silang crossing to commemorate
the event.
o Cultural
1. Sayaw sa Apoy
Tagaytay City, Cavite
A fire dance that originated in Alfonso and performed at various hotel
venues to entertain guests and tourists. This dance is performed over live
coals to drive away evil spirits by those with strong faith. The performers
belong to one family whose forefathers passed the tradition from
generation to generation.
o Natural
1. Cabag Cave
Poblacion 2, Maragondon, Cavite
The place is found at the bottom of a slope which runs down a steep angle
to a brook. Lush greenery surrounds this little valley where Cabag Cave is
found. Inside the cave, an underground river runs for about 50 meters
inwards. A pool of water is formed immediately off the mouth of the cave
leading to the river.
2. Malicbilic Falls
Border of Brgy. Lumipa, Gen Aguinaldo and Magallanes, Cavite
A valley borders the Malicbilic Falls, where boulders cut across the middle
of the gushing water that cascades from the falls. At the far end of the
river is a NIA irrigation project. The other nearby rivers flow into a large
pond, which can be viewed from atop one of the hills. A large pool of water
forms at the base of the falls with coconut trees, shrubs and greenery
flanking both sides of the falls.
3. Balite Falls
Barangay Halang, Amadeo, Cavite
Two falls can be seen in the area, one of which naturally flows with
gushing water, while the other is outfitted with pipes and bamboo tubes to
aid the flow of water. The falls converge into a pool of water with a deep
part for adults and a shallow portion for children.
4. Ulong Tubig
Barangay Ulong Tubig, Carmona, Cavite
Ulong Tubig is a pool formed by natural spring water emanating from
adjacent hill. The pool leads to an irrigation pump which supplies a vast
number of rice fields in Carmona. The area is shaded by coconut trees
and other vegetation.
5. Tagaytay City
Tagaytay City, Cavite
With a year-round cool climate, Tagaytay City is the Philippines’ second
summer capital with an elevation of 2,000 feet above sea level. The
ascending highway offers a breathtaking sight of the world famous Taal
Volcano, a crater within an island within a lake. Coconut groves, pineapple
farms, flower gardens and agricultural crops dot the ridges of Tagaytay.
Varied types of accommodations and numerous restaurants give the
visiting tourist the pleasures of meditation, relaxation, leisure and a unique
scenic landscape that defines Tagaytay City as a leading destination.
o Religious
1. St. Mary Magdalene Parish
Poblacion, Kawit, Cavite
This church was built in 1624 and is one of the oldest churches in the
Philippines. Established by the Jesuits when the town was considered as
the playground of sailors on shoreleave, the church transformed the town
of Kawit into “the most Christian community in the islands” in 1749.
The church is known for healing and helping resolve personal problems.
St Mary Magdalene is the Patroness of Kawit and the religiosity of the
Kawiteños was deeply
manifested through their fiestas, caracol,
processions and most especially, MAYTINIS festival a Christmas Eve
tableau and re-enactment of the search for a home by Mary and Joseph
on the eve of Christ’s nativity.
2. Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit of Perpetual Adoration
Maitim West, Tagaytay City, Cavite
The faithful can ask for prayers and endorsement of petitions from the
intercession of the contemplative nuns. It is located at the above-stated
address at the back of St. Augustine Seminary.
3. Church of St. Agustin
Mendez Poblacion
It is the church where General Emilio Aguinaldo took his oath before
God on his country’s struggle for freedom, as the President of the
Revolutionary Government.
4. Church of Immaculate Concepcion
Naic Poblacion
It was built by the Dominicans in the same Gothic style of the Sto.
Domingo Church. It sits in the center of the former Dominican hacienda of
San Isidro Labrador which funded the development of the University of
Santo Tomas during the Spanish colonial period. Although its altar was
totally demolished by the bombing of the town in World War II, the image
of Immaculate Concepcion miraculously survived without a scratch and is
still venerated by devotees as a strong mediatrix for prayers and petitions
5. Imus Cathedral
Barangay IV , Imus, Cavite
The church is an example of Hispanic colonial architecture and exudes an
ambience conducive to monastic life and spiritual meditation. The colors
have darkened with time but one will notice the red colored bricks that
make up the arches and walls of the place endure to the present day.
Latin inscriptions accentuate the arches of the church. The Cathedral is
the seat of the Diocese of Imus.
6. Our Lady of Candelaria Church
Poblacion, Silang, Cavite
The first church was built in 1603, and was replaced by the present one in
1634. On the main retablo is the image of its patron saint, the Nuestra
Senora de la Candelaria. The image was found in a mountain side in 1640
and disappeared nine times over the next few years – inexplicably going
back to where it was originally found, until it was installed on its present
site. Many devotees, especially women, say they have been granted
special blessings by the Patroness.
7. General Trias Catholic Church
Poblacion, Gen. Trias, Cavite
The church altar is enhanced with various ornately-carved statues of
Catholic saints set upon a multi-tiered, wooden carved platform. The
church dates back to the Spanish period. The altar design is remarkably
similar to that of Silang Catholic Church.
8. Maragondon Catholic Church
Poblacion, Maragondon, Cavite
Of 17th century vintage, the Maragondon Catholic Church was built by the
Dominican friars. It has a well preserved convent made from antique
Philippine mahogany, masonry and bricks. The wooden altar, pulpit and
main portal are finely crafted and remain as the enduring architectural
landmarks and enhancement of the church.
9. Our Lady of La Salette Shrine
Km. 41, Barangay Biga, Silang Cavite
This church was built by the American Missionaries of Our Lady of La
Salette, known to Filipinos as Our Lady of Hope. The shrine is famous for
its antique theme park and giant woodcarvings of the Last Supper and
Station of the Cross. Serenity is provided by well tended pine trees,
shrubbery and expansive lawns. An imposing image of the Blessed Virgin
Mary stands at the middle of a well-trimmed garden surrounded by flags of
different countries where Catholicism thrive. Retreat houses, chapel,
souvenir shops and other interesting attractions make the place
interesting, not only for visitation, but for spiritual contemplation as well.
10. Nuestra Señora dela Soledad de Porta Vaga
San Roque Parish Church, Cavite City
The Nuestra Señora dela Soledad de Porta Vaga is the beloved patroness
of Cavite City. Reputed to be a relic received from Spain, it is a painting of
Virgin Mary framed in carved wood. It is said that the icon was beached
and discovered on the shores between the old Puerto Vaga and Barrio
San Roque in Cavite City during 18th century. The painting, presently set
in precious gems is also known as the “Virgin of a Thousand Miracles”
because of many miracles granted to the faithful devotees.
MUSEUMS
1. Geronimo de los Reyes,Jr. Museum
Gateway Business Park, C. de los Reyes Avenue, Gen. Trias, Cavite
Geronimo de los Reyes Jr. is the chairman and president of Gateway
Property Holdings, which owns the 174-hectare industrial estate in Brgy.
Jalavera, Gen. Trias, Cavite. His collection of pictures recapture for the
present and future generation of Filipinos the glorious past of the
Philippines. The entire collection has a composite collection of
photographic works from the 1880s to the 1930s. One of them is the
original picture of the execution of Dr. Jose Rizal at the Luneta. Part of the
collections on display is the collection of pottery and porcelain ware dating
back to the Ming and Sung periods.
2. Museo de la Salle
De la Salle Campus, Dasmarinas, Cavite
Lifestyle museum dedicated to the preservation of certain aspects and
material culture of the 19th century Philippine ilustrado lifestyle. The Museo
has been realized to encourage its own use in cross-disciplinary learning
and growth in an academic environment, and to provide a living space
illustrating Philippine culture that is linked to its immediate community.
3. Imus Historical Museum
Camp Gen. Pantaleon Garcia, Imus, Cavite
It is a museum composed of moving tableaus that take the visitors back
through time, to relive historical scene with realistic life-size figures set
amidst painstakingly recreated settings. Interpersed between these
tableaus are colorfully detailed murals and relief sculptures of key figures
in the Cavite Revolution, as well as fascinating tidbits such as the official
seal of the Magdalo and Magdiwang factions of the Katipunan, the full text
of Governor-General Ramon Blanco’s Declaration of War in the eight
provinces that rose in 1896, and an official tally of the deployment of
Spanish troops and ordnance. The facility is scheduled to be fully
operational in 2007.
4. Museo ng Tagaytay
Ground Floor, City Hall Building, Tagaytay City, Cavite
The Museo ng Tagaytay aims to collect and preserve all significant
artifacts, photos and memorabilia of the City of Tagaytay and its people as
well as to record momentous events reflecting the growth, development,
culture and heritage of the city.
o Special Interest
1. Golfing
Cavite is home to some of the finest golf courses in the country. Tee off on
world-class links at the Manila Southwoods, Eagle Ridge, Puerto Azul,
The Orchard, Royale Tagaytay, Sherwood, Riviera Splendido, Highlands
and Midlands Golf and Country clubs. Most of these clubs are exclusive
to members and visitors can play when accompanied by a member.
2. Sightseeing
Cavite is the perfect destination for travelers who can experience a
glimpse of the historical, natural and man-made attractions of the province
nearest to Manila. 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 and other resorts around the
province.
3. Outdoor Sports
Engage in outdoor sports like golf and horseback riding at Tagaytay City
and pony rides for the kids. For quieter afternoons and evenings, watch
cultural shows at the Taal Vista Hotel and other local folk theaters during
holidays and weekends.
RIZAL
ACCESSIBILITY
 The province of Rizal is 110 kilometers south of Manila. It is accessible by
land transportation from Metro Manila and the neighboring provinces of
Southern Tagalog and Central Luzon
 Buses, varied public utility vehicles and the metro rail system with stations
at Crossing/EDSA in Mandaluyong City, Robinson’s Galleria in Ortigas
Avenue, Quezon City and Farmer’s Market in Cubao, Quezon City ply the
routes to Antipolo, Taytay, Cainta, Binangonan, Angono, Tanay and other
towns in Rizal
HISTORY
A 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, Pililla, Angono, Binangonan and Jalajala from La Laguna.
Rizal Province, named after Jose P. Rizal, the Philippine National Hero was
officially 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 other 12 municipalities were from the district of
Morong, which includes Angono, Baras, Cainta, Antipolo, Cardona Jalajala,
Morong, Pililla, Tanay, Taytay and Teresa.
On November 8, 1975, the newly-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 the province of Rizal-San Mateo, Rodriguez,
Baras, Cainta, Taytay, Angono, Antipolo, Binangonan, Teresa, Morong,
Cardona, Tanay, Pililla and Jalajala.
BASIC FACTS

Total Land area
:
308,122 hectares

Population
:
1,707,218 as of May 2000

Climate
:
Dry / Warm and Rainy Seasons

13 municipalities and 1 city.
Municipalities:
City:
First District
1.
2.
3.
4.
Angono
Binangonan
Cainta
Taytay
Second District
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
Baras
Cardona
Morong
Jalajala
Pililla
Rodriguez
San Mateo
Tanay
Teresa
Antipolo City
ATTRACTIONS
CULTURAL
1. Petroglyphs
Binangonan and Angono, Rizal
Discovered by National Artist and acclaimed muralist from Angono, Carlos
“Botong” Francisco in 1965, this cultural heritage site dates back to circa
3000 B.C. or the stone age and is the most ancient Filipino or more aptly,
prehistoric Filipino work of art. The site is famous for its rock engravings
consisting of 127 drawings of human and animal figures. Previous
archaeological finds yielded fragments of earthenware, obsidian flakes
and shells. The Petroglyphs site has been included in the World’s
Inventory of the Rock Art, through the auspices of UNESCO, ICCROM,
and ICOMOS. In 1996, it was declared as a national cultural treasure by
Presidential Decree 260. It received the greatest recognition when it was
named as one of the “100 Most Endangered Sites of the World” by the
World Monuments Watch List. The preservation of the Petroglyphs was a
collective effort of the National Museum of the Philippines, World
Monument Watch Fund, American Express International, the Department
of Tourism and Antipolo Properties, Inc. It is managed by the National
Museum of the Philippines.
2. Artists Village of Angono
The town of Angono is known for the Higantes Festival and for its
admirable artworks of extraordinarily talented artists. It is the home town of
the two great National Artists of the Philippines, Carlos “Botong” Francisco
for visual arts and Maestro and Lucio San Pedro for music, who have
inspired generations of artists to create numerous works in varied styles of
artistic expressions
There are a number of art galleries and studios within the town which
makes Angono the Art Capital of the Philippines. These are the Blanco
Family Museum, Nemiranda Arthouse & Gallery, Tiamson Art Gallery, Ang
Nuno Artists Foundation Gallery, Village Artists Gallery, Juban Studios,
Vicente Reyes Art Studio, the Second Gallery and the Angono Ateliers
Gallery.
3. Nemiranda Arthouse and Gallery
Dona Justa Subd., Angono, Rizal
The gallery houses the collection of the paintings and sculptures of artist
Nemiranda and his family, in the style of figurative realism, of his artworks,
portraying rural life and folklore art. Also available are lectures, guided
tours and painting workshops.
4. Tiamson Art Gallery
203 Dona Nieves St., Brgy. Sto. Nino, Angono, Rizal
The art gallery houses the various artworks of painter, musician and
transmedia artist Orville DR Tiamson.
His style ranges from the
conventional to the new age and he has experimented in various artistic
presentations, including drawings on paper, oil, acrylic, paintings on
canvas, mixed media collages and constructions, installations,
performances, music and sound works.
5. Ang Nuno Artists Foundation Gallery
Don Francisco St., Dona Justa Subd., Angono, Rizal
This charming restaurant cum art gallery owned by Luzviminda Vocalan,
wife of the late artist Perdigon Vocalan, is popular among local and foreign
tourists. It offers a hearty welcome to guests and treats them to different
kinds of native food and exotic cuisine that have proven to be interesting
to patrons.
6. Blanco Family Museum
312 Ibanez St., Sto. Nino, Angono, Rizal
This family of prolific painters welcomes visitors to their private museum
housing their vast collection of artworks. The head of the clan, renowned
artist Jose D. Blanco, has obviously handed down to his many children his
great creativity and talent.
7. Vicente Reyes Studio
Dona Aurora St., Brgy. Poblacion, Angono, Rizal
One of the most prolific and talented students of the late National Artist
Carlos “Botong” Francisco, Vicente Reyes has his own studio that houses
his artworks and masterpieces.
8. Vicente Manansala Historical Shrine
73 Gloria St., San Carlos Heights Subd. Binangonan, Rizal
Declared by the National Historical Institute as a historical landmark in
June, 1978, it now houses the memorabilia of National Artist Vicente
Manansala. It also features some of his well-preserved original paintings
and personal memorabilia.
9. Rafael Pacheco Finger Painting Gallery
Brgy. Bombongan, Morong, Rizal
Rafael Pacheco, the artist, has a unique way of expressing his artistic
talent – he uses his bare fingers, knuckles and palms to complete a
masterpiece in 20 minutes, mainly flora, fauna and underwater life.
10. Tariki Dance
Tanay, Rizal
The Tariki Dance was copied and adopted by the locals from the
movements of “tariki” birds seen hopping from one bundle of palay to
another. It is performed by five pairs of boys and girls dressed in white
shirts and pants and blouses and skirts, respectively.
11. World Sikaran/Arnis Brotherhood of the Philippines
20 Katipunan St., Baras, Rizal
Sikaran/Arnis is a foot game/sword play and is a combination of two kinds
of martial arts that are uniquely Filipino. In Sikaran, the players move
around like boxers. Each one aims to knock his opponent down by kicking
the latter’s legs. The kicks are delivered with considerable force and
agility, and sudden upward and backward movements of the foot. The
use of the feet is necessary in winning over the opponent; thus, the name
“sikaran” which means “to kick” came about. In arnis, the players use
rattan or a wooden stick and strike each other’s sticks. The player who is
able to touch his opponent’s body first with the point of his wooden stick or
force him to drop his weapon is declared winner.
12. Angono Forest Park
Angono, Rizal
A 1.5 hectare of land profuse with high rising trees and shrubs which is
perfect site for camping and outdoor environmental and recreational
activities. The place is also a good venue for meetings, gatherings and
other occasions.
NATURAL
1. Daranak Falls
Brgy. Tandang Kutyo, Tanay, Rizal
A favorite location shooting area of most local and international movies
and advertising outfits in the country, Daranak Falls nestles quietly at the
foot of the Tanay mountains, preserved with the natural vegetation,
complemented with beautiful waterfalls, ponds and rivers cascading
through elaborate tropical trees and plants. This 14-meter high falls is
truly a refreshing site.
2. Batlag Falls
Tanay, Rizal
Further up the mountain, a smaller yet enchanting falls called Batlag Falls
will transport you to another natural paradise. Swimming in the cool and
flowing water of the falls around a forested vicinity will truly inspire people
to preserve and protect nature’s wonders.
3. Talim Island
Binangonan, Rizal
It is the island where 17 coastal barangays of the municipality of
Binangonan are located. They are situated along the shores of Laguna de
Bay where traditional fresh water fishing is a thriving industry.
4. Overlooking View
Sumulong Highway, Antipolo City
An area on top of a hill along Sumulong Highway where one can have a
splendid view of the metropolis. There are several restaurants and bars
that serve as a haven for people who like to unwind and savor the
beautiful scenery below it.
5. Pililla View Area
Sitio Bugarin, Pililla, Rizal
Located along the a winding mountain road stretching 2 kilometers along
Sitio Bugarin, this viewing area is on top of a mountain overlooking
Laguna Lake and the horizon outlines of Mt. Makiling and Mt. Banahaw.
6. Susong Dalaga
Brgy. Sapang, Talim Island, Binangonan, Rizal
A 200 meter-high mountain which is considered by the locals to be shaped
like a lady’s breast. A trek to this mountain challenges the grit,
perseverance and physical stamina of hikers. From this vantage point, a
feeling of “being high” comes by looking at the scenic Laguna Lake and its
breathtaking surroundings.
7. Uugong Arts and Cultural Park
Brgy. Bombongan, Morong, Rizal
Owned by Rafael Pacheco where he conducts his art workshops,
demonstrations and lectures. It is also a perfect hide-away from the
maddening crowd of the metropolis and as a nature sanctuary. One can
enjoy a three-in-one view of Morong town with its four-centuries old bell
tower.
8. Hinulugang Taktak
Taktak Road, Antipolo City
The town of Antipolo is well-renowned as the host of Hinulugang Taktak
Falls. This mountain resort has picnic cottages, a swimming pool, artificial
paths and steps to view the environs and the waterfalls. The month of
May attracts thousands of visitors to watch concerts and plays, along with
popular activities in the city such as pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady
of Peace and Good Voyage, picnics, shopping for native delicacies and
dining at native restaurants.
MAN-MADE
1. Hamaka Park
Along the National Road, Antipolo City
Named after the term hamaka or hammock. For the many years past, this
was the means of transporting ladies on their way to the pilgrimage site of
Nuestra Senora dela Paz y Buenviaje (Our Lady of Peace and Good
Voyage). The hammock was borne by two men who hike up and down
the hilly terrain of Antipolo with their precious cargo comfortably settled in
the hamaka.
2. Pamitinan Cave and Wawa Dam
Brgy. Wawa, Rodriguez, Rizal
Pamitinan Cave is a historic site. It is where Andres Bonifacio, together
with other 8 katipuneros declared independence from Spain on April 12,
1895, a year before the start of the Philippine revolution. The cave still
bears the inscription of Andres Bonifacio and his followers: “Viva la
Independencia Filipinas”
Wawa Dam is located at the picturesque foothills of the Sierra Madre
mountains. It supplies water to parts of the metropolis, passing through
large pipes. It has a beautiful gorge which lies between two limestone
mountains. Four caves are said to have been inhabited by the Japanese
soldiers during the Second World War. Wawa Dam is a key ecotourism
site in the Southern Tagalog region.
RELIGIOUS
1. Boso-Boso Church
Brgy. San Jose, Antipolo City
The Boso-Boso church was restored from the ruins of a centuries-old
church that was destroyed during the World War II. It stands amidst old
stones, vines and inspired nature landscaping.
2. Our Lady of Antipolo Shrine
Antipolo City
It is known to be the shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage
(Nuestra Senora de la Paz y Buen Viaje). History says that this
miraculous icon sailed back and forth between Manila and Acapulco
during the years of the galleon trade. On several occasions, the Blessed
Virgin was credited with saving the Spanish galleons from destruction by
pirates, Dutch and British blockades. The safe arrivals of the galleons
were attributed to the miraculous powers of the icon. It was on November
26, 1926 that the Blessed Virgin from Acapulco was dedicated by the
Archbishop of Manila, Michael O' Doherty. The month of May is a monthlong fiesta in Antipolo, when thousands of devotees come to pay homage
to Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage.
3. Tanay Catholic Church
Tanay, Rizal
The first structure of the church was made of nipa and bamboo when it
was built in 1606. The current structure, made of locally quarried stone,
was completed in 1680. In 1783, it was reconstructed together with the
convent. The church is an example of early Renaissance architecture. It
has a four-storey octagonal tower, a façade of adobe blocks, relieved by
columns and semicircular arched windows. Its podium is adorned by a
niche with a statue of San Ildefonso de Toledo. A convent and a courtyard
connect the church to the Catholic school managed by the Diocese of
Antipolo. Within are ornate altars with statues of saints. Finely carved,
the 200 year-old Stations of the Cross add luster to the antiquity of the
church.
4. Baras Church
Baras, Rizal
The church is one of the oldest in the area, having been completed in
1686. The first church in Baras was built by the Franciscans in 1595. The
town of Baras was transferred to Ibayo in 1636, but the church was
returned to the present site in 1682. It was the Jesuits who administered
the parish from 1616 to 1679. The altar is unique and stone artifacts were
unearthed beneath the church.
5. Morong Church
San Jose, Morong, Rizal
St. Jerome Church stands high above the town of Morong. It was built in
1615 by Chinese craftsmen as evidenced by the Chinese-style lions at the
entrance to the steep driveway. It took three years to construct the church
which was funded by the people of Morong. The stone and mortar church
has steps leading up to the front. The cross on the tower is illuminated at
night and can be seen clearly from the countryside. It has a tower in front
with an imposing statue of St. Michael the Archangel. The three-storey
façade which was built in 1850-1853 to support a new bell tower is one of
the most splendid examples of baroque architecture in the Philippines. It
is in graduated levels, surmounted by a four-storey octagonal bell tower of
European influence, with paired columns at the four exterior corners. The
ornamentation consists of long, simple nave. The 14 Stations of the Cross
are beautifully done. The restoration of the ceiling has been done and old
beams are now visible.
6. Ang Kalbaryo
Brgy. Libid, Binangonan, Rizal
Ang Kalbaryo is known not only for its religious significance, but also for its
historical value. According to the old folks, a cross-shaped rock suddenly
grew out of the summit, but was destroyed by lightning and earthquake. In
1783, the people erected on the same spot, a wooden cross in place of
the original cross. A chapel was built on top of a hill overlooking Laguna
Lake.
SPECIAL INTEREST
1. Golf
Valley Golf and Country Club
Sumulong Highway, Antipolo City
The land area, terrain and topography of the valley meet the criteria for a
standard championship golf course. The clubhouse is the venue for
special events and fellowship of club members and guests.
East Ridge Golf Club
Binangonan, Rizal
Sprawled on an exciting vista of mountain ridges, rolling hills and ravines,
the 18-hole par 72 championship course spans eighty hectares of an
exciting golfing challenge.
2. Art Appreciation Tours
Angono, Binangonan, Tanay and Morong abound with art galleries and
artist havens where traditional and contemporary paintings and
masterpieces are arrayed. A visitor imbibes the culture and artistic genius
of the Filipino. The galleries of Vicente Manansala in Binangonan; the
galleries of Blanco and Nemiranda in Angono; the Pacheco Gallery in
Morong. The Antipolo and Angono Art Galleries are excellent sources of
artworks by the artists of Rizal.
3. Dining
Rizal province is well known for its bountiful harvest of fruits and the rich
bounty of freshwater catch from Laguna de Bay.
Many native-styled restaurants rise above fishponds and beneath shaded
groves, serving fresh fish, cooked to specifications.
Cainta is famous for coco jam, a sticky-sweet concoction. In summer, the
stalls around the Cathedral of Antipolo sell hot cashew nuts, suman, a
delicacy of sticky rice rolled and wrapped in coconut fronds and a variety
of summer fruits like mangoes, duhat and sineguelas.
ROMBLON
I. ACCESSIBILITY
 From Manila, MBRS lines operate three passenger vessels from Pier 8
at the Port of Manila ply the 10-hour Manila-Romblon route;
 From Batangas Port, Montenegro Shipping and Viva Shipping Lines
operate the 8-hour sea travel to the ports of Odiongan, San Agustin
and Magdiwang in Sibuyan Island;
 From Caticlan in Aklan, a 15-minute pumpboat ride will take you to
San Jose town in Carabao island;
 Sibuyan Island can also be reached from Dalahican Port in Lucena
thru Monte Carlo Shipping Lines;
 By Air, Laoag Airways service the Manila-Tablas route every Tuesday,
Thursday and Saturday;
 Pump boats/motorized bancas have regular trips connecting various
islands in the province;
 Jeepneys and tricycles are available in all towns for local trips.
II. HISTORY
The early aborigines of Romblon were believed to be the Negritos from Panay
island and the Mangyans from Mindoro. It was in 1582 when the Loarca
expedition came to the islands and named them collectively as “ Lomlon”. The
secular clergy administered the province until 1635.
Romblon was annexed to the province of Capiz in 1818 and was made into a
political and military station by the Spanish colonial government. The Americans,
who came to rule in 1901, appointed a civil government to run local affairs. About
a century later in 1917, Romblon became an autonomous province, but it was
only in 1947 when this was formalized by Republic Act No. 38, which repealed
Commonwealth Act No. 581.
III. BASIC FACTS
o Total Land Area
o Population
o Municipalities
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Romblon
Banton
Concepcion
Corcuera
San Jose
Alacantara
Calatrava
Ferrol
Looc
-
135,690 hectares
264,357 (NSO 2000)
10. Sta Fe
11. San Agustin
12. San Andres
13. Odionagan
14. Sta Maria
15. Cajidiocan
16. Magdiwang
17. San Fernando

Capital
-
Romblon
o Climate
November to April dry season
May to October
wet season
IV. ATTRACTIONS
o Historical
1. Fort San Andres and Fort Santiago
Poblacion, Romblon, Romblon
Twin Spanish forts constructed from coral blocks and bricks between 1644
and 1573, the fort provided a vantage view of the town at 156 feet above
sea level. These sentinels of bygone era once served as protection of the
town against raiders and pirates.
o Natural
1. Bonbon Beach
Barangay Lonos, Romblon, Romblon
Half a kilometer in length with a width of approximately 18 meters, the
shoreline is covered with fine white sand and features a gradually sloping
ocean floor free of sea grass and sharp stones. Across the beach is a
small islet, which is accessible by foot during low tide. This islet has a
secluded swimming area with a short stretch of fine white sand beach.
2. Tiamban Beach
Barangay Lonos, Romblon, Romblon
Shoreline of approximately 50 meters is covered with fine white sand. Its
features are much the same as the Bonbon Beach except that it has a
narrow beachfront.
3. Nagoso Cave
Barangay Cobrador, Romblon, Romblon
The largest natural Cave in town and is believed to be a burial ground due
to the presence of ancient works of art, according to the local lore.
4. Marble Beach Resort
Barangay Ginablan, Romblon, Romblon
Cottages are available for rent.
5. Cobrador Beach Resort
Barangay Cobrador, Romblon, Romblon
Among the treasures of Cobrador are its beaches. One is located the
eastern side of the islet. A wide expanse of the shore is covered with fine
white sand crushed corals, with a gradually sloping ocean floor. It is free of
seaweeds but about 15 meters from the shores big boulders abound.
Cottages are available for rent.
6. Talipasak Beach Resort
Barangay Ginablan, Romblon, Romblon
A beach resort proximate to the Marble Beach Resort.
7. Kawilihan Falls
Barangay Calabogo, Romblon, Romblon
A natural falls amidst lush greenery and tropical vegetation, it is
approximately 12 kilometers from the town proper.
8. Marble Quarries and Factories
Romblon, Romblon
One’s stay in Romblon is not complete without a visit to one of its marble
quarries and factories. Comparable to Italy’s Cararra, Romblon’s world
famous marble comes in a spectrum of shades ranging from white to black
with in-between tints of mottled white, tiger white and onyx. A guided tour
to one of the marble factories is enlightening on how marble is processed
into works of art.
9. Binay-we Beach
Gui-ob, Alcantara, Romblon
The site is about a kilometer from the national road and Poblacion. It is
located at the eastern side of Gui-ob with natural rock formations and
hills. The beach is a small cove with fine white sand, with waters that
remain calm the whole year round. It is partly cut-off from the public with
the presence of big boulders.
10. Bonlao Beach
Barangay. Bonlao, Alcantara, Romblon
Approximately 5 ½ kilometers from Poblacion, the beach is along the
eastern side of Brgy. Bonlao and very near the national road. The beach is
a good swimming spot because the shores are clean and sandy.
11. Tugdan Beach
Barangay. Tugdan, Alcantara Romblon
The beach has a wide shoreline covered with clean gravel of uniform
sizes. The waters from this part of the island are calm with deep ocean
floor.
12. Calagonsao Beach
Barangay Calagonsao, Alcantara, Romblon
A beach beside the national highway. It has a pebble-covered shoreline.
Its ocean floor though, is sandy that dips abruptly about six meters from
the shoreline. A cluster of boulders jutting from the shore to about 10
meters into the sea provides a perfect diving spot for swimmers.
13. Guyangun Caves
Banton, Romblon
Believed to be a burial site of Banton’s ancestors, the centuries-old coffins
made of hallowed logs were discovered in the caves.
14. Cawa-cawa Falls
Barangay Lumang Este, Cajidjocan, Romblon
The falls is approximately 7 kilometers away from the Poblacion. The
cascading water falls into kettle-shaped pools below which were carved
from the solid rock formation by the force of the cascading waters over the
centuries.
15. Little Baguio Falls
Cambijang, Cajidiocan, Romblon
The falls has crystal clear cool water surrounded by big rocks and forested
environs providing shade to its visitors. It is about 4 kilometers from the
Poblacion.
16. Tinagong Dagat
Barangay Talisay, Calatrava, Romblon
A circular pool of salt water about 10 meters from the sea. It is about 40
meters in diameter and seven fathoms at its deepest. According the local
folks, it defies the law of gravity for it rises when the tide is low and
subsides during high tide.
17. Oregon Rock
Off the coast of Barangay Talisay, Calatrava Romblon
It consists of two black boulders standing guard at the entrance to
Romblon Pass. The bigger rock towers over 20 meters high and in
between the rocks, there is a small patch of white sand where nature
lovers can spend the day in solitude.
18. Aliwanyag Beach
Guinhayaan, Looc, Romblon
The beach is a secluded cove along Looc Bay. It has a narrow shore
covered with white sands and crushed corals.
19. Roda Beach
Camandag Looc, Romblon
An ideal place for swimming, it is very popular because it can be reached
by land and sea. The beach has a bit of local history. A footprint of
Talabokon, the legendary hero of the local folks was left imprinted on a
rock.
20. Looc Bay
Town Proper, Looc, Romblon
The sanctuary of the marine vessels during typhoons and inclement
weather. It has clear blue waters good for swimming, scuba diving and
water skiing. Surrounding the bay is a panoramic view of mountain ranges
and rolling hills. In the middle of the bay is a submerged coral island
where the lighthouse stands. Sunset is a sight to behold at Looc Bay.
21. Buenavista Beach
Buenavista, Looc Romblon
A favorite swimming area. It has fine sand and blue-green waters. A few
meters away from the beach is an ideal for photographic compositions.
22. Malapantao Beach
Camandag Looc, Romblon
A beach with some uniquely formed rocky portion ideal for diving. It has
clean blue-green waters good for swimming.
23. Pili Falls
Barangay Pili, Looc, Romblon
The waters from the falls form a natural deep pool for swimming. The
water is always cool even during summer and anyone can leave bottles of
drinks under the water to cool. There are also huge vines that can be used
for diving.
24. Looc Reservoir
Barangay Punta, Looc, Romblon
It supplies potable water to Looc town. It has a man made swimming pool
surrounded with ornamental plants and fruit-bearing trees planted by the
local government and other government agencies. The place also serves
locals the venue for events, conferences and local events.
25. Agojo Beach
Barangay Agojo, Looc, Romblon
A beach with fine white sands and clear blue water. There is an islet made
of rocks where various species of shells abound.
26. Lambingan Falls
Barangay Silum, Magdiwang, Romblon
About 8 kilometers from Poblacion, it lies amidst lush greenery and
vegetations. The falls has a natural pool ideal for swimming and picnics.
27. Mt. Guiting-guiting
Straddles the towns of Magdiwang, San Fernando and Cajidiocan in
Sibuyan, Romblon
Mt. Guiting-guiting is the highest peak in Romblon. Considered among the
more formidable mountains of the country, it rises a little more than 6,000
feet above sea level and has a rugged terrain that presents a series of
challenges to mountaineers and climbers
28. Poctoy Beach
Barangay Poctoy, Odiongan, Romblon
It has a wide shoreline stretching for about 3 kilometers with gray sand
beaches, which is free of grass. Dotting the shoreline are resorts with
cottages and picnics huts.
29. Mainit Falls
Barangay Patoo, Odiongan, Romblon
As its name implies, it pours out warm waters and lies amidst the lush
greenery of the highlands of Odiongan. It has a three-tiered falls that pour
into deep pools where one can bathe luxuriously.
30. Garing Falls
Progreso West, Odiongan, Romblon
The cool waters from the falls form two lakes- the second pool has depth
of three fathoms and a width-span of 15 meters ideal for swimming while
the first pool is smaller and more shallow in depth.
31. Dubduban-Bita Falls Busay Resort
Border of Brgy. Dubduban and Bita, San Agustin Romblon
It has seven-tiered falls and lies amidst dense vegetation and cool
surroundings. The first tier is on top of a hill with a 70-foot drop into a deep
pool of clear blue-green waters.
32. Kambaya Beach Resort
Barangay Binonga-an, San Agustin, Romblon
A long and white sandy shore with cottages and amenities for tourists .
This place provides a full view of Romblon island
33. Mablaran Falls
Barangay Linawan, San Andres, Romblon
The falls lies amidst lush greenery and wild foliage. It pours into a pool of
cool, blue-green waters with depth of about 20 ft.
34. San Andres Beach
Town proper of San Andres, Romblon
Fine gray sand line the three-kilometer stretch of San Andres shoreline.
Good for swimming during the months of January to May, it has several
attractive native cottages where one can relax during the picnics.
35. Cantingas River Resort
Barangay Taclobo, San Fernando, Romblon
It is a natural swimming pool and the water is cold, crystal clear and everflowing where one can quench his thirst while swimming. Around 4
kilometers away from Poblacion. It has a cottage with a conference hall.
36. Busay Falls
Barangay Panangcalan, San Fernando, Romblon
A scenic spot with natural pool and is about 2.5 kilometers from the town
proper. The upper portion is the water reservoir serving the town with its
water requirement.
37. Cresta de Gallo
Barangay Azagra, San Fernando, Romblon
A five-hectare kidney-shaped islet with verdant terrain sloping down to the
powdery white sand beach and surrounded by beautiful coral reefs. The
islet is rich with different species of marine life and is an ideal place for
swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving.
38. San Jose Island
San Jose, Romblon
It is a flat landscape of around 28.9 square kilometers and has the most
beautiful beaches in the province of Romblon. Its beaches is covered with
powdery fine white sands, with clear warm water and a gradually sloping
ocean floor. The transportation around the islet is limited to bancas, horse
rides and motorbikes.
40. Canyayo Beach
Barangay Canyayao , Sta. Fe, Romblon
The beach is a combination of white sands and crushed corals. Its ocean
floor drops abruptly.
41. Santa Fe Trail
Santa Fe Romblon
The mountain-zigzag road leading to Santa Fe is where one can view the
beautiful Tablas Strait, Looc Bay, the neighboring islands of Panay , San
Jose and Boracay Islands. The place is excellent place for hiking and sight
seeing
42. Japar Islet
Off the coast of Brgy. Guinbirayan, Sta. Fe, Romblon
A small islet dotted with golden-hued sandy beaches. The sea around it is
generally calm the whole year round and considered the richest fishing
ground in the province.
43. Bayani or Tamaraw Hill
San Vicente, Corcuera Romblon
A battleground between the Japanese and Fil-American forces during the
World War II.
44. Suba Bay Lagoon
San Roque & Mabini Corquera Romblon
A 28-hectare body of water that lies ensconced between barangay San
Roque and Mabini. Provides a magnificent view of serene seascape.
45. Guiniwagan Cave
Barangay Mahaba, Corcuera, Romblon
A domelike structure abounds with stalagmites and stalactites. There is
also a pool of cool water ideal for swimming.
47. Batom Beach
San Roque, Corcuera, Romblon
A wide stretch of white beaches.
48. Manaha Beach
Barangay Manaha, Corcuera, Romblon
A wide stretch of white beaches.
49. Cotta Tower
Poblacion, Corcuera, Romblon
The remains of Spanish fort constructed between 1860-1855 by San
Agustin de Pedro to ward off pirates. It is situated on a hill over-looking the
town.
50. Panorama Point
Barangay Tacasan, Corcuera Romblon
A point along the road where passing inter-island vessels can be viewed.
The area serves as shelter during typhoons.
51. Grotto
Mangansag, Corcuera, Romblon
Located at the peak of Mount Andradoon is a grotto of the Immaculate
Concepcion where pilgrims and devotees usually go during Lenten
season
52. Lis-ong Cave
Colong-colong, Corcuera, Romblon
A cave where stalactite aand stalagmite formations abound.
53. Mayo’s Peak
Tampayan, Magdiwang, Romblon
A primary forest suited for biological research because of its biodiversity
and endemic species of flora and fauna.
54. Libong Bato
Dulangan, Magdiwang, Romblon
A natural spring resort
55. Busay
Tuburan, Odiongan, Romblon
A natural resort with seven major and minor waterfalls, where three
limestone caves, with numerous mineral springs that gush with curative
properties.
56. Romblon Bay
Romblon, Romblon
Reputed to be the best harbor in the country. Romblon Bay boasts of a
deep landlocked bay. During inclement weather, inter-island ships take
shelter here. Facing the sea is the capital town of Romblon with colorful
bancas and quaint houses lining the dock.
57. Alad
Off the coast of Romblon town
Tranquil and undisturbed by the modern world, Alad has several stretches
of beaches on its southeastern portion. Generally with off- white sand and
crushed corals, the shorefronts are wide and the waters are warm. The
ocean floor slopes abruptly downwards and at about 15 meters out at sea,
at the depth of approximately eight feet, are scattered big boulders.
Behind the line of trees along the shore are the houses of the community.
Tourists rarely go this far but there are lodging houses available for
visitors.
58. Logbon
Off the coast Romblon town
Logbon is the nearest islet to Romblon. It lies directly along the path of
ocean-going vessels calling at this port. The three island barangays of
Romblon town is practically surrounded by white sand beaches. On the
western side in Barangay Lanas, lies a long stretch of white beach.
Spanning about one and a half kilometers and 30 meters wide. It has
clear waters and sandy ocean floor that drops abruptly. Approximately 50
meters from the shore, at the depth of about 10 feet, are big, black
boulders.
59. Poctoy Beach
Barangay Poctoy, Odiongan, Romblon
Barangay Poctoy has a wide shoreline stretching for about three
kilometers. Its white sand beach is free of sea grass but has an abrupt
downward slope. Dotting the shoreline are resorts with native cottages
with huts for lodging and picnics.
60. Aliwanyag Beach
Barangay Ginhayan, Looc, Romblon
Aliwanyag beach is a little way off the beaten track. The nearest road ends
at about half a kilometer from the beach which necessitates a 10 to 15 minute trek across rice fields. The beach is secluded cove along Looc
Bay. It has a narrow shoreline covered with white sand and crushed
corals. This beach is a favorite picnic ground of local folks.
61. Canyayo Beach
Barangay Canyayo, Sta Fe, Romblon
This beach is a combination of white sand and crushed corals. Its ocean
floor with pebbles drops abruptly. Facilities like picnic huts, restaurants
and others are still non-existent. Visitors are advised to bring provisions
like food and drinking water.
o Religious
1. St. Joseph’s Cathedral
Town Proper of Romblon
Built by the Recollect Fathers in the 15th century, the church features an
altar and houses a veritable collection of antique icons and religious
paintings.
2. Bishop’s Palace
Barangay Lonos, Romblon, Romblon
Constructed out of clay bricks by Msgr. Nicolas Mondejar, the first Bishop
of Romblon, it is the official residence of the Bishop of Romblon.
o Special Interest
1. Mountain Climbing
Mt. Guiting-guiting is the highest peak in Romblon. It is considered to be
among the more formidable mountains in the country. Rising to
approximately 6,000 feet above sea level, its rugged terrain presents
several challenges to professional mountaineers and climbers who scale
the rugged terrain before reaching its peak. This mountain straddles the
towns
of Magdiwang, San Fernando and Cajidiocan in the island of
Sibuyan.
2. Sightseeing
Make a circling tour covering the historic Fort of San Andres, the beaches
of Looc and Odiongan, fisherman’s boat ride to Sta Fe, a swim at the
pebble beaches of Alcantara, then to the capital island for sweeping and
majestic view of the province. Include a trip to San Agustin where one can
view the seven-tiered falls of Dubduban-bita and an observation cruise off
the shore of Tablas Island in Calatrava. Here, take a spellbinding look at
the menacing big black boulders of Romblon, looking like titans from the
deep standing guard at the entrance to the bay.
3. Swimming
Swimming is best in many parts of Romblon, particularly along the foamy
beachwaters of Logbon with its powdery white sands and the beaches of
Cobrador Island and Alad.
4. Diving
Diving enthusiasts will find the underwater of Calagunsao Beach in
Alcantara as well as the rich marine gardens and awesome ocean floor of
San Jose, an unforgettable experience. Here the big black boulders
common only in Romblon, surround the coastline of the province, like
mighty walls of a medieval port.
5. Shopping
Romblon is home to the high quality of marble deposits that are crafted
into a variety of products and sculptured pieces. Furniture items, vases,
figurines and various décor pieces and souvenir items made of marble
are on sale at the pier in Romblon Island.
BATANGAS
ACCESSIBILITY
 Southern route – South Luzon Expressway is the main artery, with exit at
Calamba City, Laguna to access to the province of Batangas
 Western route – Coastal Road through the towns of Cavite onward to
Nasugbu, Batangas through Aguinaldo Highway
 CALABARZON (Cavite-Laguna-Batangas-Rizal-Quezon) route – The
highway system and well-developed road network of this region links the
province with neighboring provinces with ease and convenience for
tourism, trade and commerce.
 Major bus companies such as Tritran, Jam, Batangas Express Liner,
Triftman, ALPS, CJC Transit ply the well-developed roads to and from
Metro Manila and within CALABARZON on a regular basis. Bus terminals
are located at Buendia and Taft Avenue, Araneta Center in Cubao,
Quezon City and EDSA in Pasay City,
HISTORY
Founded in 1581, Batangas used to be a bigger province composed of the
present Batangas, Mindoro, Marinduque and the southeastern portion of
Laguna. It used to be called Balayan, with this town as the old capital.
In the 18th century, Marinduque and Mindoro were made into separate
provinces. In 1732, the capital was transferred to Taal. Finally, in 1754, the
capital was transferred to Batangas and the province was thereafter named
after the new capital.
BASIC FACTS
 Total Land Area
:
316,580 hec.
 Population
:
1,905,348 as of May 2000
 Climate
:
Naturally Mild; with dry and rainy
season
 No. of Municipalities/ Cities
:
32 municipalities and 3 cities
 Capital
:
Batangas City
Municipalities:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
Agoncillo
Alitagtag
Balayan
Balete
Bauan
Calaca
Calatagan
Cuenca
Ibaan
Laurel
Lemery
Lian
Lobo
Mabini
Malvar
Mataas na Kahoy
Cities:
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
Nasugbu
Padre Garcia
Rosario
Sam Jose
San Juan
San Luis
San Nicolas
San Pascual
Sta. Teresita
Sto. Tomas
Taal
Talisay
Tanauan
Taysan
Tingloy
Tuy
ATTRACTIONS

HISTORICAL
1.
General Miguel Malvar Museum and Library
(National Landmark)
Gen. Malvar St., Sto. Tomas, Batangas
1. Batangas City
2. Lipa City
3. Tanauan City
A national landmark, it is a repository of the memorabilia of the last Filpino
general who surrendered to the Americans. It also houses a collection of
oil paintings belonging to the Malvar family.
2.
Apolinario Mabini Shrine ( National Shrine)
Brgy. Talaga, Tanauan City
The shrine in Barrio Talaga, Tanauan Batangas, is a memorial to the
nationalism of the “Sublime Paralyctic” whose moral convictions and
political principles inspired the Filipinos in their search for national identity.
It houses the remains and personal memorabilia of the late revolutionary
hero, Apolinario Mabini, who is also known as the “Brains of Katipunan.”
3.
Museo ng Batangas at Aklatang Panlalawigan
Provincial Capitol Site, Batangas City
The Museo ng Batangas is a modest repository of Batangas memorabilia.
It is also an institution engaged in the preservation of the cultural wealth
and traditions of Batangas and the Batangueño spirit that has animated
the arts and the sciences, politics, economics of the province.
4.
Batangas Memorial Foundation Museum ad Library
V. Ilustre Street, Taal, Batangas
Relics of a glorious past, are displayed in the 18th century house on V.
Ilustre Street, Taal. The house contains the Batangas Memorial
Foundation Museum and Library. It endured two world wars and
underwent two major renovations in 1870 and 1940, to attain its present
form. Its heavy doors, black and white marble tiles, and hardwood
paneling are all reminiscent of 19th century architecture.
5.
Jose P. Laurel Memorial Library
A. Mabini Avenue, Tanauan City
The personal property of the late President Jose P. Laurel is housed here
and the collection was donated by the Laurel family to the Philippine
Government as a historical site and public library. The library is open
everyday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
6.
San Sebastian Library of the Arts
Lipa City
The San Sebastian Library of the arts opened its doors on February 10,
1996 starting with a modest collection of art books and memorabilia
donated by Mr. Danilo Dolor, a prominent Batangueño and patron of the
arts.
7.
Marcela M. Agoncillo Historical Landmark
Marcela M. Agoncillo Street, Taal, Batangas
The birthplace of Marcela Agoncillo, the maker of first official Filipino Flag
during the Philippine Revolution against the Spanish authorities. The
different flags of the revolution are prominently displayed together with the
family’s collection of photographs, furniture and memorabilia.
8.
Casa de Segunda Katigbak
198 Calle Rizal, Lipa City
The ancestral home of the Katigbaks, a prominent Batangas family. The
Casa is a typical “Bahay na Bato”. It is Spanish colonial yet tropical in
style. It was named after Segunda Katigbak, reputed to be the first love of
Dr. Jose P. Rizal, the Philippine national hero. Casa Segunda is declared
by the National Historical Commission as a heritage house, for having
harbored generations of artists, poets, and persons of learning and
distinction.
9.
Punta de Santiago Lighthouse
Calatagan, Batangas
Built in 1890, it is one of the earliest lighthouses that still functions up to
the present.
CULTURAL
1.
Pastor House
C. Tirona Street, Batangas City
It is an example of a beautiful turn-of century residential design. It was
originally owned by Mr. Alejo Acosta, the Barrio Captain of Batangas in
1883 and was later acquired and restored by the Pastor family. It is at
present maintained as a private residence.
2.
Flights of Steps
Taal, Batangas
Connecting the Taal Church and Caysasay Shrine is a flight of 123 roughhewn marble steps. A path branches off to the Santa Lucia wells. The
water is believed to be curative by people of deep faith in the Virgin Of
Caysasay.
3.
Santa Lucia Wells
Taal, Batangas
About 500 meters off the steps past a dried creek and gloomy
undergrowth are the twin wells of Sta. Lucia in Taal. The present site used
to be a brook where the Virgin of Caysasay performed miracles and where
a church was built by the townsfolk. The violence of the 18th century
earthquake sank the church but its half immersed facade remains intact.
After the quake, spring water gushed out of the twin doors.
4.
Msgr. Clemente G. Yatco Museum
Basilica Site, Batangas City
The museum was built in memory of the late parish priest who started the
creation of the museum. It is found within the compound of the Basilica of
the Immaculate Conception located at the city proper of Batangas.
5.
Ilagan Ancestral House
Marcela Agoncillo Street, Taal, Batangas
A well preserved residential structure constructed in the late Spanish
period. It is still used by the descendants as a private residence. Visitors
are accommodated only by special arrangements with the owners.
6.
Taal Heritage Village
Taal reigns as one of the most architecturally preserved sites of the
Spanish colonial era in the Southern Tagalog region, next to Ciudad
Fernandina of Vigan, Ilocos Sur.
The beautifully quaint and well-preserved town of Taal showcases its
beautiful antillan and art deco period homes; exquisite embroidery craft,
old churches and historical landmarks associated with the Philippine
revolution.

Leon Apacible Historical Landmark (National Landmark)
The ancestral house of Leon Apacible, one of the heroes of the
revolution along with the family’s collection of memorabilia.

Marcela Mariño Agoncillo Historical Landmark
The birthplace of Marcela Agoncillo, the maker of the first Filipino flag
during the Philippine Revolution. The different flags of the revolution
are prominently displayed together with the family’s collection of
photographs, furniture and memorabilia.

Basilica of San Martin de Tours - Taal Basilica
San Martin de Tours is the patron saint of Taal in whose honor a feast
is celebrated every November 11. The church was first built by Father
Diego Espina in 1575 in the town of San Nicolas. It was destroyed
when Taal volcano erupted in 1754. It was rebuilt at the present site in
1755, but was destroyed again by an earthquake in 1849. Construction
of the present church was started in 1856, which was supervised by an
architect, Lucina Oliver. It was once known to be the biggest church in
South East Asia.
The church is unique with design features that combine patriotic,
religious and artistic influences. Artists point to the theatrical
exuberance of its baroque façade consisting of a single mass of stone
shaped with rich complex designs. The church, however, is a fusion of
styles with arched openings, alternating segmental canopies and
arches of asymmetric shapes.

Escuela Pia
This centuries-old Spanish vintage edifice used to be an educational
institution. It is now an architectural legacy that stands prominently in
the town plaza.

Our Lady of Caysasay Church
This church is one of the province’s distinct cultural artifacts from the
Spanish colonial period. Among these relics are the 27-centimeter
image of the Virgin which was fished out of the waters in 1603. The
Augustinian emblems engraved on the communion rails, the ornately
carved holy water receptacle, and the few baroque motifs remain on
the external frieze. The church has been renovated, but many
interesting details of period art can still be appreciated.
NATURAL
1. Gerthel Beach
Lobo, Batangas
Gerthel Beach is one of the finest beaches of the area. The one-kilometer
stretch of white sand beach has a gradually sloping ocean floor of up to
about two hundred meters before the drop off.
2. Submarine Garden
Lobo, Batangas
The garden consists of living corals near the shore of one of the beaches
of Lobo. It can be clearly seen during the early mornings, when the water
is clear and the tide is low.
3. Mahabang Buhangin Beach
Laiya, San Juan, Batangas
Located in the town of San Juan, the area has white sand and a living
colony of corals.
4. Hugon Beach
Barangay Hugon, San Juan, Batangas
The white sand of Hugon Beach is one kilometer long. Some parts of the
sea floor have smooth rocks but most are sandy. There is a sudden dropoff of about ten meters from the beach. The waters of the beach are also
good for snorkeling.
5. Tingga Falls
Daang Ibaan, Batangas City
The falls is about 30 meters high with at its base as a swimming area. It is
semi-developed with concrete steps built for easy access.
6. Munting Buhangin Falls
Nasugbu, Batangas
This small cove has become a favorite haunt of local and foreign tourists,
and offers water enthusiasts with a fine stretch of powdery white sand
beach, fringed with foamy blue waters.
7. Natipuan Beach
Nasugbu, Batangas
Natipuan Beach bears a resemblance to Munting Buhangin, with off-white
sand and refreshing waters. It is located in another cove, which is similarly
accessible.
8. Taal Lake and Volcano
Taal, Batangas
Taal Lake and Volcano in Batangas is one of Southern Luzon’s
centerpiece attraction. The gateway for most visitors is through the town of
Talisay or Tagaytay City whose ridge gives a panoramic view of Volcano
Island. The volcano is known to be the smallest in the world. Surrounded
by a lake, the volcano is situated on an 8.8-kilometer islet, lapped by the
27-kilometer-long lake. Both the lake and the volcano are situated at the
crater of an extinct volcano. The Volcano Island is also ideal for trekking.
9. Matabungkay Beach
Matabungkay, Lian, Batangas
It is a two-kilometer long white sand beach situated in the town of Lian,
facing the China Sea. The area is ideal for water sports, such as
swimming, boating, yachting, fishing, and skin diving. Dotting the shoreline
are several summer cottages.
10. Mt. Maculot
Cuenca, Batangas
One of the highest and most prominent mountains in the province, Mt.
Maculot is one of the favorite sites of mountain trekkers. It is said that the
mountain was the last stronghold of the Japanese Imperial Army. Several
tunnels built by the Japanese soldiers are present in the area. The name
“Maculot” (meaning “kinky”) was derived from the curly-haired aborigines
of the place.
11. Calijon Falls
Brgy, Calijon, Malvar, Batangas
This tourist attraction consists of two major falls and two smaller ones.
One of the bigger falls is about 10 meters high with a great volume of clear
water gushing down to a shallow pool. The other one (also about 10
meters high) resembles a bridal gown. One of the two smaller falls is
shower-like, while the other one forms a series of small cascades.
12. Mainit Hot Spring
Brgy. Pulang Bato, San Juan, Batangas
Mainit Hot Spring offers therapeutic mineral waters and a refreshing dip
for bathers. The spot is ideally located at the foot of a huge mountain with
thick vegetation.
13. Mahabang Buhangin
Isla Verde, Batangas
Located on Isla Verde, Mahabang Buhangin has an extensive stretch of
shoreline with a vast ribbon of fine white sand.
14. Tinalunan
Isla Verde, Batangas
This is a spot where wind-tossed waves surge against the rocky cliff
supporting a long plateau. From atop the plateau, one can catch a breath
taking view of the seascape, when the weather is clear and sunny.
15. Cueva Sitio
Isla Verde, Batangas
The site is an ideal place for picnics. Its main attraction is a rock shelter
that has provided cool shade for visitors.
16. Ilijan Falls
Brgy. Ilijan, Batangas City
Ilijan is a set of waterfalls with water coming from a big spring on top of a
mountain gracefully flowing from one bowl to another. It has seven huge
stone bowls carved naturally and beautifully arranged like a flight of stairs.
17. Sepok Point
Maricaban/Tingloy Island, Batangas
Located on the southwestern part of Maricaban Island, Sepok Point has
white sand and shores typical of a tropical cove; a good place for
swimming and snorkeling.
18. Bulalacao Falls
Bulaklakan, Lipa City
The area has about three small falls enclosed in a canyon, the highest of
which is about 10 feet high, with water coming out of the mouth of a small
cave.
RELIGIOUS
1. Basilica of Saint Martin de Tours
Taal, Batangas
Reputed to be the largest in Asia, Taal church stands 96 meters long and
45 meters wide on a plateau in the heart of Taal. The Augustinian
Missionaries started construction in 1756 and took a century to achieve its
present form. The façade resembles St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Its
tabernacle is made of silver, which is reputed to be the only one of its kind
in the Philippines.
2. Our Lady of Caysasay Church
Taal, Batangas
This church is one of the province’s distinct cultural artifacts from the
Spanish colonial period. Among these relics are the 27-centimeter
image of the Virgin which was fished out of the waters in 1603. The
Augustinian emblems engraved on the communion rails, the ornately
carved holy water receptacle, and the few baroque motifs remain on
the external frieze. The church has been renovated, but many
interesting details of period art can still be appreciated.
3. Church of San Jose
San Jose, Batangas
This church was built by the Augustinian friars around 1788. It has a
single-aisled interior, which offers an unobstructed view of the large main
altar; ceiling frescoes, and flowery capital on the columns. The altar is
massive, with six rounded columns encircling the image of St. Joseph.
The church is an interpretation of Baroque architecture in the Philippines,
and combines this with the neo-classical lines of the adjacent convent.
The pulpit and canopy is a study in intricate carvings of local flora.
Outside, a multi-tiered belfry was built in the later years of the 19th
century. A bridge offers passage to the church over the Malaquing Tubig
River.
4. Tanauan Church
Tanauan, Batangas
This church was built in 1881, along the Romanesque lines of churches in
Europe, but local builders incorporated neo-classic lines, especially along
the external sides of the church. Rounded arches tapering down to the
strong pillars harmonize with uncluttered lines of the central ceilings. The
church is remarkable for its wide-open central naves and circular niches.
5. Church of San Guillermo of Talisay
Talisay, Batangas
The construction of the church was begun by the Spanish friars in 1892,
but it suffered a heavy damage in 1898. Restoration has enabled the
structure to remain functional.
6. Church of the Immaculate Conception of Bauan
Bauan, Batangas
The Church of the Immaculate Conception of Bauan was first constructed
in 1700. It was built around neo-classical lines and its walls are broken by
the Gothic lancet windows. The altar has a tri-centered arch, with a niche
containing the statue of the Virgin. The façade of the church features both
geometric and circular forms. It has a bell tower, which is hexagonal and
rests on a base decorated with coupled columns. Topped by a campanile,
the church is arcaded with capiz shell windows on the upper level.
7. Carmelite Convent of Lipa
Lipa City
This convent of the Contemplative Order of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel was
the site of a mysterious “shower of petals” to a visionary nun after World
War II. A popular site for devotees of the Virgin Mary.
8. San Sebastian Cathedral
Lipa City
Built in the Romanesque tradition with a circular dome, massive walls and
balconies, the cathedral is the center of worship in the historic town of City
of Lipa. The Cathedral was originally built to honor St. Sebastian. Its first
grand concept was completed in 1865 but after the devastation of World
War II, it underwent massive reconstruction. This beautiful church has an
architecture which used columns and light-play. The domes of the church
and the bell tower have intricate moldings and arched stained-glass
windows. The body of the church is barrel-vaulted and is illuminated by
modern chandeliers. The church also features a winding stairway to the
choir loft.
MUSEUMS
1. Apolinario Mabini Shrine ( National Shrine)
Brgy. Talaga, Tanauan City
The Shrine in Barrio Talaga, Tanauan Batangas, is a memorial to the
nationalism of the “Sublime Paralyctic” whose moral convictions and
political principles illuminated the Filipinos in their search for national
identity. It houses the remains and some personal belongings of the late
revolutionary hero, Apolinario Mabini, who is also known as the “Brains of
Katipunan.”
2. Gen. Miguel Malvar Museum and Library
(National Landmark)
Gen. Malvar Street, Sto. Tomas, Batangas
A national landmark, it is a repository of the memorabilia of the last Filpino
general who surrendered to the Americans. It also houses a collection of
oil paintings belonging to the Malvar family.
3. Museo ng Batangas at Aklatang Panlalawigan
Provincial Capitol Site, Batangas City
The Museo ng Batangas is a repository of Batangas memorabilia. It is
also an institution engaged in the preservation of the cultural wealth and
traditions of Batangas, and the Batangueño spirit that has animated the
arts and the sciences, politics, economics of the province.
4. Marcela N. Agoncillo Historical Landmark
Marcela N. Agoncillo Street, Taal, Batangas
The birthplace of Marcela Agoncillo, the one of the three makers of the
first official Filipino Flag during the Philippine Revolution against the
Spanish authorities. The different flags of the revolution are prominently
displayed together with the family’s collection of photographs, furniture
and memorabilia of the Agoncillo family. The same flag was raised at the
balcony of the house of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo during the proclamation of
Philippine Independence from Spain on June 12, 1898.
5. Leon Apacible Historical Landmark
Marcella Agoncillo St., Taal, Batangas
The ancestral house of Leon Apacible, one of the heroes of the revolution
along with the family’s collection of memorabilia.
6. Jose P. Laurel Memorial Library
A. Mabini Avenue, Tanauan City
The personal property of the late President Jose P. Laurel is housed here
and the collection was donated by the Laurel family to the Philippine
Government as a historical site and public library. The library is open
everyday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
SPECIAL INTERESTS
1. Diving

Ligpo Island
Bauan, Batangas
Coral formations of different types and huge gorgonians abound in the
area. It is on the west side of the island.

Cathedral
Brgy. Anilao, Mabini, Batangas
Approximately 75 feet south of the Dive 7000 Resort area and about 450
feet, lies a giant rock formation that looks like an underwater
amphitheater. Originally virtually barren, the cathedral has been seeded
and restored with coral from other sites. Throngs of eager fish gather
around visiting divers waiting to be fed.

Caban Cove
Brgy. Anilao, Mabini, Batangas
This dive site is fairly sheltered. There are no exotic coral formations, but
there are plenty of small tropical fish and an interesting drop-off that goes
down in graduated steps. A good choice for shallow dives.

Layag-Layag Point
Brgy. Anilao, Mabini, Batangas
There are coral heads teeming with marine life and the water is usually
crystal clear.

Sombrero Island
Mabini, Batangas
The island’s external appearance resembles the shape of a hat. However,
underwater, its profile makes its name sombrero even more appropriate.
In certain areas, water is fairly shallow on the rim, down to about 50 feet.

Sepok
Tingloy Island, Batangas
The rim of the drop-off west-southwest to Sepok Point is a very good dive
site, with varieties of marine life.

Batalan
Mabini, Batangas
This area breaks the surface and then drops down to about 80 feet. This is
marvelous area for both wide angle and macro-photography because of
the abundant and varied coral formations and fish life.

Merriel’s Rock
Tingloy, Batangas
There are types of corals numerous enough to fascinate even a marine
biologist.

Papaya Point
Tingloy, Batangas
There is a drop-off topped by a wide variety of coral and inhabited by lots
of small reef fish.

Verde Island
Batangas City
The most popular dive sites here are the drop-off (0-300 feet) and the
remains of a Spanish galleon, which ran aground in 1620.

Maricaban / Tingloy
The island contains a cave at 125 feet, accessed by the tunnel, which
makes for challenging adventure. There are excellent coral formations,
abundant pelagic fish, and other outstanding photographic opportunities.
2. GOLF

Evercrest Golf Club and Resort
Nasugbu, Batangas
This membership golf club with a resort operates a golf shop and a
restaurant that overlooks the beautiful golf course.

Calatagan Golf Club
Calatagan, Lian Batangas
The golf club holds a unique distinction: it is located in an arboretum
where over 3,000 trees of local and foreign species are planted.
3. MOUNTAIN CLIMBING / VOLCANO TREKKING

Mt. Maculot
One of the highest and most prominent mountains in the province, Mt.
Maculot is one of the favorite sites of mountain trekkers. It is said that the
mountain was the last stronghold of the Japanese in the province before
they were defeated. Several tunnels built by the Japanese soldiers are
present in the area. The name “Maculot” (meaning “kinky”) was derived
from the curly-haired aborigines of the place.

Taal Volcano
Taal Lake and Volcano in Batangas is Southern Luzon’s centerpiece
attraction. The gateway for most visitors is through the town of Talisay or
Tagaytay City whose ridge gives a panoramic view of Volcano Island. The
volcano is known to be the smallest in the world. Surrounded by a lake,
the volcano is situated on an 8.8-kilometer islet, lapped by the 27kilometer-long lake. Both the lake and the volcano are situated on the
crater of an extinct volcano. The Volcano Island is also ideal for trekking.
4. SHOPPING
Taal town is popular for its age-old embroidery crafts. Filipiniana attire for
men and women features intricate embroidery cutwork and crochet
insertions. Balisong (Philippine hand-made fan-knife) as well as rattan,
bamboo, and woodcrafts are also excellent buys.
5. NIGHTLIFE
In Lipa and Batangas Cities, some business establishments open after
sundown, offering an array of activities to include dining, ballroom
dancing, live bands, piano bar, videoke singing, and other forms of afterdinner entertainment.
6. AQUASPORTS
Most resorts offer a wide range of watersports, such as jetski, hobbycat,
boardsailing and windsurfing.
LAGUNA
ACCESSIBILITY
 Southern route- South Expressway is the main artery , with exits at San
Pedro, Binan, Sta Rosa, Cabuyao and Calamba;
 Eastern route- Ortigas Avenue through the towns of Rizal and onward to
the eastern towns of Laguna through the Laguna de Bay road network;
 CALABARZON (Cavite-Laguna-Batangas-Rizal-Quezon) route- The
highway system and well-developed road network of this region links the
neighboring provinces with ease and convenience for tourism, trade and
commerce
 Major bus companies ply the well developed roads to and from Metro
Manila and within the CALABARZON on a regular basis. Bus terminals
are located at Buendia and Taft Avenue and EDSA in Pasay City.
HISTORY
The province of Laguna was named after Laguna de Bay, the body of
water that forms the province's boundaries. Laguna de Bay was named
after the town of Bay, which was the first provincial capital during the
Spanish period. Laguna de bay is the biggest fresh water lake in the
country.
Laguna, along with its surrounding areas, was conquered for Spain by
Captain Juan de Salcedo in 1571, after which, the Franciscan friars
started the Christianization of the province.
The province became a bloody battleground during the Chinese revolts in
1603 and 1693.The succeeding centuries brought rapid progress in
agriculture, education, commerce and cultural pursuits. The province bred
a large number of intellectuals, businessmen and landowners who
benefited from access to education and liberal ideas led by the national
hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. Fanned by his execution in 1896, thousands joined
the revolution against Spain.
Laguna was one of the first eight provinces to rise in revolt against the
Spanish rule. The ill-equipped Filipino forces, led by General Paciano
Rizal of Calamba, General Severino Taino of Pagsanjan, General Agueda
Kahabagan of Calauan, among others, fought the Spanish authorities and
won on August 31, 1898, with the surrender of the last Spanish garrison in
Sta Cruz.
On January 23, 1899, Laguna expressed its full support for the First
Philippine Republic that was proclaimed in Malolos, Bulacan. Two citizens
of Pagsanjan, Don Higino Benitez and Don Graciano Cordero,
represented the province during the historic event.
The eruption of the Filipino-American hostilities in 1899-1901 saw
Generals Juan Cailles and Paciano Rizal leading the defense of Laguna
until surrender was inevitable. Under the American Flag, Cailles was
named the first Filipino Governor of Laguna.
After the hostilities, Laguna progressed rapidly. More schools and colleges
were established, agricultural production was strengthened, core areas of
trade and commerce were established, various public services were
instituted and roads were built to link the towns to each other and with the
country’s capital in Manila. In 1917, the Manila Railroad Company
extended its line to Laguna to as far as Pagsanjan. The abundance of its
natural resources, the high literacy rate of its people and the presence of
numerous ventures in agriculture, entrepreneurship became the
determinant of its eminent position as one of the country’s most developed
provinces at the beginning of the 20th century.
Today, Laguna is a bustling province which hosts major export processing
zones, light and medium industries and educational institutions. Its fertile
lands produce millions of pesos worth of agricultural products. Its tourism
assets that dot the province have attracted a multitude of foreign and
domestic tourists.
BASIC FACTS
o Total Land Area : 175,973 hectares
o Population : 1,965,872 Million (NSO 2000 Survey)
o Name and Number of Municipalities and Cities :

Laguna is composed of 27 municipalities and 3 cities :
1. San Pedro
2. Binan
3. Cabuyao
4. Los Banos
5. Bay
6. Calauan
7. Victoria
8. Liliw
9. Rizal
10. Alaminos
11. Nagcarlan
12. Pila
13. Pagsanjan
14. Lumban
15. Kalayaan
16. Paete
17. Pangil
18. Pakil
19. Siniloan
20. Famy
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.



Mabitac
Sta Maria
Luisiana
Cavinti
Magdalena
Majayjay.
Capital : Sta Cruz
Chartered City : San Pablo City
Component Cities : Calamba City
Sta. Rosa City
o Climate :


November –April
May- October
- Dry Season
- Rainy Season
ATTRACTIONS

Historical
1. Dr. Jose Protacio Rizal Shrine
Calamba Town Proper, Calamba City
This 2 storey, red-tiled roof, typical of the residence of the principalia
of the 19th century, is maintained as a National Shrine by the national
government. It houses the National Hero’s childhood memorabilia and
that of the national hero’s family, ranging from pictures of the late hero,
boyhood sculptures of Jose Rizal, to laminated excerpts of some of his
best written works. The house is by no means an original one. Except
for the old water well, everything is a reconstruction of the original
house. The Shrine offers guided tours for groups. It has a gift shop on
the ground floor. There is no entrance fee, but donations are welcome.
The shrine is open from 8:00 am to 12:00 noon and 1:00 pm to 5:00
pm, everyday except Monday.
2. Underground Cemetery
Nagcarlan, Laguna
Built in the 18th century by the Franciscan missionaries, the
underground cemetery is enclosed by a unique circular structure. The
intricately designed wall and wrought iron gate with a red-tiled walk
lead to the small chapel, where an altar-like structure is located. The
tombstones are embedded on the underground level and brick walls of
the cemetery. At the crypt of the cemetery, according to history, is
where the local Katipuneros and followers of the secret revolutionary
societies called Katipunan, plotted against Spanish rule.
3. Trece Martires Monument
Sampalok Lake, San Pablo City
Constructed through the efforts of the Association of the Deaconess of
the Philippine Independent Church in 1927, the monument is in the
memory of the 13 martyrs of the Philippines Revolution against Spain.
4. Bonifacio Monument
Trece Martires Street, San Pablo City
Located on the southern bank of Sampalok Lake not too far from the
City Hall, it was constructed through the initiative of Mayor Vicente
Amante and was formally inaugurated on November 30, 1996 to
commemorate the birth anniversary of Andres Bonifacio, a leading
hero of the Philippine Revolution against Spain. It was designed by a
local sculptor from Sta. Cruz, Laguna.
5. Bantayog ng mga Bayani
Brgy. Sta. Isabel, San Pablo City
Commemorative statues to honor the heroism of guerillas who fought
during the World War II.
6. Bantayog ng Kagitingan (Veterans Federation,SPC Chapter)
San Mateo, San Pablo City
A commemorative marker constructed in Brgy. San Mateo , 20 minutes
drive from the City proper, where regular and special gatherings of
war veterans are usually held.
7. Homma-Yamashita Shrine
Los Baños, Laguna
Four years of war and Japanese occupation destroyed many
buildings,roads and bridges in and around Los Baños. In quick
succession, the College of Agriculture of the University of the
Philippines in Los Banos, became a camp for prisoners of war and as
an internment camp for nationals of allied nations during the Japanese
occupation of the Philippines. During the dramatic rescue of the
Americans and internees by Filipino guerillas and U.S. paratroopers on
February 23,1935, the entire campus was razed to the ground. Only
Baker Hall, the armory-gymnasium remained standing amidst the
rubble. Shortly after the war, Generals Masaharu Homma and
Tomoyuki Yamashita, the commanders of the Japanese Imperial Army
were executed in April 1946. They were tried for war crimes and
executed near the Economic Garden. The Shrine with commemorative
markings are located near the main highway.
8. Japanese Memorial Garden
Brgy. Kanluran Talaongan, Cavinti, Laguna
Constructed by the Japanese Government in the 1970’s, it can be
reached by land transportation within one hour from Sta. Cruz,
Laguna.
9. Pila Heritage Site
Pila, Laguna
The town is an extant example of Spanish colonial town planning.
There are a number of well-preserved houses around the church town plaza municipal hall cluster with various architectural
interpretations and styles reflecting the early years of the 20th century.
10. Tipakan
Brgy. San Rafael, Luisiana, Laguna
Once a quarry site during Spanish colonial times, adobe stone from the
area where used for the construction of Luisiana Catholic Church.
11. The Battle of Mabitac Site
Mabitac, Laguna
It was in this town of Mabitac that the Battle of Hinukay was fought in
1900, when the town joined the fight against the Americans under the
leadership of General Juan Cailles and Fidel Sario. The FilipinoAmerican encounter happened at the entrance of Mabitac bordering
the town of Siniloan. The Americans under Col. Cheatham were
defeated by Filipinos. The National Historical Institute later officially
changed the title of the site, from Battle of Hinukay to Battle of Mabitac.
12. Emilio Jacinto Shrine
St. Mary Magdalene Church Magdalena , Laguna.
The glass enclosure contained the blood-stained bolo and hat of
General Emilio Jacinto, a young hero of the revolution who is honored
for his valor during fight between Spanish forces and the katipuneros in
the Battle of Maimpis. Wounded, he sought refuge in the church and
was later brought to Sta. Cruz for treatment. The blood-stained bolo
and hat are found inside this church.

Cultural
1. Pintong Pilak
Brgy. Munting Ambling and Brgy. Malaking Ambling.
Magdalena, Laguna
According to local lore, the cave was open to the community of
Magdalena whenever help and assistance were needed. It is said that
utensils found here were made of gold-plated material and enamel, but
due to neglect and greediness of the locals, the borrowed utensils
were never returned. From then on, the entrance of the cave was
closed and those with clean hearts and minds were allowed to enter
through a small entrance leading to the inner cave.
2. National Arts Center
Mt. Makiling, Los Baños, Laguna
The National Arts Center a prominent modern structure that overlooks
Laguna and its environs. The facility is managed by the Cultural Center
of the Philippines. The Center has 62 cottages, an auditorium,
seminar and conference facilities. Reservation can be coursed through
the Manila office of the Cultural Center of the Philippines.
3. Philippine High School for the Arts
Mt. Makiling, Los Baños, Laguna
The special boarding school for the secondary education of highly
gifted and talented Filipino youth, combines a general learning grid for
education and training in the field of dance, music, theater, voice and
visual arts. It is a site of cultural exchange programs for the youth of
many countries.
4. Footwear Capital of Southern Tagalog Region
Liliw, Laguna
Nestled in one of the foothills of Mt Banahaw in the 4 th district of
Laguna, the town is quaint, dotted with well-preserved homes and
well-ordered communities that reflect the spirit of Liliwenos, who have
adapted to the changing needs of times. Traditionally a rich agricultural
area, the townsfolk have added improved ways in livelihood with the
enhancement of traditional footwear making craft to open boutiques
and stores specializing in modern-day footwear, handbags,
accessories and food stalls selling delicacies that Laguna is famous
for. The main street in the poblacion is dotted with fascinating stores
that have attracted shoppers all year round.

Man-made
1. Valesol Haven
U.P. Los Baños Campus,Los Baños
This half-hectare farm is where tropical flowers and orchid varieties
such as with cattleyas, dendrobiums, vandas, waling-waling,
anthuriums in various stages of growth are raised. Mr. Carlos Lazaro,
its owner, also provides lectures on orchid and anthurium propagation
2. Boy Scouts of the Philippines Camp
Mt. Makiling, Los Baños ,Laguna
The BSP grounds were developed to host the 10th World Jamboree of
the Boy Scouts. The site continues to be an ideal site in the foothill of
Mt. Makiling Forest Reserve for trekking, camping and the enjoyment
of nature.
3. Makiling Botanical Garden
U.P. Los Baños Campus College of Forestry
The Makiling Botanical Garden (MGB) was started in September 1965
to support professional instruction and research related to forestry and
plant sciences. It has served the needs of eco-tourism as well as the
educational and recreational needs of the general public. MGB
occupies 300 hectares of forest land distributed into three main
sections composed of the Aboretum, Nursery, and Recreational areas.
There are 1,060 genera; 2,087,150 varieties, 2 culvinators of flowering
plants and ferns representing 209 families of flowering plants and ferns
in the Mount Makiling area. An exhibit of Philippine wildlife in a
diorama can be viewed in the pavilion . Mini waterfalls, gurgling
creeks, natural swimming pool, concrete trails as well as nature trails
are attractions at the MGB.
4. Maria Makiling Park
U.P. Los Baños Campus
Maria Makiling was considered as a goddess in the local folklore of
the Southern Tagalog region. She is said to reside on top of the tallest
mountain in Laguna. Through time, the people who lived at the foot of
the mountain venerated her for abundant harvests. A mini Maria
Makiling Park located near University of the Philippines Los Baňos
Alumni Center was constructed as a tribute to the great bio-diversity;
outstanding natural and cultural assets of Mt. Makiling.
5. Lake Caliraya
Cavinti, Laguna
Lake Caliraya is a man-made lake built by American and Filipino
engineers in the 1930’s to provide hydroelectric power in the region.
The Lake is situated at 1,200 feet above the sea level, with cool winds,
clear waters and lush greenery which is an ideal area for leisure and
natured based activities.
6. Turumba Swimming Pools (Panghulo)
Pakil, Laguna
The Turumba swimming pools, also known as Nuestra Señora de los
Dolores de Turumba and the Doña Aurora A. Quezon swimming pool
is a source of livelihood and income for the local government and the
local population. It is also the main source of potable water and
irrigation. In the olden days it was a swampy place where tuber and
ferns grew in abundance. It was only in 1732 when Fr. Fernando de
Haro supervised the clearing of the place during the construction of the
church. During the worst drought in 1771, Fr. Juan Valladeras
enclosed the spring and constructed the irrigation canals up to Sambal
River, which was completed on 1804. In 1924, the big stone at the
center of the spring was crushed and the remains can still be seen
beneath the main pool. During the visit of Doña Aurora A. Quezon in
1938, on her recommendation and patronage, the swimming pool was
constructed, and was thereafter named in her honor.
7. The Danilo Daleňa’s House of Paintings
Pakil, Laguna
The provincial residence of a famous artist, the house has received
visitors who admire the collection of his painted works of art. Daleňa, a
son of the town of Pakil, has enhanced the touristic appeal of this town
with the restoration of this residence where his collection of art works
are displayed.
8. The E & R Artwork Shop
Pakil, Laguna
Fancy softwood carvings are artistically carved out of single piece of
wood with use of simple knife by local craftsmen. Many items of fine
carving ideal for gifts and souvenirs are sold here.
9. Wawa Park
Paete, Laguna
Jutting out into the Laguna de Bay parallel to the Paete River and
nestled between ricefields is an area of varied use. During summer
months, it is a site for local concerts and local food kiosks. The park
has a pavilion where people congregate for sightseeing and relaxation
amidst a serene seascape.
10. Dagatan Boulevard
Sampalok Lake, San Pablo City
The 3,832-kilometer peripheral road of Sampalok Lake has a good
potential as a tourist attraction for its quaint setting with a community of
homes, local seafood restaurants and leisure pursuits like
promenading, biking and sports set in the beautiful environs of the
lake.
11. Sampalok Lake Staircase ( Hagdang Bato)
Trece Martines Street, San Pablo City
A concrete set of stairs leading to and from Sampalok Lake. A famous
local landmark, and now a part of the official seal of San Pablo City. It
was constructed in November 1915 on a site which is now a part of
Doña Leonila Mini- Forest Park. Divided into five sections, it has a total
of 89 steps.
12. Public Plaza
Rizal Avenue, San Pablo City
Right at the center of the city that leads to the San Pablo Cathedral,
the monument to Dr. Jose P. Rizal prominently marks the center of
the plaza. The main road leading to the plaza is dotted with beautifully
sculpted lamp posts with globe-shaped bulbs have identified San
Pablo City as an eminent chartered city in the Province of Laguna.

Natural
1. Crocodile Lake
Los Baños, Laguna
The Crocodile Lake is a small crater lake situated on the edge of
Laguna de Bay, which is shaped like crocodile. The natural lake
formation is unique as it is a lake within a lake.
2. Magdapio Falls (Pagsanjan Falls)
Cavinti, Laguna
The majestic Pagsanjan Falls is situated three miles outside the town
on the rugged highlands of Cavinti. The main access to the world
famous Pagsanjan falls is through the Bumbungan River of Pagsanjan
town. The falls has 14 rapids and upon entering the gorge one can
experience
the natural forest setting with wild orchids, ferns, vines
and age-old trees. During the rainy season tourists may view a series
of mini falls, first of these mini falls is the Talahib Falls. Farther on are
Kalukuy Falls and the misty Bridal Veil Falls. Some of these mini-falls,
numbering more than nineteen, have no names and are rarely seen
during the summer season.
3. Simbahang Bato
Barangay San Buenaventura, Luisiana
Named for its natural formation which is likened to an old chapel along
the river.
4. Talon ng Aliw
San Jose, Luisiana, Laguna
A waterfalls with an approximate height of 25 meters and a width of 30
meters. Upstream/Headwater of Dapi river going to Balanac river in
Magdalena,Laguna.
5. Hulugan Falls
San Salvador, Luisiana, Laguna
The highest falls in the jurisdiction of Luisiana,Laguna with an
approximate height of 70 meters. Downstream of Dapi River leads to
Balanac River in Magdalena, Laguna.
6. Taytay Falls or Imelda falls
Majayjay, Laguna
A pristine set of falls are at the foot of Mt. Banahaw with cold and
crystal clear waters situated in Barangay Taytay. The trek down is an
arduous, 15- minute drive from town and 30-minute hike to the picnic
site.
7. Buruwisan Falls
Siniloan, Laguna
One of the five falls found in the Sierra Madre Mountain ranges, the
accessibility to the site makes Buruwisan popular. The falls has a 50meter drop.
8. Botocan Falls
Majayjay, Laguna
Botocan Falls is another tourist attraction but it is presently utilized by
the National Power Corporation (NPC) to generate power. The
Botocan Hydro Electric Plant has 546 steps going down the ravine and
is accessible by cable car. The Botocan Falls attracts country travelers,
writers, poets , painters and nature lovers.
9. Dalitiwan River
Majayjay, Laguna
Attracts hundreds of visitors from Manila and environs. This river is
noted for its cool and crystal water and panoramic beauty, ideal for
swimming and fishing.
10. Seven Lakes
San Pablo City
The seven lakes are spread out in of the city of San Pablo which are
nestled on a depression created by volcanic activity over the centuries.
The lakes are : Sampaloc, Mojicap, Palakpakin, Calibato, Pandin,
Yambo and Bunot. Ideal for picnics, hiking, freshwater leisure fishing,
camping and nature-based activities.
11. Mount Banahaw
Laguna side
Another big tourism potential are the areas surrounding Mount
Banahaw in the eastern parts of the province. Majayjay is one of the
towns at the foot of this mystic mountain which is shared with the
province of Quezon. Banahaw is approximately 2,188 meters above
sea level.

Religious
1. San Pablo Cathedral
Rizal Avenue, San Pablo City
Originally built in 1774 by the Augustinians, the architecture is of neoclassical style. It used to house a good collection of silver and jeweled
religious statuaries, candelabras and altar pieces. It has a simple
design with Doric coupled columns. It has a unique podium; interlocking triangular and segmented arches; decorative bound windows
with a four-storey octagonal bell tower composed of alternating blank
and open windows.
2. Iglesia ni Cristo
San Pablo City
Located along Dr. Fernando Bautista Street near the San Pablo City
District Hospital, the 2100-seat house of worship was completed on
November 9,1963. Viewed from the other side of Sampalok Lake, the
castle-like structure was prominently featured in international and local
publications due to its unique architectural features.
3. Mabitac Catholic Church
Barangay Maligaya, Mabitac
Is often visited by pilgrims and tourists. It has a long set of stairs
consisting of concrete and tiled steps totaling 126 steps, which
churchgoers have to negotiate to reach the house of God. The site
also provides a panoramic view of the town and its environs.
4. St. John the Baptist Parish Church
Liliw, Laguna
The 400 year old church built by the Franciscan Missionaries is a
popular landmark in Liliw. Its architectural features date back to the
late 18th century and has been beautifully restored through the efforts
of its parishioners and the community.
5. St. Gregory the Great Parish Church
Majayjay, Laguna
The imposing Catholic church and prominent landmark was built in
1711. This church is considered one of the biggest in the Philippines,
The huge church and convent built by the Franciscans has withstood
strong typhoons and earthquakes for many centuries. It is located in
the heart of the poblacion. It has attracted pilgrims, artists, historians
and archetects for its impressive construction and design features.
6. Ermita
Majayjay, Laguna
Originally constructed as the site of the Tribunal during the Spanish
period, its use was converted as an Ermita or chapel to enshrine the
image of the Nuestra Señora de la Porteria which was brought to the
country by Spanish missionaries in 1759.
7. Our Lady of Guadalupe Church
Pagsanjan, Laguna
In 1835, Pope Pius XI proclaimed Our Lady of Guadalupe as the
perpetual national patroness of the Philippines and Mexico. The first
sculptured image of the Blessed Virgin Mary was a gift from Mexico
and was stored at the main altar in 1688. It was destroyed during the
air bombardment of the town on March 15, 1945. In 1946 the Catholics
of Mexico donated a life-size image of the Nuestra Seňora de
Guadalupe to the people of Pagsanjan. This second image was made
by Mr. Ramon Barreto, a noted sculptor from Tuluca, Mexico and is
now enshrined as the town’s patroness, together with another image of
the virgin which was carved by Maximo Vicente, a prominent sculptor
from Manila.
8. St. Peter de Alcantara Church
Pakil, Laguna
San Pedro Bautista-Founder of first Pakil community in 1588-1602
Pakil was
attached
to parish of Paete
as a visita in 1676.
Franciscan missionary Fr. Francisco Barajas reached Pakil and
permanently established his mission here. Through his zeal and
industry he was able to separate Pakil from Paete on May 12,1676. He
became first parish priest and St. Peter of Alcantara became the
patron saint of Pakil. The church has attracted much interest from
pilgrims, artists, architects and the cultural community for its unique
features and high state of preservation.
9. St. James the Apostle Church
Paete, Laguna
Like many churches in Laguna, Paete Catholic Church was built during
the early Spanish period. The novelty of this church is the rich
repository of religious statuaries, altar and backdrop were carved and
painted by the residents of Paete who are known to be master carvers
and prominent sculptors. The intricate baroque altar is a testimony to
the artistry of Paete’s famed woodcarvers. The walls of the church are
adorned with large murals done by Jose Dans (19th Century), a true
son of Paete who used color pigments mixed with pulverized volcanic
ash and brushes fashioned from cat’s hair. Although the church has
been recently restored, the original design features have been
conserved.

Museums
1. The International Rice Research Institute
IRRI Compound, Los Baňos, Laguna
The world’s most complete center for rice ( oryza sativa) research,
education and development. The International Rice Research Institute
(IRRI)- has its headquarters and field laboratories adjacent to the
College of Agriculture and its Experiment Station at Los Baños.
Formally dedicated in February 1962, the Institute was funded by the
Ford Foundation and the Rockefeller Foundation.
2. Museum of the Wildlife Collections of Dr. Dioscoro Rabor
College of Forestry, U.P. Los Baños
The museum showcases the personal collection of mammal and bird
species of Dr. Dioscoro Rabor who has worked on various fields such
of ichthyology, fisheries, mammalogy, herpetology, ornithology and
ecology. However, it is in ornithology and mammalogy where he has
made many important scientific contributions.
3. U. P. Los Baños (UPLB) Museum of Natural History.
UPLB Campus, Los Baňos, Laguna
The Museum of Natural History (MNH) of the University of the
Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) is a center of documentation and is a
repository of biological specimens for scientific reference. It is a center
of research, information and education. The Museum has a diverse
collection of more than 200,000 preserved Philippine animals, plants,
cultures of living microorganisms and other biota that showcase the
country’s rich biodiversity. It houses most of the priceless collections of
birds and small mammals of the late Dr. Rabor. Further, it has in its
Hortorium a diverse collection of living plants. The Museum is also
actively involved in public education, through exhibits, lectures on
biodiversity, taxonomy, biology and ecology of varied flora and fauna.
4. Entomology Museum
BioSci Bldg. UPLB Campus, Los Baňos, Laguna
The entomology museum features the different species of the insect
world from the smallest bug to biggest moth.
5. IRRI Riceworld
IRRI Compound, Los Baňos, Laguna
The IRRI Riceworld is permanent exhibit of artifacts and implements
on world-wide rice growing as well as a learning center about rice
production research and its importance in global rice production.
A tour through Riceworld is to know the story of the rice intimately. It
depicts the different ways rice is grown. The geographical zones where
the rice is planted, the challenges involved in providing productivity, the
problems associated with sustainable rice production in various
ecosystems, the conservation of genetic diversity of rice and the
potential benefits of research was envisioned and operated to respond
to many challenges in sustainable rice production.
MARINDUQUE
I. ACCESSIBILITY
 Bus companies such as: TRITRAN Bus, Southstar Liner, De la Rosa
Liner, Lucena Lines and JAM Liner ply the route from Manila to the Port of
Lucena ;
 Bus Terminals are located at Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue (Buendia) cor Taft
Avenue, Ali Mall Compound and EDSA in Quezon City;
 Fast craft ferries service passengers bound Sta Cruz, Buyabod,
Balanacan and Mogpog ports for two-hour ride;
 Roll-on/roll-off boats takes 3 hours of sea travel from Lucena City;
 Jeepneys, FX and tricycles are available at the ports to take passenger to
various points of destination;
 By air, ASIAN SPIRIT has regular flights four times a week to Gasan
Airport;
 Travel time is approximately 45 minutes by air from Manila
II. HISTORY
The island of Marinduque is believed to have been inhabited by Malays and
Mangyans , governed by the Bonbon settlement in Batangas which was founded
by the Bornean datus Dumagsil and Balkasusa.
Legends and stories narrate that the original name of the island was Malindik,
describing the gentle sloping terrain of the islands’ highest peak, Mt. Malindik.
When the Spaniards came, they found it difficult to pronounce the word so they
called the island Marinduc. By common usage, Marinduk became Marinduque.
In 1571, Marinduque was appointed as an encomienda under Dr. Pedro de
Mesa. At about the same time Christianity was introduced by Fr. Diego Herrera.
In 1590, the island was subsumed under the government of Mindoro. Nine years
later, it became a province under the first Philippine Republic. However, in 1902
all of Mindoro was annexed to Marinduque and Marinduque to the province of
Quezon. It was in 1920 when the province gained its full provincial stature under
Republic Act No.: 2280 authored by then Assemblyman Ricardo Paras.
III. BASIC FACTS
o Total Land Area
-
95,920 hectares
o Population
-
217,000 (NSO 2000)
o Name and Number of Municipalities
1. Boac
2. Buenavista
3. Gasan
4. Mogpog
5. Sta Cruz
6. Torrijos
o Capital
-
Boac
o Climate
December to May June to October
dry season
rainy season
IV. ATTRACTIONS
o Historical
1. Battle of Pulang Lupa Marker
Barangay Pulang Lupa, Torrijos, Marinduque
The marker stands at the site of the bloodiest battle ever fought in the
island between the Marinduque revolutionary forces against the
Americans. The Battle of Pulang Lupa was the first known major battle
won by the Filipinos over the Americans. The area is surrounded by dense
vegetation making it an ideal place for camping.
2. Battle of Paye Marker
Brgy. Balimbing, Boac, Marinduque
A marker that serves as a reminder of the battle on 31 July 1900 between
the Filipinos and the Americans. Despite inferior weapons, the bravery of
Marinduquenos defeated the American soldiers.
o Cultural
1. Moriones Festival
Boac, Mogpog and Gasan
During the annual observance of Holy Week, a biblical character in the
person of the Roman centurion Longinus comes alive as the towns of
Boac, Mospog and Gasan stage the Moriones.. It is a religious and
cultural event that links the story of Longinus with Christ’s Passion and
Death. It features masked men garbed in the colorful costume of Roman
soldiers. This unique observance is indigenous to the province. The local
government, in coordination with local theater groups seek to preserve the
custom of the Morion, which is said to be a mix of Christian and prehispanic culture. Starting on Holy Monday. “ Morions” roam the streets of
Boac, Mogpog and Gasan. They play pranks on the townspeople,
serenade ladies, frighten children and sometimes engage in mock sword
fights.
The practice has its roots during the Christian conversion of the Muslim
locals by the friars during the Spanish period. As a form of penitence, the
Muslim converts, during Holy Week, attired themselves in the garb of
characters of Christ’s passion and death. Parents of children, at that time,
in order to frighten children into submission, pointed to the grotesque
figures as Moro’yon. The term evolved into the present day title of Morion .
The custom of the “ promenade” or “walk” down the streets of Marinduque
every Lenten season prevails to this time and has expanded into the
famous Moriones tableau as it is known today.
The climax of the Lenten celebration will be the Pugutan, a Filipino version
of the Passion of Christ. The Pugutan depicts the life of Longinus, the
Roman soldier who pierced Christ’s side with a spear as He was nailedto
cross and was a witness to Jesus’s resurrection. Longinus was arrested
for spreading the news of Christ’s resurrection and was later beheahed.
.
2. Tawak Drinking
Marinduque (Provincewide)
This local concoction is prepared during Good Friday. Tawak is a drink
made from mint leaves, spices, herbs and local vodka. It is a practice
common to the menfolk but some women take a sip too. This potion is
prepared by a village healer who empowers the drink by means of a
whispered prayer called bulong. The bulong, however should be done
before the stroke of 12:00 noon on Good Friday, marking the end of the
power of the healer. The potion will keep for a year.
It is believed that the tawak protects the drinker from venomous bites. It
takes seven years, however for an individual to become full-fledged healer
who will be able to transfer his powers to an heir or successor.
This practice represents another facet of the Marinduqueño’s spirituality.
3. Putong
Town Proper of Boac, Mogpog and Gasan
This is Marinduque’s indigenous custom of welcoming and honoring
friends and visitors. The ceremony starts with the procession of the
mamumutong, which is a group of men and women, chanting greetings
before the visitors they regard as deities. The mamumutong sing and
dance in quickening rhythm in front of the guests showering them with
flowers and coins as signs of affection. Flowers fashioned into crowns,
garlands and bouquets are given to the honorees. Shouts of mabuhay
and viva end the ceremonial welcome for visitors.
4. Kalutang
Marinduque ( Provincewide)
A musical instrument unique to the province. The kalutang consists of two
pieces of wood, graduated in sizes to produce different notes and ranges,
which takes a group of 10 to 12 people to create a special musical
rendition.
5. Legend of Mara-Undok Dance Drama
Marinduque
Local theater groups stage the dance culled from the Legend of MarUndok which narrates the origins of the islands. The dance mirrors pagan
belief in natural deities (earth, wind and fire) who created the formation of
the island province. The dance-drama incorporates ballet and pantomine
with native musical instruments, music and chants.
The presentation can be seen for free as it is rendered by young artist
students from local schools and colleges who perform as a kind of a
sacrifice to observe of the Lenten season.
o Natural
1. Bathala Caves
Barangay Ipil, Sta Cruz, Marinduque
The Bathala caves are said to be mystical and a repository of psychic
power emanating from various points of the universe. It is believed that
there are seven caves within complex. Only four of these caves have so
far been explored. The first is called the Simbahan owing to the natural
rock formation within its church-like interior: Stalagmites forming a rough
likeness to an altar, a silhouette of the Madonna and Child, the bell-like
stalactites. The second cave, darker and deeper than the Simbahan is
occasionally guarded by a python, from the ceiling of which hang
hundreds of giant bats. Another cave has an underground river. Inside the
fourth cave are human bones, which the people believe to be the remains
of World War II soldiers.
2. Tres Reyes Islands
Off the coast of the town of Gasan
Serving as a favorite haunt with delightful picnic grounds and dive spots in
Marinduque are these islets named Gaspar, Melchor, and Baltazar,
collectively known as Tres Reyes Islands. The islet Gaspar has a short
stretch of coral beach with clear blue-green waters ideal for swimming and
snorkeling. The second and third islets, Melchor and Baltazar, have
precipitous coasts, underwater caves frequented by deep-sea divers.
Marine species such as groupers, snappers, mackerels and sweet lips
abound in the area, while coconut crabs called igod are commonly found
along the beach.
In 1981, a sunken ship was found 130-feet underwater between the
waters of Gaspar and the mainland. Believed to be one of the Chinese
pirate Limahong’s vessels, the find yielded millions of pesos worth of
artifacts and treasures, mostly porcelain jars, and plates. The Underwater
Archeology Section of the National Museum salvaged numerous artifacts
from the wreckage, which are now on exhibit.
3. Malbog Sulfur Spring
Brgy. Molbog, Buenavista, Marinduque
At the base of the inactive Mt. Malindig volcano is the therapeutic and
natural healing water of Molbog Springs. Two swimming pools with warm
though slightly sulfuric waters are considered to be healing with medicinal
properties.
4. Paadjao Falls
Sitio Paadjao, Barangay Bokbok, Mogpog, Marinduque
This a series of gently cascading falls that settles into a 15-foot fall. Hunt
for nature- formed bathtubs downstream and enjoy Jacuzzi-like effect. It
is an ideal place for picnicking or camping.
5. Polo, Maniwaya, and Mongpong Islets
Off the coast of Sta Cruz, Marinduque
Off the coast of Sta. Cruz are the islets of Polo, Mongpong and Maniwaya.
Polo is only 35 minutes by boat from the pier. A white sand beach and 10foot sandy cliffs line its coast. Only 15 to 20 minutes away from the Polo is
Maniwaya, whose powdery white sand beach could rival that of Boracay
island. Northeast of the Maniwaya is another beach similar to White Beach
of Torrijos.
Mongpong, the farthest from the mainland, is approximately 20 to 25
minutes by boat from Maniwaya. Northeast of this islet lies a kilometer’s
stretch of white coral beach almost similar to the one in Elephant Island.
There are no tourist facilities in these islets. Visitors are advised to bring
drinking water, sleeping bags and tents for longer stay in the area.
6. Natangco Islet
Northwestern tip of Marinduque, off Balanacan Pier
Natangco is an eight-hectare islet with a short stretch of powdery white
sand that gradually slopes into the sea. Visitors are advised to bring water
and food including tents for nature trips. Marine enthusiasts and scuba
divers will find Natangco islet a haven with waters teeming with corals and
marine life such as moorish idols, butterfly fishes, and an occasional
sightings of manta rays, marlins, etc.
7. Costa Celina
Sitio Talisay, Brgy. Bonliw, Torrijos, Marinduque
Flanked by cliffs on both sides, Costa Celina is among the favorite dive
spots in Marinduque. Approximately 40 meters from the shore is an
undersea wall rich in marine flora and fauna.
8. Amoingon Coast
Barangay Amoingon, Boac
Coastal area with abundant marine flora and fauna, which can easily be
seen 10 to 15 meters away from the beachfront. Colorful butterfly fishes,
bobbing clownfishes, lionfishes, melo-sized seashells and schools of
angelfish are among the varieties found here.
9. Mainit Hot Springs
Barangay Mainit, Boac, Marinduque
Free-flowing springs that churn out therapeutic warm waters. A favorite
spot among the Marinduqueños, it is the main attraction of Barangay
Mainit.
10. Duyay Cave
Duyay, Boac, Marinduque
The caves are regarded to be even more enthralling than Bathala Caves.
The interior is very huge and dark, filled with stalactite formations. Only
few visitors have explored the entire length of caves and tunnels, which
are estimated to end in Tapuyan, Gasan.
11. Fantasy Elephant Island
Off the coast of Barangay Lipata, Buenavista, Marinduque
One of the mesmerizing small islets dotting the seas of Marinduque is
Elephant Island. It is also surrounded by sheer cliffs with half-kilometer of
long beach of white sand and crushed corals. The beach is ideal for
swimming and snorkeling.
12. Norada Falls
Sitio Paadyao, Barangay Bukbok, Mogpog, Marinduque
A series of gently cascading falls culminating in a 10-foot deep pool of
crystal-clear water. It is an ideal place for picnicking or camping.
13. Mt. Malindig
Bordering the towns of Buenavista and Torrijos
Dominating the skyline south of Marinduque is Mt. Malindig, an inactive
volcano. Dense forest covers its upper half. Found in abundance are giant
trees, moss forest and wild orchids. The rest is nearly deforested due to
the slash and burn method of farming. This however, does not diminish
the attraction of Mt. Malindig, which until now remains an excellent place
for mountain climbing, camping and bird watching.
14. Kabugsakan Falls
Barangay Tugas, Boac, Marinduque
Ideal for picnics and nature based activities, it is a popular spot among the
locals being proximate to the poblacion of Boac, the capital town.
15. Ginaras Falls
Sitio Banhigan, Brgy. Duyay, Boac, Marinduque
100 meter-falls with six adjacent waterfalls in the mountainous area of
Barangay Duyay.
16. Salomague Island
Off the coast of Sta Cruz, Marinduque
Lying on the eastern side of the island is half-a-kilometer-long white beach
littered with crushed corals. There is a good dive spot on the northeast of
the islet. Salomague island is privately owned, thus, permission should be
secured prior to the visit of the island, as a jump-off point for scuba diving.
17. Talamban Caves
Barangay Balagasan, Duyay, Boac, Marinduque
Two separate caves located about 100 meters from each other. The
bigger one can be explored by using rappel ropes.
18. Balanacan Harbor
Barangay Balanacan, Mogpog, Marinduque
A panoramic view of Balanacan cove, the islets of Natangco, San Andres,
Ata, Agpisan and Hidalgo. The general area is ideal for scuba diving and
snorkeling.
19. Tarug Caves
Barangay Tarug, Sta Cruz, Marinduque
Three chambered caves in limestone formation, it rises steeply to a little
more than 900 feet from the ground. Pinnacle is barely 3 square meters.
20. Poctoy White Beach
Torrijos, Marinduque
The pride of Municipality of Torrijos, it is a stretch of fine, white sand
beach stretching almost to a kilometer long beach. Picnic huts and
cottages are available.
o Religious
1. Boac Cathedral
Barangay Mataas na Bayan, Boac, Marinduque
The cathedral is a 10-minute walk from the town proper. It was built in
1756 in honor of the Blessed Virgin of Biglang Awa. (Immediate Succor). It
was here where Filipinos and Spaniards took refuge from pirate attacks.
The architecture is Fil-Hispanic Gothic style with much of the original
structure faithfully preserved. The belfry, altar façade and the interiors of
the cathedral were beautifully restored as a prime heritage site of the
province. The later addition of stained glass windows, adorn the walls and
enhance the age-old beauty of the church.
2. Sta. Cruz
Poblacion, Sta. Cruz, Marinduque
This church was erected in 1714 and was renovated in the later years
The tower still retains its original grandeur and solidity.
3. Blessed Biglang-Awa Miraculous Shrine
Poblacion, Boac, Marinduque
It houses the patroness of the province.
o Museums
1. Marinduque National Museums
Poblacion, Boac, Marinduque
It houses the antique collections of town of Boac.
2. Marinduque Trade House
Barangay Santos, Boac, Marinduque
Showcases the native products of local producers of Marinduque
o Special Interest
1. Diving Spots
The waters of Marinduque harbor a wealth of underwater riches.
Numerous dive spots are abundantly scattered around the island’s
waters, waiting to be rediscovered. Among the more popular sites are
found off the coast of the islands of Maniwaya, Natangco, Salomangue,
and the Tres Reyes Islands.
2. Beaches
There is a range of choices of beaches in Marinduque. The white
beaches of Torrijos, Sta. Cruz, Gasan and Mogpog islets are famous for
diving and snorkeling.
3. Mountain Trekking
Mountain trekking and camping are pursuits to enjoy in Mt. Mt. Malindig
around Buenavista and Torrijos. Birdwatchers can catch sightings of local
wildlife and raptors in flight.
4. Culture
Heritage and cultural appreciation tours are year-round activities and
reach its peak during Holy Week. The quaint towns abound with
beautifully preserved Antillan houses and well ordered communities
reminiscent of Spanish town planning. Scenic attractions, local cuisine,
arts and crafts together with special traditions of hospitality are what
makes Marinduque an ideal destination.
OCCIDENTAL MINDORO
I. ACCESSIBILITY
 By air – Asian Spirit flies from Manila to the towns of Mamburao and San
Jose;
 Flying time is 45 minutes;
 Charter and commuter flights are available from Manila to Lubang
Island;
 By sea, inter-island vessels serve the province from Batangas Pier to
Abra de Ilog ( 21/2 hours and San Jose (16 hours);
 Province-wide, public utility vehicles such as buses, jeepneys and
tricycles ferry the commuters to points of destination.
II. BRIEF HISTORY
Prior to the coming of the Spaniards in 1571, Mindoro was already known to the
Chinese merchants who plied the seas to conduct commerce on the South China
Sea route. Trading existed between the area and China, on the eastern part of
the island. Miguel Lopez de Legaspi discovered the island in 1569. Goiti, as
master of camp, sailed to Mindoro on May 8, 1570 and encountered the Chinese
merchants. They transacted business with the islanders, to the amazement of the
Spaniards. There were also signs of Hindu and pagan influence that thrived in
the island.
The conquest of Mindoro began in 1570 in the district of Mamburao, when Juan
de Salcedo subjugated the inhabitants in the name of Spain. The early names of
Mindoro were Mai and Mina de Oro. Mindoro is a contraction of the Spanish
description of the phrase which meant gold mine. Although there were no major
gold discovery, panners and Mangyans which are people of indigenous
communities have found gold in small quantities in the rivers of Baco, Binaybay,
Bongabong, and Magasawan Tubig. In 1902, the island of Lubang was annexed
to Mindoro, which gained provincehood in 1921.
In 1950, the island was divided into two separate and autonomous province
through Republic Act No. 505, designating the eastern portion of the island as
Oriental Mindoro with Calapan now a city as capital, and western part as
Occidental Mindoro with Mamburao as its capital.
III. BASIC FACTS
o Total Land Area
_
587,980 hectares
o Population
_
380,250 (NSO 2000)
o Name and Number of Municipalities
1. Abra de Ilog
2. Calintaan
3. Looc
4. Lubang
5. Magsaysay
6. Mamburao
7. Paluan
8. Rizal
9. Sablayan
10. San Jose
11. Sta Cruz
o Capital
-
o Climate
*
*
November to April - dry season
May to October
- wet season
Mamburao
IV. ATTRACTIONS
o Historical
1. Parola Park
Lumang Bayan, Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro
The park’s foremost attraction is a historic watchtower. Located
in Sablayan, it was erected in 1861 which allowed the natives
to guard against pirate attacks. In 1896 it was equipped with
bells to warn residents of impending raids. Later, a church
was built which withstood the elements for ten brief years, but
is now in ruins. A cannon which was used to defend the town
is all that stands at a promontory.
o Man-Made
1. Presing Park ( Parola )
Lumang Bayan, Sablayan, Occ. Mindoro
It is five-hectare park frequented by promenaders who seek
relaxation. Overlooking the sea, the park enjoys cool breezes
blowing landwards. At the middle of the park, 15th century
cannon, believed to have been used against the pirates, is on
display. A grotto of Our Lady of Fatima is visible at the far end
of the park.
2. Calawagan River Resort
Barangay Alipaoy, Paluan, Occ. Mindoro
Run by the municipal government, it is one and a half-hectare resort situated on a riverbank at Barangay Alipaoy, 1.5
kilometers from the town proper. Since 1976, it has been operated and managed by the local government, servicing
local residents and the visitors from neighboring towns
3. Mamburao Beach Resort
Barangay Fatima, Mamburao, Occ. Mindoro
This resort is within a completely secluded cove covering 14
hectares of developed beach resort amidst coconut trees. It
has four-kilometer long light sand beach. The place is ideal for
swimming, boating and scuba diving, wind surfing, snorkeling,
deep sea fishing and water skiing. Water sport such as glassbottomed boat, speedboat, hobbie cat and outrigger boats are
available for guests.
o Natural
1. Ambulong Island
San Jose, Occidental Mindoro
This 3,000-hectare island is one of the three beautiful islands
found in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. It is characterized by
white sand beaches, cliffs along pillars jutting out of the water
and underwater caves.
Coral gardens and tropical fish are abundant in several coves.
A fisherman’s village is located at the sheltered side of the
island. Ambulong island is also a jump-off point to some of the
dive spots in the area, such as the Ilin Point, Baniaga Reef,
Apo Reef, Ambulong Bank and Manadi Island. This dive sites
are about an hour away by pumpboat from the Caminawit Port.
2. Apo Reef National Park
Apo Island, Sablayan, Occ. Mindoro
One of the dive sites frequented by most divers in the
Philippines is Apo Reef. It is acclaimed as one of the best in
Asia and as a diving mecca in the Philippines. It is a 34kilometer reef teeming with the bio-diversity of marine life is
located 20 miles west of Mindoro proper, with a narrow channel
running east to west, dividing this reef into two lagoon systems
is the north and south. Underneath, the clean waters, fine white
sand and numerous coral are visible.
The Apo Reef Marine Park includes the fascinating birdpopulated island of Binangaan and Cajos del Bajo. The island
has a variety of bird species that lures birdwatchers and
nature lovers.
The waters surrounding the island are abundant with marine
fauna and luxuriant coral growth represented by approximately
400-500 kaleidoscopic coral species. Marine life includes
varieties of sharks, sting rays and manta rays. There are over
500 species present in the Reef.
3. Ilin Island
Ilin Island, San Jose, Occ. Mindoro
Ilin Island is the biggest among the group of islands located in
San Jose. It lies between San Jose and Ambulong Island. Ilin
island has five beaches, some of which are fringed with reef
making passage impossible during low tide.
4. Lubang Island
Located Northwest of Occidental Mindoro and west of Batangas
It was in this island where a Japanese soldier named Hiroo
Onoda, was found in 1974. He surrendered after 30 years of
hiding in the mountains. Another Captain of the Japanese
Imperial Army, Fumio Nakahira, held out for another six years
before being discovered in April 1980.
On the western portion of Lubang is Tagbac which offers more
than five kilometers of gradually sloping, hued, sandy beach
lined with coconut trees. Tagbac is around 20 minutes away
from Lubang town proper by jeepney. Favorite swimming areas
are Tilik Beach and Canu Beach.
5. Ambil Island
Northcoast of Lubang Island
An interesting spot of Ambil is the scenic Besay Falls, which is a 20-minute
walk from the center of Barangay Tambo, passing through rice plantations
and carabao pasture. The falls features a series of waterfalls, each
cascading into a clear basin of about five meters in diameter.
6.Cabra Island
Southwest of Lubang
The island is generally flat with golden sandy beaches on the
southwestern part and magnificent rock formation along the
east coast. Cabra used to be a popular pilgrimage site
because of reported apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Like Ambil, Cabra is also a favorite fishing ground of local and
foreign anglers.
7. Mt. Iglit
San Jose, Occ. Mindoro
Mt. Iglit is one of Occidental Mindoro’s reservation areas,
declared as a game sanctuary for Tamaraws, an endemic
animal found in Mindoro. The tamaraw bears a close to the
Philippine water buffalo, commonly known as carabao.
However, it is smaller and has shorter horns growing straight
upwards forming a V, instead of curving wide open set of horns
of the carabao.
8. Pandan Grande Island
Sablayan, Occ. Mindoro
The island is a 30-hectare islet surrounded by a white sand
beach and is also the site of 20-room diver’s lodge made of
native cottages. This beautiful coral islet is located within
snorkeling distance from a submarine drop-off, inhabited by
schools of marine life.
9. Tamayanan Beach
Barangay Tamayanan, Mamburao, Occ. Mindoro
It is a one-hectare beach lined with coconut trees. The beach is ideal for
swimming and is frequented by local residents. It has picnic cottages lined
along the beach that can be rented to tourists.
10. White Island
Manadi, Barangay Ilin, San Jose, Occ. Mindoro
It has an almost mile-long beach with smooth and powdery
white sand. The tranquil and peaceful island is an ideal place
for swimming, scuba diving and fishing. Sea turtle eggs are
occasionally found buried in the sand and the visitors are
reminded not to disturb the nesting area
o Special Interest Activities
1. Deep Sea Scuba Diving
Go for a dive and savor the panorama of your life, with a
breathtaking view of the world’s second largest coral reef,
schools of fish in shoals and atolls in Apo Reef.
2. Swimming and Snorkeling
There are pleasures that fit the budgets of tourists and visitors. The waters
of Mindoro Occidental are pristine and undisturbed by the usual hordes of
holiday makers in other beach destinations.
3. Sightseeing
Pay exciting visits via island-hopping to nature
parks, reservation areas and marine and animal
sanctuaries as the main eco-tourism activities while in the
island of Occidental Mindoro.
ORIENTAL MINDORO
ACCESSIBILITY

From Manila, Oriental Mindoro's major port in Calapan City and Puerto
Galera are accessed through the Port of Batangas where roll-on-roll off
ships and passenger lines operate the Batangas-Oriental MindoroBatangas route.

The Southern Tagalog Access Road (STAR) has greatly increased the
convenience of travelers and visitors to reach Batangas City.

There are local public utility vehicles, in particular, jeepneys and tricycles,
which can ferry commuters to their points of destination province wide.
HISTORY
Mindoro, the seventh largest island in the Philippines, was founded by the
members of the Spanish mission. They occupied the southern and northern tips
of the island, but were soon driven away by Muslim hordes. The Muslim later
built strongholds in the island from which they launched attacks against Manila.
They were later vanquished by the forces of Simon de Anda.
In the early years of Spanish rule, Mindoro was administered as part of the
province of Batangas, then known as Bonbon. It was separated from Batangas,
with Puerto Galera as its capital, during the 17 th century. In 1902, the island of
Lubang was annexed to Mindoro, which gained full provincehood in 1921. In
1950, the island was divided into two separate and autonomous province through
Republic Act No. 505, designating the eastern portion of the island of the island
as Oriental Mindoro with Calapan as its capital, and the western part as
Occidental Mindoro with Mamburao as its capital.
BASIC FACTS
 Total Land Area : 4,364.72 square kilometer;

Population : 681,818 (NSO 2000 Survey)

Name and Number of Municipalities and Cities :
Oriental Mindoro is composed of 14 municipalities :
1. Baco
2. Bansud
3. Bongabong
4. Bulalacao
5. Naujan
6. Mansalay
7. Pinamalayan
8. Pola
9. Puerto Galera
10. Roxas
11. San Teodoro
12. Socorro
13. Victoria
14. Gloria.
Capital : Calapan City

Climate :
Favorable to agriculture throughout the year. There is neither a dry
season nor a pronounced maximum rain period.
ATTRACTIONS

Historical
1. Kuta
Anilao, Bongabong
This man-made garrison was constructed by the Jesuits during the
early part of the Spanish Era. Kuta is the oldest Spanish fortress in
the country. It includes old Spanish cannons and a Spanish boat.
2. Baluarte in Lumang –Bayan
Lumang Bayan,Naujan.
These site features a watchtower on top of a hill overlooking the
bay built by the Christian settlers to warn the townspeople of
Muslim raiders.
3. The Cross at Muelle
Puerto Galerra town proper
The marble cross is one of the historical landmarks of Puerto
Galera. It was erected to commemorate the sinking of the battleship
Canonero Mariveles at the Manila channel on November 18,1879.

Cultural
1. Mangyan Settlement
Barangay Dulangan, Baco
Ethnic groups known as the “Buhids” are found in the mountains of
Batongan and Sienge.
Baclaran Mangyan Settlement
Puerto Galera
This is an area reserved for the “Mangyans” under the auspicies of
Father Erwin Thiel of the SVD Missionary.

Natural
1. Hidden Paradise
Baco
This attraction consists of a natural spring with swimming pool and
picnic cottages.
2. Alibatan Island
Baco
The island measures five-hectares and is noted for its white sand.
The place serves as the breeding place for seagulls and turtles.
Corals and oysters can be found all around the are. The island is
also called “ Target Island “ because Americans staying in San
Jose, used this ground for their bombing practices in 1946.
3. Buyayao Island
Off the coast Mansalay
Buyayao Island is a rocky island except for the area facing Buyayao
Peninsula. Big snakes called “ sobre kama” are found in the
mountains. The water around the island is uited for deep sea
fishing.
.
4. Mt. Halcon
Baco
Towering 8,488 feet above sea level, Mt. Halcon is the century’s
third highest peak. It is is a favorite destination for nature tripping
and mountain climbing.
5. Suqui Beach
Suqui, Calapan
This is a public beach with cottages and other facilities. It is a
favorite place for the local people to go especially during summer.
6. Banilad Beach
Pili, Pinamalayan
The place is a good spot for picnic and swimming especially during
summer season.
7. Bongol Beach
Bongol, Pinamalayan
Bongol is secluded beach with a two-kilometer white sand beach.
8. Tamaraw Falls
Barangay Villaflor, Puerto Galera
This 423-feet waterfalls located alongside the road, is actually a
series of asymmetrical falls leading to the grand one droping to the
frothy waterbed below. The cascading waterfalls are a great
attraction to passers-by.
9. La Laguna Beach
La Laguna, Puerto Galera
It is an ideal place for swimming ,snorkeling and scuba diving.
There are number of resorts that offer accommodation and other
travel and aqua sports facilities to both domestic and international
tourists.
10. Sabang Beach
East of Puerto Galera
This area is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. A
cluster of nightspots abounds in this area which make it popular for
evening socials. Cottages with entertainment facilities stand close
to each other. Low budget accommodations are available.
11. Small La Laguna
Beside Sabang Beach
Contrary to its name, Small La Laguna is bigger than La Laguna
and has more facilities. It has coral reefs, and the water is ideal for
snorkeling and scuba diving. There is diving equipment for rent at
nearby dive shops.
12. Talipanan Beach
Puerto Galera
This area is not a busy as the other beaches in Puerto Galera.
Thus, it is an ideal site for private swimming.
13. White Sand Beach
Barangay San Isidro,Puerto Galera
The white sandy strips of this beach offer excellent opportunities for
swimming. Resorts in this area provide entertainment facilities for
tourists’ greater amusement and leisure.
14. Punta Guarda Beach
Puerto Galera
The beach is far from the busy areas of Puerto Galera, thus, it is
ideal for those who seek privacy and retreat.
15. Melco Beach
Roxas
Melco is a beige-colored sandy beach with cottages for rent.

Religious
1. Simba Bato
Barangay Bancuro,Naujan
This is an old church with a chapel constructed on its original site.

Museum
1. Excavation Museum
Puerto Galera town proper
This museum houses several collections of Chinese and Siamese
pottery from the 15th to the 19th centuries. It also contains Ming
Dynasty burial jars as well as fine collection of shells. This a facility
of the National Museum.

Special Interest
1. Mountain Interest
Enjoy leisurely trek to many of the inner destinations of the island,
dense forests, and the famous Mt. Halcon. Climb to its peak to
obtain sweeping panoramas of the Mindoro land and seascapes.
2. Hiking
Mindoro is also a specialty are for scouting, hiking and camping,
having retained most of its wilderness. Visitors can pump beside
gushing falls and on the grassy mast of forest clearings.
3. Cultural trippings to Mangyan reservations
Mindoro Oriental has many islets, which can provide excellent
venues for family outings and picnics. Its elongated coastlines
harbor coral reefs, teeming with marine life of interest to snorkelers
and clear blue water for swimming enthusiasts.
Festival/Events
Bahag-hari Festival
Date
April 24
Venue
Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro
Description A colorful celebration highlighted by street dancing, a
parade of
float and a different Moriones Festival
Contact
Ms. Mia Masanto/Pinamalayan Tourim Office
Tel. No.
0928-259-7259
Banana Festival
Date
Venue
March 18-19
Baco, Oriental Mindoro
Description A celebration of its abundance of banana. It features
banana
cook fest and banana(saba) inspired street dancing
and beauty
pageant. This coincides with the town fiesta in honor
of
St. Joseph
Contact
Oriental Mindoro Provincial Tourim Office
Tel. No.
(043)-286-7046
Bansudani Festival/Feast of the Divine Savior
Date
January 17-19
Venue
Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro
Description A thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest which coincides
with the
town fiesta. It features dances and cultural
presentations by school and barangay communities.
Contact
Bansud Tourism Council
Tel. No.
(043)-298-7022
Biniray Festival
Date
June 29
Venue
Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro
Description A grand pagoda show on the day of thanksgiving for
the
blessings from the sea. Other highlights are the street
dancing a parade of floats and a cultural presentation
of schools communities.
Contact
Oriental Mindoro Provincial Tourism Office
Tel. No.
(043)-286-7046
Coconut Festival/Feast of Immaculate Concepcion/Foundation Day
Date
December 8
Venue
San Teodoro, Oriental Mindoro
Description A religious festival honoring the Immaculate
Concepcion. It
features activities such as street dancing, parade of
floats,.
Centered on the town’s agricultural bounty : Coconut.
Contact
Mr. Freddie Ramos/San Teodoro Tourism
Office
Tel. No.
0921-857-4258
Feast of Immaculate Concepcion
Date
December 8
Venue
Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro
Description A religious festival honoring the Immaculate
Concepcion. It
features an agro trade fair.
Contact
Ms. Aileen Bareng/Puerto Galera Tourism
Office
Tel. No.
(043)-287-3051
Feast of the Sacred Heart
Date
February14-15
Venue
Gloria, Oriental Mindoro
Description The town of Gloria celebrates the feast with an agro
trade fair.
Contact
Oriental Mindoro Provincial Tourism Office
Tel. No.
(043)-286-7876
Feast of the Santa Catalina
Date
November 26
Venue
Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro
Description Palaro ng lahi, an array of games very native to
Mndorenos and
Filipino, joined in by all games enthusiasts.
Contact
Oriental Mindoro Provincial Tourism Office
Tel. No.
(043)-286-7876
Kaadlawan Iraya
Date
October 12
Venue
Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro
Description Also dabbed as “Araw ng Katutubo”, a cultural
sensitivity festival
organized by the local government of which the goal
is to make developments based on eco-tourism
projects with emphasis to the preservation of the
town’s cultural and historical assets.
Contact
Office of the Mayor, Puerto Galerae
Tel. No.
(043)-287-3051
Kapakyanan
Date
October 8
Venue
Victoria, Oriental Mindoro
Description Kapakyanan (abundance) Festival focuses on the
bounteous
Harvest of fruits and crops. Its highlights are the street
dancing
event and beauty pageant adopting agriculture as the
central
theme.
Contact
Victoria Tourism Council
Tel. No.
(043)=285-6646
Lechon Festival
Date
June 24
Venue
Pola, Oriental Mindoro
Description Parada ng Lechon: Garbed in creative costume and
disguises,
“lechon” are paraded around the town in the
accompaniment of
gay chanting and “buhusan”, a customary practice
during the
San Juan Bautista feast; a selection of the best from
among the
number of entries follows and a free-for-all banquet is
open to
the townfolk and visitors alike.
Contact
Provincial Tourism Office
Tel. No.
(043)-286-7876
Pakapy-a-agtike Festival
Date
July 25-27
Venue
Socorro, Oriental Mindoro
Description This festivity features cultural shows, parade of floats
and street
dancing on the last day showcasing its agricultural
bounty
performed by schools, barangays and tribal
communities. The
festival is a thanksgiving offering to its patron, the
Holy Family.
Contact
Socorro, Oeriental Mindoro
Tel. No.
(043)-284-5051
Pamugu-an Festival
Date
3rd Week of October
Venue
Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro
Description A festival reunion of different “Mangyan” tribes. There
are sports
Events (Palaro ng Lahi), cultural presentations,
product
demonstrations and “Barakalan” or “baratillo of native
products.
Contact
Provincial Tourism Office
Tel. No.
(043)-286-7876
Sanduguan Festival
Date
April (to be announced)
Venue
Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro
Description Reviving the barter trade between the Mait native and
the
Chinese traders. This weeklong festivity featutes
agro-trade fair,
historical parade, reenactment of the barter trading
and “Indakan
sa Sanduguan” (a street dancing competition).
Considered as the biggest and the most innovative
festivals, it also features art and historical contests,
workshops and cultural (contemporary and ethnic)
shows.
Contact
Provincial Tourism Office
Tel. No.
(043)-286-7876
Sayaw Lahi Festival
Date
September 10
Venue
Naujan, Oriental Mindoro
Description A festival of entertainment featuring all native dances
performed
on the streets by school and barangay communities.
Other highlights are school band competition, live
band concerts and awarding of outstanding Naujenos.
Contact
Ms. Raquel Umali/Naujan Tourism Office
Tel. No.
0919-738-0474
Sulyog Festival
Date
December 8
Venue
San Teodoro, Oriental Mindoro
Description A religious festival honoring the Immaculate
Concepcion. It
features activities such as street dancing, parade of
floats,.
Centered on the town’s agricultural bounty : Coconut.
Contact
Mr. Freddie Ramos/San Teodoro Tourism
Tel. No.
0921-857-4258
Office
SUPPORT SERVICES
 Banks/ Financial Institutions
A total of 30 banks are found in Oriental Mindoro. Calapan has the
biggest number of
banks located in municipal capital, followed by Pinamalayan.
These banks aid the different municipalities in their commercial activities
by lending out
both commercial and agricultural loans. They also safeguard their clients’
money and
offer added incentives through savings and deposits.
Rural Bank
Bank
Baco, Oriental Midoro
Bansud, Oriental Mindoro
Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro
Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro
Calapan, Oriental Mindoro
First Malayan Bank
Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro
Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro
Roxas, Oriental Mindoro
Victoria, Oriental Mindoro
 Medical and Health Services
Provincial Hospital
Libis, Calapan , Oriental Mindoro
Mindoro
Sta. Maria Village Clinic
Blk. 4 Sta. Maria Village
East
Calapan Oriental Mindoro
Luna Goco Family Clinic
Lalud , Calapan , Oriental Mindoro
Philippine National
Calapan, Oriental Mindoro
Traders Royal Bank
Calapan Oriental Mindoro
Metro Bank
Calapan, Oriental Mindoro
Ma. Estrella Clinic
Tawiran, Calapan, Oriental
Doctor’s Clinic
JP Rizal St. San Vicente
Calapan, Oriental Midoro
 Security Services
Headquaters, Mindoro Oriental Provincial Police Office
Calapan, Oriental Mindoro
Telephone No.: (046) 288-4439
 Tourist Information and Assistance
Provincial Tourism Office
Capitol Complex, Calapan 5200
Oriental Mindoro
Telephone No.:
288-4575
Palawan
ACCESSIBILITY

Palawan is accessible within an hour’s flight from Manila to Puerto
Princesa City or through a 20-hour trip by sea voyage. A choice of flights
by Philippine Airlines (PAL), Cebu Pacific, Sea Air, Asian Spirit and Air
Philippines service the province of Palawan.

Chartered flights are also available to transport visitors to Puerto Princesa
City the heart of the province, where connecting trips to nearby tourist
sites can be arranged.

Regular and charter flights to other points in Northern Palawan are
available through Island Trans-Voyager, Pacific Air, Asian Spirit, and Sea
Air as well as other destinations in Cuyo, Coron, Busuanga, or El Nido or
Taytay. WG&A Shipping Company plies the Manila-Palawan route on
weekends.
HISTORY
The history of Palawan may be traced back to 22,000 years ago, which was
confirmed by the discovery of a skull cap and bone fragments of the Tabon Man
in the municipality of Quezon. Although the origin of the cave dwellers is not yet
established, anthropologists believe they originated from Borneo. Known as the
Cradle of Philippine Civilization, the Tabon Caves consist of a series of chambers
where scholars and anthropologists led by Dr. Robert Fox discovered the
remains of the Tabon Man along with his tools and a number of artifacts.
There are several versions regarding the origin of the name Palawan. Some
contend that it was derived from the Chinese word Pa-Lao-Yu meaning Land of
Beautiful Harbors. Others believe that it came from the Indian word Palawans
meaning Territory. Still others say that it was derived from a plant which the
natives called Palwa. But the popular belief is that Palawan is a corrupted form of
the Spanish word Paragua because the main island's shape resembles a closed
umbrella.
Spanish colonial structures like forts, lighthouses and churches exist in the
province. In Taytay, the historic Santa Isabel Fort where an imposing chapel is
located. Built in 1667 under the Augustinian Recollects, the fort was used as a
military station during that period. In Cuyo, one of the oldest and unique fort is
also found. The fort was built during the early Spanish period, to protect the
people from pirates and marauders. Within its walls is a church, a convent, which
now houses a Perpetual Adoration chapel. A historical landmark in Brooke's
Point is the Port Miller and Lighthouse Tower. Port Miller is a concrete water tank
as a source of potable water for inhabitants of the town. The original lighthouse
constructed by Sir James Brooke is still visible. In Balabac, a century-old beacon
to seafarers, called the Melville Lighthouse, was used to guide ancient vessels
landward. Presently, it is a familiar landmark to the local folks.
Palawan leads the country in the policy of formulation and implementation of
intensive environmental management programs. The provincial government has
mobilized its citizenry to actively participate in various environmental protection
programs to ensure the sustainability of its marine eco-systems, natural forest
reserves and the heritage of its indigenous people.
.
A form of indigenous political structure flourished in the island preceding the
coming of the Spaniards, wherein the natives had their non-formal form of
government, an alphabet, and a system of trading with sea-borne merchants.
When the Spaniards came, the northern portion of the province was identified as
the Calamianes Group while its southern portion remained part of the Sultanate
of Sulu in the 16th century. The Spaniards built a stronghold in Taytay, as
evidenced by a fortress called Fort Santa Isabel. Taytay was designated
as capital of Calamianes Province in 1818.
It was during the American colonial years that the province of Paragua was
established in 1902, with Cuyo as the capital. Eventually, the name was changed
to Palawan and the capital was moved to Puerto Princesa in 1905 by virtue of
Republic Act 1363.
BASIC FACTS
o Total Land Area : 1,489,655 hectares
o Population : 800,000 (NSO 2000 Survey)
o Name and Number of Municipalities and Cities

The province has 22 municipalities:
1. Aborlan
2. Agutaya
3. Araceli
4. Balabac
5. Bataraza
6. Brooke's Point
7. Busuanga
8. Cagayancillo
9. Coron
10. Cuyo
11. Culion
12. Dumaran
13. El Nido
14. Espanola
15. Kalayaan
16. Linapacan
17. Magsaysay
18. Narra
19. Quezon
20. Rizal
21. Roxas
22. San Vicente
23. Taytay

Capital : Puerto Princesa City
o Climate :



March/May- Warm weather and calm sea;
December /February- Cool with gusty winds brought by the
northwest monsoon (Amihan);
July/August- Heavy rainfall accompanied by the southwest
monsoon (Habagat)
ATTRACTION
Historical
1.
Puerto de Sta. Isabel
Taytay ,Palawan
The historic fort was built in 1667, under the Augustinian Recollect
Fathers and was used as a military station during that period. The fortress
was constructed to protect the general area from marauders and sea
pirates. Taytay was an important naval installation being the designated
capital of the Calamianes island group in 1818. The fort’s small chapel
and cannon are still intact.
2.
Cuyo Port
Cuyo Palawan
Built during the early Spanish period to protect the people from their
enemies, it is considered as one of the most ancient and unique forts in
the Philippines. Within its walls are the church, the convent and the
Adoration chapel. Cuyo became the second capital of Palawan from 1873
to 1903. Finished in 1680, the fort is a historical naval structure that was
built during the early part of the Spanish colonial period. Three forts were
constructed to protect thier ancestors against the attacks of Moros which
was very prevalent during the 15th – 18th century.
3.
Cagayancillo Port
Cagayancillo, Palawan
It was built on the coast atop the small mountain and is made of sea rocks
mixed with lime. Within this old fort is the old church, ground force and
safety place of the residents during pirate attacks.
4.
Port Miller & Lighthouse Tower
Brooke’s Point, Palawan
A historical landmark in Brooke’s Point, Point Miller is a concrete water
tank built as a source of potable water for the natives and settlers of the
municipality. The original Lighthouse Tower constructed by Sir James
Brooke is still visible, but much of the area is now occupied by a new
lighthouse tower.
5.
Melville Lighthouse
Balabac ,Palawan
More than 100 years old, the lighthouse is still functional and serves as
guide for international vessels passing through the Balabac Strait.
6.
Agutaya Fort/Church of St. John the Baptist
Agutaya, Palawan.
Completed in 1784, the church and fortress named after St. John the
Baptist was built by the Agustinian Recollects as a defense against
invasions. Named as Baluarte de San Juan Bautista, it was constructed
with the help of the Agutaynons and the Encomendero Don Antonio de
Rojas, who delienated and laid out the building’s plan. The church was
fortified with cannons, arquebuses and mortar weapons. During World
War II the church fortress became an evacuation and refuge center for the
people of Agutaya.
7.
Plaza Cuartel
Puerto Princesa City
Former site of a former Japanese garrison, a few yards from the
Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral. One hundred forty three (143)
American soldiers were burned inside a tunnel during the Second World
War. A memorial park in honor of the heroes of Puerto Princesa City and
the American soldiers was thereafter constructed.
8.
Lucbuan Church
Magsaysay, Palawan
An old church constructed by the municipal officials of the short
lived Republic of Lucbuan in 1898-1904
9.
Culion Fort (managed by Jesuits Order)
Culion, Palawan.
Fort was constructed in 1740 by Recollect Agustinians
10.
Culion Cathedral
Culion, Palawan
A century old Spanish church built by the Agustinians.
Man –made
1.
Calauit Game Preserve & Wildlife Sanctuary
Busuanga
3,700 hectares was designated as a unique game reserve and wildlife
sanctuary of exotic African animals and the endangered endemic fauna of
Palawan. This was established in August 31, 1976 by Presidential Decree
No. 1578. Initiated by the national government to respond to the appeal of
the International Union for the Conservation of Nature to help save African
wildlife, after former President Ferdinand Marcos attended a conference in
Kenya.
By virtue of RA 7611 which is known as the Strategic Environment Plan
(SEP) of Palawan, the administrative jurisdiction of DENR was devolved to
the Provincial Government of Palawan, on December 31,1993. The
Palawan Council of Sustainable Development is the institution created by
this law to ensure the sustainable management of the eco system and bio
diversity of the province.
2.
Nasin-aw White Beach and Silica Beach
Puerto Princesa City
A seaside fun place noted for its marine life, it is accessible without
leaving the confines of the city. The fine white sand and clear waters of
White Beach makes it perfect spot for swimming and excursions. A few
picnic tables were installed but overnight stays are not advisable since
there are no accommodation facilities in the area.
3.
Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center
(formerly Crocodile Farm Institute)
The center aims to preserve and undertake research studies on
endangered species of crocodiles. One of the structures is a hospital for
sick and disabled crocodiles. The facility also formulates the varied uses
of raw materials derived from the crocodile species. It also maintains a
Mini Zoo featuring some of Palawan’s endemic animals. A joint project of
the Japanese and Philippine Government under supervision and
management by Department of Environment and Natural Resources –
Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau.
4.
Iwahig Prison and Penal Farm
Puerto Princesa City
Established by the Americans in 1904 to supply food to other prisons all
over the country. The colony encompasses a 37-hectare farm planted to
coconuts, trees, rice and other crops cultivated by the prisoners and their
families. Iwahig is operated like a farm, rather than a prison where
prisoners toil their farms unguarded. They are allowed to earn an income
by working in the many shops that produce various handicrafts derived
from discarded wood.
5.
Palawan Butterfly Garden
Sta. Monica, Puerto Princesa City
Home of different species of butterflies endemic to the province, in the
Philippines and Southeast Asia.

Palawan Butterfly Garden – Sta. Monica ,Puerto Princesa City

Palawan Lepidoptera Farm – Brgy. Tiniguiban, Puerto Princesa City
Natural
6.
Puerto Princesa Subterranean National Park
Brgy. Cabayugan, Sitio Sabang , Puerto Princesa City
A world heritage site inscribed by the UNESCO,, this natural wonder
features an 8.2 kilometer navigable underground river, that winds through
a spectacular cave before emptying out in to the South China Sea.
The river flows within a deep cavern under rugged limestone and marble
cliffs, the special features of the park. Within the awesome recesses of the
cave, one winds through the tunnel aboard a paddle boat. Stalactite
pillars, rock formations, domed amphitheaters and cathedrals are
outstanding features of the park..
Land area – 5,753 hectares
Marine area – 292.74 hectares
7.
El Nido Marine Reserve
Miniloc Island, El Nido
Occupying an area of 98,000 hectares, this popular nature spot boasts of
diverse ecosystems such as rainforest mangroves white sand beaches,
coral reefs and limestone cliffs. Blessed with extraordinary natural
scenery, El Nido is the sanctuary of various forms of wildlife. Countless
varieties of fish are also found here. Manta rays are a common sight;
when in season, divers may spot the sea cow, known locally as dugong,
one of the world’s rarest marine mammals.
Accommodation facilities are available at El Nido Resorts in Miniloc and
Lagen Island. El Nido is noted for its hidden lagoons, palm forests, orchids
and offshore cruise points. Apart from the high-end accommodations,
there are a number of budget accommodations in the town proper.
8.
Tubbataha Reefs National Park
Cagayancillo, Palawan
Marine sanctuary located in the Middle Central Sulu Sea, 98 nautical miles
southeast of Puerto Princesa City. It is within the municipal territory of
Cagayancillo, with travel by boat from Puerto Princesa City that takes
approximately 12 hours.
It was declared as one of the World Natural Heritage sites by United
Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on
December 1,1993. Under protective management by Department of
National Defense (DND) and is co-managed by Palawan Council for
Sustainable Development (PCSD) and Department of Environment &
Natural Resources (DENR)
9.
Rasa Island
Narra, Palawan
Bird sanctuary of Cockatoo (Katala or Abucay). Also found are the 68 bird
species such as Blue Headed Racket Tail (Kilit-kilit), the Black-Naped
Oriole and the White Vintage Shama.
10.
Ursula Island Game Refuge and Bird Sanctuary
Bataraza, Palawan
This island is a haven for different species of birds that converge here two
hours before sunset, to rest after a day’s flight.
11.
Honda Bay
Sta. Lourdes Tagbanua, Puerto Princesa City
The bay consists of several islets with shallow reefs bordering its
beaches which have become favorite sites for swimming, snorkeling and
diving. These islets are the Cannon (Cowrie) Island, Bat Island, Lu-li
Island (derived from the word lulubog-lilitaw, meaning floating and sinking)
is visible only during low tide. Meara Marina, which is known for its fine
white sand and clear water teems with starfish and many varieties of
marine life. Snake Island, Pandan Island and Seňorita Island are some of
the smaller islands in the area.
12.
Tabon Caves
Lipuun Point, Quezon, Palawan
Known as the Cradle of Philippine Civilization , Tabon Cave consists of
a series of chambers where anthropologists discovered the remains of
ancient man and his stone tools. Anthropological significance came to the
fore with the discovery of the remains of the 22,000 year old Tabon Man in
one of its interiors , along with other artifacts.
Museums
1.
Tabon Museum
Quezon Palawan
Located in the town of Quezon, visitors are given an orientation before
proceeding to Tabon Caves Complex. A lecture on Palawan pre-history,
the archeology of Tabon caves; the ethnology (study of different tribes) of
Palawan and other related information are presented here. The museum
houses some of the archeological diggings and other artifacts. Presently
under the supervision of the National Museum of the Philippines.
Palawan Museum
Puerto Princesa City
2.
Under the management & supervision of the Natural and Historical
Foundation of Palawan and City of Puerto Princesa ,Inc. The institution
showcases the history, culture, music, arts and crafts of Palawan. Its
exhibit shows the archeological collection of jars and porcelains, hunting
and trapping tools used by the early ancestors, including local musical
instruments, brassware, and artifacts from the Tabon Caves. The museum
also operates a library where some books and publication on Philippine
and Palawan history; anthropology, archeology, entomology, literature,
and flora and fauna are available.
QUEZON
ATTRACTIONS

HISTORICAL
1. Malagunlong Bridge
Tayabas, Quezon
Built during the Spanish colonial period using Spanish and indigenous
engineering skills and materials, this bridge is considered the oldest one in
town. It was constructed within the general period of 1585 onwards when
the construction of the parish church was initiated.
2. Alitao and Malaoa Bridges
Tayabas, Quezon
The bridges are reckoned to be a century-old but are still passable. It is
located 4 kilometers from the town proper of Tayabas.
3. Kutang San Diego (Spanish Fort)
Town proper of Gumaca, near the pier.
The structure built under the supervision of Franciscans during the latter
part of the 18th century. It was constructed as a look-out point of the town
against sea pirates.
4. San Diego de Alcala Fortress
Gumaca, Quezon
Recognized by the National Historical Commission as a national treasure
in 1981, this fortress was constructed under the leadership of Franciscan
Father Francisco Coste.
5. Claro M. Recto Shrine
Tiaong, Quezon
The late Sen. Claro M. Recto, a great statesman and staunch nationalist
whose career and body of written work on nationhood, governance and
politics has inspired many generations.
6. Iskong Bantay Watchtower
Atimonan town proper, Quezon
It was built by the Spanish authorities as a watchtower to warn the
townsfolk of Atimonan of impending pirate attacks.
7. San Antonio de Alcala Park
Maharlika Highway, Gumaca Quezon
Named after the town‘s patron saint, the park features a promenade area
facing Lamon Bay and the neighboring island of Alabat. The park is
located at the approach to the town of Gumaca.

CULTURAL
1. Manuel L. Quezon Museum (Giintong Yaman ng Quezon Museum)
Former Provincial Health Building, Provincial Capitol Compound
Lucena City
The museum houses a collection of the memorabilia of the former
President Manuel L. Quezon, former Senator Lorenzo Tañada and former
Congressman Manuel S. Enverga. A large section of the museum houses
the memorabilia of some of the prominent citizens of the province.
2. Duamagat Settlement
Sitio Malatunglan, General Nakar, Quezon
There are four (4) settlements namely: Dinigman Settlement at Barangay
Canaway, Lamutan Settlement at Barangay Lamutan, Tamala Settlement
at Barangay San Marcelino and Cynthia Village of Barangay Umiray.
These settlements are under the administration and supervision of the
Local Government, Office for Southern Cultural Communities (OSCC) of
Department of Social Welfare and Development.
3. Malatunglan Dumagat Settlement
Sitio Malatunglan, General Nakar, Quezon
It is an established Dumagat Settlement under the auspices of the
Catholic Church and the local government of General Nakar. There are
about 22 families in the area. Trained instructors educate the Dumagat
people in a school building nearby.

NATURAL
1. Pagbilao Grande
Tayabas Bay, near the coast of Pagbilao
It is a group of islands located on the Tayabas Bay area where there are
white sand beaches and rich fishing grounds. This is also the site of Tulay
Buhangin where sand dunes connect the islets of Padre Burgos during
low tide.
2. Tikub Lake
Tiaong, Quezon
About two kilometers in diameter and 75 meters deep, Tikub Lake lies on
the crater of an extinct volcano. Thick foliage surrounds the lake.
3. Puting Buhangin Beach
Pagbilao Grande, Pagbilao, Quezon
Located in the Pagbilao Grande area, this pure white sand beach, with
crystal-clear and calm water, is a favorite place in Pagbilao during the
summer months. The white sand beach is about 70 meters long and 10
meters wide. A small cave is found at one end of the beach.
4. Mamala
Barangay Mamala I, Sariaya, Quezon
Mamala is a small barangay, which is located in the heart of Mt. Banahaw.
The area enjoys a cool temperature of about 17.2 degrees Celsius. About
400 meters from the end of the concrete road is the “jungle”, as the locals
refer to. Within the jungle are lush vegetation and a river, which supplies
the irrigation system of the area. Exotic flora, tropical plants and giant
ferns, some growing to a height of more than 10 feet abound.
5. Lamon Bay
Northern part of Quezon
Lamon Bay is a body of water connecting the northern part of Quezon to
the Pacific Ocean. It bounds the coastal towns of Atimonan, Gumaca,
Plaridel, Lopez and Calauag, and the islands of Alabat. It is a rich fishing
ground and the home of various living corals. Most parts of the bay
consist of gray sand, some parts are filled with rocks and other living
corals. During low tide, the water level is low enough to allow one to walk
as far as five hundred meters from the shore. The beaches in the towns
of Gumaca and Plaridel are sandy and ideal for swimming. The town of
Lopez has the best colonies of corals which are located just about15
minutes by boatride from the shore.
6. Tayabas Bay
Sariaya, Quezon
The area of Tayabas Bay in Sariaya is well-developed for tourism due to
the wide coastline and the presence of several fine beach resorts. There is
a stretch of gray sand dotted with resorts that make it an ideal place for
families and beach holiday makers.
7. Mt. Banahaw
Quezon Province
This 7,382 foot majestic but extinct volcano is famous for its mystical
attributes, varied flora and fauna and breathtaking views of its environs.
Unique religious rites are held every Holy Week by pilgrims who believe
that Christ walked on this mountain. There are approximately 66-68
registered religious sects whose members hold rituals during Holy Week.
The mountain is also a favorite site of amulet hunters.
8. Quezon National Park
Western municipalities of Atimonan, Pagbilao and Padre Burgos
Quezon National Park has an area of about 9,830,765 hectares. It has an
intricate system of caves, waterfalls, springs, creeks, gorges, and ravines
against a quaint backdrop of lush greenery. Local folks say that the park
is full of flora and fauna from butterflies to birds and monkeys tugging
along their young, while crossing the street. Trees are so tall and huge
that the zigzag road is relatively dark. The park is also the site of
Pinagbanderahan, a place where the Filipino Revolutionaries planted the
Philippine flag in their fight against the Spanish colonizers. It can be
reached by walking for about one hour from the road to the top of a ridge.
9. Kinabuhayan
Barangay Kinabuhayan, Dolores, Quezon
This is the site where members of religious sects of Mt. Banahaw believe
Christ spent His Calvary. Thousands of pilgrims, the number of which
may reach to 30,000 come to this area to fulfill their vows or be healed of
their afflictions. What can be found here are the rocks where Christ was
believed to have been tied (Pinaggapusan). His footprints are embedded
on a rock, and a cold and damp rock at the entrance of a cave is said to
have curing power.
10. Ina ng Awa
Barangay Sta. Lucia, Dolores, Quezon
Ina ng Awa is near Kinabuhayan, at the foot of Mt. Banahaw, and is also
believed to be mystical. The mystical caves are located in this area.
Many small caves and rock shelters were given Biblical names and some
also serve as altars for the sects. Some, like the Santong Husgado Cave,
test the purity of the spirit of those who enter. The ones with clean spirit
can easily pass through and the unclean ones are overcome by rocks
inside the cave, preventing them from continuing.
11. Cristalino Falls
Mt. Banahaw, Dolores, Quezon
It is a few meters south of Santos Collegio where crystal clear water can
soothe one’s thirst after climbing a few slopes up.
12. Durungawan
Mt. Banahaw, Dolores, Quezon
Having the strength of going up higher at Mt. Banahaw, one can see for
himself the crowning glory of the holy mountain’s peak called
“Durungawan” – a window place on the mountain’s top where one can
gaze at the valleys, towns, and city surrounding the sacred mountain. It is
from there that one can feel the ultimate satisfaction of having gone up the
mountain.
13. Malusak Cave
Barangay Malusak, Atimonan, Quezon
It is probably the longest cave in Atimonan with a clearance of more or
less 2 feet in height.
14. Talabaan Islands
Off the coast of Padre Burgos
The Talabaan Islands are two islands located off the shore of Padre
Burgos town. The bigger of the two, Malaking Talabaan, is a favorite
jump-off point to the beaches of Padre Burgos and the neighboring town
of Pagbilao. The smaller island, Maliit na Talabaan, is a rock formation
jutting out of the sea. What makes the island unique is that the rocks
seem to have been curiously arranged and piled.
15. Mag-asawang Bato
Off the coast of Padre Burgos
The Mag-asawang Bato are two pieces of big boulders jutting out of the
sea. During low tide, the land where the stones stand are exposed so that
people can walk over them.
16. Pulong Niugan
Barangay Hondagua, Lopez, Quezon
It is the biggest of the three islands near the shore of the municipality of
Lopez and the neighboring towns of Calauag and Gumaca. The beach
area is gradually sloping and the water is clear. Its best assets are the
nearby colonies of corals about 50 meters from the islands.
17. Tulay Buhangin Island
Padre Burgos, Quezon
The island is one of the favorite areas of vacationers who to go to Padre
Burgos. Although one beachfront has been damaged, other parts of the
island are still good for swimming.
18. Pasig Island
Calauag, Quezon
This tourist spot looks very much like an ordinary island nestling in the
calm waters of the Pacific. The people who live there (about 25 families)
have very dark skin and brown hair. Coconut trees are all over the island.
Aside from cogon grass, Bermuda grass also grows in abundance. Part of
the perimeter of the island is covered with mangroves. Other parts of the
beach are made up of either white sand or rocks. The entrance to the
island (distance from the shore is about one kilometer) is good for
snorkeling because it has colonies of live corals. During low tide, the
corals can be clearly seen from a boat.
19. Baluti Island
Off the coast of Real
Located about three kilometers from the town port of Real, Baluti island
covers an area of about 23 hectares. A wide river separates the island,
which is a part of the mainland. Many parts of the island are covered with
pine trees, instead of coconut trees. The beach areas are good for
swimming. The water is relatively clear and the gray sand is fine. A slight
drop-off is located just about 10 meters from the beachfront.
20. Libjo Beach
Barangay Libjo, Infanta, Quezon
The beach is about two kilometers long, 30 meters wide and has been the
favorite picnic area of many locals especially during the summer months.
The sand is fine and light gray in color. The drop-off is about 20 meters
from the shore.
21. Pamplona Beach
General Nakar, Quezon
The beach is about three kilometers long and 40 meters wide. Parts of
the area have the gray sand, smooth pebbles, and rocks. Rocks with
curious formations are also present at one end of the beach. A spring with
cold water can be found near these rock formations.
22. Balabag Falls
Barangay Mapalad, Real, Quezon
Balabag Falls is the biggest of the three falls located in barangay Mapalad
in Real. It has about 100 feet of cascading water.
23. San Francisco Beach
Barangay Sibulan, Polillo, Quezon
The beach is about one kilometer long and 25 meters wide. The color of
the sand is light borwn and the ocean floor slopes gradually. The area is a
favorite picnic ground of the people of Polillo.
24. Coccoc Island
Polillo, Quezon
Coccoc is a small island which looks like an umbrella from afar. White
sand beaches surround the island. Although quite far from the town
proper of Polillo, this particular island is also a favorite picnic area of many
locals.
25. Bakaw-bakaw Island
Burdeos, Quezon
The island is about one hectare in size and filled with mangroves, talisay
trees and other shrubs. The beach is gently sloping and it has light brown
sand and crushed shells. The deeper portion is dotted with isolated coral
beds.
26. Binombonan Island
Burdeos, Quezon
The island has an area of one hectare and is still uninhabited. It is circular
in shape and ringed by fine white sand. The sand level gradually slopes
and the water is very clear. The land is densed forested. Not far from the
island is a good spot for snorkeling and diving.
27. Ikulong Island
Burdeos,Quezon
The island is about 15 hectares in size and filled with coconut trees. Like
the other islands, it has white sand.
28. Anilon Island
Burdeos, Quezon
The island is about 15 hectares in area and the white sand beach on one
side of the island is about one kilometer long and 25 meters wide. During
low tide, one end of the island reveals a long stretch of sand which looks
like a sand bridge.
29. Anilon Cave
Anilon, Burdeos, Quezon
It is a small islet or a large rock, which also looks like a land bridge with a
small cave where swimmers can pass through from one end to the other.
30. Malaking Malaguinoan Island
Burdeos, Quezon
The bigger one of the two Malaguinoan islands, it is about 40 hectares in
area. Several white sand beaches are located along its coast.
31. Puting Bato
Barangay Puting Bato, Burdeos, Quezon
The major attractions of Puting Bato are its cliff walls, which look like
limestone cliffs of North Palawan. Aside from the walls, there are small
caves. Small isolated beaches, which are good for swimming, can also be
found. Rock formations, which look like umbrellas, abound in the area.
32. Kabalwa Island
Burdeos, Quezon
One of the biggest islands, it is about 40 hectares in area size. Several
beaches are also present in the island.
33. Palasan Island
Burdeos, Quezon
Palasan is the biggest of the many islands of Burdeos. It is about 150
hectares in land area. Like the other island, Palasan also has several
beaches.
34. Anawan Island
Burdeos, Quezon
Although the beaches in Anawan are good, these are very far from the
town pier. The distance is about 1.8 nautical miles. Its land area is about
18 hectares.
35. Sila Beach
Sila, Patnanungan, Quezon
Sila Beach is part of the main island of the town of Patnanungan. The
beach is brown and gently sloping. Not far from the beach are colonies of
corals. At one part of the beach are queer rock formations, which look
very much like speedboats docked in a marina.
36. Katakian Island
Patnanungan, Quezon
The sand on the beach is brown, and gently sloping. The beach is about
500 meters long and 20 meters wide. A wide area of coral reef is located
near the island.
37. Talisoy Beach
Jomalig, Quezon
The beach is one of the popular areas in the island for tourists. Because
of the clear water, the wide area of the beach, and the sudden drop-off,
professional swimmers prefer the area.
38. Maria Cristina Park
Maharlika Highway, Atimonan, Quezon
Maria Cristina Park is a promenade park with an area of 200 square
meters, built along the Lamon Bay area in Atimonan.
39. Perez Park
Capitol Compound, Lucena City, Quezon
Perez Park consists of seven hectares of fully developed and wellmaintained area located at the heart of Lucena City, the provincial capital.
It features a children’s playground, a beautifully landscaped garden, a
man-made cave, and a large area for outdoor dancing.
40. Pinagbanderahan
Barangay Malinao Ilaya, Atimonan, Quezon
It is a monument at the heart of the Natinoal Forest Park built in 1938
under the commonwealth government. This is called Pinagbanderahan
for its historic role during World War II. It offers a perfect vantage point to
view Mt. Banahaw, the islands of Marinduque and Mindoro, as well as the
major towns and city of Quezon, like Lucena, Pagbilao and Tayabas.
41. Santos Collegio
Dolores, Quezon
About 100 meters from Kinabuhayan spring, it is a place where one can
bathe from sprinkles of tiny droplets of water from mountain springs, as
fresh as dewdrops pouring down from the mountain slides.
42. Sta. Lucia Falls
Dolores, Quezon
Before going directly to the falls, an adventurous tourist can detour to a
winding footpath leading to “Ina ng Awa” a place of religious worship
where many members of religious sects pray for guidance from the Virgin
Mary. 267 steps going down to Sta. Lucia falls, one can hear the murmur
of the cascading water as it quietly settles into a tranquil basin, truly nature
at its best.
43. Lumiliay River Waterfalls
Barangay Caridad, Atimonan, Quezon
It is approximately 114 kms. away from the barangay proper with fresh,
clean water.
44. Magsaysay Waterfalls
Barangay Malinao, Atimonan, Quezon
It has clean and fresh water. It abounds in tall trees and is ideal for
picnicking.
45. Manlalayes Lakes and Gunao Lake
Dolores, Quezon
These lakes are the main sources of fresh fish like “tilapia, hito and dalag”.
Visitors can buy fresh fish at reasonable prices.
46. Patayan Island
Pagbilao Grande, Pagbilao, Quezon
Part of the Pagbilao Grande Islands, this is where the Tulay Buhangin
(Sand Bridge) is located. People say that Patayan Island was named from
the site where the young men of the town were killed by pirates during the
olden times. This is the island to which one end of the Tulay Buhangin is
connected. The island has a beach known for its smooth stones.
47. Pulong Niugan
Barangay Hondagua, Lopez, Quezon
It is the biggest of the three islands near the shore of the municipality of
Lopez and the neighboring towns of Calauag and Gumaca. The beach
area is gradually sloping. The water is clear. Its best asset is the nearby
colonies of corals about 50 meters from the island.

MAN-MADE
1. Zigzag Road (also referred to as Bitukang Manoko or Eme Road)
Quezon National Park
Located in the middle of the Quezon National Park, its curves are so tight
and the road so steep that vehicles have to literally inch their way up.
Around the roadsides are lush vegetation of the Quezon National Park.
2. Sirena
Maharlika Highway, Atimonan, Quezon
Located along the main highway, sculpture of Sirena is an interesting sight
for the motorists. The Sirena (Mermaid) is a copy of the sculpture of Little
Mermaid in Denmark. Like the one in Denmark, it also sits on top of a big
boulder. It is located along the beach of Lamon Bay.
3. Japanese Tunnel
Barangay Matinik, Lopez, Quezon
The tunnel is located right along the tracks before reaching Hondagua.
4. Lucban Town
Lucban, Quezon
The town of Lucban, celebrates one of the country’s biggest, and most
colorful harvest festivals every May 15, along with the towns of Tayabas,
Sariaya, Gumaca, Tiaong, and Lucena City, the festivities are the
Philippines best known harvest festivals to honor San Isidro Labrador, the
patron of farmers. Known as “Pahiyas” , the festival is deeply rooted in
the traditional celebration of the townsfolk in thanksgiving for bountiful
harvest. Decorations called “Kiping”, leaf-shaped and multi-colored rice
paste wafers which are used to decorate the facades of the homes along
with the fruits and flowers from nature. The visual and culinary feast has
gained national and international renown. The Lucban town center is a
permanent facility for merchandising crafts and delicacies including
special events that showcases the lifestyle of its environs.
5. Balagtas Sports Complex
Zone IV – Poblacion, Atimonan, Quezon
It provides adequate space for recreational activities
6. Hunters ROTC Veterans Park
Barangay Tagbakin, Atimonan, Quezon
It is a park located at the gateway of the Poblacion, built in memory of the
brave Atimonan soldiers who fought during the Japanese war.
7. Leon Guinto Boulevard
Zone IV – Poblacion, Atimonan, Quezon
It is a place for scenic viewing of Lamon Bay and Alabat Island.
8. The Mermaid Along Lamon Bay
Maharlika Highway, Atimonan, Quezon
A well-known landmark along the coastal national road going to the Bicol
region is supposed to signify the marine nature of the livelihood of the
municipality. The place is also called Lamon Bay. The mermaid is a copy
of the sculpture of the Little Mermaid in Denmark. Like the one in
Denmark, it also sits on top of a big boulder. It is located along the beach
of Lamon Bay.
9. Roman Catholic Park
Barangay Zone IV – Poblacion, Atimonan, Quezon
It is a mini-park located in front of the Roman Catholic Church.
10. San Diego Park
Barangay Villa Bota, Gumaca, Quezon
It is also known as the park outside the town because it is located 2
kilometers away from the Poblacion.
11. Gumaca Rizal Park
Barangay Rizal, Gumaca, Quezon
Built in 1935 during the incumbency of Eriberto Caparros, By the year
1982, it was modernized, renovated and lighted.
12. Marcos Tigla Park
Lucban, Quezon
Formerly known as Paseo Rizal, named after the legendary founder and
first Governadorcillo of Lucban, the park is the site of fine monuments and
other structures, including the Idyll of the Sea and the Fountain of
Wisdom, which symbolize a mother transferring wisdom to her son.
13. Caprichosa Park
Lucban, Quezon
Located at the eastern approach of the Poblacion, it affords visitors a
panoramic view of the town. It is presently being developed as a potential
tourist spot because of its ideal location and cozy environment. A
monument called Bantayog ng mga Bayani was built in this place to
commemorate the heroic struggle of the WWII veterans of Lucban.
14. Rizal Park
Lucban, Quezon
Formerly known as Plaza Dela Revolution, it is one of the finest
masterpieces of art in the country.
The monument stands as a
magnificent sculpture, made in perfect proportion as viewed from any
angle. It illustrates the skillful talent of the famous Lucbanin artist, Ishmael
Villaseñor, who was widely popular in international expositions during
those days. Built in 1915, the park is still the favorite place for relaxation.
15. Manuel L. Quezon Monument
Perez Park, Lucena City, Quezon
It was erected in memory of the First President of the Philippines
Commonwealth, who is known as “Ama ng Wikang Filipino” in support to
his full measure of devotion and service to the cause of Philippine
independence from the United States.
16. Quezon Provincial Capitol
Lucena City
This provincial government site of Quezon Province was built on a sevenhectare lot donated in 1908 by its former Governor, Don Felimon E. Perez.
17. Quezon Theme Park
Sampaloc, Quezon
This municipality is being developed as the “Theme Park” of the province.
Sampaloc is a typical model Filipino community because of its culture,
especially with the bayanihan spirit still widely practiced by the people. It
was also adjudged as the cleanest municipality in Quezon in the 90s.
18. Kalilayan Center
Lucena City
Constructed at the back of the Governor’s Mansion, it is frequently used
as venue for various Cultural and Tourism activities. The motif was
designed by Ugu Bigyan, a well-known mural and pottery artist depicting
Pahiyas festivals of Quezon Province.
19. Governor’s Mansion
Lucena City, Quezon
This is the official residence of the past governors of the province and is
now used as guesthouse for visitors. It is located in front of the Perez
Park, overlooking the impressive plaza.
20. D & G Farms
Brgy. Masalakot I, Candelaria, Quezon
The site is a family farm which breeds pigs, fighting cocks, orchids and
fruit trees. A river near it is also being developed to become a natural
swimming pool. Those who may want to visit the piggery will have to take
a bath for quarantine reasons

RELIGIOUS
1. St. Michael the Archangel Minor Basilica
Tayabas, Quezon
One of the oldest churches in the century, it was first built in 1585 and
repaired in 1590 using nipa and palm. In 1600, they used bricks. The
church was destroyed by an earthquake in 1743 and later rebuilt and
made bigger in 1856.
2. Atimonan Church
Atimonan town proper
This church was first built in 1640 but was burned during an invasion.
Rebuilt in 1643, it was partially destroyed by fire. During the Second World
War, the whole town including the church was leveled off by bombings.
Reconstruction of the church started in 1979.
3. Cathedral of San Diego de Alcala
Gumaca town proper
First established in 1582 on its present site, it was transferred to Silangan
in the island of Alabat in 1638. It was burned by the Dutch forces in 1665;
reconstructed and beautified in 1846. It is known as the biggest and
oldest Catholic Church in the province of Quezon.
4. Church of Saint Louise of Toulouse
Lucban, Quezon
The first church was built in 1593 but was ruined in 1629. The second
church was constructed between 1630 and 1640, but was razed by a fire
in 1733. The present church was completed in 1738 and its interiors in
1743. It was partly destroyed during the Second World War and the
Philippine Historical Conservation Society completed its renovation in
1966. The church is surrounded by gardens and grottos, and are
surrounded by old stone walls regarded locally as the “quince-quince”.
5. Munting Malaguinoan Island
Malaguinoan, Burdeos, Quezon
In the smaller of the two Malaguinoan Islands, an image of the Blessed
Virgin Mary stands. The image of the kneeling Mary was found out of a
growing stone. Every boat, which passes near the island pay homage to
the image to have a safe journey.
6. Our Lady of Sorrows Shrine
Dolores town proper, Quezon
The famous “pangkuan” is held every Friday of the week. Many people
from the neighboring towns come to Dolores to attend the mass in honor
of the Birhen Dolorosa. It is also known for the yearly “Viernes de
Dolores” which falls either in March or April. It features the holy Mass and
a “Turumba”, a dance praising the town’s patron saint. After the
procession, most of the pilgrims proceed to the river or a resort for a
refreshing bath of cold water.
7. Parish Church of Saint Francis de Assisi
Sariaya town proper, Quezon
The first church was built in 1599. The second church, built in 1965, was
replaced by a third in 1641. In 1703, the town was transferred to Lumang
Bayan, but the earthquakes and floods of 1743 destroyed the church and
the town, and caused the people to transfer to the present site. The
present church was built in 1748.
8. Buhay Na Kubol
General Luna, Quezon
A cultural practice similar to the Moriones of Marinduque is being
observed every Holy Week. It starts with a Boling-Boling Festival before
the Holy Week; participated in by residents dressed in soldiers’ attire used
during the time of Jesus. The culminating event is the presentation of the
13 Stations of the Cross on Good Friday.
9. St. Ferdinand Cathedral
Lucena City, Quezon
It is located in the heart of Lucena City. Founded on March 1, 1881, the
Parish Church of St. Ferdinand, now St. Ferdinand Cathedral, was
constructed from May 1882 to July of 1884. On May 24, 1887, the newly
built church was gutted down by fire and had to be reconstructed six
months after.

SPECIAL INTEREST
1. Diving and Snorkeling

Padre Burgos Submarine Garden
Padre Burgos, Quezon
It is a shallow coral area which abounds with starfish of several kinds,
sea cucumber, sea urchins, jellyfish and gorgonians. Good for
snorkeling.

Lopez Submarine Garden
Brgy. Hondagua, Lopez, Quezon
Located near the town proper of Lopez, continue driving towards the
town of Calauag, then turn left leading to Brg. Hondagua. An
alternative means is a trolley (or skid). Then hire a bance to reach the
site.

Polillo Coral Reef
Polillo Island, Quezon
Located just before the entrance to the cave of Polillo town, the coral
reef has a length of about five kilometers and a width of about two
kilometers. It is also a good spot for snorkeling and diving. Some
parts are so shallow that any type of ship and banca will have to make
a detour to avoid the reef area. Some parts have so-called walls which
are more than a hundred feet deep.

Burdeos Coral Reef
Burdeos, Quezon
The corals of Burdeos is one of the richest marine areas in Quezon.
The particular site near the Kalotkot Island is one of the best-preserved
areas.
2. Bird Watching

Minasawa Bird Sanctuary
Burdeos, Quezon
The island is just off the town of Jomalig but still part of Burdeos. The
4.5 hectare island was established as a sanctuary by the Department
of Environment and Natural Resources to protect the bird population in
the area. At present, there are about five species of birds which are
found in the island; the Nutmeg Imperial Pigeon (600), Black Naped
Oriole (600), Rufus Night Heron (thousands), Amusling (thousands)
and Swifts (50).

Bird Island
Polillo Island, Quezon
A coral formation which became an island is now a sanctuary for birds
which fly over the main island of Polillo and its neighboring areas.
Every afternoon, groups of birds gather in the sky and head towards
the island to spend the night there.
3. Cultural
Quezon is a tapestry of the old Spanish-style houses with Castillian
architecture and character. Visit the old houses of Lucban, Tayabas,
Sariaya, Gumaca and Mauban while savoring the best of the yield from
lanzones plantations. Or come during the San Isidro Festival in honor of
the patron of farmers, San Isidro Labrador. Take home petered rice paste
strung in garlands for a souvenir and celebrate with the people this feast
of thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest.
4. Quezon Museum
Visit the museum and take a sentimental journey to the past. The Manuel
L. Quezon Shrine beside the old capitol of Lucena City is a storehouse of
the writings and memorabilia of this great president.
5. Nature Tripping
Skirt around the mountains of Mt. Banahaw to watch the psychics at
meditation and view the lush greens of tropical wildlife. Then stop for rare
orchids and cutflowers from a thriving industry.
6. Swimming
Swimming and leisurely beachcombing are possible in many of Quezon’s
shorelines. Try the bay waters of Pagbilao, the beaches of Atimonan, the
fringes of Lamon Bay and Tayabas Bay. There are also fishing grounds
where the fresh catch may be broiled for a delectable lunch.
QUEZON
II. ACCESSIBILITY
 Southern route – South Expressway is the main artery, with exit at
Calamba
 Eastern route – Ortigas Avenue through the towns of Rizal onward to
Infanta, Quezon
 CALABARZON (Cavite-Laguna-Batangas-Rizal-Quezon) route – The
highway system and well-developed road network of this region links the
neighboring provinces with ease and convenience for tourism, trade and
commerce.
 Major bus companies such as Tritran, Jam, JAC Liner, Philtranco and
Superlines ply the well-developed roads to and from Metro Manila and
within CALABARZON on a regular basis. Bus terminals are located at
Buendia and Taft Avenue, Araneta Center in Cubao, Quezon City and
EDSA in Pasay City.
 Jeepneys, mini buses and tricycles are available at the Lucena City
Grand Terminal to take passengers to various destinations in Quezon.
 Travel time is approximately three (3) hours from Manila
III. HISTORY
Tayabas, the former name of what is now known as Quezon was under the
jurisdiction of various provinces. In During the latter part part of the Spanish
colonial period, the central portion was under the authority of Batangas. The
northern portion was divided between Laguna and Nueva Ecija, while the
other portion was divided between the provinces of Mindoro, Marinduque, and
Camarines.
Kalilayan, the original name of the general area was created into a province in
1591. On March 12, 1902, under the American regime the civil government
was established and renamed as Tayabas. On June 12, 1902, the district of
Principe, formerly under Nueva Ecija, and the district of Infanta, including
Polillo was annexed to Tayabas. Tayabas was among the first 11 provinces
to revolt against Spain.
In 1591, Tayabas was under the name of Kalilayan. On March 12, 1902, the
civil government was established in Tayabas with Lucena as its capital. On
June 12, 1902, Tayabas was among the first provinces to rise up in arms
against Spain. At the close of Filipino-American hostilities, a civil government
was established in the province in 1901, and Lucena was appointed the
capital.
On September 7, 1946, the province of Tayabas was renamed Quezon
Province in honor of President Manuel L. Quezon, the first president of the
Philippine Commonwealth. He was born in the town of Baler, then a town in
the province of Tayabas. In 1951, the northern municipality was created into
a subprovince named Aurora, in honor of President Quezon’s spouse, Doña
Aurora Aragon Quezon.
.
IV. BASIC FACTS

Total Land area
- 870,660 hec.



Population
Climate
40 municipalities and 1 city.
- 1,679,030 (As of May 2000)
- Naturally mild
Municipalities:
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
Agdangan
Alabat
Atimonan
Burdeos
Buenavista
Calauag
Candelaria
Catanauan
Dolores
Gen. Luna
General Nakar
Guinayangan
Gumaca
Infanta
Jomalig
Lopez
Lucban
Macalelon
Mauban
Mulanay
City:
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40
Padre Burgos
Pagbilao
Panukulan
Patnanungan
Perez
Pitogo
Plaridel
Polillo
Quezon
Real
Sampaloc
San Andres
San Antonio
San Francisco
San Narciso
Sariaya
Tagkawayan
Tayabas
Tiaong
Unisan
Lucena City
V. ATTRACTIONS

HISTORICAL
1. Malagunlong Bridge
Tayabas, Quezon
Built during the Spanish colonial period using Spanish and indigenous
engineering skills and materials, this bridge is considered the oldest one in
town. It was constructed within the general period of 1585 onwards when
the construction of the parish church was initiated.
2. Alitao and Malaoa Bridges
Tayabas, Quezon
The bridges are reckoned to be a century-old but are still passable. It is
located 4 kilometers from the town proper of Tayabas.
3. Kutang San Diego (Spanish Fort)
Town proper of Gumaca, near the pier.
The structure built under the supervision of Franciscans during the latter
part of the 18th century. It was constructed as a look-out point of the town
against sea pirates.
4. San Diego de Alcala Fortress
Gumaca, Quezon
Recognized by the National Historical Commission as a national treasure
in 1981, this fortress was constructed under the leadership of Franciscan
Father Francisco Coste.
5. Claro M. Recto Shrine
Tiaong, Quezon
The late Sen. Claro M. Recto, a great statesman and staunch nationalist
whose career and body of written work on nationhood, governance and
politics has inspired many generations.
6. Iskong Bantay Watchtower
Atimonan town proper, Quezon
It was built by the Spanish authorities as a watchtower to warn the
townsfolk of Atimonan of impending pirate attacks.
7. San Antonio de Alcala Park
Maharlika Highway, Gumaca Quezon
Named after the town‘s patron saint, the park features a promenade area
facing Lamon Bay and the neighboring island of Alabat. The park is
located at the approach to the town of Gumaca.

CULTURAL
4. Manuel L. Quezon Museum (Giintong Yaman ng Quezon Museum)
Former Provincial Health Building, Provincial Capitol Compound
Lucena City
The museum houses a collection of the memorabilia of the former
President Manuel L. Quezon, former Senator Lorenzo Tañada and former
Congressman Manuel S. Enverga. A large section of the museum houses
the memorabilia of some of the prominent citizens of the province.
5. Duamagat Settlement
Sitio Malatunglan, General Nakar, Quezon
There are four (4) settlements namely: Dinigman Settlement at Barangay
Canaway, Lamutan Settlement at Barangay Lamutan, Tamala Settlement
at Barangay San Marcelino and Cynthia Village of Barangay Umiray.
These settlements are under the administration and supervision of the
Local Government, Office for Southern Cultural Communities (OSCC) of
Department of Social Welfare and Development.
6. Malatunglan Dumagat Settlement
Sitio Malatunglan, General Nakar, Quezon
It is an established Dumagat Settlement under the auspices of the
Catholic Church and the local government of General Nakar. There are
about 22 families in the area. Trained instructors educate the Dumagat
people in a school building nearby.

NATURAL
48. Pagbilao Grande
Tayabas Bay, near the coast of Pagbilao
It is a group of islands located on the Tayabas Bay area where there are
white sand beaches and rich fishing grounds. This is also the site of Tulay
Buhangin where sand dunes connect the islets of Padre Burgos during
low tide.
49. Tikub Lake
Tiaong, Quezon
About two kilometers in diameter and 75 meters deep, Tikub Lake lies on
the crater of an extinct volcano. Thick foliage surrounds the lake.
50. Puting Buhangin Beach
Pagbilao Grande, Pagbilao, Quezon
Located in the Pagbilao Grande area, this pure white sand beach, with
crystal-clear and calm water, is a favorite place in Pagbilao during the
summer months. The white sand beach is about 70 meters long and 10
meters wide. A small cave is found at one end of the beach.
51. Mamala
Barangay Mamala I, Sariaya, Quezon
Mamala is a small barangay, which is located in the heart of Mt. Banahaw.
The area enjoys a cool temperature of about 17.2 degrees Celsius. About
400 meters from the end of the concrete road is the “jungle”, as the locals
refer to. Within the jungle are lush vegetation and a river, which supplies
the irrigation system of the area. Exotic flora, tropical plants and giant
ferns, some growing to a height of more than 10 feet abound.
52. Lamon Bay
Northern part of Quezon
Lamon Bay is a body of water connecting the northern part of Quezon to
the Pacific Ocean. It bounds the coastal towns of Atimonan, Gumaca,
Plaridel, Lopez and Calauag, and the islands of Alabat. It is a rich fishing
ground and the home of various living corals. Most parts of the bay
consist of gray sand, some parts are filled with rocks and other living
corals. During low tide, the water level is low enough to allow one to walk
as far as five hundred meters from the shore. The beaches in the towns
of Gumaca and Plaridel are sandy and ideal for swimming. The town of
Lopez has the best colonies of corals which are located just about15
minutes by boatride from the shore.
53. Tayabas Bay
Sariaya, Quezon
The area of Tayabas Bay in Sariaya is well-developed for tourism due to
the wide coastline and the presence of several fine beach resorts. There is
a stretch of gray sand dotted with resorts that make it an ideal place for
families and beach holiday makers.
54. Mt. Banahaw
Quezon Province
This 7,382 foot majestic but extinct volcano is famous for its mystical
attributes, varied flora and fauna and breathtaking views of its environs.
Unique religious rites are held every Holy Week by pilgrims who believe
that Christ walked on this mountain. There are approximately 66-68
registered religious sects whose members hold rituals during Holy Week.
The mountain is also a favorite site of amulet hunters.
55. Quezon National Park
Western municipalities of Atimonan, Pagbilao and Padre Burgos
Quezon National Park has an area of about 9,830,765 hectares. It has an
intricate system of caves, waterfalls, springs, creeks, gorges, and ravines
against a quaint backdrop of lush greenery. Local folks say that the park
is full of flora and fauna from butterflies to birds and monkeys tugging
along their young, while crossing the street. Trees are so tall and huge
that the zigzag road is relatively dark. The park is also the site of
Pinagbanderahan, a place where the Filipino Revolutionaries planted the
Philippine flag in their fight against the Spanish colonizers. It can be
reached by walking for about one hour from the road to the top of a ridge.
56. Kinabuhayan
Barangay Kinabuhayan, Dolores, Quezon
This is the site where members of religious sects of Mt. Banahaw believe
Christ spent His Calvary. Thousands of pilgrims, the number of which
may reach to 30,000 come to this area to fulfill their vows or be healed of
their afflictions. What can be found here are the rocks where Christ was
believed to have been tied (Pinaggapusan). His footprints are embedded
on a rock, and a cold and damp rock at the entrance of a cave is said to
have curing power.
57. Ina ng Awa
Barangay Sta. Lucia, Dolores, Quezon
Ina ng Awa is near Kinabuhayan, at the foot of Mt. Banahaw, and is also
believed to be mystical. The mystical caves are located in this area.
Many small caves and rock shelters were given Biblical names and some
also serve as altars for the sects. Some, like the Santong Husgado Cave,
test the purity of the spirit of those who enter. The ones with clean spirit
can easily pass through and the unclean ones are overcome by rocks
inside the cave, preventing them from continuing.
58. Cristalino Falls
Mt. Banahaw, Dolores, Quezon
It is a few meters south of Santos Collegio where crystal clear water can
soothe one’s thirst after climbing a few slopes up.
59. Durungawan
Mt. Banahaw, Dolores, Quezon
Having the strength of going up higher at Mt. Banahaw, one can see for
himself the crowning glory of the holy mountain’s peak called
“Durungawan” – a window place on the mountain’s top where one can
gaze at the valleys, towns, and city surrounding the sacred mountain. It is
from there that one can feel the ultimate satisfaction of having gone up the
mountain.
60. Malusak Cave
Barangay Malusak, Atimonan, Quezon
It is probably the longest cave in Atimonan with a clearance of more or
less 2 feet in height.
61. Talabaan Islands
Off the coast of Padre Burgos
The Talabaan Islands are two islands located off the shore of Padre
Burgos town. The bigger of the two, Malaking Talabaan, is a favorite
jump-off point to the beaches of Padre Burgos and the neighboring town
of Pagbilao. The smaller island, Maliit na Talabaan, is a rock formation
jutting out of the sea. What makes the island unique is that the rocks
seem to have been curiously arranged and piled.
62. Mag-asawang Bato
Off the coast of Padre Burgos
The Mag-asawang Bato are two pieces of big boulders jutting out of the
sea. During low tide, the land where the stones stand are exposed so that
people can walk over them.
63. Pulong Niugan
Barangay Hondagua, Lopez, Quezon
It is the biggest of the three islands near the shore of the municipality of
Lopez and the neighboring towns of Calauag and Gumaca. The beach
area is gradually sloping and the water is clear. Its best assets are the
nearby colonies of corals about 50 meters from the islands.
64. Tulay Buhangin Island
Padre Burgos, Quezon
The island is one of the favorite areas of vacationers who to go to Padre
Burgos. Although one beachfront has been damaged, other parts of the
island are still good for swimming.
65. Pasig Island
Calauag, Quezon
This tourist spot looks very much like an ordinary island nestling in the
calm waters of the Pacific. The people who live there (about 25 families)
have very dark skin and brown hair. Coconut trees are all over the island.
Aside from cogon grass, Bermuda grass also grows in abundance. Part of
the perimeter of the island is covered with mangroves. Other parts of the
beach are made up of either white sand or rocks. The entrance to the
island (distance from the shore is about one kilometer) is good for
snorkeling because it has colonies of live corals. During low tide, the
corals can be clearly seen from a boat.
66. Baluti Island
Off the coast of Real
Located about three kilometers from the town port of Real, Baluti island
covers an area of about 23 hectares. A wide river separates the island,
which is a part of the mainland. Many parts of the island are covered with
pine trees, instead of coconut trees. The beach areas are good for
swimming. The water is relatively clear and the gray sand is fine. A slight
drop-off is located just about 10 meters from the beachfront.
67. Libjo Beach
Barangay Libjo, Infanta, Quezon
The beach is about two kilometers long, 30 meters wide and has been the
favorite picnic area of many locals especially during the summer months.
The sand is fine and light gray in color. The drop-off is about 20 meters
from the shore.
68. Pamplona Beach
General Nakar, Quezon
The beach is about three kilometers long and 40 meters wide. Parts of
the area have the gray sand, smooth pebbles, and rocks. Rocks with
curious formations are also present at one end of the beach. A spring with
cold water can be found near these rock formations.
69. Balabag Falls
Barangay Mapalad, Real, Quezon
Balabag Falls is the biggest of the three falls located in barangay Mapalad
in Real. It has about 100 feet of cascading water.
70. San Francisco Beach
Barangay Sibulan, Polillo, Quezon
The beach is about one kilometer long and 25 meters wide. The color of
the sand is light borwn and the ocean floor slopes gradually. The area is a
favorite picnic ground of the people of Polillo.
71. Coccoc Island
Polillo, Quezon
Coccoc is a small island which looks like an umbrella from afar. White
sand beaches surround the island. Although quite far from the town
proper of Polillo, this particular island is also a favorite picnic area of many
locals.
72. Bakaw-bakaw Island
Burdeos, Quezon
The island is about one hectare in size and filled with mangroves, talisay
trees and other shrubs. The beach is gently sloping and it has light brown
sand and crushed shells. The deeper portion is dotted with isolated coral
beds.
73. Binombonan Island
Burdeos, Quezon
The island has an area of one hectare and is still uninhabited. It is circular
in shape and ringed by fine white sand. The sand level gradually slopes
and the water is very clear. The land is densed forested. Not far from the
island is a good spot for snorkeling and diving.
74. Ikulong Island
Burdeos,Quezon
The island is about 15 hectares in size and filled with coconut trees. Like
the other islands, it has white sand.
75. Anilon Island
Burdeos, Quezon
The island is about 15 hectares in area and the white sand beach on one
side of the island is about one kilometer long and 25 meters wide. During
low tide, one end of the island reveals a long stretch of sand which looks
like a sand bridge.
76. Anilon Cave
Anilon, Burdeos, Quezon
It is a small islet or a large rock, which also looks like a land bridge with a
small cave where swimmers can pass through from one end to the other.
77. Malaking Malaguinoan Island
Burdeos, Quezon
The bigger one of the two Malaguinoan islands, it is about 40 hectares in
area. Several white sand beaches are located along its coast.
78. Puting Bato
Barangay Puting Bato, Burdeos, Quezon
The major attractions of Puting Bato are its cliff walls, which look like
limestone cliffs of North Palawan. Aside from the walls, there are small
caves. Small isolated beaches, which are good for swimming, can also be
found. Rock formations, which look like umbrellas, abound in the area.
79. Kabalwa Island
Burdeos, Quezon
One of the biggest islands, it is about 40 hectares in area size. Several
beaches are also present in the island.
80. Palasan Island
Burdeos, Quezon
Palasan is the biggest of the many islands of Burdeos. It is about 150
hectares in land area. Like the other island, Palasan also has several
beaches.
81. Anawan Island
Burdeos, Quezon
Although the beaches in Anawan are good, these are very far from the
town pier. The distance is about 1.8 nautical miles. Its land area is about
18 hectares.
82. Sila Beach
Sila, Patnanungan, Quezon
Sila Beach is part of the main island of the town of Patnanungan. The
beach is brown and gently sloping. Not far from the beach are colonies of
corals. At one part of the beach are queer rock formations, which look
very much like speedboats docked in a marina.
83. Katakian Island
Patnanungan, Quezon
The sand on the beach is brown, and gently sloping. The beach is about
500 meters long and 20 meters wide. A wide area of coral reef is located
near the island.
84. Talisoy Beach
Jomalig, Quezon
The beach is one of the popular areas in the island for tourists. Because
of the clear water, the wide area of the beach, and the sudden drop-off,
professional swimmers prefer the area.
85. Maria Cristina Park
Maharlika Highway, Atimonan, Quezon
Maria Cristina Park is a promenade park with an area of 200 square
meters, built along the Lamon Bay area in Atimonan.
86. Perez Park
Capitol Compound, Lucena City, Quezon
Perez Park consists of seven hectares of fully developed and wellmaintained area located at the heart of Lucena City, the provincial capital.
It features a children’s playground, a beautifully landscaped garden, a
man-made cave, and a large area for outdoor dancing.
87. Pinagbanderahan
Barangay Malinao Ilaya, Atimonan, Quezon
It is a monument at the heart of the Natinoal Forest Park built in 1938
under the commonwealth government. This is called Pinagbanderahan
for its historic role during World War II. It offers a perfect vantage point to
view Mt. Banahaw, the islands of Marinduque and Mindoro, as well as the
major towns and city of Quezon, like Lucena, Pagbilao and Tayabas.
88. Santos Collegio
Dolores, Quezon
About 100 meters from Kinabuhayan spring, it is a place where one can
bathe from sprinkles of tiny droplets of water from mountain springs, as
fresh as dewdrops pouring down from the mountain slides.
89. Sta. Lucia Falls
Dolores, Quezon
Before going directly to the falls, an adventurous tourist can detour to a
winding footpath leading to “Ina ng Awa” a place of religious worship
where many members of religious sects pray for guidance from the Virgin
Mary. 267 steps going down to Sta. Lucia falls, one can hear the murmur
of the cascading water as it quietly settles into a tranquil basin, truly nature
at its best.
90. Lumiliay River Waterfalls
Barangay Caridad, Atimonan, Quezon
It is approximately 114 kms. away from the barangay proper with fresh,
clean water.
91. Magsaysay Waterfalls
Barangay Malinao, Atimonan, Quezon
It has clean and fresh water. It abounds in tall trees and is ideal for
picnicking.
92. Manlalayes Lakes and Gunao Lake
Dolores, Quezon
These lakes are the main sources of fresh fish like “tilapia, hito and dalag”.
Visitors can buy fresh fish at reasonable prices.
93. Patayan Island
Pagbilao Grande, Pagbilao, Quezon
Part of the Pagbilao Grande Islands, this is where the Tulay Buhangin
(Sand Bridge) is located. People say that Patayan Island was named from
the site where the young men of the town were killed by pirates during the
olden times. This is the island to which one end of the Tulay Buhangin is
connected. The island has a beach known for its smooth stones.
94. Pulong Niugan
Barangay Hondagua, Lopez, Quezon
It is the biggest of the three islands near the shore of the municipality of
Lopez and the neighboring towns of Calauag and Gumaca. The beach
area is gradually sloping. The water is clear. Its best asset is the nearby
colonies of corals about 50 meters from the island.

MAN-MADE
21. Zigzag Road (also referred to as Bitukang Manoko or Eme Road)
Quezon National Park
Located in the middle of the Quezon National Park, its curves are so tight
and the road so steep that vehicles have to literally inch their way up.
Around the roadsides are lush vegetation of the Quezon National Park.
22. Sirena
Maharlika Highway, Atimonan, Quezon
Located along the main highway, sculpture of Sirena is an interesting sight
for the motorists. The Sirena (Mermaid) is a copy of the sculpture of Little
Mermaid in Denmark. Like the one in Denmark, it also sits on top of a big
boulder. It is located along the beach of Lamon Bay.
23. Japanese Tunnel
Barangay Matinik, Lopez, Quezon
The tunnel is located right along the tracks before reaching Hondagua.
24. Lucban Town
Lucban, Quezon
The town of Lucban, celebrates one of the country’s biggest, and most
colorful harvest festivals every May 15, along with the towns of Tayabas,
Sariaya, Gumaca, Tiaong, and Lucena City, the festivities are the
Philippines best known harvest festivals to honor San Isidro Labrador, the
patron of farmers. Known as “Pahiyas” , the festival is deeply rooted in
the traditional celebration of the townsfolk in thanksgiving for bountiful
harvest. Decorations called “Kiping”, leaf-shaped and multi-colored rice
paste wafers which are used to decorate the facades of the homes along
with the fruits and flowers from nature. The visual and culinary feast has
gained national and international renown. The Lucban town center is a
permanent facility for merchandising crafts and delicacies including
special events that showcases the lifestyle of its environs.
25. Balagtas Sports Complex
Zone IV – Poblacion, Atimonan, Quezon
It provides adequate space for recreational activities
26. Hunters ROTC Veterans Park
Barangay Tagbakin, Atimonan, Quezon
It is a park located at the gateway of the Poblacion, built in memory of the
brave Atimonan soldiers who fought during the Japanese war.
27. Leon Guinto Boulevard
Zone IV – Poblacion, Atimonan, Quezon
It is a place for scenic viewing of Lamon Bay and Alabat Island.
28. The Mermaid Along Lamon Bay
Maharlika Highway, Atimonan, Quezon
A well-known landmark along the coastal national road going to the Bicol
region is supposed to signify the marine nature of the livelihood of the
municipality. The place is also called Lamon Bay. The mermaid is a copy
of the sculpture of the Little Mermaid in Denmark. Like the one in
Denmark, it also sits on top of a big boulder. It is located along the beach
of Lamon Bay.
29. Roman Catholic Park
Barangay Zone IV – Poblacion, Atimonan, Quezon
It is a mini-park located in front of the Roman Catholic Church.
30. San Diego Park
Barangay Villa Bota, Gumaca, Quezon
It is also known as the park outside the town because it is located 2
kilometers away from the Poblacion.
31. Gumaca Rizal Park
Barangay Rizal, Gumaca, Quezon
Built in 1935 during the incumbency of Eriberto Caparros, By the year
1982, it was modernized, renovated and lighted.
32. Marcos Tigla Park
Lucban, Quezon
Formerly known as Paseo Rizal, named after the legendary founder and
first Governadorcillo of Lucban, the park is the site of fine monuments and
other structures, including the Idyll of the Sea and the Fountain of
Wisdom, which symbolize a mother transferring wisdom to her son.
33. Caprichosa Park
Lucban, Quezon
Located at the eastern approach of the Poblacion, it affords visitors a
panoramic view of the town. It is presently being developed as a potential
tourist spot because of its ideal location and cozy environment. A
monument called Bantayog ng mga Bayani was built in this place to
commemorate the heroic struggle of the WWII veterans of Lucban.
34. Rizal Park
Lucban, Quezon
Formerly known as Plaza Dela Revolution, it is one of the finest
masterpieces of art in the country.
The monument stands as a
magnificent sculpture, made in perfect proportion as viewed from any
angle. It illustrates the skillful talent of the famous Lucbanin artist, Ishmael
Villaseñor, who was widely popular in international expositions during
those days. Built in 1915, the park is still the favorite place for relaxation.
35. Manuel L. Quezon Monument
Perez Park, Lucena City, Quezon
It was erected in memory of the First President of the Philippines
Commonwealth, who is known as “Ama ng Wikang Filipino” in support to
his full measure of devotion and service to the cause of Philippine
independence from the United States.
36. Quezon Provincial Capitol
Lucena City
This provincial government site of Quezon Province was built on a sevenhectare lot donated in 1908 by its former Governor, Don Felimon E. Perez.
37. Quezon Theme Park
Sampaloc, Quezon
This municipality is being developed as the “Theme Park” of the province.
Sampaloc is a typical model Filipino community because of its culture,
especially with the bayanihan spirit still widely practiced by the people. It
was also adjudged as the cleanest municipality in Quezon in the 90s.
38. Kalilayan Center
Lucena City
Constructed at the back of the Governor’s Mansion, it is frequently used
as venue for various Cultural and Tourism activities. The motif was
designed by Ugu Bigyan, a well-known mural and pottery artist depicting
Pahiyas festivals of Quezon Province.
39. Governor’s Mansion
Lucena City, Quezon
This is the official residence of the past governors of the province and is
now used as guesthouse for visitors. It is located in front of the Perez
Park, overlooking the impressive plaza.
40. D & G Farms
Brgy. Masalakot I, Candelaria, Quezon
The site is a family farm which breeds pigs, fighting cocks, orchids and
fruit trees. A river near it is also being developed to become a natural
swimming pool. Those who may want to visit the piggery will have to take
a bath for quarantine reasons

RELIGIOUS
10. St. Michael the Archangel Minor Basilica
Tayabas, Quezon
One of the oldest churches in the century, it was first built in 1585 and
repaired in 1590 using nipa and palm. In 1600, they used bricks. The
church was destroyed by an earthquake in 1743 and later rebuilt and
made bigger in 1856.
11. Atimonan Church
Atimonan town proper
This church was first built in 1640 but was burned during an invasion.
Rebuilt in 1643, it was partially destroyed by fire. During the Second World
War, the whole town including the church was leveled off by bombings.
Reconstruction of the church started in 1979.
12. Cathedral of San Diego de Alcala
Gumaca town proper
First established in 1582 on its present site, it was transferred to Silangan
in the island of Alabat in 1638. It was burned by the Dutch forces in 1665;
reconstructed and beautified in 1846. It is known as the biggest and
oldest Catholic Church in the province of Quezon.
13. Church of Saint Louise of Toulouse
Lucban, Quezon
The first church was built in 1593 but was ruined in 1629. The second
church was constructed between 1630 and 1640, but was razed by a fire
in 1733. The present church was completed in 1738 and its interiors in
1743. It was partly destroyed during the Second World War and the
Philippine Historical Conservation Society completed its renovation in
1966. The church is surrounded by gardens and grottos, and are
surrounded by old stone walls regarded locally as the “quince-quince”.
14. Munting Malaguinoan Island
Malaguinoan, Burdeos, Quezon
In the smaller of the two Malaguinoan Islands, an image of the Blessed
Virgin Mary stands. The image of the kneeling Mary was found out of a
growing stone. Every boat, which passes near the island pay homage to
the image to have a safe journey.
15. Our Lady of Sorrows Shrine
Dolores town proper, Quezon
The famous “pangkuan” is held every Friday of the week. Many people
from the neighboring towns come to Dolores to attend the mass in honor
of the Birhen Dolorosa. It is also known for the yearly “Viernes de
Dolores” which falls either in March or April. It features the holy Mass and
a “Turumba”, a dance praising the town’s patron saint. After the
procession, most of the pilgrims proceed to the river or a resort for a
refreshing bath of cold water.
16. Parish Church of Saint Francis de Assisi
Sariaya town proper, Quezon
The first church was built in 1599. The second church, built in 1965, was
replaced by a third in 1641. In 1703, the town was transferred to Lumang
Bayan, but the earthquakes and floods of 1743 destroyed the church and
the town, and caused the people to transfer to the present site. The
present church was built in 1748.
17. Buhay Na Kubol
General Luna, Quezon
A cultural practice similar to the Moriones of Marinduque is being
observed every Holy Week. It starts with a Boling-Boling Festival before
the Holy Week; participated in by residents dressed in soldiers’ attire used
during the time of Jesus. The culminating event is the presentation of the
13 Stations of the Cross on Good Friday.
18. St. Ferdinand Cathedral
Lucena City, Quezon
It is located in the heart of Lucena City. Founded on March 1, 1881, the
Parish Church of St. Ferdinand, now St. Ferdinand Cathedral, was
constructed from May 1882 to July of 1884. On May 24, 1887, the newly
built church was gutted down by fire and had to be reconstructed six
months after.

SPECIAL INTEREST
7. Diving and Snorkeling

Padre Burgos Submarine Garden
Padre Burgos, Quezon
It is a shallow coral area which abounds with starfish of several kinds,
sea cucumber, sea urchins, jellyfish and gorgonians. Good for
snorkeling.

Lopez Submarine Garden
Brgy. Hondagua, Lopez, Quezon
Located near the town proper of Lopez, continue driving towards the
town of Calauag, then turn left leading to Brg. Hondagua. An
alternative means is a trolley (or skid). Then hire a bance to reach the
site.

Polillo Coral Reef
Polillo Island, Quezon
Located just before the entrance to the cave of Polillo town, the coral
reef has a length of about five kilometers and a width of about two
kilometers. It is also a good spot for snorkeling and diving. Some
parts are so shallow that any type of ship and banca will have to make
a detour to avoid the reef area. Some parts have so-called walls which
are more than a hundred feet deep.

Burdeos Coral Reef
Burdeos, Quezon
The corals of Burdeos is one of the richest marine areas in Quezon.
The particular site near the Kalotkot Island is one of the best-preserved
areas.
8. Bird Watching

Minasawa Bird Sanctuary
Burdeos, Quezon
The island is just off the town of Jomalig but still part of Burdeos. The
4.5 hectare island was established as a sanctuary by the Department
of Environment and Natural Resources to protect the bird population in
the area. At present, there are about five species of birds which are
found in the island; the Nutmeg Imperial Pigeon (600), Black Naped
Oriole (600), Rufus Night Heron (thousands), Amusling (thousands)
and Swifts (50).

Bird Island
Polillo Island, Quezon
A coral formation which became an island is now a sanctuary for birds
which fly over the main island of Polillo and its neighboring areas.
Every afternoon, groups of birds gather in the sky and head towards
the island to spend the night there.
9. Cultural
Quezon is a tapestry of the old Spanish-style houses with Castillian
architecture and character. Visit the old houses of Lucban, Tayabas,
Sariaya, Gumaca and Mauban while savoring the best of the yield from
lanzones plantations. Or come during the San Isidro Festival in honor of
the patron of farmers, San Isidro Labrador. Take home petered rice paste
strung in garlands for a souvenir and celebrate with the people this feast
of thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest.
10. Quezon Museum
Visit the museum and take a sentimental journey to the past. The Manuel
L. Quezon Shrine beside the old capitol of Lucena City is a storehouse of
the writings and memorabilia of this great president.
11. Nature Tripping
Skirt around the mountains of Mt. Banahaw to watch the psychics at
meditation and view the lush greens of tropical wildlife. Then stop for rare
orchids and cutflowers from a thriving industry.
12. Swimming
Swimming and leisurely beachcombing are possible in many of Quezon’s
shorelines. Try the bay waters of Pagbilao, the beaches of Atimonan, the
fringes of Lamon Bay and Tayabas Bay. There are also fishing grounds
where the fresh catch may be broiled for a delectable lunch.