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 Paraaque; 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, Cavites progressive towns were already trading with Manila and with one another. Traditional industries began to thrive as Manilas 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 Governors 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 Tagaytays rich political history. 15. 11th Airborne Division Marker Tagaytay City, Cavite On February 3, 1945, the 11th Airbone Division of Lt. Gen. William Kruegers 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 Kawiteos 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 Christs 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 countrys 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 Seora dela Soledad de Porta Vaga San Roque Parish Church, Cavite City The Nuestra Seora 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 Blancos 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, Robinsons Galleria in Ortigas Avenue, Quezon City and Farmers 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 Pias, Malabon, Makati, Paraaque, 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 Pias, Paraaque, 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 Population Climate : : : 308,122 hectares 1,707,218 as of May 2000 Dry / Warm and Rainy Seasons

13 municipalities and 1 city.

Municipalities: 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

City:

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 Worlds 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 latters 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 others sticks. The player who is able to touch his opponents 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 natures 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 ladys 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 faade 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 faade 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 Ones stay in Romblon is not complete without a visit to one of its marble quarries and factories. Comparable to Italys Cararra, Romblons 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 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 Bantons 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. Mayos 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. Josephs 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. Bishops 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, fishermans 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 dcor 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 Population Climate No. of Municipalities/ Cities Capital 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 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 : : : 316,580 hec. 1,905,348 as of May 2000 Naturally Mild; with dry and rainy season 32 municipalities and 3 cities Batangas City Cities: 1. Batangas City 2. Lipa City 3. Tanauan City

: :

ATTRACTIONS 1. HISTORICAL General Miguel Malvar Museum and Library (National Landmark) Gen. Malvar St., 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. 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 Batangueo 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 Batangueo 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 familys 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 familys collection of memorabilia. Marcela Mario 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 familys 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 faade 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 provinces 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 Luzons 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 faade resembles St. Peters 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 provinces 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 faade 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 Batangueo 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 familys 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 familys 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 islands 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.

Merriels 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 Luzons 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 countrys 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 countrys 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 Heros childhood memorabilia and that of the national heros 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 Baos, Laguna Four years of war and Japanese occupation destroyed many buildings,roads and bridges in and around Los Baos. 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 1970s, 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 Baos, 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 Baos, 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 Baos Campus,Los Baos 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 Baos ,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 Baos 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 Baos 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 Baos 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 1930s 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 Seora de los Dolores de Turumba and the Doa 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 Doa 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 Daleas 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. Dalea, 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 Doa 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 Baos, 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 Seora 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 Seora 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 towns 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 Paetes 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 cats 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 Baos, Laguna The worlds 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 Baos. 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 Baos 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 Baos (UPLB) Museum of Natural History. UPLB Campus, Los Baos, Laguna The Museum of Natural History (MNH) of the University of the Philippines Los Baos (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 countrys 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 Baos, 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 Baos, 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 o Population 95,920 hectares 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 IV. ATTRACTIONS o Historical

dry season rainy season

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 Christs 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 Christs passion and death. Parents of children, at that time, in order to frighten children into submission, pointed to the grotesque figures as Moroyon. 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 Christs side with a spear as He was nailedto

cross and was a witness to Jesuss resurrection. Longinus was arrested for spreading the news of Christs 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 Marinduqueos spirituality. 3. Putong Town Proper of Boac, Mogpog and Gasan This is Marinduques 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 Limahongs 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 kilometers 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 Marinduqueos, 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 faade 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 islands 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 o Population _ _ 587,980 hectares 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 * * Mamburao

November to April - dry season May to October - wet season

IV. ATTRACTIONS o Historical 1. Parola Park

Lumang Bayan, Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro

The parks 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 fishermans 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 Mindoros 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 divers 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 worlds 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 17th 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 centurys 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 towns 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 towns 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 towns agricultural bounty : Coconut.

Contact Office Tel. No.

Mr. Freddie Ramos/San Teodoro Tourism 0921-857-4258

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 Doctors 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 hours 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 forts 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 Brookes Point, Palawan A historical landmark in Brookes 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 buildings 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 Palawans 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 worlds 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 days 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 Seorita 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.
2.

Palawan Museum Puerto Princesa City 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 towns 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 Taada 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 ones 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 mountains peak called Durungawan a window place on the mountains 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 childrens 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 countrys 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 Villaseor, 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 Governors 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. Governors 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 towns 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 Quezons 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 Quezons spouse, Doa Aurora Aragon Quezon. . IV. BASIC FACTS Total Land area - 870,660 hec.

Population Climate 40 municipalities and 1 city. Municipalities:

- 1,679,030 (As of May 2000) - Naturally mild

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

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

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 towns 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 Taada 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 ones 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 mountains peak called Durungawan a window place on the mountains 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 childrens 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 countrys 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 Villaseor, 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 Governors 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. Governors 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 towns 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 Quezons 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.