Tag: Churches

Capiz: Places of Faith and Worship

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Capiz Places of Faith and Worship

For a time, the province of Capiz, located on the northeastern island of Panay in Western Visayas, had a reputation for being a land of Aswangs (shape-shifting evil mythical creatures). This notion can be traced back to several historical events. One such event was the outbreak of dystonia disease that afflicted several residents in the province. Another was the use of the myth of Aswang to scare off Japanese soldiers during the war. These days, however, the province has chosen to spotlight its abundant seafood, earning it the moniker “Seafood Capital of the Philippines.”

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Gasan: A Bicycle Ride to Haynon Hills

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Gasan to Haynon Hills bicycle ride

As I wake up at the Balar Hotel and Spa in Boac, I feel excited about the second day of our Marinduque Cycling Challenge. The hotel’s comfy bed and linens have always left me fully rested, making it a perfect home base for our Marinduque adventure. My anticipation is momentarily dampened when I discover my bike’s rear tire is flat. Thankfully, the Darling’s electronic air pump comes to the rescue, but I know I’ll have to replace the interiors soon. Undeterred, we set off early, heading south to Gasan and Buenavista.

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Discovering Marinduque’s Heritage: A Bicycle Adventure in Boac

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Marinduque Bicycle Adventure in Boac

Marinduque, with its heart-shaped allure, has always held a special place in my early travel adventures. I’ve been lucky to visit this enchanting island three times before, savoring its scenic coastal roads, captivating falls, lush hills, and vibrant cultural tapestry. But on this recent trip, thanks to the wonderful support of DOT MIMAROPA, I had the opportunity to experience Marinduque in an entirely new way – exploring its wonders on two wheels. Biking through this picturesque paradise allowed me to connect more intimately with its beauty, embracing the slower pace that enriched my appreciation of the island’s charm.

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The Beguiling Capalonga Black Nazarene and its Natural Wonders

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Capalonga Camarines Norte

Did you know that there’s more to the Black Nazarene than the one in Quiapo? In the remote municipality of Capalonga, Camarines Norte, there exists another revered Black Nazarene that draws hordes of devotees every May. Nestled within the Diocesan Shrine of Jesus, this centuries-old religious icon attracts pilgrims from both near and far, despite being situated approximately 285 kilometers away from Manila. Once visitors pay their respects to this miraculous image, they can delve into the exhilarating ecotourism adventures that await in this picturesque coastal town.

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Siklista Iglesia: Heritage Churches You Ought To Visit In Rizal Province By Bike

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Siklista Iglesia

With Holy Week just around the corner, it’s time once again to consult a map and contemplate on doing the rounds of churches for the annual Visita Iglesia. While you’re at it, it might be worthwhile exploring Rizal Province which is renowned for beautiful, mostly centuries-old churches with some dating back to the Spanish colonial period. This year, why not hop on your bike instead of walking so you can cover more ground?  After all, you’d still be using your legs as some sort of sacrifice for the Lenten season while pedaling your way to municipality after municipality of quaint, …

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Buhi: Of Rinconada, Lake, Handloom Weaving, and the World’s Smallest Fish

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Buhi Camarines Sur

I learned about Buhi, Camarines Sur through Bidibidi when we visited her workshop in Baao. BD would often joke that her art style is Buhi-mian (a play on the word “bohemian”) because Buhi is one of the sources for up-cycled materials used for her handicraft. Before this, Buhi was under the radar for me when we talk about Bicol. My inquisitive self was glad to get invited recently by Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) to Buhi. It was one of TPB’s recipient areas for their project to boost the livelihood of local communities by lending some resources and training them in marketing their products. …

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Pahiyas Festival 2022: Return of Lucban’s Beloved Harvest Festival

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The Lucban Pahiyas Festival 2022

The scattered rains and gloomy skies continue to loom that Sunday afternoon as we head to Lucban, Quezon coming from our stay at slopes Mt Banahaw. It was May 15, 2022, the day of feast of San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers and animals. A day celebrated by many towns in Quezon province like Tiaong, Sariaya, Gumaca, Lucena and Tayabas. Each town has their own way of celebrating but Lucban’s Pahiyas Festival though has adored many due to its colorfully decorated houses and festive atmosphere. For the past two years, the pandemic has halted the celebration. This time, no amount of rain can dampen the festivity.

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