Sorsogon, like most provinces in the Philippines, have its own customs and traditions that are influenced by the nearby provinces. Many of the Sorsogon festivals and events are offshoots of Christian religious traditions and are given a local distinct variation.
The Kasanggayahan Festival, perhaps, is the largest celebration for the whole province of Sorsogon. Celebrated during the month of October every year, this festival is the commemoration of the declaration of Sorsogon as a province. Before Sorsogon became a province in the Bicol region, it used to be part of Albay, which is another province in the region.
This festival is included in the Department of Tourism’s list of festivals and celebrations in the Philippines. With the term “kasanggayahan” meaning prosperity, the festival showcases the local products including products from the pili tree and other agricultural products.
The Pantomina sa Tinampo is one of the features of the Kasanggayahan Festival that makes it different from the other thanksgiving festivals in the country. Pantomina sa Tinampo is a native regional dance, which is the dance of the doves. This pantomime (pantomina) dance of love and courtship is done on the streets (tinampo), because of which it was termed “Pantomina sa Tinampo.”
Because pili products are bountiful in Sorsogon and in the rest of the Bicol region, it is easy to understand that the people of Sorsogon have devoted a festival that features this valuable nut. The Pili Festival is held every June 28-29, which are also the feast days of their patrons St. Peter and St. Paul.
Different dance groups composed of young men and women follows the beats of the percussion instruments as they show the different products that are made from the pili tree. These groups certainly prepares for this celebration as they have appropriate costumes and props to make their presentation more appealing, relevant and lively.
The most well known pili product is its nut, which is known to compete with macadamia nuts and almonds in terms of quality and distinct taste.
In addition to Christmas and the New Year, the commemoration of the Passion of Jesus Christ is also one of the most anticipated celebrations in the country. Although Christianity was brought to the Philippines by the Spanish colonizers, the Filipinos were able to make the Holy Week Celebration a local tradition through the incorporation of native practices and materials.
In Sorsogon, the locals come to the Cathedral of St. Peter and Saint Paul from which they start a barefoot procession as they take the statue of Jesus to the crucifixion.
Apart from these festivals, each municipality and town in Sorsogon celebrates their fiestas depending on the feast days of their patron saints. This is another way to showcase the culture and the products of the place and to thank God for their blessings.
Angeles City or the City of Angels has more than just warmth and hospitality to offer visitors. Aside from the interesting tourist sites that one can visit, Angeles City has one-of-a-kind festivals that visitors look forward to and enjoy.
The people of Pampanga have always been known to be able to turn an ordinary meal into a sumptuous one and an Angeles City festival depicts this clearly. The Sisig Festival, a dish that originated from Pampanga, is a tribute to the food that because of how wonderful it tastes, has spread all over the Philippines and in several parts of the world. The Sisig Festival showcases the many different ways to cook Sisig, a Filipino pork dish and its many variants. Truth be told, during the Sisig Festival, it's not only pork that plays an important role in the event. Pork is now substituted with fish, chicken or squid and now the term 'sisig' really pertains to how the dish is cooked. During this Angeles City festival, one can learn the different ways to prepare sisig and the many other means of serving it. During the Sisig Festival, the dish is usually served on a sizzling plate to make the pork crispy. The best part of the Angeles City festival is the taste test at the end of it. The participants of the Sisig Festival range from stay at home moms to large restaurants aspiring to get the title of Best Sisig.
One will not find another destination in the Philippines that has a Hot Air Balloon Festival. This Angeles City festival is an event that even other countries participate in and each year that it is held, the balloons are bigger and better than that of the previous year. Last year, a total of 19 balloons, 13 of which represented other nations were flown during the Hot Air Balloon Festival. The popularity of this Angeles City festival lies in how well this event is organized and because of the activities that one can do during this event. One can ride a hot air balloon during the Hot Air Balloon Festival for a nominal fee and experience what it's like to be in one and get a bird's eye view of Angeles City. Although this Angeles City festival is fairly new, it has a done a great deal in promoting tourism in the City of Angels. In addition to the balloons that are flown during the Hot Air Balloon Festival, there are also aircraft demonstrations and other exhibits that are very enjoyable to watch. The Hot Air Balloon Festival is truly an event for the entire family.
Because Sorsogon is has a wide agricultural area and long shorelines, its products are a combination of those coming from the farms and those come from the sea. Thus, the province provides many options for people of different tastes and lifestyles.
The pili nut is one of the most popular products of the Bicol region. Almost every province and municipality in the region has their way of preparing food products from this nut. The most common pili preparations are the sugarcoated pili nuts and the pili candies. You will also find pili tarts that are being sold in near Sorsogon tourist spots.
Rice is a staple food in the Philippines and many of the agricultural areas in the country cultivate rice to support the demands of the population. During your travel to Sorsogon, you are likely to find that many of the inland areas are utilized as farms for rice and crops. You will find palays being dried near the roads.
Coconuts are also abundant agricultural products in Sorsogon. It is known to most people that there are many products that may be processed from the coconut tree. The fruit may be eaten fresh and the juice may be served as refreshments. The stem may be processed into coco lumber that is used for furniture and houses. The leaves may be used as broomsticks. Some handicrafts may also be made from coconut products.
Before you leave Sorsogon, one of the coconut products that you must try is the wine made from the juice of the fruit. It has a unique character that you will want to take home some bottles so that your friends can also try it.
Because the province of Sorsogon is bordered waters, the province is also rich in seafood products that are cooked the traditional way. Local fishes, mud crabs, blue crabs and prawns are usually cooked in gata (coconut milk) and spiced with the local sili (pepper).
Upon knowing what the local products of Sorsogon are, it is hard to resist not being able to try them or to take some home with you. The best way to find a selection of quality Sorsogon products is to come to local public market. There, the products are less expensive than if you purchase them near the tourist destinations, bus stops and ports. If you intend to buy quantities of products, don’t forget to try asking for a discount.
Located in Sta. Rosa, Laguna is a great weekend trip for the family. Enchanted Kingdom is a theme park that is perfect for the whole family. Rides and adventures are available all day long where parents and kids can spend some time together.
Enchanted Kingdom has a lot to offer for you and your family to enjoy. Enchanted Kingdom has several theme parks to explore and learn and rides to enjoy.
The Victoria Park in Enchanted Kingdom features the Victorian era and displays it in elegance. Entertainers leisurely stroll around the park dressed in costumes inspired by Queen Victoria's era. The Enchanted Kingdom's mascot named Wizard will be among the ones welcoming you. The Grand Carousel is Victoria Park's centerpiece attraction. Try the magical ride in Enchanted Kingdom through its Victoria Park.
Portabello is another zone in Enchanted Kingdom, which is a replica of a place in the Caribbean Sea. It features treasures hidden by the Spanish sailors. Portabello hosts the Rio Grande -- Enchanted Kingdom's largest attraction -- a wet and wild adventure for the family. Other attractions in Enchanted Kingdom's Portabello are the Flying Fiesta, giant swing ride, Xtreme Paintball, Portabello Show, and 4D Discovery Theater.
Boulderville is a zone in Enchanted Kingdom that'll be a sure treat for the kids. This zone has a prehistoric theme with dinosaurs as main characters. Rides like Air Pterodactyl, Bumbling Boulders, Boulderville Express, Dinosaurs, and Stone Eggs are sure to excite the kids. Children of any age will be delighted with Enchanted Kingdom's play facilities like Petreefied House and Rock Quarry. Puppet shows and dinosaur mascots will entertain you in this zone of Enchanted Kingdom.
Other attractions that you are sure to enjoy in Enchanted Kingdom are the following: Steeple Chase Arcade, Anchor's Away, Roller Skater, Clown Show, Dodgem, Up, Up and Away, Midway Show, Wheel of Fate, Bump N' Splash, skill and video games, and performances of mime artists, jugglers, and clowns. All these attractions can be enjoyed in Enchanted Kingdom's zone called Midway Boardwalk.
Brooklyn Place is another zone in Enchanted Kingdom where slapstick comedies and silent movies are reminisced. Rialto, a motion simulator theater is the main attraction where you're a part of the movie not just watching it. Ride the Funhouse Express, watch the Broadway and Brooklyn shows and enjoy the parade of entertainers down a cobblestone street.
Want to experience a spine-tingling speed flight? The Spaceport zone of Enchanted Kingdom has it. The 11-story-high Space Shuttle will let you experience an upside down turn six times. This is the first coaster ride of its kind in the Philippines. Other attractions are Sky Wizardry, Wizard's Tale, Go-Kart ATV, Exodus the Ride, and Kart Trak.
A jungle adventure is offered in Enchanted Kingdom's Jungle Post. A tranquil Swan Lake, Safari Shootout, the exciting Jungle Log Jam, and Amazon Hoop Shot are among the adventures that you'll enjoy there.
Enchanted Kingdom is the best place for adventure rides, fun, and excitement for the whole family. An hour's travel from Manila to Enchanted Kingdom is not bad in exchange of your family's quality time together.
Manila has several festivals and events calendared year-round. As a capital of the Philippines, it has a lot of different influences from all walks of life. These festivals border on religious, historical and Mardi Gras-like parties.
In early January, residents, devotees and tourist alike flock to the Quiapo Church in the district of Quiapo to celebrate the Feast of the Black Nazarene. The Black Nazarene is the patron saint of the district. It is believed that the wooden statue of the Black Nazarene is miraculous. Many devotees will attest to the fact that their lives have been turned to the better by their devotion to the image.
During the feast, the statue is paraded around the streets of Quiapo District on top of a carriage being pulled on ropes by thousands of male devotees. These activity borders on pandemonium as each male devotee try to jostle each other for a chance to get to the rope and pull the carriage. Many people believe that their petitions and wishes will be granted by the Black Nazarene if they get the chance to pull the statue.
While this is going on, white towels are thrown through and fro to marshals atop the carriage. Marshals will then wipe the statue with these towels. These towels are then believed to heal or bring luck to the owner.
The districts of Pandacan and Tondo celebrate this feast. Different images of the Santo Nino or the child Jesus is paraded around the streets of the district. Each statue is as different from the next one. Aside from the traditional garb of the Santo Nino, one can see a Santo Nino image dressed in a basketball uniform or a television fictional character.
Along the streets where the images are paraded, people add a cheerful touch to the celebration by dancing. Again, the religious devotion of the people of Manila is evident in the Feast Of The Santo Nino.
During September, it is the turn of the people of the Instramuros district of Manila to celebrate. Various images of the Virgin Mary are paraded atop beautifully decorated floats in the streets of Instramuros. Manila Cathedral is the starting point and end point of the procession.
Every 24th of June, residents of the city celebrate the founding of the city. Every year, the city government declares this day a non-working holiday so that residents and visitors alike get the chance to participate in the celebration. Ceremonies and programs in Manila City Hall and Rizal Park are held.
Binondo, where Chinatown of Manila is located, celebrates this event every Chinese New Year. Visitors and local residents get the chance to see the Chinese influence in the district. Street parties, dragon dances, lion dances and fireworks litter the streets in jubilant celebration.
Although Ormoc is recognized as a bustling commercial city, it is also becoming famous for its tourist sites. As this Ormoc beach guide will indicate, there are several places the tourist can go to for some swimming & diving.
One of the most desirable destinations that this Ormoc beach guide can point at is Sabin Beach. The site is replete with several resorts that can provide you with all the amenities and accommodations that you will need in your stay. Of course, the main attraction is the beach itself, and the water and sands will definitely not disappoint. The clear blue skies are also only matched by the purity of the air you can breathe.
This Ormoc beach guide can also testify to the beauty of the surroundings at San Roque Beach. San Roque is a name that diving aficionados will recognize very well, as it is the site of several diving sites like Turtle Rock and the Coral Garden. However, the view from the beach itself is breathtaking.
The waters in San Roque Beach, as this Ormoc beach guide can point out, is very clear and the depth is perfect for those that just want to go swimming with their friends or family.
Not far from San Roque is Bitu On Beach. This Ormoc beach guide can indicate to you that apart from the untainted waters and the unspoiled white sands, the skies are also brilliantly set. Some prefer to watch the sun rise, while others prefer to gaze at the setting of the sun. Or you may just marvel at the myriad types of seashells along the coastline.
A good Ormoc beach guide should also include Kuting Beach. As one of the up and coming beach destinations in the Philippines, the number of cottages and resorts in the area are growing in number, which will make your stay in the area more comfortable and enjoyable.
Maamo Beach is the destination of tourists and travelers who want to do some exploring along with their swimming. This Ormoc beach guide can attest to the existence of a number of exotic fish and other underwater denizens that can only be found in this part of the Philippines, making it a haven for underwater explorers.
What this Ormoc beach guide has indicated is that there is more to the city than what most people believe. If you love going to the beach but want to experience something different from the usual, then you might want to include these beaches in your travel plans.
Known as the 'Heritage Haven of Panay,' Iloilo's popularity stems from its gentry living as depicted by its majestic structures throughout the province. It got its name from the word “Ilong-ilong” because it resembled the shape of a nose.
Iloilo City is a living proof of the wealthy culture of the province. Popular landmarks, such as Muelle Loney, Museo Iloilo, Arevalo, Plaza Libertad, Fort San Pedro and Jaro, is home to 19th century mansions, flower nurseries, and pina and jusi weaving looms. Jaro is the provincial capital and is where most of the province's rich and elite have preserved their ancestral homes.
Iloilo destination guides will tell us that the province is more than just grand churches and mansions. Here are just some of the sites and landmarks worth seeing in Iloilo.
Bucari, in the town of Leon, is the province's adaptation of Baguio. It is also a popular destination during the hot summer months.
El Dorado Waterpark provides tourists with an opportunity to freshen up and have fun at the same time. It is the latest addition to Smallville, Iloilo's hub for entertainment and dining. El Dorado boasts of its South American influenced pools and poolside rooms.
Speaking of freshening up, Iloilo has its share of beaches. Located in the island of Panay, known for its attractive islets and coasts teeming with marine life, Iloilo beaches has the making of a top tourist spot in the country. From the northern to the southern end of the province, there are plenty of beaches to choose from that can certainly make your summer refreshing.
Iloilo destination guides will tell us that the most convenient way to reach the province is to take an airplane. Most of the cities in the country have scheduled daily flights enroute to Iloilo. If you prefer the longer route, fly to Cebu City and make your way to Iloilo City via Negros Occidental.
From Manila, proceed first to Cebu then make your way to Negros. Another option is to go on an overnight trip from Manila or Cebu.
Regardless of the mode of transportation, Iloilo is an excellent place to visit whenever you want to free yourself from the hectic life in the city. It provides a serene and tranquil atmosphere if you are looking for a laid-back vacation. Iloilo is a place that combines country living with the sounds of chirping birds and city life. When looking for a place to visit, Iloilo should be among your considerations.
The quiet province of Leyte where everyone goes to for privacy and unwinding comes to life with the colorful and lively Ormoc festivals held annually. Ormoc festivals are a chance to mingle with the locals of the province of Leyte, enjoy the sights and sounds of the city and learn about its rich culture and history.
At the top of the list when it comes to Ormoc festivals is the Buyogan Festival and it is highly recommended by both locals and visitors who have experienced it. The Buyogan Festival is celebrated every August and the main attraction of this Ormoc festival is the colorful costumes worn by the residents of Buyogan, a small town in Ormoc. The Buyogan Festival is so named because the entire event centers on “buyog” or bees. The dances performed during this celebration mimic the movement of bees. There is also a dance competition during this whole week affair and the competitors are from the local high schools. The cash winnings provided by the local government during the Buyogan Festival goes to the best performers and the funds are used for certain things that their schools might need.
The Buyogan Festival also honors the patron saint of the town, St. Francis Xavier, and the event is a mixture of something religious and age old pagan beliefs prior to the introduction of Christianity to this province. The legendary fairy Opayda, believed to bring luck to good people is honored in several plays.
Another well known Ormoc festival is the Sunduan ha Carigana which is celebrated during Holy Week but the main event takes place during Easter Sunday. The Sunduan ha Carigana is a joyous event that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus and there are several parades held during this Ormoc festival that not only pay tribute to the Catholic faith, but also showcase the rich history of this province. Like most Ormoc festivals, the Sunduan ha Carigana has street dancing and dance competitions where both males and females join. Visitors are most welcome to participate in the activities organized during the Sunduan ha Carigana which have been tailored so that every member of the family would at least have one event to join. Easter Sunday ends with a bang because at the end of the parades and presentations, there is a beautiful fireworks display for all to enjoy, not to mention great food prepared by the locals during the Sunduan ha Carigana.Ormoc festivals are very colorful events that not only honor the dominant religion in this province but also showcase the history and heritage of Leyte’s prominent towns. The Sunduan ha Carigana and the Buyogan Festival are week long events that are filled with fun and laughter as well as activities that everyone can enjoy. Ormoc festivals are events that should not be missed if you want to capture the diversity and beauty of this province.
Bohol (an island situated in the Visayas in the Philippines, is a place of lush history and is a wonderful tourist destination. It is the home of the Tarsier and the Chocolate Hills. What not many people know is that Bohol also has one of the most beautiful and awesome beaches in the Philippines or maybe even in the world. Some beaches there are not only a nice place for swimming and picnicking but also an excellent place for diving. Here, below are some of the beautiful and breathtaking beaches of Bohol.
Alona Beach – it is the most developed and probably the most beautiful beach on Panglao Island. It is located in the southwest side of the island with nice resorts and a numerous well equipped diving establishments. One must only be very careful in wading in the water because 20-30 meters away from the coast are some sea urchins.
Dumaluan Beach– is located 2 ½ kilometers from Alona Beach. It is here where Bohol Beach Club and some other more exclusive beach resorts of Bohol are located.
Bikini Beach – located about 8 kilometers away from Tagbilaran City. This beach is an ideal place for people who are fond of picnics.
Momo Beach –this one is situated on the north side of Panglao Island with shallow water and also with white powdery sand.
Doljo Beach – not far from Momo Beach and on the northwest side of the island is where this beach is located. It has clean blue water which is an ideal spot for scuba diving where divers can find undisturbed coral reefs abundant with many colorful fishes and many beautiful sea shells. It has also a long white sand shoreline.
Kaingit Beach – this beach is also in Tagbilaran City and is situated in a cove. It was developed by the city government of Tagbilaran and also maintained by them. One can observe here a sea which remains calm even on stormy weather.
Santa Fe Beach – this beach is located near the Poblacion of Albuquerque which is also 13 km from Tagbilaran City. It has white sand also and is fronting the open sea of Mindanao.
Laya Beach – located in Baclayon and is about 9 km from Tagbilaran City, is shaded by tall coconut trees. It is ideal for picnics and the rest houses are available at a minimum cost.
Duero Beach – this beach is situated 77 km from Tagbilaran City and is in the eastern part of Bohol. It is also a white sand beach which is shaded by palm and coconut trees.
Imelda Beach - it is located in Damiao and about 40 km from Tagbilaran City. It was once used as a campsite for boy and girl scouts of Bohol.
Canuba Beach – located in Jagna, is also blessed with white sand beach and clean blue waters shaded by palm trees.
So, if you’re planning to spend your vacation on a beach, why not try spending it in one of the beautiful beaches of Bohol in the Philippines. You can enjoy nature in a most relaxing atmosphere with the advantage of modern facilities at a more reasonable cost.
The bustling province of Zamboanga is the southern jewel of the Philippines and those who have been here before will all agree that this place holds many natural wonders. Zamboanga sightseeing is a must because the City of Flowers has many attractions that are simply endearing. In addition to the many different places to see in Zamboanga, the residents are also very hospitable end exhibit Filipino warmth.
Topping the list of our Zamboanga sightseeing list is the Metropolitan Cathedral of Immaculate Conception. This Zamboanga sightseeing destination is not just for the devout Christian, many visitors from different religions have found that this place has a certain solemnity. The Metropolitan Cathedral of Immaculate Conception is the home of the Archdiocese of Zamboanga and this location carries very significant Roman Catholic artifacts.
The Metropolitan Cathedral of Immaculate Conception was first built 11 years ago but the ground where the cathedral stands has always been a parish dating back to 1810. An aerial view of the grounds will show that it looks like a giant cross and a candle, symbolic of the Virgin Mary and Jesus. The Metropolitan Cathedral of Immaculate Conception has two floors with the ground floor dedicated to chapels and the top one exhibiting several saints.
There are also religious edifices on display here, collected and preserved from the 19th century. The Metropolitan Cathedral of Immaculate Conception is often visited by devout Catholics who feel that this is a good place to find peace and have a conversation with a Higher Being.
The next Zamboanga sightseeing destination that one should definitely not miss is the infamous Pasonanca Park. The Pasonanca Park was constructed in 1912 during the time of then Governor Pershing and this Zamboanga sightseeing destination was only finished during the term of Governor Carpenter.
A lot of planning and attention to detail went into the construction of this Zamboanga sightseeing destination and from the very first time it was opened to the public until today, there is no other park like it. The Pasonanca Park is where one will find a diverse fauna and there is close to a thousand different kinds of orchids and trees.
The Pasonanca Park epitomizes the ‘City of Flowers’ and presents it in such a beautiful light and one will definitely not regret having visited this place. Whether one goes to Pasonanca Park to take pictures of just admire the scenery, this Zamboanga sightseeing destination provides an experience like no other.