PALAWAN

This long sliver of an island province deserves its exotic 'last frontier' aura. Stretching from the MIndoro Strait down to the tip of BOrneo, It's magnificient submerged mountain range range of unrivalled ruggedness. You could spend a lifetime discovering new island, beaches, reefs, particularly in the Northern regions around El Nido and Busuanga Island. As other parts of the Philippines are done to death, the danger is that Palawan will also start to suffer from too much attention. But a passionate local environmental movement and strong eco-tourism ethics may help Palawan buck the trend and get as much of tourism as tourism gets out of it.

Palawan is an island province of the Philippines located in the MIMAROPA region. Its capital is Puerto Princesa City and it is the largest province in terms of land area. The islands of Palawan stretches from Mindoro to Borneo in the southwest. It lies between the South China Sea in the northwest and Sulu Sea in the southeast. The province is named after its largest island, Palawan Island

PALAWAN IS FAMOUS FOR....

THE PEARL OF ALLAH WAS FOUND HERE

The Pearl of Lao Tzu (also referred to as Pearl of Lao Tze and Pearl of Allah) is the largest known pearl in the world, measuring 9.45 inches in diameter and weighing 6.4 kilograms (14.1 lb) or 127,574 pearl grains or 31,893.50 carats.[2] The Service mark on the phrase "Pearl of Allah" has been registered July 18, 2006 by Gina Diane Barbish and Victor M. Barbish for charitable fundraising.

The 9.45-inch Pearl of Allah is the world's largest. It was found by a diver off the Philippine island of Palawan in 1934 and is stored in a museum in that country.

Calauit Game Preserve & Wildlife Sanctuary

It is a unique game reserve and wildlife sanctuary of exotic African animals and endangered endemic animals of Palawan.
Established on August 31, 1976 by virtue of Presidential Decree No.1578, this was initiated in response to the appeal of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature to help save African wildlife when former President Ferdinand Marcos attended the 3rd world Conference in Kenya. By virtue of RA 7611 (SEP), administrative jurisdiction of DENR was given to the local government of Palawan, effective December 31, 1993. Management of the area is the responsibility of the PCSDO (Palawan Council of Sustainable Development Office). It is located in

Calauit Island, Busuanga, Palawan.

Coron Reefs, Coron Bay, Busuanga
Seven enchanting lakes surrounded by craggy limestone cliffs attract hundreds of nature lovers to Coron Reefs in Northern Palawan, near the town of Coron.

Busuanga Island, whose main town is Coron, is the jump-off point for numerous dive operators. The principal dive sites are 12 World War II Japanese shipwrecks sunk on September 24, 1944 by US Navy action. They range in depth from the surface to 40M. This large variety offers exciting wreck exploration for enthusiasts, from novice divers and snorkelers and recreational divers to experienced TEC divers. Dive operators offer PADI dive courses ranging from Discover Scuba to Assistant Instructor, Technical and Enriched Air Diving, as well as other specialty courses. Dive operators offer day diving, snorkeling trips, and overnight dive safaris. Live-aboard and charter boats also offer diving in the area.

El Nido Marine Reserve Park

UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
Puerto-Princesa Subterranean River National Park 1999
This park features a spectacular limestone karst landscape with an underground river. One of the river's distinguishing features is that it emerges directly into the sea, and its lower portion is subject to tidal influences. The area also represents a significant habitat for biodiversity conservation. The site contains a full 'mountain-to-sea' ecosystem and has some of the most important forests in Asia. -UNESCO

Tubbataha Reef Marine Park 1993
The Tubbataha Reef Marine Park covers 332 km², including the North and South Reefs. It is a unique example of an atoll reef with a very high density of marine species; the North Islet serving as a nesting site for birds and marine turtles. The site is an excellent example of a pristine coral reef with a spectacular 100 m perpendicular wall, extensive lagoons and two coral islands.

HOW TO GET THERE

AIR

Palawan's main airport is in Puerto Princesa, but pLawan also has a whole bunch of small airports in the north, with regular flights to/from Manila and Puerto Princesa. On Busuanga Island, there's an airport in the southern town of Coron and the YKR airport to the north near San Jose. On the Palawan mainland, there's the Lio Airport north of EL Nido, and another airport at Sandoval, about 20km south-east of El Nido,

BOAT

Shipping Lines serving Palawan include Negros Navigation and WG&A. Sulpicio Lines is chiefly a cargo operator in Puerto Princesa, although you might be able to arrange a berth to/from Luzon or elsewhere with them.

see more pictures here.

BOHOL

BOHOL

Bohol is the tenth-largest island of the Philippines, located in the Central Visayas region. Its capital is Tagbilaran City. Bohol's closest neighbors are Cebu and Leyte.
Bohol is not as internationally famous as nearby Boracay, but is well-known locally as a paradise for divers and snorkelers. In addition to white sand beaches, Bohol is also home to the intriguing Chocolate Hills, tarsiers, and Balicasag Island fish sanctuary.
Dolphin watching and whale watching tours are popular with both residents and visiting tourists. The best season is from March to June, but dolphins can be seen year-round.
The island of Panglao, a thirty-minute drive from Tagbilaran City, is home to some of the finest beaches in the country. Resorts dot the island, with most clustered along Alona beach

CITIES AND TOWN

Tagbilaran- Capital of Bohol and the main point of entry to the island, including nearby Panglao Island.
Loboc - Rivertown with historic church and idyllic falls.
Carmen - Launching point for tours of the Chocolate Hills
Corella - The best place in the Philippines to spot a tarsier in the wild.
Baclayon - Port with tours to Pamilcan Island
Bilar - Gateway to Bilar & Rajah Sikatuna National Park.

HOW TO GET THERE

One can travel to Bohol by air, land, and sea.

By plane

At the moment, Bohol's city airport in Tagbilaran services daily Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airline flights from Manila.
is undergoing renovation to accommodate the B-737s of Philippine Airlines. Ramp area improvement and the construction of a modernized airport building will soon ensure bigger aircraft will allow direct flight into Bohol.
Most guests to Bohol enter the island either by land or sea via its island neighbor, Cebu.

By boat

The Tagbilaran City Tourist Pier handles more than 4,000 travelers on a daily basis. Nine daily ship calls from Cebu are processed efficiently, with other ships from Manila, Cagayan de OrO City, Dumaguete, Dipolog, Iligan City

, Larena, Plaridel and Ozamiz City also welcomed on a regular basis. Another four port terminals cater specifically to Cebu and northern Mindanao routes. Additional berthing space for fastcraft ferries is currently under construction.

see more pictures here

GINGOOG CITY

CITY OF GOOD LUCK

Gingoog is a Manobo word for good luck. The word implies good fortune, thus Gingoog means the city of Good Luck. Gingoog originated from a thriving native settlement of Manobo tribe in the area, known today as Barangay Daan-Lungsod. The influx of migrants from neighboring places contributed to the city’s growth, giving rise to the necessity of expansion.

It was established as a Spanish Pueblo in 1868 and then a municipality in 1903 and subsequently a Chartered City on June 18, 1960. This agricultural city situated along the northern coast of Mindanao, is 122 kms. east of Cagayan de Oro City and 74 kms. west of Butuan City. To the north is Gingoog Bay and south is Bukidnon, Claveria and Medina is in vicinity to the west and Magsaysay to the east. The city has no distinct dry season. The land is generally flat with sloping hills surrounded by mountain ranges extending from Mount Balatukan to Mt. Lumot in the west and eastward to Agusan del Norte which protect the city from northeast monsoon and typhoon. A first class component city of Misamis Oriental.

HOW TO GET THERE

Gingoog City can be raeched via Cagayan de Oro and Butuan Cities which have daily flights from Manila and vice versa. THe CDO-Gingoog-Butuan-Davao route is plied regularly by public vehicles such as Bagong Lipunan Transit, Rural Transit, LCI and Philtranco. PUJs and minibuses serve the neighboring towns and remote barangays of Gingoog. Motorelas, trisikads, and motorized skads ply the poblacion areas. THe Intergrated bUs Terminal is build within the Agora area to facilitate commuter's convenience.

More pictures of Gingoog City here

COMPOSTELA VALLEY PROVINCE

THE ECO-ADVENTURE TOURISM

Compostela Valley is blessed with nature's magnificent work of art. It brims with natural attractions like beaches, waterfalls, forests, mountain ranges, caves, lakes, rivers, hot and cold springs.. all found in the province. The province is also proud of its people and cultural heritage... a varied blend of ethnicity and dominance. To be in Compostela Valley is to experience a blend of sight and sound that defines a place and a people, pulsing with life yet reserved in spirit. The Provincial Government believes in marketing tourism responsibly. ComValenos want you to explore and revel on nature's finest without destroying the environment. Our choices within the province are almost limitless. We believe that we have something that caters to everyone's enthusiasm... all waiting for the adventurous spirit in you. Thus, we see our province as an Eco-Adventure Tourism Destination.

How to Get there

The province has several privately owned airstrips which can be used for air transport. If one will come from Manila (national gateway), one passes through Davao International Airport then travel by land to the north passing by Dvao del Norte's capital, Tagum City. The three coastal towns of the province are on the way to Davao Oriental while the heart of the province where the valley towns and capital town are located towards the north from Tagum City going to Agusan Province.

MISAMIS ORIENTAL

ECO-TOURISM AT ITS BEST

In Region X, the province of Misamis Oriental is among the premier areas for development. It has become the regional center for government and political administration, industrial activity and trade transactions. The western part of the province has been identified as a special development corridor, directed towards the Establishment of industrial hubs in Cagayan de Oro City now known as Cagayan-Iligan Corridor.

For tourism, Misamis Oriental/Cagayan de Oro ranks first in terms of tourist arrivals and visits to various scenic spots. The lure to renowned dive sites, beach resorts, falls and spring proves irresistible. The caves that dot the hills and mountains, the numerous eco-tourism destinations and man-made attractions are able to balance the natural beauty of the environment with the necessary concessions of technological and economic advancement. Industrial tours, telecommunication, conventions coupled with modern accommodation facilities and transportation systems are among the best amenities.

HOW TO GET THERE

By Sea
To Cagayan de Oro City from Manila: Boat trips via WG&A, Super Ferry, Negros Navigation, or Sulpicio Lines; 28-30 hours travel time.To Cagayan de Oro City from Cebu: An overnight trip via Trans Asia Shipping Lines, WG&A, or Sulpicio Lines.

By Air
From Manila: Philippine Airlines (3 flights daily); Cebu Pacific Air (3 flights daily); or Air Philippines (daily).From Cebu: Via Asian Spirits (daily).

Several bus companies ply their routes to Cagayan de Oro from all points in Mindanao: Rural Transit of Mindanao; Bachelor Express; Super 5; LCI; and Bagong Lipunan.Public utility jeepneys, multi-cabs, taxis, and rent-a-car services are likewise available.

More pictures of Misamis Oriental here

DONSOL SORSOGON

WHALE SHARK CAPITAL

Rhincodon typus

Best animal encounter in Asia

Donsol is a popular tourist destination for the whale sharks that can be seen in the bordering seas. It is nicknamed the "Whale Shark Capital of the World", with the largest number of recorded sightings of whale sharks anywhere in the world. Swimming with whale sharks was featured as the "Best Animal Encounter in Asia" by Time Magazine in 2004. Whale sharks can be seen all-year round except during typhoons, with presence peaking between February and May.

CODE OF CONDUCT

To ensure that you will have a safe, enjoyable experience and to prevent he animals from being disturbed, the following code of conduct are strictly implemented when interacting with the whale sharks.

-Do not touch or ride the Whale Shark.
-Do not restrict the movement of the Whale Shark, or impede its natural path.
-Maintain a distance of 3 meters from the head or body of the Whale Shark, and 4 meters from its tail.
-Do not use flash photography.
-Do not use SCUBA gear, scooters, jet skis or any other motorized underwater propulsion machines.
-A maximum of six (6) swimmers per Whale Shark is allowed, and only one (1) boat per Whale Shark.

• WHALE SHARKS ARE WILD ANIMALS
• RESPECT SAFETY REGULATIONS

HOW TO GET THERE

There are two ways to get to Donsol, Sorsogon. One is via Legazpi City in Albay, an hour-long flight or a ten-hour bus ride from Manila. From Legazpi, another hour by hired land vehicle takes one to Donsol. THe other approach to Donsol is via Sorsogon,Sorsogon-about twelve hours by bus from Manila. Transfer by jeep or taxi for another hour to get to Donsol. Once within Donsol town proper, pump boats for hire may be arranged for your excursion to interact the whale sharks.

***ENJOY YOUR STAY IN DONSOL, SORSOGON.***

CAMIGUIN

CAMIGUIN ISLAND

The Island of Desire

Born of Fire

A province teeming with natural wonders, diverse activities, affectionate folks: nostalgic scenes and romantic aura.

Camiguin is a pear-shaped volcanic island lying in the Bohol Sea some 54 kilometers southeast of CHocolate hills and 90 kilometers north of Cagayan de Oro airport; 120 kilometers southeast of Mactan International Airport, and 10 kilometers north of Misamis Oriental.

Composed of 5 municipalities namely: Mambajao (the capital town), Catarman, Sagay, Guinsiliban and Mahinog, Camiguin has two other attractive islets better known as White Island and Mantigue Island. Each of these has unique endowments.

They are yours to discover, capture and cherish... Welcome to Camiguin!

HOW TO GET THERE

From the Airport, proceed to the Bus Terminal located at the Agora, Lapasan, Cagayan de Oro City, then take a bus for Balingoan, which is only 88 kms. from the city of Cagayn de Oro. At Balingoan, take a ferry bound for Camiguin Island approaching Camiguin by sea. THe travelers enters into Benoni Wharf of Mahinog, which is 17 kilometers from the capital town of Mambajao, or Guinsiliban pier, nearest to the mainland.

MORE PICTURES OF Camiguin

VALENCIA

VALENCIA

The City of Golden Harvest

The city of Valencia is located at the heart of Mindanao. It is bounded on the North by the Municipality of Lantapan and the City of Malaybalay; in the South by the municipalities of Maramag and Quezon and in the East by the municipalities of Pangantucan and Talakag. The City comprises of 31 barangays. Barangay Poblacion, the seat of the City Government is 27 kilometers south of Malaybalay City.

POINT OF INTEREST:

LAKE APO, BARANGAY GUINOYORAN

Awarded as the cleanest inland body of water in Region 10 (1996,1997,1998,2002)in the Lake Category and entry to the National Level (1996, 1997, 1998, this Lake is perfect escape from the pressures of work and worries in life owing to its picturesque hills and mountains and its blue-green water still free from pollution. The inherent beauty of the Lake which has an area of 24 hectares and 85 feet deep strongly suggests a perfect getaway not only for the constituents of the City but for people from neighboring cities and municipalities as well. The City’s pride indeed!

Valencia has recently been declared as one of the top 9 emerging destinations in the country by the Women In Travel.

PULANGI RIVER

The Pulangi River will regain its glorious past as a recreational area ideal for fishing and boating when the “Save the Pulangi River” Program will be launched for implementation.

MOUNTAIN VIEW COLLEGE

Chosen as the City’s entry to the Regional search for Healthy School, Mountain View College proved to be not just an institution, but also a perfect place for relaxation and nature study. Endowed with natural springs, falls, mountains, good climate, scenic landscape and magnificent view.

FESTIVALS

ANLAW TA PANGLIBATUHAN, June 2

Anlaw ta Panglibatuhan (Valencia Day) was the first activity held by the City Tourism Office. It started last 2 June 2003 with a street dancing Content and ended with a float Contest on June 7. Each tribe hosted the nightly presentations to promote their culture. Celebrities were invited to enliven the occasion.

BONGGAHAN SA VALENCIA

This was started on December 2000, the first year of City Mayor Jose M. Galario Jr. as the Mayor of the City. This celebrations commenced on December 8 with a civic parade around the city participated in by the Valencianos. Nightly presentations were hostred by the different agencies and schools in the city until January 12. The City’sa Charter Day.

BORACAY

BORACAY

Despite all those tourist footprints in the sand, It still has some magic of its own.

Delicately poised between paradise and pandemonium, the internationally renowned island of Boracay is easily the best-known Philippine tourist spot. Often so crowded it's a wonder its Famous White Beach is still above sea level, little Boracay remains a glorious playground for sun worshippers. The entire island is surrounded by dive spots.

Boracay is little more than a speck off the north-western tip of Panay, but its size certainly isn't proportion to its fame. The island is about 9km long, and only 1km wide at its narrow midriff. In just 15minutes you can escape the heavily tourist White Beach on the east coast to the surprisingly quiet Bulabog Beach to the east. Wilder and windier, the east coast is a favourite for windsurfing . Also on the east coast, the Mt. Luho Deck offers a magnificent views. Just climb the stairs near the main road near Lapuz-Lapuz.

White Beach, the main boat drop -off point from Caticlan on Panay, is where the action is. Here, lazing and browsing for food, drinks and souvenirs are the main activities. Electricity has well and truly arrived on Boracay, but a torch (flashlight) is still useful for night time strolls on White Beach and elsewhere.

GETTING THERE & AWAY

Large passenger-boats stopping here use the regular shuttle services to get passengers to and from the shore.

Air- The swiftest way to Boracay from Manila is by air to Caticlan-but you won't be alone trying to book this flight during the high season. Good alternatives are the airports of Kalibo and Roxas, from where it's an easy two to four hours by road to Caticlan.

Boat- Pump boats ferry passengers between Caticlan and Boracay every 20 to 30 minutes from 6am to 6pm daily, stopping at one or more of the three boat stations on White Beach. During the south-western monsoons from June to November, the sea on the White Beach side of Boracay can get too rough for outriggers. They then tie up on the east coast,at or near Bulabog, or at Manoc-Manoc.