San Pablo City, located in the
southern portion of Laguna province is nestled in the foothills of
three mountains namely Mount Banahaw, Mount Makiling and the Sierra
Madre Mountains. It is nicknamed the "City of Seven Lakes" because
of the 7 crater lakes scattered around the city. These low-profile
volcanic craters were formed by phreatomagmatic eruptions, an
eruption where ground water comes in contact with hot magma pushing
up near the Earth's surface. San Pablo City has a long history as
far back as the pre-Spanish colonial period when it was officially
declared as a town in 1647 by the Spanish governement
Cudugnon Cave is located not far
to the west of El Nido's Lagen Island. The cave is believed to be a
Neolithic burial place, thereby considered to be a significant
archeological site. In fact, several prehistoric human bones and
ancient artifacts have been found here
The powdered white sand of Alona
Beach stretches one and a half kilometers and ends in rocky cliffs
at both sides, offering views of its pristine waters. It is the
most developed beach located southwest of Panglao Island in Bohol.
Other than its scenic views, and being close to Bohol's tourist
spots, the island boasts centuries-old churches, and is also a base
for island hopping, dolphin watching, and diving.
Lagen Island is tucked in a cove
set among lush tropical forest, limestone walls and a crystal clear
lagoon. Many attractions are accessible from the island including
natural wonders such as Cudugnon Cave and Snake Island. It is one
of the beautiful islands that comprise El Nido, which is often
referred to as the "Philippines' Last Frontier," and one of the top
tourist destinations in the Philippines.
The historic Baclayon Church is
an important part of Boholano and national heritage declared in
1995 as a National Historic Treasure. This massive ancient edifice
still retains its centuries old architectural design and is
considered the best preserved of its kind in the region. The relics
of antiquity found in the church, and museum, which date back to
the early 16th century include crystal chandeliers, brightly
colored window panes, life-size religious images, carved altars
with gold embossing, and a silver tabanacle
The Chocolate Hills are somewhat
one-dimensional when it comes to vantage points especially if
you're confined to the tourist's viewing deck. But like any other
subjects one might want to photograph, it's not impossible to find
something interesting if you think hard enough. Thanks to the
creative genius of hardworking Filipinos who merely want to earn a
few bucks, visitors can have their photos taken while straddling
and jumping from a broomstick, to give the impression that they're
flying over the hills Harry Potter style. All I had to do was to
find that perfect spot where I could include them in my frame and
give this popular tourist spot a fantasy-like twist. So in case
you're wondering, no, they were not 'shopped in.
