Leisure Max: December 2009

Famous Spot in Laguna- Philippines

Rizal ShrineThis two-storey, red-tiled-roof, Spanish-vintage house is maintained as a national shrine by the national government. It houses Dr. Jose P. Rizal's childhood, ranging from pictures of and early sculptures by the late hero to laminated excerpts of some of his best written works.

The house is by no means in its original state - except for the old well, everything is a reconstruction of the original house of Rizal, the country's national hero. However, the house has maintained much of its colonial appeal.
The museum on-site offers guided tours for groups. It has a gift shop on the ground floor. There is no entrance fee but donations are welcome. Museum hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, and 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., everyday except Monday.

Pagsanjan

The town of Pagsanjan is blessed with natural wonders - the awe-inspiring gorges, the roaring rapids, and the Pagsanjan Falls, a plus factor that made Pagsanjan one of the premiere tourist attractions of the country. The gorges teem with wild orchids, ferns, and vines, and in early morning, chattering monkeys and beautiful sunrays and peaceful water. Inside, multi-colored birds flirt in the bushes.The thrill of shooting the rapids here is an experience of a lifetime, starting with boarding a banca paddled by two expert Pagsanjeño boatmen. The only way to the falls is through the Bumbungan River of Pagsanjan. The upstream trip, three miles from outside town on the rugged Cavinti highlands, is relatively slow as the boatmen paddle and drag the banca against the currents. But the half-hour trip back provides an unforgettable experience in shooting the 14 rapids.The rainy season is the best time to view the series of mini-falls, over 19 in all, first of which is the Talahib Falls. Farther on are the Kalukuy Falls and the misty Bridal Veil Falls. Some of these mini-falls are unnamed and rarely seen in the summer. Huge stones called Pusong Bato lay at the center of the river.Pagsanjan is further known for beautiful and quality shoes and locally made slippers. The shoe store located at Gen. Taiño Street is a tourist favorite.

Mount Makiling

The mystical Mount Makiling is an inactive volcano rising to about 1,109 meters above sea level. The vegetation consists of approximately 2,048 different species of plant. The lower slope is a tall dipterocarp forest while the summit is a dwarf mossy forest. The slopes of Mt. Makiling are shaped to resemble a woman reclining, hence, the air of mysticism that surrounds the mountain. Legend has it that it is the profile of the sleeping Maria Makiling, a mythical goddess. Still others say that Maria Makiling dwells in this mountain and protects dwellers and travelers from harm.

Mount Banahaw

Yet another popular spot with great tourism potential is Mount Banahaw. A unique experience awaits mountain climbing enthusiasts who venture to a part of the mountain so-called "Banal na Lugar," or Holy Place, found in the depths and alleged to be mystical. In fact, Majayjay situated at the foot of the mountain is considered holy ground amongst amulet makers, faith healers, and seekers of the divine. Mystical Mount Banahaw is 2,188 meters in height.

Laguna de Bay

The province owes its name to this body of water that forms its northern boundary which, in turn, was named after the first provincial capital, the town of Bay. Laguna de Bay is known to be Southeast Asia's largest fresh water lake. It stays pristine throughout the year as the area is blessed with regular rain showers.

Underground Cemetery

Built in the 18th century by the Franciscan Missionaries, the Underground Cemetery is enclosed by a circular structure. The intricately designed wall and wrought iron gate with a red-tiled walk leads straight to the small chapel, where an altar-like structure is located. The tombstones are embedded on the brick walls of the cemetery and the basement. At the crypt of the cemetery, according to history, is where the local Katipuneros, or followers of the secret revolutionary societies collectively called the Katipunan, plotted against Spanish rule.

National Arts Center

Managed by the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the National Arts Center is a show window of cultural development and performing arts education the country. More than this, It is an ideal vantage point for a panoramic view of Laguna de Bay, Talim Island, Crocodile Lake, and the International Rice Research Institute. It boasts 62 cottages, an auditorium, and seminar and convention facilities. Reservations may be coursed through the CCP Main Office on Roxas Boulevard, Manila.

Lake Caliraya

The man-made lake was built by American engineers in the 1930s in order to provide hydroelectric power in the region. Lake Caliraya is situated at 1,200 feet above sea level. It is endowed with cool winds, clear water, and the surrounding greenery.

Boy Scouts of the Philippines Camp

The BSP grounds are an ideal camping area. The Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of the Philippines usually hold their jamborees and other relevant activities in this campsite.

Woodcarving & Papier-Mache

There is a proliferation of small to large woodcarving and papier-mache factories in the town of Paete. That practically all the townsfolk are involved in these businesses either as factory workers or owners has become a tradition passed on through generations. The artistic ingenuity of Paeteños dates back to the pre-Spanish period, during which the artists created mostly religious articles. Skillful artisans patiently fashioned lanite, amlang, kamagong, lauan, acacia, and santol wood into world-class miniature décor items. The old creations of Paete are among the most valued antiques today. At present, Paete's artists carve not only religious figures but also furniture and other items. The hard work that each Paete artist devotes to his craft indeed puts meaning to the label, "made in Paete."

Center for the Philippine Raptors

Situated in Los Baños, Laguna, the site serves as a rescue and rehabilitation center for rescued, confiscated, or donated diurnal and nocturnal raptorial birds. It is also a venue for scientific research and public education as well as a captive breeding facility for Philippine birds of prey, with emphasis on the highly endangered Philippine Eagle, the world's largest eagle.

Caliraya Boardsailing

Ironically, one of the finest sailing sites in a country with thousands of kilometers of coastline is an artificial lake created by a dam. Caliraya, only three hours' drive from Manila, is a favorite destination for city-based boardsailors. The wind comes in just above the water, leaving the surface glassy smooth, even in winds of up to 30 knots. These are perfect conditions for speed.

Historical Sites

Rizal Shrine- This two-storey, red-tiled-roof, Spanish-vintage house is maintained as a national shrine by the national government. It houses Dr. Jose P. Rizal's childhood, ranging from pictures of and early sculptures by the late hero to laminated excerpts of some of his best written works. The house is by no means in its original state - except for the old well, everything is a reconstruction of the original house of Rizal, the country's national hero. However, the house has maintained much of its colonial appeal. The museum on-site offers guided tours for groups. It has a gift shop on the ground floor. There is no entrance fee but donations are welcome. Museum hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, and 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., everyday except Monday.

Underground Cemetery- Built in the 18th century by the Franciscan Missionaries, the Underground Cemetery is enclosed by a circular structure. The intricately designed wall and wrought iron gate with a red-tiled walk leads straight to the small chapel, where an altar-like structure is located. The tombstones are embedded on the brick walls of the cemetery and the basement. At the crypt of the cemetery, according to history, is where the local Katipuneros, or followers of the secret revolutionary societies collectively called the Katipunan, plotted against Spanish rule.

Trece Martires Monument-Sampalok LakeConstructed through the efforts of the Association of Deaconesses of the Philippine Independent Church in 1927, the monument is in memory of the martyrs of the Philippine Revolution against Spain.

Bonifacio Monument (Trece Martires Street)Located on the southern bank of Sampalok Lake not too far from the City Hall, it was constructed and formally inaugurated on November 30, 1996 to commemorate the 133rd birth anniversary of hero Andres Bonifacio. It was designed by a local sculpture.

Bantayog ng mga Bayani(Brgy. Sta. Isabel). It is a symbolic commemorative statue in memory of guerillas who fought during the second world war.
Bantayog ng Kagitingan (Veterans Federation, San Pablo City Chapter)It is a commemorative edifice constructed in Brgy. San Mateo, 20 minutes' drive from the city proper, where gatherings of war veterans are usually held.

Homma-Yamashita Shrine- Four years of Japanese occupation destroyed many buildings, roads, and bridges in and around Los Baños. In quick succession, the College of Agriculture became a Japanese camp for prisoners of war, a camp for allied nationals, a target of Kempetai punitive measures, and the headquarters of a secret organization of guerillas. After the dramatic rescue of the American internees by Filipino guerillas and U.S. paratroopers on February 23, 1935, the entire campus was sacked by the Japanese and 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 at the time of the Bataan Death March, were executed in April, 1946. They were both tried for their war crimes and executed near the Economic Garden.

Japanese Memorial Garden- It is located at Brgy. Kanluran Talaongan, Cavinti, Laguna, and was constructed by the Japanese government in the 1970s. It can be reached by car or other land transport within one hour from Sta. Cruz, Laguna.

Tipakan- This was a quarry site during the Spanish times. The adobe stone used for the construction of the Luisiana Catholic Church came from this site.

The Battle of Mabitac Marker- It was in this small town of Mabitac that the Battle of Hinukay occurred in 1900, when the town joined the revolution against the Americans under the leadership of General Juan Cailles and Fidel Sario. The Filipino-American encounter happened at the entrance of the town from Siniloan. The Americans under Col. Cheatham were defeated by the Filipinos in this battle. The National Historical Institute later officially changed the event's label from Battle of Hinukay to Battle of Mabitac.

Dalitiwan River- The name came from the word "dali't-iwan." It is the most accessible river and a favorite picnic site. It has cool crystal-clear water and a natural swimming pool. Cottages are available for rent. It is a 10-minute drive from the town proper.

Pagsanjan- Known not only for its waterfalls but for its historic town gate, the Arco Real. This was built in 1878-1880 by many Pagsanjeño polistas. It has three Roman arches, topped by two lions guarding Spain's royal escutcheon. Along Rizal St., formerly known as Calle Real, is a series of old houses that survived the war. These old houses hold memories of the past, and the unique beauty of Filipno architecture.

Cultural Heritage

Pintong Pilak- Story has it that the cave was opened to all communities of Magdalena whenever their people needed to borrow kitchen and household utensils. These utensils were made of gold-plated materials and enamels. Out of greediness, some were never returned. From then on, the entrance of the cave was closed and only those with clean hearts and minds were permitted to pass through a small entrance leading to the inner cave.

Emilio Jacinto Shrine- The glass enclosure contains the blood-stained bolo and hut of General Emilio Jacinto, symbols of his valor and bravery during the fight between the Spaniards and the Katipuneros at the Battle of Maimpis. He went to the church wounded and was later brought to Sta. Cruz Hospital for treatment. The blood-stained bolo and hut still remain in the original place.

National Arts Center- Managed by the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the National Arts Center is a show window of cultural development and performing arts education the country. More than this, It is an ideal vantage point for a panoramic view of Laguna de Bay, Talim Island, Crocodile Lake, and the International Rice Research Institute. It boasts 62 cottages, an auditorium, and seminar and convention facilities. Reservations may be coursed through the CCP Main Office on Roxas Boulevard, Manila.

Philippine High School for the Arts- The special boarding school for the education of the highly gifted and talented Filipino children combines general learning grid schooling in the field of dance, music, theater and voice, and visual arts. It is the site of a cultural exchange program with many countries of the world.

Luisiana Day- On April 3, 1854, the town of Luisiana was granted absolute independence and Luisiana Day has since been celebrated on that date every year.

Barong Tagalog Festival- The local government officials of Lumban initiated the first Barong Tagalog Festival from April 29 to May 3, 1996. Various embroidery products were displayed for sale at the town plaza where the festival was held. This was participated in by 40 local producers. It also promotes a variety of popular locally produced food like Kesong Puti and Ginataang Hipon, among others, and a few products from small cottage industries, like bolos, walis, yunot, and native bags made of sundried water lily. This activity is meant to be a continuing project of the municipality. Lumban established itself as the Embroidery Capital of the Philippines.

International Rice Research Institute- Located at Los Baños, Laguna, it is the world's most complete center for research on rice (oryza sativa). It has resident scientists and trainees from the rice-producing nations of the South and Southeast Asia, senior scientists who are members of the affiliate graduate faculty of the University of the Philippines (UP), and rigidly selected international specialists in every phase of science concerned with rice production.With splendid research laboratories, greenhouses, experiment rice fields, and an unequalled collection of technical literature on rice, IRRI attracts about 60 graduate students each year from all over the world. More than half of these students are candidates for an advanced degree in the Graduate School of UP College of Agriculture.
Formally dedicated in February, 1962, IRRI was founded by the Ford Foundation. Its headquarters and field laboratories are adjacent to the UP College of Agriculture and its Experiment Station is at Los Baños. Much of the research involves changing the architecture of the rice plant, the staple food of 100 million people in the world.

Museum of the Wildlife Collections of Dr. Dioscoro Rabor- Located at the College of Forestry Building, U.P Los Baños campus, the museum showcases the personal collection of mammal and bird species of Dr. Dioscoro Rabor. He has worked on various fields, such as ichthyology, fisheries, mammalogy, herpetology, ornithology, and ecology, and has made important contributions in ornithology and mammalogy.

University of the Philippines, Los Baños (UPLB) Museum of Natural History- Located at Los Baños, Laguna. The museum is a repository of biological specimens for scientific reference and center for documentation, research, information, and education on these. It has a diverse collection of more than 200,000 preserved Philippine animals, plants, cultures of living microorganisms, and other biota that showcase the country's rich biodiversity. It houses most of the priceless collections of birds and small mammals of the late Dr. Dioscoro Rabor, and has in its hortorium a diverse collection of living plants. A multi-colored diorama of Philippine flora and fauna and video presentations on biodiversity are special museum features.
Exhibits feature, among others, the Philippine eagle, tamaraw, tarsier; snails in Mt. Makiling and Laguna de Bay; Philippine plants, forests, shells; Philippine cobras, marine turtles and mammals; and a Philippine map made of 4,012 locusts and lahar from Mt. Pinatubo.

Entomology Museum- Located at the Institute of Biological Sciences Building, UPLB campus, the museum features the different species of the insect world, from the smallest bug to the biggest moth.

IRRI Riceworld- Located at Los Baños, Laguna, it is a permanent exhibit of artifacts and implements about the rice-growing world, dedicated to the rice farmers around the world. Multimedia and photo exhibits define the role of rice as the world's most important cereal. A tour through Riceworld depicts the different ways rice is grown. A display centerpiece shows carbonized rice grains and hulls dating back to 2,500 B.C., found in an archaeological excavation in Ban Na Di and Non Nok tha I, Thailand.

Natural Formations

Dagatan Boulevard (around Sampalok Lake)- The 3.832-kilometer peripheral road of Sampalok Lake is a potential tourist destination, being near the City Hall and close to the city's business center.

Sampalok Lake Staircase (Hagdang Bato) (Trece Martires Street)- A concrete stairway leads to Sampalok Lake, now a famous local landmark and even a part of the official seal of San Pablo City. It was constructed in November, 1915 on a lot which is now a part of the Doña Leonila Mini-Forest Park. It is divided into five sections with a total of 89 steps.

Public Plaza (Rizal Avenue)- At the center of the city in front of San Pablo City Cathedral is a monument of Dr. Jose P. Rizal, the centerpiece of the city plaza.

Boundary Arc of San Pablo City (Quezon Province Highway Boundary)- Constructed before World War II, it is a landmark that serves as a gateway to the now famous Villa Escudero Resort and Plantation in Tiaong Town.

Crocodile Lake- It is a small crater lake situated on the edge of Laguna de Bay, shaped like a crocodile. It is of special interest, being a lake within a lake.

Mount Makiling- The mystical Mount Makiling is an inactive volcano rising to about 1,109 meters above sea level. The vegetation consists of approximately 2,048 different species of plant. The lower slope is a tall dipterocarp forest while the summit is a dwarf mossy forest. The slopes of Mt. Makiling are shaped to resemble a woman reclining, hence, the air of mysticism that surrounds the mountain. Legend has it that it is the profile of the sleeping Maria Makiling, a mythical goddess. Still others say that Maria Makiling dwells in this mountain and protects dwellers and travelers from harm.

San Juan Twin Falls- It is located at Brgy. San Juan Kalayaan, Laguna, 221 meters from the National Highway.

Simbahang Bato- It is located in Barangay San Buenaventura and was named so for its natural formation, which looks like an old chapel alongside a river.

Maapon Falls- It has an approximate height of 30 meters. The headwater comes from Brgy. San Pedro Luisiana, Laguna and outlets in Mauban, Quezon.

Bongbongan Falls- It is located at Brgy. San Buenaventura, Luisiana, Laguna.

Malaog Falls- It is located at Brgy. San Buenaventura, Luisiana, Laguna.

Cabute Falls- It is located at Brgy. San Buenaventura, Luisiana, Laguna.

Alimang Munti Falls- It is located at Brgy. San Buenaventura, Luisiana, Laguna.

Talon ng Aliw- It has an approximate height of 25 meters and a width of 30 meters. Talon ng Aliw is the upstream/headwater of Dapi river going to Balanac river in Magdalena. Laguna.

Hulugan Falls- It is the tallest waterfall of Luisiana, Laguna, with an approximate height of 70 meters. Hulugan Falls is the downstream of Dapi River going to Balanac River in Magdalena, Laguna.

Talong Mababa & Talong Malayog Tributary- It is the headwater of Tiklingan-Botocan River at Brgy. San Roque, Luisiana, Laguna. The tributary is located at Brgy. San Rafael, Luisiana, Laguna.

Taytay Falls / Imelda Falls- With its cold and crystal clear water, the falls is a shangri-la at the foot of Mt. Banahaw, situated in Barangay Taytay. The trip down is arduous. It can be reached in a 15-minute drive from town, then a 30-minute hike to the picnic site.

Botocan Falls- Another tourism potential, the falls is presently utilized by the National Power Corporation (NPC) to generate electric power. The Botocan Hydro-Electric Plant takes 546 or so steps going down the ravine; it has a cable car. The falls attracts country travelers, writers, poets, printers, and nature lovers. Nearby is Dalitiwan River, which draws excursionists from Manila and farther. This river is noted for its crystal clear water and natural panoramic beauty. It is ideal for swimming and fishing.

Mount Banahaw- Yet another popular spot with great tourism potential is Mount Banahaw. A unique experience awaits mountain climbing enthusiasts who venture to a part of the mountain so-called "Banal na Lugar," or Holy Place, found in the depths and alleged to be mystical. In fact, Majayjay situated at the foot of the mountain is considered holy ground amongst amulet makers, faith healers, and seekers of the divine. Mystical Mount Banahaw is 2,188 meters in height.

Panghulo / Turumba Swimming Pools- Also known as Nuestra Señora de los Dolores de Turumba and Doña Aurora A. Quezon Swimming Pools, the Turumba pools are the main source of income of the municipal government as well as the municipality's main source of potable water and irrigation. It started as a swampy place where tubers and ferns grew around a big stone, until 1732, when Fr. Fernando de Haro supervised its clearing before the church construction. Following the visit of Doña Aurora A. Quezon, wife of the President Quezon, to the area in 1938, a swimming pool was constructed and named after her.

Talon- From the convergence of several rivers from the mountains east of the town was created the waterfalls of Talon. It feeds the Paete River to which its water cascades down below.

Seven Lakes- Each of the seven lakes is nestled on a depression created long ago by volcanic activity. The seven lakes are Sampaloc, Mojicap, Palakpakin, Calibato, Pandin, Yambo, and Bunot, Sampaloc Lake, the biggest of the seven lakes, is dotted with fishpens where tilapia, a local freshwater carp specie, is bred.

Buruwisan Falls- One of the five falls found in the Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges, Buruwisan Falls is the most popular because it is the most accessible. It has a roughly 50-meter drop. The water is clear and cool, the surrounding area is vitually unspoiled, making it ideal for camping. Mountaineers also consider it an excellent training ground for neophyte climbers, and conduct fun climbs to the site. Across Buruwisan Falls, at an approximately 35-degree angle, is Lanzones Falls.
The rivers of Buruwisan and Lanzones meet at a certain point to form the bigger Binaytuan Falls. It has more or less a 200-meter drop.The other two are Guiling-Guiling Falls and Sebakon Falls. Most of these falls are still unexplored, and the locals claim that a number of other undiscovered falls aside from these five are in the area.

Religious Structures

San Pablo Cathedral (Rizal Avenue)- This church in bustling San Pablo City is an exponent of neo-classical architecture. Built in 1774, it is an Augustinian piece of architecture that used to house a good collection of silver jewels, pewter candlesticks, and altar silverware. It is designed simply, with Doric coupled columns and a unique podium with inter-locking triangular and segmented arches. It has decorative bound windows and a four-storey octagonal bell tower with alternating blank and open windows.

Luisiana Catholic Church- It is the oldest church in the municipality of Luisiana. The construction of the Hermita/Chapel was started in 1850 using native materials. On May 12, 1872, the church was gutted by fire and a new stone church, made of adobe stone and rubblework, was constructed in 1873. The newer church has undergone some minor repairs and renovation as well.

The Feast of San Sebastian, the Martyr- On this occasion in Lumban, two noteworthy events take place side by side the town fiesta. One is the Moro-moro or Komedya staged on the eve and on the night of the fiesta. Local talents perform the demanding Komedya roles wearing colorful costumes before a crowd of spectators. Another is the Paligong Poon, a traditional procession observed at the Lumban River, wherein the icon of patron San Sebastian together with hundreds of devotees, afloat on Kaskitos or big boats, hold lighted candles while making a ritual turn across the river. The icon is then paraded around town while locals take turns in dousing the saint and devotees.

Majayjay Catholic Chruch- The centuries-old Catholic church that stands at the heart of the poblacion in the municipality of Majayjay was built in 1711. One of the biggest in the Philippines, it has withstood many typhoons and earthquakes since its construction. The nave is 60 meters long, 17 meters wide, and 16 ½ meters high.

Ermita- It was a Spanish tribunal that was later converted into Ermita, or chapel, to enshrine the Blessed Nuestra Señora de la Poteria, which was brought to Majayjay by the missionaries from Spain in 1759.

Our Lady of Guadalupe- In 1835, Pope Pius XI proclaimed Our Lady of Guadalupe as a national patroness of the Philippines. Her first sculpture image, a gift from Mexico, was stored at the main altar in 1688 but was destroyed during an American air raid on March 15, 1945. After a year, Mexican Catholics donated a life-size image of the Virgin of Pagsanjan. The second image, made by Mr. Ramon Barreto, noted sculptor of Tuluca, is now in church together with another image of the Virgin which was carved by Maximo Vicente, a prominent Manila sculptor.

San Santiago Apostol Church/Paete Church- Like many of the churches in the province, the Paete Church was built during the early Spanish period. But the novelty of this church lies in the fact that all the religious images found here were carved and painted by the residents of Paete long ago. The intricate baroque altar is a monument to their woodcarving artistry and the walls of the church boast of large murals done by Jose Dans (19 C.), a true son of Paete who used color pigments mixed with pulverized volcanic ash and brushes fashioned from cat's hair. Although the church has been restored recently using construction materials unlike the original, the design remains the same.

San Pedro de Alcantara Church/Pakil Church- The Franciscan church was completed in 1767, after 35 years of construction. Its architectural design is reminiscent of the Corinthian and Ionic styles. In 1788, the Virgin of Turumba was enshrined in this church that has survived great calamities. It was burned in 1851 along with the rectory but was repaired on the same year. It survived two earthquakes, in 1881 and in 1937. The church is now a major attraction. Its main altar is graced by 14 icons, each housed in an elaborately carved niche, with the Archangel Michael erring above the others. It also houses an authentic painting by Jose Dans (19th C.), a painter from Paete. Its belfry houses four small bells and one huge bell that has been renovated recently. The design of the church remains the same.

Leisure Max

Friday, December 11, 2009

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