Archive for August 4th, 2006
Mancono Forests
The unique “mancono” (ironwood) forests of Dinagat Island remain to be one of the watershed’s most productive resources.
Metallic & Non-Metallic Deposits. The province is endowed with an abundance of natural resources, especially metallic and non-metallic deposits. Metallic reserves registered a total of 347,845,684 metric tons of nickeleferous laterite ore, gold, chromite, lode ore, and laterite ore. Non-metallic reserves registered a total of 376,718,867 metric tons of limestone, silica deposits, guano, rock phosphate, sand, and gravel. Nonoc Island has one of the world’s largest deposits of nickel while Dinagat Island has major reserves of chromate.
Excellent Fishing Area
The province’s seawaters, covering 12,540 square miles, are abundant with different species of fish. Game fishing and spear-fishing enthusiasts will enjoy the bountiful seas along the tuna route. Over 23 different species are caught the whole year round. Marlin, tuna, lapu-lapu, molluscs, crabs, even squids, stingrays, and octopuses can be bought fresh and cheap from the fish vendors and fisherfolk.
Mangrove Forests
Mangrove is the major theme in the coastal areas of the province. The saltwater-loving trees form interminable marine forests covering an area of 17,473 hectares along the coasts of the mainland and the islands of Siargao and Dinagat.
Marine Ecosystems
The province boasts a variety of marine ecosystems such as lush seagrass beds and coral reefs, which are relatively healthy and intact, supporting a rich diversity of marine flora and fauna.
Mamanwa Tribe
The province is home to one of the country’s ethnic tribes, the Mamanwas. Surigao City’s Bonok-bonok Festival depicts the merrymaking of these native folks and their gratitude to their pagan gods for a bountiful harvest and good health.
Surfing
Siargao Island is reputed as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines. It hosts international surfing events yearly. Its waves combine the best quality features of the top-rated waves of Hawaii’s fabled “pipeline” and the top-billed waves of Indonesia. Its huge, powerful rollers have been ranked among the top five breaks in the world, including the “Cloud Nine” which is considered one of the world’s top surfing waves.
Other Water Activities
For adventurous divers, the coasts of the province offer interesting dive sites while the islands of Sagisi and Corregidor are excellent for snorkeling activities.
Caving
The province has a number of caves and tunnels in its islands. Some, like the Suhoton Cove at Bucas Grande Island, are half-submerged in water most of the time and could be accessed only during low tides. A guano cave is situated in a mountain at Libjo, within which is a lagoon that remains unexplored. Steep climbs are expected on the way to the cave.
Siargao Sea Kayaking
While there are few rental craft on the island, Siargao has superb sea kayaking opportunities – on the east side, facing the Philippine Trench, the deep blue sea runs straight up against a perfect tropical coast, offering unparalleled wave-running. On the other side of the island, one of the country’s largest expanses of virgin mangrove swamp provides an entirely different kind of exploration. This centuries-old ecosystem is a rich breeding ground for marine life, including the salt-water crocodile, and is an adventure no kayaker will want to miss.
Source : www.tourism.gov.ph
August 4th, 2006
White-Sand Beaches
Take your pick from the fine beaches in Sta. Maria, Malita, Jose Abad Santos, Sarangani, and Balut Island.
Tudaya Falls, Located in Sta. Cruz, it is one of the highest waterfalls in the country. Eco-Adventure Activities
These include river tubing, a simpler version of white-water rafting using inflatable tire, in Sibulan River, Darong, Sta. Cruz; mountain climbing/trekking in Mt. Apo, the highest mountain in the country; mountain biking around the province; aqua-sports activities in Malalag, Sta. Maria, Jose Abad Santos, Sarangani, Sta. Cruz, and in other towns of the province.
Tourism Farms
These can be found in Kapatagan (coffee, vegetables), Hagonoy (banana, sugar cane, mango), Malalag (banana), Padada (banana), Malita (cacao, coffee, coconut).
Cultural Tribal Villages
The province is home to the B’laans found in Matanao, the Tagakaolos in Malita, and the Bagobos in Kapatagan, Digos City as well as Sibulan, Sta. Cruz.
Pearl Farm
The 11-hectare Pearl Farm Resort was once, literally, a pearl farm, where thousands of white-lipped oysters, transported from the Sulu Sea, were cultivated for their pink, white, and gold pearls. The resort lies in a secluded island off the coast of Davao City. It boasts Samal Houses patterned after the stilt houses of seafaring Samal tribes of the Sulu archipelago, with schools of tiny fish frolicking between the sturdy poles that support the houses.
Crocodile Park
Probably the country’s richest in terms of biological diversity, Davao is now also known to be the habitat of crocodiles. In Ma-a, within the city of Davao, lies the Crocodile Park, the habitat for grisly crocodiles, including the country’s largest crocodile, named “Pangil.” Aside from crocodiles of varying ages and sizes, the park also houses various breeds of birds, from the Philippine sea eagle to kakatoe and Indonesian parrots – truly a sight to behold.
Philippine Eagle Research and Nature Center
It is home to the world’s largest eagle, the Philippine Eagle, the country’s national bird. Once known as the monkey-eating eagle, the Philippine Eagle is endemic to the eastern portion of the Philippines, comprising the Sierra Madre Mountains in eastern Luzon and the heavily forested area of Mindanao. The largest eagle, standing to about 3.5 feet, may be recognized by its powerful bill, strong legs and claws. The general body color is grayish brown on the back and wings, whitish on the front, neck, and belly, with shafts of gray brown streaked feathers on the head, which, when erect, form a crest.
Davao Mountainbiking
The Davao area has great opportunities for two-wheeled tours. The pristine hills and white-sand beaches of Samal Island make it a popular bike destination, and a well-attended race is held here annually. From Davao City you can make day trips to the rugged foothills of Mt. Apo, the archipelago’s highest peak. There are other options for extended touring, with roads running up the coast into Davao Oriental, south to Davao del Sur, and the classic long route across the center of Mindanao, descending into Bukidnon and continuing out to the coast at Cagayan de Oro City. Davao has an active biking community; there are several well-stocked shops, bikes are available for hire.
Davao Trekking
Far to the south, the mountains of Mindanao offer another range of trekking experiences. Begin on the slopes of Mt. Apo (2990m), the highest point in the country. This peak towers over the Davao plain, dominating the horizon for kilometers around. The most popular trail, starting in Kidapawan, North Cotabato, passes swift-flowing rivers, streaming hot springs and virgin forest before arriving at the tranquil Lake Venado. The trail to the summit is demanding, leading you through fields of boarders, jagged peaks and a large crater with unearthly sulphur pillars.
Source : www.tourism.gov.ph
August 4th, 2006
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.
Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (formerly Crocodile Farming Institute). It aims to preserve and conduct further research studies on endangered species of crocodiles. One of the structures is a “”hospital”" for sick and disabled crocodiles. It also intends to make good use of the raw materials derived from crocodile skin. The place also maintains a mini-zoo featuring some of Palawan’s endemic animals, under the supervision and management of DENR-PAWB. Visiting hours are from 1 :30 to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday and 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 nn, and 1 :00 to 5:00 p.m. Saturdays. Feeding time is every Monday and Thursday afternoon.
It is located in National Road, Barangay Irawan, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, 30-40 minutes’ travel from the city proper. One can take a tricycle and get off at Barangay Irawan where the crocodile farm is located. A jeepney could be hired to get to the place.
Tubbattaha Reefs.
It is a marine sanctuary located in the Middle Central Sulu Sea, 98 nautical miles southeast of Puerto Princesa City. Declared a World Natural Heritage site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on December 1993, it is under protective management by the Department of National Defense (DND). It is under technical supervision by the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD) & the Department of Environment & Natural Resources (DENR).
It is located in Cagayancillo town, Palawan. Trips to Tubbattaha from mid-March to mid-June are all vessel-based and require planning for a minimum of six weeks prior to departure. To reach the place, take a 70-minute flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa City. From the airport, a shuttle bus takes you to the dive boat. Boat ride from Puerto Princesa City takes approximately 12 hours.
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 WWII 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.
Occupying an area of 96,000 hectares, this popular nature spot boasts of diverse ecosystems such as rainforest, mangroves, white sand beaches, coral reefs, and limestone cliffs. It is now one of the country’s premier tourist destinations. Blessed with extraordinary natural scenery, El Nido is, the sanctuary of various forms of wildlife. Countless varieties of fish are also found here. Manta rays are a common sight; when in season, divers may see one of the world’s rarest marine mammal, the sea cow, known locally as “”dugong.”"
Accommodations are available at El Nido Resorts, it has two properties being Miniloc Island Resort and Lagen Island Resort. Miniloc is set in a cove surrounded by sheer limestone cliffs. Lagen on the other hand, is the most luxurious resort in the area, set in a lush forest with a magnificent view of the bay and the El Nido sunset. While each resort has its own special charm, both offer the same distinct quality of service that is attuned and responsive to the unique needs of each guest and focuses on making sure that your holiday is worry-free and filled with enriching experiences.
Accommodations are available at El Nido Resorts on the Miniloc and Pangulasian Islands. El Nido Resorts are noted for their hidden lagoons, palm forests, orchids, and offshore cruise points. Apart from the cozy accommodations, recreational facilities and aqua sports equipment are also available for tourists. Tours to the resort are possible through Ten Knots Corporation.
The reserve is located in Miniloc Island, El Nido. From the Manila Domestic Airport, a charter plane flies to mainland El Nido, from where a pumpboat is taken for a trip to Miniloc Island where the resort is situated. Travel time is two hours by plane from Manila, 45 minutes by pumpboat to the resort area.
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.
A world heritage site, this natural wonder features an 8.2 kilometer navigable underground river, reputed to be the world’s longest, that winds through a spectacular cave before emptying out in to the South China Sea. This river flows within a deep cavern under rugged limestone and marble cliffs, special features of the park. Known as one of the world’s wonders, this river stretches eight kilometers deep into an underground lagoon with crystalline waters. Within the hallowed recesses, one winds through the tunnel aboard a paddle boat with outriggers to be enthralled at every turn which reveals stalactite pillars, rock formations, and domed amphitheaters.
The park is located in Bahile, Puerto Princesa, Palawan. Located 81 kilometers from the city proper, the place can be reached through Barangay Cabayugan to Sabang, from where one could take a pumpboat ride to the Underground River, or hike through a monkey trail. An alternative way to reach the river is through a hired pumpboat ride from Bahile wharf. Travel time through Barangay Cabayugan is 1 1/2 hours’ jeepney ride and 10 to 15 minutes’ pumpboat ride or 1 1/2 hours’ hike.
Honda Bay.
The bay consists of several islets with shallow reefs bordering fabulous beaches which have become the favorite swimming, snorkelling, and diving destinations of local residents and tourists. These islets are the Cannon (Cowrie) Island, Bat Island, Lu-Ii Island (derived from the word “”lulubog-lilitaw”", meaning floating and sinking island, is visible only during low tide), Meara Marina, Starfish Island (known for its fine white sand and clear water that teems with starfish), Snake Island (an island with a long stretch of fine white sand shaped like a snake), Pandan Island, and Senorita Island (the breeding site of lapu-lapu fish). Lodging facilities are available for overnight stays in the islands of Meara Marina and Starfish (Sandbar Resort).
The bay is located in Sta. Lourdes Tagbanua, Puerto Princesa City. About 12 kilometers east of Puerto Princesa City is Sta. Lourdes wharf where pumpboats could be hired to take tourists to the island of their choice. Some islands require an entrance fee; others are privately owned, thus, permits from the owners are necessary. Sta. Lourdes wharf is 25 minutes away by hired tricycle or jeepney. A pumpboat ride from the wharf to the different islands is from 15 to 50 minutes.
Tabon Caves.
Known as the “”Cradle of Philippine Civilization,”" Tabon Caves consists of a series of chambers where anthropologists discovered the remains of crude man and his tools. Anthropological significance came to the fore with the discovery of the remains of the 22,000 year old Tabon Man in one of its interiors, along with other artifacts decades ago.
The caves are located in Lipuua Point, Quezon, Palawan. About 155 kilometers south of Puerto Princesa City, the place can be reached by taking a bus or jeepney ride from the provincial capital to Quezon. It is followed by a pumpboat ride from Quezon wharf to the caves. Travel time is 3-4 hours by bus or jeepney to Quezon and 20-30 minutes’ boat ride from Quezon pier to the caves.
Archeological Exploration.
The activity can be fun and endlessly appealing to both new and perennial visitors to Palawan. Visit the Tabon Caves and be enthralled by the chambers which yield knowledge about life 50,000 years ago.
Baragatan sa Palawan.
A grand celebration of the founding of the civil government of Palawan is celebrated every third week of June in Puerto Princesa City. Highlights of the Baragatan are the LGU Trade and Food Fair, and colorful parade with participation from the different municipalities and private sectors, featuring the ethnic groups and the coronation of Ms. Palawan.
Seacows
Palawan is home to the seacow, known locally as dugong, a unique animal, being the only herbivorous mammal in existence today. We probably owe our childhood fantasies of the mythical mermaid to the dugong, which, because of its fish-like tail, smooth brownish skin, mammary glands, and woman-like genitalia, was often mistaken by sailors, weary from long voyages, as a mermaid. The dugong can grow to more than three meters in length and can weigh more than 400 kg. Its body is torpedo-shaped with small short flippers and whale-like flukes. Its lip is shaped like a disk with thick hair.
Palawan Sea Kayaking
The islands scattered north of Palawan offer one of the world’s most spectacular marine environments. Towering limestone cliffs rear straight up from seas teeming with marine life, and hidden bays offer deserted beaches for camping. The coral reefs here are amongst the most extensive in the country, so be sure to bring your snorkeling gear. Many islands are also covered in jungle, the habitat of rare bird species. If you are willing to carry your boat, you can explore some of the lakes on Coron Island, home of the reclusive Tagbanua Tribe. Internationally known tour operators run regular sea kayaking tours among the islands around northern Palawan.
Source : www.tourism.gov.ph
August 4th, 2006
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.
Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center (formerly Crocodile Farming Institute).
It aims to preserve and conduct further research studies on endangered species of crocodiles. One of the structures is a “”hospital”" for sick and disabled crocodiles. It also intends to make good use of the raw materials derived from crocodile skin. The place also maintains a mini-zoo featuring some of Palawan’s endemic animals, under the supervision and management of DENR-PAWB. Visiting hours are from 1 :30 to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday and 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 nn, and 1 :00 to 5:00 p.m. Saturdays. Feeding time is every Monday and Thursday afternoon.
It is located in National Road, Barangay Irawan, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, 30-40 minutes’ travel from the city proper. One can take a tricycle and get off at Barangay Irawan where the crocodile farm is located. A jeepney could be hired to get to the place.
Tubbattaha Reefs.
It is a marine sanctuary located in the Middle Central Sulu Sea, 98 nautical miles southeast of Puerto Princesa City. Declared a World Natural Heritage site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on December 1993, it is under protective management by the Department of National Defense (DND). It is under technical supervision by the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD) & the Department of Environment & Natural Resources (DENR).
It is located in Cagayancillo town, Palawan. Trips to Tubbattaha from mid-March to mid-June are all vessel-based and require planning for a minimum of six weeks prior to departure. To reach the place, take a 70-minute flight from Manila to Puerto Princesa City. From the airport, a shuttle bus takes you to the dive boat. Boat ride from Puerto Princesa City takes approximately 12 hours.
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 WWII 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.
Occupying an area of 96,000 hectares, this popular nature spot boasts of diverse ecosystems such as rainforest, mangroves, white sand beaches, coral reefs, and limestone cliffs. It is now one of the country’s premier tourist destinations. Blessed with extraordinary natural scenery, El Nido is, the sanctuary of various forms of wildlife. Countless varieties of fish are also found here. Manta rays are a common sight; when in season, divers may see one of the world’s rarest marine mammal, the sea cow, known locally as “”dugong.”"
Accommodations are available at El Nido Resorts, it has two properties being Miniloc Island Resort and Lagen Island Resort. Miniloc is set in a cove surrounded by sheer limestone cliffs. Lagen on the other hand, is the most luxurious resort in the area, set in a lush forest with a magnificent view of the bay and the El Nido sunset. While each resort has its own special charm, both offer the same distinct quality of service that is attuned and responsive to the unique needs of each guest and focuses on making sure that your holiday is worry-free and filled with enriching experiences.
Accommodations are available at El Nido Resorts on the Miniloc and Pangulasian Islands. El Nido Resorts are noted for their hidden lagoons, palm forests, orchids, and offshore cruise points. Apart from the cozy accommodations, recreational facilities and aqua sports equipment are also available for tourists. Tours to the resort are possible through Ten Knots Corporation.
The reserve is located in Miniloc Island, El Nido. From the Manila Domestic Airport, a charter plane flies to mainland El Nido, from where a pumpboat is taken for a trip to Miniloc Island where the resort is situated. Travel time is two hours by plane from Manila, 45 minutes by pumpboat to the resort area.
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.
A world heritage site, this natural wonder features an 8.2 kilometer navigable underground river, reputed to be the world’s longest, that winds through a spectacular cave before emptying out in to the South China Sea. This river flows within a deep cavern under rugged limestone and marble cliffs, special features of the park. Known as one of the world’s wonders, this river stretches eight kilometers deep into an underground lagoon with crystalline waters. Within the hallowed recesses, one winds through the tunnel aboard a paddle boat with outriggers to be enthralled at every turn which reveals stalactite pillars, rock formations, and domed amphitheaters.
The park is located in Bahile, Puerto Princesa, Palawan. Located 81 kilometers from the city proper, the place can be reached through Barangay Cabayugan to Sabang, from where one could take a pumpboat ride to the Underground River, or hike through a monkey trail. An alternative way to reach the river is through a hired pumpboat ride from Bahile wharf. Travel time through Barangay Cabayugan is 1 1/2 hours’ jeepney ride and 10 to 15 minutes’ pumpboat ride or 1 1/2 hours’ hike.
Honda Bay.
The bay consists of several islets with shallow reefs bordering fabulous beaches which have become the favorite swimming, snorkelling, and diving destinations of local residents and tourists. These islets are the Cannon (Cowrie) Island, Bat Island, Lu-Ii Island (derived from the word “”lulubog-lilitaw”", meaning floating and sinking island, is visible only during low tide), Meara Marina, Starfish Island (known for its fine white sand and clear water that teems with starfish), Snake Island (an island with a long stretch of fine white sand shaped like a snake), Pandan Island, and Senorita Island (the breeding site of lapu-lapu fish). Lodging facilities are available for overnight stays in the islands of Meara Marina and Starfish (Sandbar Resort).
The bay is located in Sta. Lourdes Tagbanua, Puerto Princesa City. About 12 kilometers east of Puerto Princesa City is Sta. Lourdes wharf where pumpboats could be hired to take tourists to the island of their choice. Some islands require an entrance fee; others are privately owned, thus, permits from the owners are necessary. Sta. Lourdes wharf is 25 minutes away by hired tricycle or jeepney. A pumpboat ride from the wharf to the different islands is from 15 to 50 minutes.
Tabon Caves.
Known as the “”Cradle of Philippine Civilization,”" Tabon Caves consists of a series of chambers where anthropologists discovered the remains of crude man and his tools. Anthropological significance came to the fore with the discovery of the remains of the 22,000 year old Tabon Man in one of its interiors, along with other artifacts decades ago.
The caves are located in Lipuua Point, Quezon, Palawan. About 155 kilometers south of Puerto Princesa City, the place can be reached by taking a bus or jeepney ride from the provincial capital to Quezon. It is followed by a pumpboat ride from Quezon wharf to the caves. Travel time is 3-4 hours by bus or jeepney to Quezon and 20-30 minutes’ boat ride from Quezon pier to the caves.
Archeological Exploration.
The activity can be fun and endlessly appealing to both new and perennial visitors to Palawan. Visit the Tabon Caves and be enthralled by the chambers which yield knowledge about life 50,000 years ago.
Baragatan sa Palawan.
A grand celebration of the founding of the civil government of Palawan is celebrated every third week of June in Puerto Princesa City. Highlights of the Baragatan are the LGU Trade and Food Fair, and colorful parade with participation from the different municipalities and private sectors, featuring the ethnic groups and the coronation of Ms. Palawan.
Seacows
Palawan is home to the seacow, known locally as dugong, a unique animal, being the only herbivorous mammal in existence today. We probably owe our childhood fantasies of the mythical mermaid to the dugong, which, because of its fish-like tail, smooth brownish skin, mammary glands, and woman-like genitalia, was often mistaken by sailors, weary from long voyages, as a mermaid. The dugong can grow to more than three meters in length and can weigh more than 400 kg. Its body is torpedo-shaped with small short flippers and whale-like flukes. Its lip is shaped like a disk with thick hair.
Palawan Sea Kayaking
The islands scattered north of Palawan offer one of the world’s most spectacular marine environments. Towering limestone cliffs rear straight up from seas teeming with marine life, and hidden bays offer deserted beaches for camping. The coral reefs here are amongst the most extensive in the country, so be sure to bring your snorkeling gear. Many islands are also covered in jungle, the habitat of rare bird species. If you are willing to carry your boat, you can explore some of the lakes on Coron Island, home of the reclusive Tagbanua Tribe. Internationally known tour operators run regular sea kayaking tours among the islands around northern Palawan.
Source : www.tourism.gov.ph
August 4th, 2006
Jose Rizal’s Exile
Decrying Spanish authority over his beloved country, Dr. Jose P. Rizal, Philippine National Hero, lived in exile in faraway Dapitan City, then only a sleepy town in Mindanao. Here, he spent fruitfully his last four years in exile, from 1892 to 1896, to practice medicine, pursue scientific studies, keep with his artistic and literary endeavors, and widen his knowledge of languages. In Dapitan, Rizal found a school and a hospital, and became a farmer to prove to the people that farming is as good a profession as medicine.
The Rizaliana, It is a modern concrete building constructed in 1972, which houses all Rizaliana books, periodicals, and other historical exhibits. Part of it also serves as the office of the Rizal Shrine curator.
Rizal Shrine
Philippine National Hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal spent his last four years in exile in Dapitan. His original estate here has been declared a national shrine and is being administered by the National Historical Institute. Hence, the city monicker, “Shrine City of the Philippines.” By the year 2020, Dapitan is poised to become the Dr. Jose Rizal Heritage Center of the Philippines, owing to the wealth of Rizal memorabilia and memorable places associated with the hero.
Dakak Beach
The very popular Dakak Beach is most known for its beautfiully shaped cove and powdery white sand, and as a diving mecca in Mindanao. Pristine blue waters, excellent dive sites with an abundance of coral reefs, and a magnificent sunset horizon characterize this tropical eden. Dakak Park and Beach Resort boasts 15 hectares of wooded land, a natural reservoir for native plants and animals, and a 750-meter private white-sand beach.
Sinulog and Kinabayo
It is a two-day celebration, held from July 24 to 25, of the annual patronal feast of St. James. The Sinulog is a dance procession while the Kinabayo is an exotic and colorful pageant re-enacting the Spanish-Moorish Wars, particularly, the Battle of Covadonga. During this battle, the Spanish forces under General Pelagio took their last stand against the Saracens. They were able to reverse the tide of the war with the miraculous apparition of St. James, the Apostle. The addition of local color and innovations make this annual revelry a popular attraction drawing crowds to the city.
Tulwanan Village
It was the original settlement of Dipolog’s early inhabitants, the Subanons. It is located about six kilometers from the city proper and along Dipolog River, through which the Subanons transported their products to trading posts and markets in the early days.
3003 Steps to Linabo Peak
Found up high at the foot of the heavens, these concrete steps wind along a tunnel of verdant trees, leading the visitor to a panoramic vista of sky, plains and sea; horizons and a spectacular view of the twin cities of Dipolog and Dapitan. This is Dipolog’s highest elevation point - 460 meters above sea level. Savor a rarefied experience, at the very least.
Source : www.tourism.gov.ph/
August 4th, 2006