More to Explore

As of this writing, this map below graphically shows how much i was able to set foot in the Philippines. I therefore conclude that i need to go double time to at least cover half of 7107 beautiful paradise islands.

No wonder colors are more dense in Luzon compared to Visayas and Mindanao. It is mainly because of accessibility by land. Looking back Benguet on northern part tops among the provinces i've been. I was able to conquer Mt. Pulag, Luzon's highest peak and third highest mountain in the country at 2,922 meters above sea level. I can't believe i was able to made it up and down alive since this is my first ever stint on mountain climbing and no preparation at all. Here, aside from experiencing the lowest temperature i had in the country, i was able to witness the majestic sunrise above the sea of clouds. I can't explain the feeling back then.

Another on my list is Sagada, Mt. Province where it's tagged as 'the old image of Baguio' according to my friend. This is memorable for my first ever 3-hour (death defying) cave spelunking in Lumiang and Sumaguing caves. But inside are the magnificent stalactite, stalagmite and column formations and crystal clear underground river. Sagada also houses Bomod-ok Falls, the most beautiful falls i've seen to date.

Next is Palawan for Coron and where i traveled recently - El Nido and Puerto Princesa. Indeed this province is the 'Last Frontier' for it offers a great place for exploration with its great sanctuaries for mother nature. From land, air to underwater Palawan is haven for all nature lovers like me.

Island hopping at El Nido Palawan.

Sunset at Bacuit Bay El Nido Palawan.

The entrance to the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park.

For the places i've been in Visayas, Boracay tied with Bacolod and Bohol. I can say Boracay indeed offers world class shoreline but i'm not a fan of too much commercialization for it most of the time destroys nature. Bacolod as the City of Smiles offered me the best of Masskara Festival and its delicious variety of foods aside from being my father's hometown. To mark the jump start to discover more of the country is for Bohol. This is i experience the laid back and simple province life far from busy streets in the metro.

Willy's Rock seen at Station 2 shoreline Boracay Island, Aklan.

A student participant waiting in line at the parade.

Participants strike a pose.

For down sounth Mindanao, Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental tops Daval and Samal. True to it's word is indeed the adventure capital of the country. I can still remember the adrenalin rush and rapids on our wild water rafting - paddle up! It is highly recommended.

This year me together with some friends and my loves Lanipot, we are bound to Boracay (my third consecutive year), Bacolod and Iloilo (second time) and January 2014 in Surigao del Sur for the Enchanted River and the country's little Niagra Falls - Tinuy-an Falls.

So double time Oleyo! Keep shading your Philippine Map!

Credits:

Thank you to Mr. Eugene Alvin Villa for developing Lakbayan. You're site is a big help for all Philippine travelers like me to track how much we have discovered in our country. Kudos!