By Rudy Esposo II

    The Philippines…known as the Pearl of the Orient Seas with 7,107 islands resting between the serene Pacific Ocean and the West Philippine Sea, dubbed as the fusion of East and West, the center of the predominantly conservative and traditional East and the liberal and ideological West, and labeled as the garden of the Pacific for its thousandfold wealth of wonders ranging from its diverse flora and fauna to its historical and centuries-old landmarks.

    Here’s the 13 scenic spots you should not missed in exploring our captivating archipelago:


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Wonderful Chocolate Hills. These tempting chocolates that are located in Bohol become green during the rainy season and turn to brown on dry season because of the seasonal variation of the color of the grass.


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Overwhelming beauty of Rice Terraces. Found in Banaue, this UNESCO heritage site is a perfect example of what a group of people can achieve if everyone is united. This miles-long structure was made by the Ifugaos’ bare hands with their ancient stone-and-wood-made tools.


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Water-surfing Mecca in Camarines Sur. For the nth time, Camarines Sur has been hosting various international water sports competitions in water surfing and kayaking. CamSur is listed recently in Top 100 destinations in the world for water sports enthusiasts.


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Picturesque Puerto Princesa Underground River. Hailed as one of the new 7 wonders of nature, this subterranean park was a proclaimed national park in the country. For your information, scientists and divers have not yet reached the end of this kilometric underground river.


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Historical Intramuros. Literally means “the Walled City,” its walls are silent witnesses of how the Spaniards run the country during their colonization. It is located at the heart of Manila. This was where our national hero Jose Rizal spent his last night before his execution on December 30, 1896.


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Intense adventure in Mount Pinatubo. Once a sleeping giant that was awaken after 600 dominant years, the former explosive volcano that made Pampanga and Zambales buried in ashes on June 1991 is now a tourist attraction especially for mountaineers and trekkers. The adrenaline-rush bought by the unparallel terrain to its crater is indeed heart-pounding.               

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Lovely Spanish-inspired City of Vigan. Listed as one of the UNESCO heritage sites in the country, this centuries-old city successfully preserved its rich history with its Baroque churches and hundreds of Bahay na Bato.

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Internationally renowned beaches of Boracay. If you’re looking for crystal-like sands and clear waters of the sea, Boracay is a must-see. This small island of Aklan is a magnet to millions of local and foreign tourists and beach buffs.


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Pristine treasures of Tubbataha Reefs. Located at the southeast of Palawan, this kingdom below the sea is part of the so-called coral triangle, the world’s center of marine biodiversity.


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Paradise-island of Batanes. The northernmost province of the country is as captivating as the rest of the archipelago because of its unique culture and breathtaking sceneries. It is indeed a heaven under the sky.


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Inspiring Baroque churches of Bohol, Cebu, and Manila. With 333 years under Spanish rule, it is no doubt that Catholic priests and orders have erected more than a hundred churches in the country. Having Roman Catholicism as the prevalent religion, Philippines is Vatican's last bastion in Asia.


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Nature-friendly Turtle Islands. Just near the islets of Sulu and Tawi-tawi are the virgin Turtle Islands. The islands remain a sanctuary of thousands of turtles laying their eggs on its shores.


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Enchanting wonders of Hundred Islands. Of the 7,107 islands of the country, a hundred of it can be found in just one location- in Alaminos, Pangasinan. 

    These are just 13 reasons to travel, discover, and explore the Philippines. But still, the best that we can offer are the

    Sincere smiles and warm hospitality of the Filipinos who will welcome you with arms wide open. 




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