THE BEAUTY OF
Luzon
THE BEAUTY OF
Luzon
- Philippines
Luzon is the largest and most populous island in the Philippines. It is ranked 15th largest in the world by land area. Located in the northern portion of the archipelago, it is the economic and political center of the nation, being home to the country’s capital city, Manila, as well as Quezon City, the country’s most populous city. With a population of 53 million as of 2015, it is the fourth most populous island in the world, containing 52.5% of the country’s total population.
Luzon may also refer to one of the three primary island groups in the country. As such, it includes the Luzon mainland, the Batanes and Babuyan groups of islands to the north, Polillo Islands to the east, and the outlying islands of Catanduanes, Marinduque and Mindoro, among others, to the south.. The islands of Masbate, Palawan and Romblon are also included as well, though these three are sometimes grouped in the Visayas.
Quezon Bridge: A Historic Landmark Connecting Manila’s Past and Present
Quezon Bridge, a striking steel arch bridge spanning the Pasig River, is more than just a vital transportation link—it is a historical icon of Manila. Constructed in 1939 and named after former President Manuel L. Quezon, this bridge seamlessly connects the bustling districts of Quiapo and Ermita, offering travelers a passage through both history and modern urban life.
Lingayen Beach: Pista’y Dayat Festival and the Rich Legacy of Lingayen Gulf
The Lingayen Beach is a public beach in Pangasinan Province, and is famous for hosting a Pista’y Dayat festival once every Labor Day. It has a long shoreline, fine sand, choppy waters and an overlooking view of the Lingayen
Balai Isabel: Where Lakeside Calm Meets Adventure
If you’re craving that sweet spot where calm meets adventure—where you can sip coffee while staring at a volcano, then hop on a kayak right after—Club Balai Isabel in Talisay, Batangas might just be the place calling your name. Just around 1.5 to 2 hours from Metro Manila, depending on traffic, this lakeside resort sits quietly along the serene shores of Taal Lake. It’s the kind of place that offers not just stunning views, but also a little bit of everything—history, family bonding, fun under the sun, and peaceful retreats rolled into one.
Pamatawan River: Flowing Serenity amidst Zambales’ Natural Beauty
There is no way anyone can ignore the beauty of Pamatawan River if they are traveling in the area of the coast of Pundaquit in the province of Zambales. The clear waters that flow through its stream and the lush greenery that
Buhayani Festival: Celebrating the Hero’s Legacy in Calamba
The Buhayani Festival, held every June 19 in Calamba, Laguna, honors the life and heroism of Dr. José Rizal, the city’s most celebrated son. First launched in 2014 by Mayor Justin Mark Chipeco, the festival’s name combines “buhay” (life) and “bayani” (hero), symbolizing both living heroes and Rizal’s legacy. Anchored by Republic Act No. 11144 and City Ordinance No. 575, it features cultural shows, boat races, kite contests, and community activities involving all 54 barangays. Recognized nationally for excellence in tourism, the festival was rebranded in 2023 as the Calambagong Buhayani Festival, reaffirming Calamba’s pride in its heritage and ongoing celebration of heroism.
Santa Cruz: A Vibrant District in Manila
I experienced the vibrant and colorful life of downtown in full. I took some time to appreciate the beauty of Santa Cruz Church and Plaza Lacson, while also exploring the cultural layers that the Santa Cruz district had to offer. With so much to see and explore, my visit to the downtown Avenida and its many establishments was truly memorable.
CCLEX Beyond the Bridge: More Than Just a Road in Cebu
When we talk about Cebu, the first things that come to mind are sinfully good lechon, crystal-clear beaches, and a mix of urban chaos and island calm that somehow just… works. But here’s the thing: Cebu’s landscape isn’t just evolving through its natural beauty or heritage—it’s literally being reshaped by modern marvels like the Cebu–Cordova Link Expressway, or as everyone calls it now, CCLEX.
Victoneta Chapel: A Hidden Gem in Malabon Worth Discovering
When you think of Malabon, your mind might wander to its famous pancit, old-world charm, or those quiet, flood-prone streets filled with stories from generations past. But tucked away in one of its more secluded corners lies a peaceful sanctuary that many locals still speak about with a quiet sense of reverence—the Our Lady of Victory Chapel, more fondly known as Victoneta Chapel. This chapel isn’t your usual neighborhood church. Located within the gated Victoria Place Subdivision in Potrero, Malabon, the Victoneta Chapel feels like it was plucked from a countryside painting and gently dropped in the middle of the city. It’s the kind of place where time seems to slow down, where silence feels sacred, and where the world outside simply melts away.
La Loma Cemetery: A Historic Haven of Timeless Beauty and Remembrance
As one of the oldest cemeteries in Manila, Campo Santo De La Loma, commonly referred to as the La Loma Cemetery, is one of the few places that are well known for its preserved intricately designed mausoleums, tombs, and structures. Although most of the city was destroyed in the course of the wars of Manila, the structures of the cemetery remain intact. As a result, the cemetery is considered to be an important historical monument.
Gunao Lake: A Hidden Gem in Dolores, Quezon
Gunao Lake, located in the charming town of Dolores in Quezon Province, remains a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered by adventurers seeking natural wonders.
Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery: A Hidden Sanctuary of History, Revolution, and Remembrance
Located in the charming town of Nagcarlan, Laguna, the Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery is more than just a burial ground—it is a historical and architectural marvel that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich past of the Philippines. This one-of-a-kind cemetery, built in 1845 by Franciscan friar Fr. Vicente Velloc, is the only underground crypt in the country, making it a unique destination for history enthusiasts, cultural travelers, and architecture lovers alike.
Candle Festival: Shines with Tradition and Devotion in Candelaria
This celebration of the “Candle Festival” takes place from the 31st of January to the 2nd of February each year and is held in order to reflect the devotion of the people in Candelaria, Quezon to the Virgin of “Nuestra Senora de Candelaria”, better known as the Virgin of Candlemas. In accordance with the town’s patronal fiesta, which is held every February 5th in honor of San Pedro Bautista, it is a celebration of the town’s patron saint. This festival has been held every year since 2005 and is one of the longest-recurring festivals in the Municipality of Candelaria and has been celebrated by the community every year since then.
Carmona Race Track: The Heartbeat of Motorsports in Cavite
If you’re looking for a high-energy, adrenaline-filled day trip just outside Metro Manila, the Carmona Race Track in Cavite deserves a spot on your itinerary. Established in 1990, this motorsport facility has grown from a local karting venue into a major destination for both racers and curious travelers. It’s one of those places where you don’t just watch the action—you feel it.
Lingayen Cathedral: Resilience and Glory Through Centuries of History
Historically known as the co-cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan, the enormous Lingayen Cathedral or Parish Church of Epiphany of Our Lord has an unusual history and stands out from any other church in the area.
Tobacco Festival: Candon City’s Stirring Tribute at Araw ng Kalayaan 2025
When Candon City brought its “Ikkis ti Candon” float to Luneta for the 2025 Araw ng Kalayaan celebration, it wasn’t just joining a national parade—it was putting its heritage on full display. On June 12, right in the heart of Manila, this proud city from Ilocos Sur didn’t just showcase its famed Tobacco Festival—it reconnected the nation to a revolutionary chapter often overlooked. TheTobacco Festival presentation wasn’t only about art or performance. It was a reminder that cultural traditions and historical memory are living things. Through their float and performance, Candon retold their story of courage and pride—of farmers, fighters, and families bound by heritage and tobacco.
National Museum of Natural History: Unveiling the Rich Biological and Geological Diversity of the Philippines
Explore the vibrant tapestry of Manila through its four national museums, each a unique gem in the city’s cultural crown. These four distinguished establishments are the National Museum of Fine Arts, the National Museum of Anthropology, the National Planetarium, and the National Museum of Natural History.
Polo Church: The Resilience of San Diego de Alcala Through Time
The Polo Church, formally known as the San Diego de Alcala Church, resides in the Polo neighborhood of Valenzuela, Manila. This church has a captivating history deeply intertwined with the local community.
Iloilo Dinagyang Festival: A Cultural Highlight of the 127th Philippine Independence Day
You know what? You haven’t truly felt the power of Filipino pride until you’ve seen the pulse of Dinagyang beating alongside the roar of Independence Day. On June 12, 2025, Iloilo City’s cultural pride—its legendary Dinagyang Festival—took the national stage at the Parada ng Kalayaan held at Quirino Grandstand in Manila. Fresh off its high-energy performances at home, Dinagyang wowed the crowd and the judges, clinching the coveted 1st runner-up in the national Festival Performance Competition.
Manila Ocean Park: Exploring A Captivating Journey into Aquatic Wonders
As the nation’s first ever world-class marine theme park, Manila Ocean Park is located in Ermita Manila, within the Philippines’ largest urban resort/aqua-themed hotel complex in addition to a premier educational institution
Taal Lake: Unraveling the Mysterious Charm and Enduring Beauty
It is known as Taal Lake, formerly Bombón Lake, and is a freshwater lake in the province of Batangas. It fills the Taal Caldera, a large volcanic caldera created by a very large eruption between 500,000 and 100,000 years ago.
Siglo Modern Filipino: A Taste of Tradition in Tagaytay
If you’re looking for a real Filipino dining experience, Siglo Modern Filipino in Tagaytay City, Cavite, is the place to be. With the motto “Likhang Lokal, Sarap Siglokal!” (Local Creation, Deliciously Siglokal!), this cozy spot is perfect for food lovers ready to explore the delicious flavors of our country.
UST Church Santísimo Rosario Parish: A Sacred Stop in the Heart of UST, Manila
If you’re exploring Manila and looking for more than just the usual heritage stops, make room on your itinerary for a place that blends quiet spirituality with history—the UST Church Santísimo Rosario Parish inside the University of Santo Tomas. It’s not just another old church. It’s a living, breathing part of the oldest existing university in Asia, and it carries stories shaped by war, faith, and generations of Thomasian devotion.
Nasugbu, Batangas: A Coastal Haven of Serenity and Adventure
The Nasugbu area has an extensive collection of beaches and snorkeling spots which make it a popular summer destination. There are numerous swimming-related activities and mountain hiking opportunities in this region. Many luxury resorts and beach houses can be
Betis Church: Discover the Timeless Beauty of a Must-Visit Filipino Treasure
If you’re cruising through Pampanga, you simply can’t miss Betis Church — officially known as the Parish Church of Saint James the Apostle. This church isn’t just a place of worship; it’s a stunning cultural gem that captures centuries of history, art, and devotion all rolled into one breathtaking experience. Honestly, once you step inside, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time to an era where faith met artistry in the most spectacular way.
BROWSE BY CATEGORIES
ARCHITECTURE
HERITAGE
CHURCH
FAITH
NATURAL ATTRACTIONS
ADVENTURE
FESTIVALS
EVENTS
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All photographs that appear on the site are copyright of Mariano Sayno. ©2017 Mariano Sayno.