The Island Explorer

Finally, I am on a journey to one of the most desired tourist hotspots in the country. And it begins in this small plane, similar to the plane I took to Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, only more luxurious. I was so anxious to land safe and sound in the northern part of Palawan, in a place called El Nido.

It is one of the most desired tourist hotspots in the country, and I can't believe I had just visited this place this year. The limestone formations are a giveaway. Stay tuned!

Since we're in Iloilo already, I just want to take you guys to the best nightspot in this part of the country. Welcome to Smallville.

After working in Malangabang Island, we just had to pass by one of the alluring islands of Concepcion. The nearest to our route was this island.

I've always wanted to visit the islands of Concepcion in Iloilo, but never found an opportunity to go there. So, I was pleasantly surprised that one of my shoots was located there - and on an island. Concepcion is in the Northern part of Iloilo, around 2 hours away. It is found before Miagao, so if you're headed to the Miagao Church, better pass by this group of islands.

I guess you all know by now that most of my travels are actually side trips from work. I extend my stay for a couple of days, especially on weekends. As a result, I get to explore a lot of places. One of my most recent extended stays was in Guimaras, one of my favorite islands in the Philippines.

Around 30 minutes away from Ortigas without traffic is one of the most talked about restaurants in the country. It is located in the art capital of the country as well, in the town of Angono in Rizal. 

We had to conitnue on with work the next day, this time to the neighboring province of Bukidnon. I have never explored Bukidnon, and my friend tells me there's really nothing much to do there. On the way, I was amazed at the breathtaking landscapes of green fields amidst a mountainous backdrop. After almost 2 hours of travel, we arrived in the capital, Malaybalay.

Going back from Iligan City, our driver suggested we visit a shrine that was nestled on top of a hill. The shrine was of the Divine Mercy. Being apathetic about shrines and temples that time, I didn't take interest. 

2 hour away from Cagayan de Oro is the progressive city of Iligan in Lanao del Norte. Now while some may reject the idea of going to Lanao all together, I was eager enough to discover what the province has to offer. And of course, there was one place that I had to go to, the grand Maria Cristina Falls.

Guess where this is. Our version of Brazil's Christ the Redeemer, up next!

My very brief stay in Legazpi was made memorable because of the hotel I stayed in. When my tita who was managing the hotel told me to visit her, I didn't expect to see this. 

Legazpi City in Albay is familiar city to most Filipinos, because of Mt. Mayon. The last time I was in Legazpi, I was still a teenager. Now, probably after 15 years, I arrive at the hometown of my father, hoping to catch a glimpse of one of the most prominent cities of Bicol.