The General Douglas MacArthur Landing Memoria

* An additional popular and first-rate tourist destination in Leyte that several travelers like to see is General Douglas MacArthur Landing Memorial. * Situated at Red Beach in Palo, the memorial functions statues depicting the historical and victorious return with the American Liberation Forces led by U.S. General Douglas MacArthur, which happened in 1944. * Folks can effortlessly see the statues within the province for these figures have heights higher than 10 feet. Furthermore, to commemorate this event, locale people re-enact the landing on the Allied Forces in the beach.

Location
* Found at Red Beach in Barangay Candahug, Palo, Leyte, 5 kilometers away from the provincial capital of Tacloban City, the memorial marks the exact spot where MacArthur and other important personages waded ashore in the knee-high waters. Red Beach, so named due to the U.S. military’s color-coding scheme, was also the site where the 6th Army of the United States stormed ashore shortly before MacArthur’s return. A museum nearby displays historic photographs, a copy of MacArthur’s speech, and bronze casts of his footprints. Close by is the 50th Leyte Landing Anniversary Commemorative Rock Garden of Peace. Other nearby attractions include the historic Hills 120 and 522, which also figured in World War II, and the first-class MacArthur Beach Resort. History

* MacArthur made his promise to return to the Philippines when the Japanese occupied the country in 1942. By this time, the Allies had already decided to attack Japan directly rather than battle the Japanese in the Philippines. MacArthur, however, convinced President Roosevelt and Pacific Commander Chester Nimitz to send forces to the Philippines to fight against the Japanese forces that had overtaken the country. The U.S. 6th Army stormed the beach, following which MacArthur arrived in the company of Osmena, Romulo, the U.S. Fifth Air Force, and the U.S. Seventh Fleet under Vice Admiral Thomas C. Kinkaid on October 20, 1944. The U.S. Forces defeated the Japanese soon afterward in the famous Battle of Leyte Gulf. * Statues were erected at the site to commemorate the event. During the term of President Ferdinand Marcos, First Lady Imelda Marcos, who originated from the province, developed the memorial site. It was then named Imelda Park but the original name MacArthur Park was restored after the Marcoses left the country. The historic stretch of beach was turned into the MacArthur Landing Memorial Park in time for the golden jubilee of the Leyte Landing in 1994.

Description
The park is 4 ½ hectares in land area. Along with MacArthur, President Sergio Osmeña, General Carlos P. Romulo, General Sutherland and other men are depicted here in the act of wading onshore. About 10 feet tall and cast in bronze, the statues of the important personages stand in a manmade pond. Plaques with the General’s significant words can be seen in front of the statues. On the left-hand plaque is written MacArthur’s promise, entitled “Proclamation,” while on the right-hand plaque is “A Memorial for a Fulfilled Promise.”

Apart from being a historic site, Red Beach is known for its natural beauty. An excellent view of Leyte Gulf, San Pedro Bay, and Samar Island is visible from the site of the park.

MT. GUITING-GUITING
Sibuyan Island, Romblon
Major Jump-off: Brgy. Tampayan, Madgiwang, Sibuyan
LLA: 12°24’50″N, 122°34’4″E, 2058 MASL
Days required / Hours to summit: 3 days / 10-13 hours
Specs: Major Climb, Difficulty 9/9, Trail Class 5 with rock climbing/scrambling

BACKGROUND
One of the most difficult climbs in the Philippines is a hike to Mt. Guiting-Guiting, in Sibuyan Island, Romblon. In the difficulty scale used by PinoyMountaineer.com, it stands with Mt. Halcon and Mt. Mantalingajan as the upper limit. This is because of the steep, jagged ridge called “Knife Edge” which one has the cross in order to reach the summit, not to mention the ensuing rock formations with colorful names such as “Kiss the Wall”. On top of this precarious trail, the weather is so volatile that mountaineers would use absolute cut-off times (i.e. 1300H) to reach the summit, otherwise they would have to turn back. By implication, only mountaineers with enough stamina are advised to attempt the G2 climb. The possibility of failure is always there: if the local guides perceive a dangerous weather change forthcoming, the assault is aborted. Patience and perseverence – virtues of a true mountaineer – are put to the test in Mt. Guiting-Guiting. Mt. Guiting-Guiting – fondly called G2 by enthusiasts – was discovered as a mountaineering hotspot during the early 1980’s – an exciting period for Philippine mountaineering, when the novel sport has just begun unravelling new and exciting destinations.

In May 1982, a combined team of the Philippine Mountaineering Society (PMS) of Bacolod City and UP Mountaineers did the first exploration of the mountain, reaching the then-unnamed Mayo’s Peak but failing to reach the summit. A few weeks later, some of them returned to make the first ascent to G2’s summit. They were Mon Ruiz, Kim Valino, Bubot Tan Torre (UP Mountaineers) and Edwin Gatia of the PMS. The climb proper takes three days. Day 1 is the hike up to Mayo’s Peak (1550 MASL). Three streams, all very clean, will be crossed before reaching Camp 1, and three camps will be passed (marked as Camp 1-3) before reaching Mayo’s Peak. The trails are in very good condition and is surrounded by woodlands throughout. Since Day 1 may be delayed by transportation problems, it may be deferred to the next day after arrival at Sibuyan Island. Or, the itinerary may be modified and Camp 3 can be the campsite on the first night, leaving the last leg of Day 1 to early Day 2. Just before Mayo’s Peak.

Normally, Day 2 is the 4-5 hr. assault to the summit, and back. It is perhaps one of the most intense day in any itinerary in this website. A swift descent from Mayo’s Peak will lead to the “Knife Edge” – here the entire trail is rocky and exposed to the sun and winds; there are ravines on both sides: the view is both breathtaking and scary! Beyond this ridge are even more precarious rock formations: each is like a puzzle that must be solved, and climbers will try what body position and movements will best suit each hurdle. Some of the rocks you will step on are just a few inches wide; but with the sharp edges of the rocks make for nice hand supports. If you still have time you can take pictures of the delightful flora that grow on the rocks (including the endemic pitcher plant), as well as the stunted trees that coil on the rocks. After 3-4 hours, the Peak of Deception, an imposing sight, will be reached. They say this peak was also called “Peak of Decision” because from here you will have to decide whether to proceed or not, considering the time and one’s energy.

From the Peak of Deception, it’s only 30-45 minutes away from the summit itself. The trails are still rocky and unforgiving. As a finalé, a wall called “Hillary Pass” must be negotiated: there is a 90-degree part here which is said to be impassable when slippery. After accomplishing this finale hurdle, the summit is only a hundred meters away and the trail, called “Walk of Fame”, is easy, a stark departure from the rest of the trail. At the summit, when it is clear, you can see the neighboring peaks of the Guiting-Guiting range, as well as the seas surrounding Sibuyan Island. Again, there is a variety of unique flora in the summit. The ascent to G2 is just half of the adventure; the descent, it is said, is equally challenging.

By 1300H climbers must turn back and head for Mayo’s Peak where one can celebrate and see the sunset (on the left side relative to the jump-off). You or your guides can refill water at Bulod’s Spring; and spend the rest of the night having ‘socials’. The third and final day is the descent back to Magdiwang. This may be done in a relaxed fashion: take time to appreciate the fauna and flora of the G2 forests. Large brown ants, birds, scorpions, and other fauna litter the trail. A refreshing dip in one of the clear streams after Camp 1 is a very rewarding treat after the arduous trek. After logging out at the DENR station, you can proceed to the beaches at Magdiwang (i.e. Bagumbayan). As you leave Sibuyan Island by ferry, the towering presence of Guiting-Guiting — and its saw-toothed peaks — will remind you of the unforgettable adventure that is G2 ! Picnic Grove

* The Picnic Grove is probably the most visited spot in Tagaytay, or maybe neck and neck with the other popular destination nearby, the Palace in the Sky which is now known as People’s Park. * Picnic Grove Tagaytay is the most visited park in the province of Cavite that overlooks the Taal Volcano and Taal Lake. It is an affordable weekend getaway for tourists who wants to go for a picnic and have a breathtaking view of the Taal Volcano. The cool air in Picnic Grove Tagaytay also helps in relaxation for a truly wonderful time. * Huts are available for rent if you prefer a shade where you can also do your barbecue as well. Accommodations are also available if you want to have an overnight stay so yo can breath in that fresh air of the morning.

Horseback riding is available for the kids and you can also go shopping for souvenirs or just stroll around. * There is a view deck and boardwalk for that perfect view of the lake and the volcano. There are also restaurants if you happen to just drop by for the views and a little walking. * The Tagaytay Ridge Zipline and Cable Car is also around the area if you want to have an adventure ride on their 250 meter zipline at about 300 feet high. The zipline and cable car facility is operated by a different company and is separate from the Picnic Grove. * The best time to be in Tagaytay Picnic Grove is during week days where the crowds are fewer and the zipline ride is cheaper. The entrance to the Picnic Grove is Php 50.00 any day of the week but the rides at the Tagaytay Ridge are Php 100/person at week days and php200/person during weekends.

MODE OF TRANSPORTATION: Bus and Tricycle

We rode the San Agustin Bus with the sign board Nasugbu at the Araneta Center Cubao Bus Station at around 8:00 a.m. The bus left Quezon City for Tagaytay City 30 minutes after. One-way ticket to Tagaytay City is P104.00. The bus transverse through EDSA, Coastal Road, and the long stretch of Emilio Aguinaldo High way that passed the towns of Bacoor, Imus, Dasmarinas, Silang and finally after two hours of travel at Tagaytay City.

When in Tagaytay, you may ask the conductor to drop you by the jeepney terminal near the Rotunda if you want to ride a jeep to Tagaytay’s favorite places or ride the tricycle just like what we did which was at P20.00 per person. ACTIVITIES AT THE PICNIC GROVE:

1. Try the zip line and transverse a 250 meter long cable, suspended 300 feet off the ground at 60 km/hr. Rate: P200.00 per person one way and P300 per person two way on weekdays; P300 per person one way and P400.00 per person two way on holidays and weekends. It comes with a free souvenir picture.

2. Ride the cable car. Same rate as the zip line.

3. Rent a cottage and just sit down and take in the scenery. Rate: P100.00 to P250.00 depending on the size.
4. Eat at the Alamat Restaurant inside the Picnic Grove.

5. Fly a kite.
6. Ride a horse.
Rate: P200.00 per hour

7. Hike around the eco trail.
8. Take pictures.
9. Buy souvenirs. There are many souvenir shops around the park.

Sumilon Bluewater Island Resort
* is located on tranquil Sumilon Island.
* The Island remains as one of Cebu’s best kept secrets and is found on the southeastern tip of the mainland. * It is 125 kilometers from Cebu City and is in close proximity to Dumaguete. The island has an area of 24 hectares and is surrounded by crystal clear waters with varying aquamarine hues. * It is the first marine protected area in the Philippines and was made a fish sanctuary in 1974 under the guidance of Siliman University Marine Reserve. * During dives, one will find varied marine species and even occasional sightings of black tip sharks. * Pristine white sand beaches are situated in different areas in Sumilon. * I was told it is a romantic, back-to-nature island escape, and that it has a lush forest, white sand beaches and good food. * It is called SUMILON Island.

* It takes its name from being a storm shelter for fishermen, where they can take cover – sumilong – from strong typhoons.

Pinsal Falls
* is a Philippine waterfall that is located in the town of Santa Maria in the province of Ilocos Sur. * With a height of approximately 85 feet, it is known for being the largest waterfall in the Ilocos Region as well as for its natural beauty. * With its romantic atmosphere, Pinsal Falls is a popular location for filming Philippine movies as well as a favorite spot for swimming and for picnicking. * The pools at the top of the falls are famous as well. The biggest of these pools figures in a local legend as it is said to be the footprint that was left by an Ilocano giant who was running off in search of his wife. * There is also a famous spring with boiling-hot water at the top of the falls. Location

* The waterfall lies among the shady hills and mountains of Barangay Babal-lasioan in the town of Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur, which also famous for its parish church which dates back to the Spanish era. * Pinsal Falls is about 45 minutes away by car from Sta. Maria’s municipal hall. * The falls may also be reached by foot from the nearby town of Pilar, Abra, through a set of stone steps in the mountain by the falls. * These steps are regularly used by the residents of Pilar to travel to and from the town of Sta. Maria. * Its cool setting makes it a pleasant spot for a picnic. * A hidden cave may be found behind the main waterfall. Steps carved into the hillside lead to up to the top of the falls.

Mount Makiling
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Mount Makiling, also rarely Mount Maquiling, is a potentially active volcano in Laguna province on the island of Luzon, Philippines. It rises to 1,090 m above mean sea level. (also rarely known as Mount Maquiling)

According to popular folklore, the mountain is the domain of legendary figure Maria Makiling, who protects its forests and wildlife. The mountain is also said to be shaped like a woman’s profile.

Legend
Legends surround the mountain, many of which relate to Maria Makiling, said to be the ‘guardian fairy’ of the mountain. The contour of the mountain is said to be that of her in a reclining position.

Caretaker
The University of the Philippines, Los Baños is designated as the official caretaker of the mountain.
Places of interest
View of Mt. Makiling’s north face as seen heading south on South Luzon Expressway’s Exit 50 – Calamba Interchange. * Makiling National Scout Reservation, a campsite at the foot of Mount Makiling adjacent to U.P. Los Baños, which is being managed by the Boy Scouts of the Philippines this is the site of the 10th World Scout Jamboree in 1959 and 26th Asia-Pacific Regional Jamboree in 2009 and 2010. * Mud Springs, widely accepted albeit erroneously as the volcanic crater of Mount Makiling * National Arts Center, a patch of land at the foot of Mount Makiling adjacent to U.P. Los Baños, which is being managed by the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the site of the Philippine High School for the Arts, a special school for young artist scholars * Pook ni Maria Makiling, an eco-tourism site adjacent to the Jamboree Site, National Arts Center and U.P. Los Baños * University of the Philippines, Los Baños

* Jamboree Site, a campsite at the foot of Mount Makiling adjacent to U.P. Los Baños, which is being managed by the Boy Scouts of the Philippines and the site of the 10th World Scout Jamboree in 1959 * Mud Springs, widely mistaken as the volcanic crater of Mount Makiling * National Arts Center, a patch of land at the foot of Mount Makiling adjacent to U.P. Los Baños, which is being managed by the Cultural Center of the Philippines and the site of the Philippine High School for the Arts, a special school for young artist scholars * Pook ni Maria Makiling, an eco-tourism site adjacent to the Jamboree Site, National Arts Center and U.P. Los Baños

Hiking activity
Mt. Makiling is a popular hiking destination. The two major trails begin at the UPLB College of Forestry and Brgy. San Miguel, Sto. Tomas, Batangas. The UPLB trail is more commonly used, taking 4–5 hours to reach the summit (Peak 2). However, this trail is closed as of October 2007 due to trail damage wrought by Typhoon Xangsane on September 2006. The other trail from Sto. Tomas passes by other peaks, is more difficult, and requires 6–7 hours to reach the summit. Both trails are generally established and safe, although throughout the years there have been occasional reports of fatal accidents and injuries, especially on the Sto. Tomas side. Climbers also frequently encounter leeches along the way.

Puerto Galera
is the northwesternmost municipality in the province of Oriental Mindoro, Philippines. It is located at the southwestern end of theIsla Verde Passage, about 130 kilometers (81 mi) south of Manila.

Environment
La Laguna beach
In the summer of 1998 there was extensive coral bleaching around Medio Island and a large section of shallow reef (‘Coral Gardens’) died. Since then the coral has regrown with a larger diversity of coral species replacing the prolific table corals. Corals in Puerto galera were largely unaffected by the 2010El Niño event. In 2006 two super-typhoons damaged the shallow areas around Escarceo Point. Many of the faster growing coral species were destroyed to a depth of 6 metres (20 ft). This represented about 5% of the coral reef in the area. From mid-2008 there were extensive signs of new coral recruitment. Acroporaspecies (staghorn and table coral) rapidly recolonized the area so that most of the damaged coral have been replaced with new growth. A study by the University of the Philippines in the 1980s, found that the Batangas/Puerto Galera area has one of the highest diversity of marine species in the world. It forms the centre of the golden triangle – The Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia – renowned for their coral and fish species. DIVING:

Puerto Gakera can truly be categorized as one of the most biologically diversified dive destinations in the world!There are 37 dive sites to choose from located within ten minutes from the beach area. Puerto Galera, a tiny town this side of Oriental Mindoro can boast of a wide variety of marine life. Here you can find vast fields of corals and rare species of fishes. Coral formations ranging from soft to hard corals are indeed wonders of nature! FALLS AND CASCADES

Tamaraw Falls is about 15 kilometers away from the town proper. Its natural beauty and pristine clear water makes it as one of favorite attraction of tourists. A recreation hall, picnic huts and shower room will lead you down. Aninuan Falls is approximately 2kilometers from White Beach and can be reached by hiking. Talipanan Falls is approximately 4 kilometers from White Beach and can be reached also by hiking. Tukuran River is about 25 kilometers from the town proper. Experience the lush green vegetation while riding in “kangga”.