Philippine Travel

Philippine Festivals

Larry Ngaosi — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 06:20:46 +0000

JANUARY FESTIVALS

STO. NIÑO FESTIVAL
January / Nationwide (but most fun in Cebu)
A grand procession of over two hundred well-dressed images of the Child Jesus.
BULAKLAKAN FESTIVAL
January 01 / Muntinlupa City, Metro Manila (45 minutes from Manila)
Annual procession, parade of flowers and costumes.
FEAST OF THE BLACK NAZARENE
feast of the black nazarene January 09 / Quiapo, Manila
Millions of the Black Nazarene devotees joined the procession during the Quiapo fiesta. Devotees came from different parts of the country as they believe that by continuing with the yearly family vow or “panata”, they will find peace and good health for their families; ask for deliverance from all kinds of calamities,natural and man made; for better health,prosperity and for the stability of our country and world peace. [details]
LINGAYEN GULF LANDING ANNIVERSARY
January 09 / Lingayen, Pangasinan (6 hours from Manila by land)
Commemoration of the liberation of Pangasinan from the Japanese invasion led by Gen. Douglas McArthur on Jan. 9, 1945.
BINIRAY FESTIVAL
January 09 / Romblon (2 hours 30 minutes from Manila to Batangas by land; 2-3 hours from Batangas to Romblon by ferry)
Sto. Niño-inspired revelry and fluvial procession.
COCONUT FESTIVAL
January 11-15 / San Pablo City, Laguna (2 hours from Manila by land)
A grand mardi-gras celebration which pays homage to Laguna Province’s most ubiquitous crop.
SINULOG FESTIVAL
January 13-19 / Cebu City (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
Sto. Niño procession and “Mardi-gras” parade.
PHILIPPINE-AMERICAN MILITARY RETIREES ASSOCIATION REUNION (PAMRA)
January 13-21 / Manila
Grand reunion and military ball of Fil-American military retirees based in the United States.
CARACOL FESTIVAL
January 19 / Glorietta 4 Park, Makati City, Metro Manila (30 minutes from Manila )
“Caracol” is Spanish for “snail” and Makati City invites revelers and party goers to come out of their shells for the city’s annual festival, a colorful and exciting parade complete with parties and merrymaking.
DINAGYANG FESTIVAL
DINAGYANG FESTIVAL January 25-26 / Iloilo City (1 hour 5 minutes from Manila by air)
Celebrated every 4th weekend of January in Iloilo City. Spectacle characterized by frenetic stomping of feet and hypnotic drumbeating. It is a colorful whirl of thousands of people dressed in unique costumes dancing and chanting all day and night. [details]
FIESTA TSINOY / CHINESE NEW YEAR FESTIVAL
January 30 – February 02 / Chinese Garden, Rizal Park, Manila
A grand celebration to welcome the new Chinese Lunar Year that will feature a Chinese Lauriat with complete show of Chinese performers to be capped by fireworks/pyrotechnic display.

FEBRUARY FESTIVALS

NATIONAL ARTS MONTH
Whole month of February / Cultural Center of the Philippines, Manila
A tribute to the talent and creativity of the Filipino artist, highlights world-renowned Filipino masters, as well as the new generations influencing the local arts scene.
JAPAN MONTH
Whole month of February / March
A month long celebration showcasing the following activities: seminars/symposia, exhibits, food festivals, kabuki performance, film festival & speech contest
KITE FESTIVAL
February 02 /Mariano Perdices Memorial Coliseum, Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental
(1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
An annual national kite flying competition initiated by the Rotary Club of Dumaguete East.
PAMULINAWEN
February 02-11 / Laoag City, Ilocos Norte (9 hours from Manila by land)
A feast honoring Saint William the Hermit, the festival aims to pay tribute to the city’s hardworking residents, offering them a weeklong schedule of pure fun and play.
CHINESE FOOD FESTIVAL
February 03-05 / Glorietta, Makati City, Metro Manila (30 minutes from Manila)
Celebration of the Chinese New Year in cooperation with Ayala Center and all Makati-based hotels.
FISTAHAN 2003
2nd week of February / Davao City (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila by air)
A culinary festival that features Davao’s grilled tuna specialties such as “panga and buntot”.
TINAGBA FESTIVAL
February 11 / Iriga City, Camarines Sur (40 minutes from Manila to Naga City by air; 1 hour from Naga City to Iriga City by land)
A lively, folksy procession wherein carabao carts are brought out and decorated with all kinds of fruits and vegetables. An Iriganon way of giving thanks for a bountiful season.
SERENATA
February 11 / Muntinlupa City, Metro Manila (45 minutes from Manila)
Muntinlupa City’s version of “brass band heaven” – a loud, lyrical night hosted by more than thirty bands from all over the city.
SUMAN FESTIVAL
February 17-19 / Baler, Aurora (3 hours from Manila by land)
A parade of uniquely designed floats. Main streets and homes are decked with suman, a native delicacy.
BABAYLAN FESTIVAL
February 19 / Bago City, Negros Occidental (1 hour 10 minutes from Manila to Bacolod by air; 30 minutes from Bacolod to Bago City by land)
Based on the rituals performed by the Babaylans, like rituals on marriage, baptism, healing, harvest and others.
ITIK-ITIK FESTIVAL
February 23 / Pasig City, Metro Manila (20 minutes from Manila)
Features the “itik” or native duck. The celebration includes street dancing, duck cooking contest, outrigger boat race, fluvial procession.
PANAGBENGA – BAGUIO FLOWER FESTIVAL
February 23-March 03 / Baguio City (50 minutes from Manila by air)
Biggest Baguio festival of Cordillera flowers on parade, with garden shows, exhibits, lectures and competitions.
PANAGBENGA – BAGUIO FLOWER FESTIVAL
panagbenga festival Baguio City: February 1- February 29
Biggest Baguio festival of Cordillera flowers on parade, with garden shows, exhibits, lectures and competitions. [details]
KALILANGAN FESTIVAL
February 27 / General Santos City (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila by air)
Celebrates the “friendly co-existence with all the people of General Santos City”. Activities include agro-industrial trade fair, cultural presentation, culinary arts contest, Pagana, Kulintangan, ethnic musical instrument competition and Kidig-Kidig sa Dalan.
INTERNATIONAL BAMBOO FESTIVAL
February / Las Piñas City, Metro Manila (45 minutes from Manila )
Highlights include exhibits at St. Joseph’s Parish, an international bamboo musical competition and trade fair on bamboo crafts.

MARCH FESTIVAL

GULING-GULING FESTIVAL
March 05 / Paoay, Ilocos Norte (9 hours from Manila by land)
An exciting and calendrical rites in Paoay where townsfolk and guests participate in street dancing and singing dressed in native costumes, held on Ash Wednesday.
BANGKERO FESTIVAL
March 05-09 / Pagsanjan, Laguna (2 hours from Manila by land)
Boat parade in Pagsanjan River.
KAAMULAN FESTIVAL
1st weekend of March / Malaybalay City, Bukidnon (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cagayan de Oro City by air; 1 hour 30 minutes from Cagayan de Oro City to Malaybalay City by land)
A showcase of tribal/ethnic songs, dances, games, crafts and rituals.
ARYA! ABRA FESTIVAL
March 07-11 / Bangued, Abra (9 hours from Manila by land)
Abra’s biggest festival highlights of which are “Karerakit” bamboo rafting along Calaba River and Tinguan Festival of the tribal natives of Abra.
DAVAO OFF-ROAD CHALLENGE
March 15 / Davao City (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila by air)
A competition for 4-wheel jeepneys/trucks.
SANDUGO FESTIVAL
March 16 / Tagbilaran City, Bohol (2 hours from Manila by air)
A festival commemorating the blood-sealed peace treaty between Rajah Sikatuna and Miguel Lopez de Legazpi marking the beginning of the Spanish colonization of the Philippines.
BANANA FESTIVAL
March 18-19 / Baco, Mindoro Oriental (2 hours 30 minutes from Manila to Batangas City by land; 2 hours from Batangas City to Calapan/Baco by ferryland)
A celebration of abundance of banana, other activities include banana cook fest, banana inspired street dancing competition and beauty pageant.
PASAYAW FESTIVAL
March 18-19 / Canlaon City, Negros Oriental (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
A combined word of “Pasalamat Pinaagi sa Sayaw” (a thanksgiving through dance). This Pasayaw expresses the joys and jubilations in praise and thanksgiving to the Almighty God through the intercession of St. Joseph. On the 19th at 12:00 noon is the “PASAYAW STREET DANCING & PARADE” participated in by 12 contingents from the 12 barangays dancing to the uniform LATIN BEAT followed by a SHOWDOWN competition at 6:00 pm at the city gym.
RODEO MASBATEÑO
March 18-22 / Masbate City, Masbate ( 1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
Feel the excitement of local cowboys as they pit their brains against bovine brawn in western style rodeo events like bull riding and steer wrestling, apart from local games like the good old carabao race.
ALIMANGO FESTIVAL
March 22 / Lala, Lanao del Norte (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cagayan de Oro City by air; 4 hours 15 minutes from Cagayan de Oro City to Iligan/Lala by land)
A festival to celebrate “Araw ng Lala” featuring displays of different sizes of alimango (crab). Also features native costumes, dances and contests depicting and promoting local culture and tradition and fluvial parade passing through unspoiled mangroves.
FIRST EASTER MASS CELEBRATION
March 31 / Butuan City (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila by air)
A re-enactment of Magellan’s landing and planting of the cross on March 21, 1521 at Mazaua, Butuan City.
ILOILO-GUIMARAS PARAW REGATTA
March / Iloilo City (1 hour 5 minutes from Manila by air)
An exciting race among outriggers in the strait between Guimaras and Iloilo City.

APRIL FESTIVAL

BANANA FESTIVAL
April 01-05 / La Castellana, Negros Occidental (1 hour 10 minutes from Manila to Bacolod City by air; 1 hour 40 minutes from Bacolod City to La Castellana by land)
An agricultural trade showcase of the bountiful harvest of the municipality, particularly banana.
KESONG PUTI FESTIVAL
April 01-07 / Sta. Cruz, Laguna (2 hours from Manila by land)
Different activities lined up in this celebration that include trade fair, food festival, cultural shows, street dancing, painting contest, beauty pageant and with highlight on the kesong puti, made from carabao milk, fermented and wrapped in banana leaves.
LILIW GAT TAYAW FOOTWEAR FESTIVAL
April 03-07 / Liliw, Laguna (2 hours from Manila by land)
A colorful event highlighted by a parade of floats featuring the agricultural and industrial products of Liliw.
ALLAW TA APO SANDAWA
April 07 / Kidapawan City, North Cotabato (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cotabato City by air; 2 hours 15 minutes from Cotabato City to Kidapawan City by land)
A gathering of all highland tribes in honor of Mt. Apo as the country’s highest peak, it comes as no surprise that Mt. Apo is considered sacred ground. Join the highland tribes of Mindanao to the mountain in this annual gathering.
ARAW NG KAGITINGAN
April 09 / Mt. Samat, Bataan (2 hours from Manila by land)
Commemoration of the Fall of Bataan, the last province to surrender to the Japanese in World War II.
PANA-AD SA NEGROS
April 12-21 / Bacolod City (1 hour 10 minutes from Manila by air)
A grand celebration bringing together all the 10 cities and 22 municipalities in a showcase of trade, tourism, commerce and industry, arts and culture.
SINAKULO
April 13 / Plaza Moriones, Intramuros, Manila
MORIONES FESTIVAL
moriones festival April 13-20 (Holy Week) / Marinduque (45 minutes from Manila by air)
A week-long festival featuring finely-carved masks worn by colorful warriors depicting the fierce Roman soldiers of Christ’s time. [details]
SEMANA SANTA AT IGUIG CALVARY HILLS
April 13-20 (Holy Week) / Iguig, Cagayan (55 minutes from Manila to Tuguegarao by air; 15 minutes from Tuguegarao to Iguig by land)
Traditional presentation of the passion and death of Christ on an 11-hectare rolling terrain of the larger-than-life size 14 Stations of the Cross.
PANAAD
April 13-20 (Holy Week) / Camiguin (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cagayan de Oro City by air; 2 hours 15 minutes from Cagayan de Oro City to Camiguin by ferry/land)
A pilgrim’s yearly trek around the island in observance of the Lenten season.
BUHING KALBARYO
April 13-20 (Holy Week) / Cebu City, Cebu (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
The Buhing Kalbaryo Foundation Inc. will present the following events during the Holy Week: Bendita sa Lakay on Palm Sunday Re-Enactment of the Trial of Jesus Christ, Street Passion Drama, Sugat on Easter Sunday followed by the Easter Mass.
PANA-AD SA LOBOC
April 13-20 (Holy Week) / Loboc, Bohol (2 hours from Manila by air)
In observance of the Holy Week, the Lobocanons read the “Pasyon” and do a penitential procession through the way of the cross that culminates at the place called “Cruz Daku”, a huge cross 80 feet in height which is on top of the higest hill where one can view the neighboring towns including the city.
ANGKAN-ANGKAN
April 16 / Marikina City, Metro Manila (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila)
Feast of clans celebrated as a tribute to the native residents of the city who formed the community and shaped the city’s own culture and tradition.
PASKO SA KASAKIT (SEMANA SANTA SA BANTAYAN)
April 17-18 (Holy Thursday/ Good Friday) / Bantayan, Cebu (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila to Mactan by air; 15 minutes from Mactan to Bantayan by air)
A unique mixture of solemn religious rites and local celebration in Bantayan Island where friends of the residents and tourists experience the scenic rites and cool off the summer heat in beautiful white sandy beaches.
TURUMBA
April 18 / Pakil, Laguna (2 hours from Manila by land)
The largest religious activity consisting of 7 fiestas or lupi to commemorate the seven sorrows of Our Lady of Turumba.
PAGTALTAL SA GUIMARAS
April 18 (Good Friday) / Jordan, Guimaras (1 hour 5 minutes from Manila to Iloilo City by air; 15 minutes from Iloilo City to Jordan by pumpboat)
An annual re-enactment of the story of salvation comparable to Germany’s religious Oberrammergau Drama.
CUTUD LENTEN RITES
April 18 (Good Friday ) / San Fernando City, Pampanga (1 hour from Manila by land)
A re-enactment of Christ’s passion and death.
PAMALANDONG HA PALO
April 18 (Good Friday) / Palo, Leyte (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila to Tacloban City by air; 20 minutes from Tacloban City to Palo by land)
Dramatic re-enactment of Christ’s sufferings on the cross.
TUNGOH AD HUNGDUAN
April 18-24 / Hungduan, Ifugao (10 hours from Manila by land)
A cultural fiesta of the Ifugaos of Hungduan which features ethnic games, rituals, arts and crafts-oriented activities.
LENTEN FESTIVAL OF HERBAL PREPARATION
April 19 (Black Saturday) / San Antonio, Siquijor (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila to Dumaguete City by air; 1 hour 15 minutes from Dumaguete City to San Antonio, Siquijor by ferry/land)
A time when herbalists from all over Visayas and Mindanao participate in a ritual known as “Tang-Alap”.
TORUGPO
April 19 / Carigara, Leyte (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila to Tacloban City by air; 1 hour from Tacloban City to Carigara by land)
Carabao and horse fights.
SALUBONG
April 19-20 (Black Saturday/ Easter Sunday) / Angono, Rizal (2 hours from Manila by land)
An Easter Sunday presentation re-enacting the reunion of the Risen Christ with Virgin Mary.
TAMPISAW FESTIVAL
April 19-21 / Concepcion, Iloilo (1 hour 5 minutes from Manila to Iloilo City by air; 2 hours from Iloilo City to Concepcion by land)
A 3-day annual festivity to commemorate the Earth Day Celebration which features fluvial parade, tree planting and other environment educational activities.
SUNDUAN HA CARIGARA
April 20 (Easter Sunday) / Carigara, Leyte (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila to Tacloban City by air; 1 hour from Tacloban City to Carigara by land)
Cultural/social activities and float parade held on Easter Sunday.
SUNDUAN
April 20 / Pasig City, Metro Manila (20 minutes from Manila)
A colorful procession of 2 barangays which hold their respective fiestas every other year, sharing one patron saint – Sta. Rosa de Lima. The image is fetched by the celebrating barangay from the other barangay.
BANKARERA
April 21 / Peñablanca, Cagayan (55 minutes from Manila to Tuguegarao by air; 30 minutes from Tuguegarao to Peñablanca by land)
A boat-rowing race on the waters of scenic Pinacanauan River.
SANDUGUAN FESTIVAL
April 21-27 / Calapan, Mindoro Oriental (2 hours 30 minutes from Manila to Batangas City by land; 1 hour from Batangas City to Calapan by ferry)
A weeklong festivity which features agro-trade fair, historical parade, re-enactment of the barter trading and a street dancing competition.
KADAUGAN SA MACTAN FESTIVAL
April 22-27 / Bgy. Mactan, Lapu-Lapi City, Cebu (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
A week-long commemoration of the historic battle of Mactan between the Spanish Conquistador Fernando Magallanes and Mactan Chieftain Lapu-Lapu.
GOTAD AD HINGYON
April 23-24 / Hingyon Municipality, Ifugao (9 hours from Manila by land)
Ethnic thanksgiving with cultural fair by Ifugaos in Hingyon.
ON TO MAYON
April 24-27 / Legazpi City, Albay (55 minutes from Manila by air)
A mountain climbing expedition to the country’s most popular volcano, the majestic Mt. Mayon. Its steep and rugged terrain is a challenge to adventurers and mountain climbers to conquer this beautiful volcano.
HINUGYAW SA HINIGARAN FESTIVAL
April 25-30 / Hinigaran, Negros Occidental (1 hour 10 minutes from Manila to Bacolod City by air; 1 hour 30 minutes from Bacolod City to Hinigaran by land)
A week-long festivity which culminates with a grand parade featuring street dancing performers in their colorful costumes.
YAGYAG FESTIVAL
Last week of April / Cangmating Sibulan, Negros Oriental (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
The festival is a showcase of local arts and culture, fashion and unity. It features Mardi grass type streetdancing and related events. This is also an occasion for trading and barter, and celebration.
BANGUS FESTIVAL
April 28-May 02 / Dagupan City, Pangasinan (6 hours from Manila by land)
Part of Dagupan’s Pista’y Dayat celebration, highlight of which is the longest bangus grill, 101 ways to cook bangus, Bangus Harvest Dance parade, sports competition/exhibition.
PISTA’Y DAYAT
April 29-May 01 / Lingayen, Pangasinan (6 hours from Manila by land)
Thanksgiving festival for the year’s bountiful harvest from the sea.
GOTAD AD KIANGAN
April 30-May 03 / Kiangan, Ifugao (9 hours from Manila by land)
A thanksgiving festival Ifugao-style featuring sports, arts and native rituals.
GOTAD AD HINGYON
April / Hingyon, Ifugao (9 hours from Manila by land)
A traditional thanksgiving festivity featuring native songs and dances.
GAMEFISHING SAFARI
April 2003 / Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
A 2-day gamefishing tournament which includes other activities like angling clinic, seafood festival, exhibits and film showings.

MAY FESTIVAL

ALIWAN GRAND FIESTA
May 01-03 / Star City, CCP Complex, Roxas Blvd., Manila
A three-day event that will highlight the country’s 16 regions at their best with the largest carnival-style parade. Major components are the festival, float and fireworks competitions. It will also feature nightly concerts of the country’s best performers and biggest cultural market with products and food from the 16 regions.
BAWANG (GARLIC) FESTIVAL
May 01-03 / Sinait, Ilocos Sur (8 hours from Manila by land)
Competitions and exhibits include biggest garlic, longest and most creative twined garlic bulbs.
DAVAO GULF REGATTA
May 01-04 / Davao Oriental (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila by air)
A regionwide float parade competition featuring decorated bancas and vintas of different designs.
ANTIPOLO PILGRIMAGE
May 01-31/Antipolo, Rizal (2 hours 30 minutes from Manila by land)
An age-old tradition of the devotees of Our Lady of Good Voyage who make the long pilgrimage on foot from Manila to Antipolo.
MAGAYON FESTIVAL
May 01-31 / Albay (55 minutes from Manila by air)
A celebration immortalizing the origin of Mt. Mayon as inspired by Albay’s famed legend Daragang Magayon (beautiful maiden). It, likewise, showcases Albay’s rich history, arts and culture, trade, travel and tourism.
FLORES DE MAYO/SANTACRUZAN
May 01 – 31 / Nationwide
A parade of the town’s loveliest ladies depicting the search and discovery of Christ’s Cross by Queen Helena and Constantine.
CARABAO-CARROZA FESTIVAL
May 03 / Pavia, Iloilo (1 hour 5 minutes from Manila to Iloilo City by air; 20 minutes from Iloilo City to Pavia by land)
Features a parade of 18 gaily decorated bamboo sleds and a race among carroza-pulling carabaos on a 400 meter course.
PASALAMAT FESTIVAL
May 04 / La Carlota City, Negros Occidental (1 hour 10 minutes from Manila to Bacolod City by air; 45 minutes from Bacolod City to La Carlota City by land)
Thanksgiving to the God of Agriculture living inside Kanlaon Volcano.
VIVA VIGAN FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
1st week of May / Vigan, Ilocos Sur (8 hours from Manila by land)
A festival in a setting replete with history, heritage and cultural treasures.
MALAKAWAN “PINYA” FESTIVAL
May 09-15 / Calauan, Laguna (2 hours from Manila by land)
Promotes the juicy and sweetest pineapple or “pinya” as the main agricultural product of the town of Calauan.
BEAR BRAND KITEFEST
May 11 / Rizal Park, Manila
A wholesome event for the entire family to bond and have fun together and provides opportunities for everyone to showcase the Filipino artistry.
AGAWAN SA SARIAYA
May 11-15 / Sariaya, Quezon (2 hours 30 minutes from Manila by land)
A thanksgiving celebration to the Lord for the good harvest and abundance of agricultural production.
MAYOHAN SA TAYABAS
mayohan sa tayabas festival tayabas quezon May 11-15 / Tayabas, Quezon (2 hours 30 minutes from Manila by land)
A thanksgiving event marked with agro-trade fair and the famous agawan ng suman in honor of San Isidro Labrador, patron saint of farmers, for the good harvest and abundance of agricultural produce.[details]
PAHIYAS
pahiyas festival lucban quezon May 11-15 / Lucban, Quezon ( 3 hours from Manila by land)
An annual celebration to usher in a bountiful harvest. Homes are decorated with the town’s best agricultural products.[details]
PULILAN CARABAO FESTIVAL
May 14 / Pulilan, Bulacan (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila by land)
A thanksgiving fiesta that features oiled, perfumed carabaos paying homage to Pulilan’s patron saint by kneeling in front of his statue.
MANGGAHAN SA GUIMARAS FESTIVAL
May 15-22 / Guimaras (1 hour 5 minutes from Manila to Iloilo City by air; 15 minutes from Iloilo City to Guimaras by pumpboat)
A commemorative celebration of the anniversary of Guimaras as a province and to showcase the premier produce of the province (mango) and the various local attractions.
OBANDO FERTILITY RITES
OBANDO FERTILITY RITES May 17-19/Obando, Bulacan ( 1 1/2 hours from Manila by land)
Childless couples, praying that they bear children, do the “fertility dance” on the streets of Obando. The fiesta is observed in honor of Sta. Clara, San Pascual and Virgen de Salambao.[details]
PG’SALABOK FESTIVAL/LINGGO NG DIPOLOG
May 20-25 / Dipolog City, Zamboanga del Norte (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila by air)
A weeklong festival which culminates with colorful ethnic inspired street dancing.
JUNIOR CHAMBER INTERNATIONAL (JCI) ASIA PACIFIC CONFERENCE
May 21-25 / Cebu International Convention Center, Cebu City (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
LUBI-LUBI FESTIVAL
May 22 / Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cagayan de Oro City by air; 2 hours from Cagayan de Oro City to Gingoog City by land)
A cultural presentation using parts of the coconut palm and other indigenous materials as props and costumes.
PAHOY-PAHOY FESTIVAL
May 25 / Western Samar (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila to Tacloban City by air)
A grand parade and street dancing with participants dressed in scarecrow costumes.
MALUMAGPAK CHALLENGE
May 26-30 / New Bataan, Compostela Valley (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila to Davao City by air; 2 hours from Davao City to New Bataan by land)
A trek to Mt. Manurigao-Malumagpak, one of the region’s newly discovered eco-tourism destinations.

JUNE FESTIVAL

BILANG-BILANG ABAYAN FESTIVAL
June 01 / Balangay Taft, Surigao City, Surigao del Norte (2 hours 10 minutes from Manila by air)
A showcase of religious heritage of the Surigaonons in honor of St. Virgen de la Paz Y de Buen Viaje.
PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION
June 12 / Nationwide (highlights are the ceremonies in Rizal Park, Manila and Kawit, Cavite)
BATTLE OF BESANG PASS
June 14 / Cervantes, Ilocos Sur (8 hours from Manila by land)
Commemoration of the historical victory of the Filipino guerillas in Northern Luzon which led to the surrender of Gen. Yamashita and the end of the Japanese occupation in the Philippines.
PINEAPPLE FESTIVAL
June 15-24 / Camarines Norte (8 hours from Manila by land)
A festival featuring the sweet, succulent pineapple thru art exhibits, trade fairs, cultural performances and sports events.
PISTA Y ANG KAGUEBAN
3rd week of June / Puerto Princesa City, Palawan (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
Palawan’s offer to nature: tree-planting, live performances by the city’s eco-friendly artists.
BARAGATAN SA PALAWAN
June 17-23 / Provincial Capitol Compound, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
A commemoration of the city’s foundation day anniversary with a colorful parade, trade fairs and food fests.
TABAK FESTIVAL
June 18-24 / Tabaco City, Albay (55 minutes from Manila to Legazpi City by air; 30 minutes from Legazpi City to Tabaco City by land)
A celebration of fun and pageantry highlighted by a street presentation which showcases the legend of the City where its name was derived.
ZAMBULAWAN FESTIVAL
June 20 / Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Dipolog City by air; 2 hours 30 minutes from Dipolog City to Pagadian City by land)
Street dancing and colorful parade highlighting native Subanen costumes and rituals.
PILI FESTIVAL
June 20-29 / Sorsogon, Sorsogon (55 minutes from Manila to Legazpi City by air; 1 hour 30 minutes from Legazpi City to Sorsogon by land)
An annual tribute to Bicol’s indigenous crop, the “pili” nut with street dancing parade.
KALIGUAN FESTIVAL
June 22-24 / Cagwait, Surigao del Sur (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Butuan City by air; 3 hours 30 minutes from Butuan City to Cagwait by land)
A fluvial festival coupled with beach dancing and other beach-fun activities.
CALUMPIT “LIBAD” FESTIVAL
June 23 / Calumpit, Bulacan (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila by land)
A celebration in honor of the patron saint St. John the Baptist.
TAONG PUTIK
June 24 / Aliaga, Nueva Ecija (4 hours 30 minutes from Manila by land)
A religious event where town folks wear vines, banana leaves or dried coconut leaves on their mud-covered bodies as St. John the Baptist was said to have done in his lifetime.
PARADA NG LECHON
June 24 / Balayan, Batangas (2 hours 30 minutes from Manila by land)
A grand parade of succulent roasted pigs.
REGADA WATER FESTIVAL
regada festival June 24 / Cavite City, Cavite (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila by land)
A celebration in honor of Nuestra Señora de Porta Vaga.[details]
MUDPACK FESTIVAL
June 24 / Murcia, Negros Occidental (1 hour 10 minutes from Manila to Bacolod City by air; 20 minutes from Bacolod City to Murcia by land)
A symbolic celebration of man’s return to primitive time when he was closer to nature. It seeks to instill in people the awareness and care of environment and the use of natural materials in arts and crafts.
PIAT SAMBALI FESTIVAL
June 25-30 / Piat, Cagayan (55 minutes from Manila to Tuguegarao by air; 45 minutes from Tuguegarao to Piat by land)
A religious and cultural revival in commemoration of the Christianization of the Itawes region of Cagayan.
SUBIRAN REGATTA
June 28 / Tacloban City, Leyte (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
Annual race of native sailboats with outriggers displaying seamanship.
PINTADOS FESTIVAL
June 29 / Tacloban City, Leyte (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
A body-painting festival in honor of the courageous “pintados” (warrior ancestors).
BALYUAN
June 29 / Tacloban City, Leyte (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
Ceremonial exchange of images of the Holy Child between Leyte and Samar.
KALILANG SA RANAO
June 29-July 05 / Marawi City, Lanao del Sur (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cagayan de Oro City by air; 2 hours 30 minutes from Cagayan de Oro City to Iligan City/Marawi City by land)
Celebrates the legendary Lake Lanao.

JULY FESTIVALS

FEAST OF OUR LADY OF GUIBANG
July 01-02 / Gamu, Isabela (55 minutes from Manila to Tuguegarao by air; 1 hour 20 minutes from Tuguegarao to Gamu by land)
Annual feast day of the Miraculous Lady of Guibang.
FEAST OF OUR LADY OF PIAT
July 01-02 / Piat, Cagayan (55 minutes from Manila to Tuguegarao by air; 45 minutes from Tuguegarao to Gamu by land)
Annual feast day of Our Lady of Piat highlighted by the procession of the Marian Image being venerated for centuries.
SAGAYAN FESTIVAL
July 04 / Tubod, Lanao del Norte (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cagayan de Oro by air; 4 hours from Cagayan de Oro to Tubod by land)
A culture based celebration with no religious connotation held during Araw ng Lanao del Norte. It features Maranao war dance depicting masculinity.
SUBAYAN KEG SUBANON FESTIVAL
July 15-16 / Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cagayan de Oro by air; 3 hours from Cagayan de Oro to Ozamiz City by ferry/land)
A festival showcasing traditional songs, dances and rituals.
TINALAK FESTIVAL
July 16-19 / Koronadal City, South Cotabato (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila to General Santos City by air; 1 hour 20 minutes from General Santos City to Koronadal City by land)
A harvest thanksgiving fiesta.
SANDUGO FESTIVAL
July 20/ Bool, Tagbilaran City, Bohol (2 hours from Manila by air)
A festival commemorating the blood-sealed peace treaty between Rajah Sikatuna and Miguel Lopez de Legazpi marking the beginning of the Spanish colonization of the Philippines.
KALIGA FESTIVAL
July 22 / Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cagayan de Oro City by air; 2 hours from Cagayan de Oro City to Gingoog City by land)
A street dancing parade.
SUBLIAN FESTIVAL
July 23 / Batangas City, Batangas (2 hours 30 minutes from Manila by land)
An annual celebration to pay homage to the Holy Cross for a bountiful harvest.
SINULOG DE TANJAY FESTIVAL
July 24 / Tanjay, Negros Oriental (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila to Dumaguete City by air; 45 minutes from Dumaguete City to Tanjay by land)
Street dancing with mock battles between Moros and Christians followed by reconciliation through the intercession of the patron Señor Santiago.
KINABAYO FESTIVAL
July 25 / Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila by air)
A re-enactment of the Spanish-Moorish wars particularly the battle of Covadonga.
BANIG FESTIVAL
July / Badian, Cebu (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Badian via Mactan by air)
Showcases the Cebuano and Badianganon culture, tradition, delicacies and local products especially its famous “mats” (banig).

AUGUST FESTIVALS

PALU-PALO FESTIVAL
August 04-05 / Basco, Batanes (2 hours from Manila by air)
A cultural presentation of the different municipalities of Batanes, showcasing their ethnic group’s rugged yet storied existence.
FRUIT FESTIVAL
August 09-11 / Kidapawan City, North Cotabato (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cotabato City by air; 2 hours 15 minutes from Cotabato City to Kidapawan City by land)
Kidapawan takes its fruit growing industry to the streets literally as the city celebrates its annual fruit festival. There are cultural shows, a parade of local fruit products, a bevy of exhibits, street dancing competition and selected lectures on fruit preparation.
CORDOVA DINAGAT FESTIVAL
2nd week of August / Cordova, Cebu (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
A festival characterized by streetdancing and an interpretative dance competition based on the fishing rituals and culture of the Cordovanhons.
KALIBONGAN FESTIVAL
August 15 / Kidapawan City, North Cotabato (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cotabato City by air; 2 hours 15 minutes from Cotabato City to Kidapawan City by land)
The natives’ own version of “party” with a traditional horsefight, a “blood compact” peace ceremony, etc.
LUBI-LUBI FESTIVAL
August 15 / Calubian, Leyte (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila to Tacloban City by air; 3 hours from Tacloban City to Calubian by land)
The humble coconut tree gets its day in the spotlight as the town celebrates its Lubi-Lubi Festival.
PAVVU- RULUN FESTIVAL & PADDA NA LIMA
August 15-17 / Tuguegarao, Cagayan (55 minutes from Manila by air)
Celebration includes sports and cultural presentations, Padda na Lima Trade Fair, beauty pageant, street dancing.
BANKATON
August 20 / Lavezares, Northern Samar (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila to Tacloban City by air; 6 hours from Tacloban City to Lavezares by land)
An annual motorboat race off the coast of Northern Samar.
KADAYAWAN SA DABAW
kadayawan sa dabaw festival davao city August 20-24 / Davao City (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila by air)
A festival celebrating the city’s bountiful harvest in a form of grand colorful parade of orchid-bedecked floats and tribal street dancing. 2003 Kadayawan Festival [details]
BALAGTASAN SA INTRAMUROS
August 22 / Teatrillo, Plaza San Luis, Intramuros, Manila
PHILIPPINE INTERNATIONAL POOL CHALLENGE
August / Venue TBA

SEPTEMBER FESTIVALS

SARAKIKI FESTIVAL
September 01-08 / Calbayog City, Northern Samar (1 hour 35 minutes from Manila by air)
A festival on the funny, clucking chicken dance called “sarakiki”.
INTERNATIONAL CHORALE FESTIVAL “A MUSICAL JOURNEY THROUGH PHILIPPINE HERITAGE SITES”
September 01-07 / Venue TBA
A showcase of the best international and local choirs against the backdrop of selected heritage sites – A fusion of music and sites.
BICOL REGION’S BEST OF THE BEST
September 01-14 / Manila
A showcase of the best of the best of Bicol (music, dances, fiestas, culinary delights, street parties, arts and crafts). It aims to give a glimpse of what happens in the various provinces, and provides a venue for the region to sell their tour packages, products and open their doors to business opportunities.
NORTH PHILIPPINES TRAVEL & TRADE FAIR
September 02-15 / Venue TBA
Showcases the best of the Northern Philippines’ products, arts and crafts.
TILAW SA PAGKAONG NAN SURIGAONON (FOOD FESTIVAL)
September 03 / Surigao City, Surigao del Norte (2 hours 10 minutes from Manila by air)
A sumptuous, delicious celebration of the native Surigaonon palate.
PHILIPPINE TOURISM CUP
September 03-04 / The Riviera Golf & Country Club, Silang, Cavite (1 hour from Manila by land)
September 06-07 / Lanang Country Club, Davao City (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila by air)
September 10-11 / The Riviera Golf & Country Club, Silang, Cavite (1 hour from Manila by land)
September 13-14 / Apo Golf & Country Club (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila by air)
September 21- / Ranchos Palos Verdes Golf & Country Club (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila by air)
September 28 / Zamboanga Golf Course & Beach Park, Zamboanga City (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila by air)
A monthly golf tournament, to be held on a regional level, which aims to promote the country as “Asia’s Golf Capital”.
A monthly golf tournament, held on a regional level, which aims to promote the country as “Asia’s Golf Capital”.
TUNA FESTIVAL
general santos city tuna festival Sept. 3-5 / General Santos City (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila by air)
The festival is about revelry and gaiety giving back the glory to the ocean for the abundance and bounty of tuna. [details]
SINAB’BADAN FESTIVAL
September 05-06 / Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila to Davao City by air; 40 minutes from Davao City to Sta. Cruz by land)
A festival of oneness among the different tribes of the municipality showcasing indigenous art, music and dances.
WEDDING EXPO PHILIPPINES SEPTEMBER 2003
September 06-07 / The NBC Tent Bonifacio, Global City, Quezon City, Metro Manila (45 minutes from Manila)
This bridal event will showcase the latest trends and the newest styles in the biggest gathering of wedding suppliers from all over the Philippines.
CONCERT NIGHT AT THE OLD WALLS
Every Saturday of September / NCCA Auditorium, Intramuros, Manila
September 06 – Ballet Manila
September 13 – PUP Banda Kawayan
September 20 – Robert Sena and Isay Alvarez or Backroom Artists
September 27 – UST Sallingawi Dance Troup or Backroom Artists
PARADA NG KAKANIN/FEAST OF NUESTRA SEÑORA DE ARANZAZU
September 09 / San Mateo, Rizal ( 2 hours from Manila by land)
Celebration of the foundation day of Nuestra Señora de Aranzazu, afterwhich, delicacies are given to all for free.
BONOK-BONOK MARADJAO KARADJAO FESTIVAL
September 09 / Surigao City, Surigao del Norte (2 hours 10 minutes from Manila by air)
The Surigaonons go back to their roots as they celebrate their heritage with a local, rowdy streetdancing parade.
SAYAW LAHI FESTIVAL
September 10 / Naujan, Mindoro Oriental (2 hours 30 minutes from Manila to Batangas City by land; 2 hours 30 minutes from Batangas City to Calapan/Naujan by land/ferry)
A festival of entertainment featuring all native dances performed on the streets by schools and barangay communities.
STREET PARTY
September 12 / Baluarte Plano Luneta de Isabel
A monthly activity that capitalizes as well as highlights the musicality of Filipinos and their love for fiestas and merry making.
102nd ANNIVERSARY OF THE BATTLE OF PULANG LUPA
September 13 / Torrijos, Marinduque (45 minutes from Manila by air)
Battle won by Filipino soldiers during the Fil-Am War over the Americans.
EASTERN VISAYAS FIESTA EXTRAVAGANZA
September 15-28 / Manila
A showcase of the best of the best of Eastern Visayas (music, dances, fiestas, culinary delights, street parties, arts and crafts). It aims to give a glimpse of what happens in the various provinces, and provides a venue for the region to sell their tour packages, products and open their doors to business opportunities.
TALAKUDONG FESTIVAL
September 18 / Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cotabato City by air; 1 hour 30 minutes from Cotabato City to Tacurong City by land)
A neo-ethnic cultural spectacle show in hilarious street dancing that mainly features exhibition of “Talakudong” accompanied by exotic sound of percussion instruments.
PEÑAFRANCIA FESTIVAL
September 20 / Camarines Sur (40 minutes from Manila by air)
Bicol’s biggest celebration, culminating in a fluvial parade surrounded by a sea of glowing candles.
15TH ASIAN TRACK & FIELD CHAMPIONSHIP
September 20 – 23 / Rizal Memorial Track Oval, Manila
The cream of the continent’s athletes compete in this biennial meet to decide who runs faster, jumps higher or throws farther in line with Olympic ideals. The Asian Track and Field Meet has as much significance and prestige as the Asian Games, and is recognized as the moast important athletics event in the Asian Athletics Association Calendar.
DUMALONDONG FESTIVAL
September 23 / Salug, Esperanza, Agusan del Sur (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Butuan City by air; 3 hours 30 minutes from Butuan City to Esperanza by land/ferry)
Yearly convergence of all tribal leaders in the province higlighted with the performance of authentic tribal rituals by the tribal priests.
SIARGAO INTERNATIONAL SURFING CUP
Last week of September / Gen. Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte (2 hours 10 minutes from Manila to Surigao City by air; 2 hours from Surigao City to Siargao Island by boat)
Pit your surfing skills against local and international surfers in this prestigious tournament.
KALAKBAY AWARDS
September 26 / Malacañang, Manila
An acronym for KASAMA SA LAKBAY KAUNLARAN NG BAYAN, KALAKBAY aims to develop tourism consciousness in the country by seeking to recognize local and international corporate entities and individuals in the industry who have excelled in management performance and tourism service.
WORLD TOURISM DAY
September 27 / Nationwide
MEGAYON FESTIVAL
September 27-30 / Municipalities of Tigbao, Lapuyan, Lakewood, Dumingag, Mahayag and Aurora, Zamboanga del Sur (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Dipolog City by air; 2 hours 30 minutes from Dipolog City to Pagadian City by land)
Thanksgiving festival of the Subanens of Zamboanga del Sur showcasing authentic songs, dances and food.
BALANGIGA ANNIVERSARY
September 28 / Balangiga, Eastern Samar (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila to Tacloban City by air; 1 hour 30 minutes from Tacloban City to Balangiga by land)
Commemorates the Balangiga Massacre, an event that drove a wedge between Filipino-American relations. Today, it now serves as a celebration of peace between the two nations.
BANIGAN-KAWAYAN FESTIVAL
September 28 / Basey, Samar (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila to Tacloban City by air; 30 minutes from Tacloban City to Basey by land)
Basey’s favorite local product is highlighted in this wacky tribute to the native bamboo mat.
WESTERN VISAYAS “PASUNDAYAG SING ILONGGO”
September 29 – October 12 / Manila
A showcase of the best of the best of Western Visayas (music, dances, fiestas, culinary delights, street parties, arts and crafts). It aims to give a glimpse of what happens in the various provinces, and provides a venue for the region to sell their tour packages, products and open their doors to business opportunities.
CULTURAL CENTER OF THE PHILIPPINES 34th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
September / Cultural Center of the Philippines, Manila
FASHION SHOW OF FILIPINO COSTUMES
September / Makati Park and Garden / Hotels (30 minutes from Manila)
A fashion show and exhibit of Filipino dresses showing the evolution of our costumes modeled by local City Officials.
JAPAN SALES MISSION
September / Osaka, Nagoya, Tokyo
Aimed to further strengthen the Philippines’ hold on the Japanese market, sales mission will target the planning season of the wholesalers for inclusion in tour brochures; will include presentations, travel mart, presscon and trade reception.
CHINA SALES MISSION
September / Hongkong, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xiamen
Aimed to further strengthen the Philippines’ hold on the Chinese market, sales mission will target the planning season of the Chinese wholesalers for inclusion in tour brochures; will include presentations, travel mart, presscon and trade reception.
KOREA SALES MISSION
September / Korea
Flagship project in Korea targetting travel trade, media and consumers in 4 key cities. It takes the form and mechanics of a sales mission and consumer promotion rolled into one. Will include sales presentation, travel mart, cultural show and exhibit.
BUGLASAN FESTIVAL OF FESTIVALS
September (Movable) / Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
A showdown of established festivals in Negros Oriental with street dancing.
LINGGO NG KASUOTANG PILIPINO
September (Movable) / Nationwide (but most fun in Manila and Makati)

OCTOBER FESTIVALS

FIESTANG KULIAT
October 01-31/ Angeles City (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila by land)
A month-long celebration of the twin fiestas of Angeles City, namely La Naval and Fiestang Apu.
PAGODA (FEAST OF ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI)
October 04 / Cardona, Rizal (2 hours 30 minutes from Manila by land)
An annual procession to ask the Lord Almighty for a bountiful and blessed lake through the intercession of St. Francis of Assisi.
IBALONG FESTIVAL
October 06-12 / Legazpi City, Albay (55 minutes from Manila by air)
A tribute to Bicol Region’s epic tale of superheroes and villains with native songs and dances in a grand street presentation.
LUBI-LUBI FESTIVAL
October 08 / Glan, Sarangani Province (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila to General Santos City by air; 1 hour from General Santos City to Glan by land)
A festival showing various uses of the coconut trees and its products through dances and street revelry.
TING’UDO FESTIVAL
October 10 / Makilala, Cotabato (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cotabato City by air; 2 hours 30 minutes from Cotabato City to Makilala by land)
A celebration of bountiful fruit harvest highlighted by a fruit festival.
ZAMBOANGA HERMOSA FESTIVAL
October 10-12 / Zamboanga City (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila by air)
The “City of Flowers” celebrates its grand annual festival featuring the “vintas” (colorful native sailboats) in a fast- paced regatta, cultural and flower shows, art exhibits and trade fairs.
PAMUGU-AN FESTIVAL
3rd week of October / Mansalay, Mindoro Oriental (2 hours 30 minutes from Batangas City by land; 2 hours 30 minutes from Batangas City to Calapan/Mansalay by land/ferry)
A festive reunion of different “Mangyan” tribes with sports events, baratillo of native products.
MASSKARA FESTIVAL
bacolod masskara festival October 14-21 / Bacolod City (1 hour 10 minutes from Manila by air)
Merrymaking in Sugarlandia where revelers wear colorful costumes and gaudily-decorated masks.[details]
KASANGGAYAHAN FESTIVAL
October 15-25 / Sorsogon, Sorsogon (55 minutes from Manila to Legazpi City by air; 1 hour 30 minutes from Legazpi City to Sorsogon by land)
An annual celebration for “prosperity and happiness”.
SAGINGAN FESTIVAL
October 16-17 / Tubod, Lanao del Norte (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cagayan de Oro City by air; 4 hours from Cagayan de Oro City to Iligan/Tubod by land)
A celebration of thanksgiving and bounty featuring the banana.
ANA KALANG FESTIVAL
October 18-22 / Nagcarlan, Laguna (2 hours 30 minutes from Manila by land)
A roster-full of activities highlighting an agri-fair that exhibits the town’s bountiful harvest.
LEYTE GULF LANDING ANNIVERSARY
October 20 / Dulang, Palo, Leyte (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila to Tacloban City by air; 20 minutes from Tacloban City to Dulang/Palo by land)
Commemorates the landing of Gen. Douglas MacArthur on the shores of Palo, Leyte to liberate the Philippines from the Japanese occupation.
MARAGUSAN OCTO TREK
October 22-25 / Maragusan, Compostela Valley (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila to Davao City by air; 3 hours from Davao City to Maragusan by land)
An annual trek up Mt. Candalaga, one of the region’s highest peaks.
BATTLE OF SURIGAO STRAIT
October 25 / Surigao City, Surigao del Norte (2 hours 10 minutes from Manila by air)
Commemoration of the anniversary of the battle of Surigao Strait during World War II.
LANZONES FESTIVAL
camiguin lanzones festival October 25-28 / Camiguin (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cagayan de Oro City by air; 2 hours 15 minutes from Cagayan de Oro City to Camiguin City by land/ferry)
A street dancing extravaganza featuring Camiguin’s favorite fruit – the Lanzones.[details]
SAMAL EXTREME CHALLENGE
October 26-29 / Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila to Davao City by air; 30 minutes from Davao City to the Island Garden City of Samal by ferry)
A one-event-multi-feature plot of outdoor activities like caving, climbing, hiking, biking, horse riding, paddling.

NOVEMBER FESTIVALS

CAVE ECO-ADVENTURE
November 01-03 / Compostela Valley (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila to Davao City by air; 2 hours from Davao City to Compostela Valley by land)
Spelunking activities in four of the grand caves of the province coupled with lectures on cave preservation.
BEST OF SOUTHERN MINDANAO (REGION XI) IN INTRAMUROS
November 01-16 / Manila
A showcase of the best of the best of Southern Mindanao (music, dances, fiestas, culinary delights, street parties, arts and crafts). It aims to give a glimpse of what happens in the various provinces, and provides a venue for the region to sell their tour packages, products and open their doors to business opportunities.
NORTH PHILIPPINES MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL
November 02-03 / Venue TBA
Showcases the best of the Northern Philippines’ music and arts.
PINTAFLORES FESTIVAL
November 03-05 / San Carlos City, Negros Occidental (1 hour 10 minutes from Manila to Bacolod City by air; 3 hours 30 minutes from Bacolod City to San Carlos City by land)
A three-day religious festivity honoring the patron saint of San Carlos City, St. Charles Borromeo.
7th NATIONAL DANCESPORT CHAMPIONSHIP
November 05-07 / Philsports Multi-Purpose Arena, Pasig City, Metro Manila (20 minutes from Manila)
A dancesport competition featuring local competitors.
FRUIT AND FLOWER FESTIVAL
November 05-09 / Nabunturan, Compostela Valley (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila to Davao City by air; 2 hours from Davao City to Nabunturan by land)
A festival showcasing the abundance of the province’s produce.
EL CINCO DE NOVIEMBRE/KANSILAY FESTIVAL
November 05-13 / Bago City, Negros Occidental (1 hour 10 minutes from Manila to Bacolod City by air; 30 minutes from Bacolod City to Bago City by land)
November 5, 1898 will be remembered by the Negrenses as a day of bloodless revolts against the Spanish colonizers. This patriotic event is celebrated with an annual cultural festival.
ANGONO ARTS FESTIVAL
November 05-25 / Angono, Rizal (2 hours 30 minutes from Manila by land)
Rich culture and traditions of Angono will be presented and showcased through actual presentations of figurative sense of communication such as the arts.
22nd ILGA WORLD CONFERENCE ON HUMAN RIGHTS AND SEXUAL MINORITIES
November 07-14 / Venue TBA
IDSF OPEN STANDARD & LATIN CHAMPIONSHIP
November 08-10 / Philsports Multi-Purpose Arena, Pasig City, Metro Manila (20 minutes from Manila)
A dancesport competition featuring competitors from different countries.
CONCERT NIGHT AT THE OLD WALLS
Every Saturday of November / NCCA Auditorium, Intramuros, Manila
November 08 – OPM
November 15 – La Salle Pops Orchestra
November 22 – Ateneo Glee Club
November 29 – Mandaluyong Children’s Choir
PUTONG POLO FESTIVAL
2nd Sunday of November / Polo, Valenzuela, Metro Manila (1 hour from Manila)
A festival which aims to promote a deeper cultural awareness about Valenzuela through its famous native delicacy called Putong Polo.
HELOBONG FESTIVAL
November 09-11 / Lake Sebu, South Cotabato (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila to General Santos City by air; 2 hours from General Santos City to Lake Sebu by land)
See the T’Boli culture in its colorful best through the natives’ traditional songs, dances and crafts.
WORLD TRAVEL MART
November 10-13 / London
Held annually at the Earl’s Court in London, WTM has been considered the global travel event for the industry. Approximately 5,000 of the world’s leading travel and tourism companies from 172 countries are expected to attend the WTM. The fair is open to both trade and consumer.
13th INTERNATIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION – ASIA PACIFIC REGIONAL CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION
November 12-16 / Cebu International Convention Center , Cebu City
(1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
STREET PARTY
November 14 / Baluarte Plano Luneta de Sta. Isabel
A monthly activity that capitalizes as well as highlights the musicality of Filipinos and their love for fiestas and merry making.
6th WOMEN PLAYWRIGHTS INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE
November 14-19 / Cultural Center of the Philippines, Manila
NATIONAL THEATER FESTIVAL (IKATLONG TAGPO)
November 14-21 / Cultural Center of the Philippines, Manila
A quadrennial event which will gather together theater artists and cultural workers to showcase the works of various theater groups across the country.
QUEEN CITY INTERNATIONAL RUN
3rd Sunday of November / Cebu City / Mandaue & Lapu-Lapu, Cebu
(1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
13.4 km. leisure-oriented finishers’ run.
PASKUHAN SA DUMAGUETE WITH KUMBIRA
November 16-December 31 / Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental
(1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
Establishments are enjoined to light up and decorate their respective places using “sinamay” as the main material or accent. Other activities include sports events, garden shows, art shows and food festivals.
BEST OF WESTERN MINDANAO (REGION IX) AND CARAGA (REGION XIII) IN INTRAMUROS
November 17-30 / Manila
A showcase of the best of the best of Western Mindanao and Caraga (music, dances, fiestas, culinary delights, street parties, arts and crafts). It aims to give a glimpse of what happens in the various provinces, and provides a venue for the region to sell their tour packages, products and open their doors to business opportunities.
BAGUIO ARTS FESTIVAL
November 18 / Baguio City (50 minutes from Manila by air)
An exhibition of the different artworks and art pieces of Cordillera artists using different art media.
P’ YAGSAWITAN FESTIVAL
November 18-25 / Maragusan, Compostela Valley (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila to Davao City by air; 3 hours from Davao City to Maragusan by land)
A celebration highlighting the town’s ecotourism potential.
18TH ADVERTISING CONGRESS
November 19-24 / CAP Convention Center, Camp John Hay, Baguio City (50 minutes from Manila by air)
KALIMUDAN FESTIVAL
November 21 / Isulan, Sultan Kudarat (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cotabato City by air; 1 hour 15 minutes from Cotabato City to Isulan by land)
A tribal fiesta in Mindanao with every major ethnic group joining in the fun.
ASIAN ETHNIC FOOD FEST
November 21-23 / World Trade Center, Manila
An annual specialized trade fair organized by CITEM for the international market. Product profile includes fresh and processed food and organic and natural products.
PHILIPPINE TRAVEL MART
November 21-23 / Megatrade Exhibition Hall, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City (1 hour from Manila by land)
An annual market encounter between buyers and sellers of tourist destinations, services and products in the regions.
HIGANTES FESTIVAL
November 23 / Angono, Rizal (2 hours 30 minutes from Manila by land)
A fiesta of “gigantic” proportions highlighted by a grand procession of 10-feet high papier mache puppets, surrounded by a crowd of drenched, water-fighting revelers.
ADVENTURE TRIATHLON
November 23-29 / Sibulan, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila to Davao City by air; 40 minutes from Davao City to Sta. Cruz by land)
A sports activity-tubing the rapids of Sibulan River, uphill running and bancathon.
3rd INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON TOXICOLOGY
November 24-26 / Subic Bay (30 minutes from Manila by air / 2 hours and 30 minutes from Manila by land)
2nd MARAGUSAN MOUNTAIN BIKING COMPETITION
November 24-26 / Maragusan, Compostela Valley (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila to Davao City by air; 3 hours from Davao City to Maragusan by land)
A rugged mountain bike climb in several exciting categories of competition.
2003 NAMCYA (National Music Competition for Young Artists) FESTIVAL
Last week of November / Venue TBA
FIL-AM INTERNATIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
Last week of November – 1st week of December / Club John Hay/Baguio Country Club, Baguio City (50 minutes from Manila by air)
The biggest amateur golf tournament in the world covering 2 golf courses, Club John Hay and Baguio Country Club.
DECEMBER FIESTA 2003
November 29-30 / Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Complex Boardwalk, Manila
CCP’s holiday performances at the outdoor venues. Drum and lyre bands, choir, folkdance groups and community theater groups become the centerpiece for an artists’ fair at the CCP Complex Boardwalk.
5th MT. PINATUBO TREK (A March to Peace and Tranquility)
November 30 / Sta. Juliana,Capas, Tarlac (2 hours from Manila by land)
An annual trek meant to promote Mt. Pinatubo as a major ecotourism destination and bring economic opportunities for the host community of Sta. Juliana.
KUNSIERTO SA CIUDAD
November 30 / Kidapawan City, North Cotabato (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cotabato City by air; 2 hours 15 minutes from Cotabato City to Kidapawan City by land)
Live band competition featuring local and regional artists.
2nd GLOBAL FILIPINO NETWORKING CONVENTION
November 30 – December 02 / Philippine International Convention Center, Manila
PHILIPPINE TOURISM CUP
November / Venue TBA
A monthly golf tournament, held on a regional level, which aims to promote the country as “Asia’s Golf Capital”.
INTERNATIONAL FOLKLORIC FESTIVAL
November / Venue TBA
A dance festival that will feature the cultural diversity of each country. A mixture of entertainment and education with emphasis on historical importance.
INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL (With Provincial/Regional/National Competitions)
November / Venue TBA
A music festival showcasing the talent and musicality of Filipinos and re-enforcing Philippines’ claim as the “Music Capital of Asia”.
HARANA SA MAKATI
November / Makati City, Metro Manila (30 minutes from Manila by land)
A romantic project wherein the boys will serenade their school belles in traditional and contemporary styles with an aim to preserve, conserve, promote and practice our customs and traditions.
15th FEDERATION OF ASIAN AND OCEANIC PEST MANAGERS ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE
November / Venue TBA
JATA CONGRESS & TRADE SHOW
November / Tokyo, Japan
The biggest travel trade event in Japan in terms of number of participating countries and exhibitors.
CHINA INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL MART (CITM)
November / Kunming, PROC
A major travel show in China held inter-changeably in Shanghair and Kunming. The fair offers the best opportunity for participants to get to know both China’s inbound and outbound markets and provides more chances for traders who operate travel business in China. CITM offers exhibitors the chance to meet nearly 1,000 quality buyers worldwide.
TAIPEI INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL FAIR (TITF)
November / Taipei, Taiwan
A trade and consumer fair and the only major annual travel event in Taiwan. About 80,000 visitors attend the event; it has become one of the largest and most effective tourism and travel event in Taiwan.
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF TRAVEL AGENTS (ASTA) WORLD CONGRESS
November / Miami, Florida
Biggest association of American travel agents. It holds its annual congress and trade show outside of the United States every other two years.

DECEMBER FESTIVALS

GRAND CONCERT ON FILIPINO COMPOSITIONS
December 01 / Venue TBA
REGIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
December 01-03 / Asian Institute of Management, Makati City, Metro Manila (30 minutes from Manila)
BEST OF CAGAYAN VALLEY (REGION II) AND CENTRAL LUZON (REGION III) IN INTRAMUROS
December 01-14 / Manila
A showcase of the best of the best of Cagayan Valley and Central Luzon. (music, dances, fiestas, culinary delights, street parties, arts and crafts). It aims to give a glimpse of what happens in the various provinces, and provides a venue for the regions to sell their tour packages, products and open their doors to business opportunities.
5th ASIA PACIFIC SOCIETY OF PERIODONTOLOGY CONFERENCE
December 03-05 / Shangri-La Mactan, Cebu (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
SINADYA SA HALARAN
December 04-08 / Roxas City, Capiz (50 minutes from Manila by air)
“Joy in sharing and thanksgiving” celebrated through a fireworks display, a sumptuous foodfest and a grand dance festival.
DECEMBER FIESTA 2003
December 06-07/13-14 / Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Complex Boardwalk, Manila
CCP’s holiday performances at the outdoor venues. Drum and lyre bands, choir, folkdance groups and community theater groups become the centerpiece for an artists’ fair at the CCP Complex Boardwalk.
CONCERT NIGHT AT THE OLD WALLS
Every Saturday of December / NCCA Auditorium, Intramuros, Manila
December 06 – Ballet Philippines
December 13 – Aiza Seguerra / Sto. Domingo Male Chorale
December 20 – Tribung Pinoy
December 27 – UP Singing Ambassadors / Kaibigan Girls Choir
MARIAN PROCESSION
December 07 / Plaza Roma-Aduana-Muralla-General Luna-Plaza Roma, Intramuros, Manila
MT. APO CLIMB VIA BARACATAN
December 10-14 / Toril, Davao City (1 hour 45 minutes from Manila to Davao City by air; 30 minutes from Davao City to Toril by land)
A yearly regular climb.
PHILIPPINE TOURISM CUP
December 11-12 / All regions
A monthly golf tournament, held on a regional level, which aims to promote the country as “Asia’s Golf Capital”.
COFFEE FESTIVAL
December 11-16 / Lipa City, Batangas (2 hours from Manila by land)
A week-long tribute to this Batangas specialty.
KASADYAAN FESTIVAL
December 12-14 / Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila by air)
The city’s oldest running fiesta and Mardi gras parade.
SHARIFF KABUNSUAN FESTIVAL
cotabato sharif kabunsuan festival December 15-19 / Cotabato City/Maguindanao (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila by air)
A celebration of the arrival of Islam to the Region. [details]
GIANT LANTERN FESTIVAL
December 15-31 / San Fernando, Pampanga (1 hour from Manila by land)
An annual competition and parade of the biggest, most spectacular lanterns around 40 feet in diameter and bearing thousands of light bulbs per piece.
GIANT LANTERNS OF REGION III AND WINNING LANTERNS OF THE ASIAN LANTERN FESTIVAL
December 15-31 / Intramuros, Manila
KANYONG KAWAYAN FESTIVAL
3rd week of December / Kidapawan City, North Cotabato (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila to Cotabato City by air; 2 hours 15 minutes from Cotabato City to Kidapawan City by land)
A unique activity to discourage the use of dangerous pyrotechnics during the yuletide season. A citywide contest features the firing of bamboo canons using empty milk cans as projectiles.
MISA DE GALLO
December 16-24 / Nationwide
Misa de Gallo is a Filipino yuletide tradition that starts on the 16th of December and culminates in a midnight mass on Christmas Eve. Roman Catholics attend the daily mass at three or four in the morning. Upon exiting the church, the hungry is enticed by the sight and smell of puto bumbong and bibingka (native delicacies made of sticky and glutinous rice sold nearby).
PASTORES BICOL
December 18 / Legazpi City, Albay (55 minutes from Manila by air)
A musical re-enactment of the story of the nativity.
STREET PARTY
December 19 / Baluarte Plano Luneta de Sta. Isabel
A monthly activity that capitalizes as well as highlights the musicality of Filipinos and their love for fiestas and merry making.
TAWO-TAWO FESTIVAL
December 21 / Bayawan City, Negros Oriental (1 hour 15 minutes from Manila to Dumaguete City by air; 3 hours from Dumaguete City to Bayawan City by land)
Celebration of the scarecrows (tawo-tawo) through papier mache higantes as guardians of the town’s crops.
MAYTINIS FESTIVAL
December 24 / Kawit, Cavite (1 hour 30 minutes from Manila by land)
A dramatic retelling of St. Joseph’s and the Virgin Mary’s search in Bethlehem for a place to stay; culminates in a lively parade down the streets of Kawit.
INTERNATIONAL FIREWORKS FESTIVAL / COMPETITION
December 25 – January 1, 2004 / Intramuros, Manila
Meant to re-establish the distinction of the fireworks industry and to draw more people into the country.
BINIRAYAN FESTIVAL
December 28-30 / San Jose, Antique (1 hour from Manila by air)
A commemoration of the arrival of the ten chieftains from Borneo who founded the first Malay settlement in the country.
TULTUGAN FESTIVAL
December 29 / Maasin, Iloilo (1 hour 5 minutes from Manila to Iloilo City by air; 30 minutes from Iloilo City to Maasin by land)
An annual tribute to Panay Island’s native drum and ancient bamboo instrument.
ASIAN LANTERN FESTIVAL
December / Venue TBA
A grand extravaganza that will serve as a “melting pot” of culture and tradition through a diorama of lanterns coming from the different Asian countries.
BELEN DISPLAY AND COMPETITION
December / Intramuros, Manila
BELEN SA MAKATI
December / Makati Establishments (30 minutes from Manila)
Competition of creches (Belens) in all Makati establishments
EID’L FITR
December (Movable) / Nationwide (but most fun in Region XII)
A worldwide festival celebrating the end of one-month fasting period of the holy month of Ramadhan by the Muslims.

Iloilo Paraw Regatta 2010

Larry Ngaosi — Wed, 04 Aug 2010 10:12:33 +0000

Now on its 38th year, the Iloilo Paraw Regatta is the oldest traditional craft event in Asia, and the largest sailing event in the Philippines. The Iloilo Paraw Regatta Festival 2010 is a week-long fun filled event. On the Saturday of the climactic weekend there is slalom racing on a course by the beach to facilitate crowd participation. On the Sunday, the thirty-kilometer distance race is sailed on a course in the Iloilo Strait, running up the coast of Panay and then down the coast of Guimaras, before returning to the finish at Villa Beach.

Iloilo Paraw Regatta 2010 Schedule

Feb. 5, 2010 (Friday)

4:00 pm Launching Of the Iloilo Paraw Regatta Festival (SM City Activity Center)

Feb. 14, 2010 (Sunday)

7:00 am Mass Fellowship Breakfast (Arevalo Church / Tatoy’s Manokan)

Feb. 15, 2010 (Monday)

3:00 pm Formal Opening Program: 2010 Iloilo Paraw Regatta Festival (SM Activity Center)

4:00 pm Presentation Of Official. Candidates: Miss Iloilo Parae Regatta Festival Pageant

5:00 pm Opening Of The 2010 Iloilo Paraw Regatta Festival: Photo Exhibit ( Feb 15 To 21, 2010 )

5:00 pm Opening Of The 2010 Iloilo Paraw Regatta Festival: Miniature Paraw-Making Contest ( Feb 15 To 21, 2010 )

6:00 pm Cocktails

Feb. 16, 2010 (Tuesday)

9:00 am Miss Iloilo Paraw Regatta Pageant: Selection Of The The “Darling Of the Press” (Red Cross Auditorium)

3:00 pm Miss Iloilo Paraw Regatta Pageant: “One-On-One” Interview with the Judges Swimsuit Pre-Judging Competition

Feb. 17, 2010 (Wednesday)

4:00 pm Miss Iloilo Paraw Regatta Pageant: Talent Competition (SM Activity Center)

Feb. 18, 2010 (Thursday)

6:00 pm 2010 Iloilo Paraw Regatta Festival “Samba De Regatta” Torch Parade (Major City Streets)

8:00 pm “Samba De Regatta” Mardi Gras Competition (Freedom Grandstand)

Feb. 19, 2010 (Friday)

12:00 nn Rowing Paddling Competition (Iloilo River)

7:00 pm Miss Iloilo Paraw Regatta Pageant: Coronation Night (Freedom Grandstand)

Feb. 20, 2010 (Saturday

Paraw Slalom Competition: Registration Of Participants Measurement Of Participating Pararws Slalom Championship Race

2010 Iloilo Paraw Regatta Invitational Women’S Beach Volleyball Competition

2010 Iloilo Paraw Regatta Invitational Men’s Beach Football Competition

“Pinta Layag” Sail-Painting Contest

“Pintawo” A Body-Painting Competition

The Governor’s Cup Fishing Competition

2010 Iloilo Paraw Regatta Festival: “Reggae-Ta” Night Beach Party

Fireworks by the sea

Feb. 21, 2010 (Sunday)

Samba De Regatta Music Mardi Gras Competition
Mr. Tres Solis / Gma Network Inc.

Mini Paraw Beach Race
Mr. Honorato Espinosa

Iloilo Paraw Grand Regatta Race
Technical Committee

General Santos City, Philippines

Tom Coghill — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 12:55:37 +0000

General Santos City Description

General Santos City teems with a population close to half a million (2ooo census). General Santos City, primarily agro-industrial, contributes to the region’s major producers. Favorable agricultural factors makes General Santos City the largest producer of corn, coconuts, copra, pineapples, asparagus and rice. Locals of General Santos City avail of fish and seafood that could not come fresher, having the sea in close proximity. General Santos city contributes the largest total daily fish landings, leading the production of sashimi grade tuna.

General Santos City Attractions

General Santos City directs a finger to Kalaja Karsts, 15kms at the Northeast side of the city. Towers of karsts formations stud the area. Here, General Santos City can be viewed together with Sarangani Bay and some parts of South Cotabato and Sarangani Province.

Try spelunking at Kalaja Cave, wading at Bunga Spring, climbing at Kalaja Face, splashing at Absekong Waterfalls, and trekking at Nopol Hills. General Santos City gives a chance for the experience of all these adventures.

General Santos City Location

General Santos City is bordered by Sarangani Province and South Cotabato. General Santos City lies southeast of Manila, southeast of Cebu and southwest of Davao. Key cities connect to General Santos City by air, sea and land transportation. General Santos City hosts the country’s second largest airport-in-area, landing planes from Manila, Cebu, Iloilo, Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro and Davao. One of the most modern seaports in the country – Makar Wharf – is also in General Santos City, anchoring ships from within and outside the Philippines. Land travel to General Santos City is through the Pan-Philippine Highway, with more than 400 passenger buses and jeepneys providing services.

Pintados de Pasi Festival 2010

Larry Ngaosi — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 09:21:09 +0000

Get ready this March 13-21, 2010 as the City of Passi, Iloilo celebrates the Pintados de Pasi Festival 2010 to commemorate its 12 Foundation Anniversary. The highlight of the week long event is the tribe competition where several passinhon tribes will be showcasing their town’s history and culture through choreographed dances. Here, the performers are covered in traditional body paintings with decorative designs from head to foot, inspired by the cultural practice of early Bisayan settlers of adorning themselves with tattoos as a mark of age, bravery or tribal seniority.

Pintados de Pasi Festival 2010 Schedule

March 13, 2010 (Saturday)

6:30 AM Mass (St. William Parish Church)

8:00 AM Opening Program / Opening Salvo

7:00 PM Opening Food Festival with Live Band

March 14, 2010 (Sunday) 12th Foundation Day Anniversary

7:00 PM Miss LGU Kuno Year 6 (Passi City Social Hall)

March 15, 2010 (Monday)

7:00 PM Talent’s Night BB. Pintados 2010 (Passi City Social Hall)

March 16, 2010 (Tusday)

7:00 PM Pinta Lawas Body Painting Contest (Plaza Paloma / Passi City Social Hall)

March 17, 2010 (Wednesday)

10:00 AM Motor Show (Passi City Social Hall)

1:00 PM Battle of the Sound (Plaza Paloma)

March 18, 2010 (Thursday)

8:00 AM Passi City Cultural Contest (Passi City Social Hall)

March 19, 2010 (Friday)

7:00 AM Karosa Parade Carabao Painting Contest (Passi City Social Hall)

7:00 PM Grand Coronation Night Bb. Pintados 2010 (Passi City Social Hall)

March 20, 2010 (Saturday)

7:00 AM Sindaya sa Suba (Jalaur River)

March 21, 2010 (Sunday)

6:30 AM Mass

8:00 AM Tribe Competition

4:00 PM Awarding / Closing Program

7:00 PM Fireworks display at Plaza Paloma

Kalilangan Festival 2010

Larry Ngaosi — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 08:28:03 +0000

The Kalilangan Festival is the biggest festival in General Santos. It got its name from the root word kalilang, which means celebration or commemoration in Maguindanaoan dialect. Kalilangan itself means festival, feastivity or jubilee. The highlights of the Kalilangan Festival 2010 is on February 25 27, 2010.

General Santos Kalilangan Festival 2010 Schedule

Pre-Festival Activities

02/05/2010, Friday 03:00:00 PM Raprapan Screening @ Gaisano Mall

02/06/2010, Saturday 03:00:00 PM Sayaw Barangay Screening @ Gaisano Mall

02/07/2010, Sunday 03:00:00 PMLakan at Lakambini Screening @ Gaisano Mall

Continuing Events

02/08 03/03/2010 Fiesta Carnival

02/08 03/03/2010 Kandagang sa Padiyan

02/15 02/28/2010 Garden Show and Exhibits

02/15 02/28/2010 Coca-Cola Food Zone

02/15 02/28/2010 Asia Brewery Pistahan Zone

02/15 02/28/2010 SMB Barkada Zone

02/23 02/26/2010 Bakbakan sa Gensan @ KCC

02/26 02/28/2010 Kasalang Filipino @ Gaisano

February 12, 2010

7:00 PM Opening: Coke Happiness Zone Food Court @ Oval Plaza

7:00 PM Opening: San Miguel Beer Barkada Zone @ Oval Plaza

7:00 PM Opening: Asia Brewery Pistahan Zone @ Oval Plaza

February 13, 2010

9:00 Kandagan sa Padiyan Flea Market @ Oval Plaza

3:00 PM Opening: Fiesta Carnival @ Oval Plaza

February 15, 2010

9:00 AM Kumpetisyon Para sa Karangalan at Kagandahan

Morning Workshop Seminar

Afternoon Hair Make-up Competition

Evening Fashion Show

9:00 AM Opening: Garden Show Exhibits

February 20, 2010

9:00 AM Pintura at Pananaw Mural Painting Competition @ PBA Sports Arena

3:00 PM Lakan at Lakambini Talent Night Parade of Festival Costumes @ Gaisano Mall

February 21, 2010

9:00 AM Alay Kapwa sa Kalilangan

3:00 PM Mini-concert: Raprapan Sayaw Pambata finalists Fashion Show of Lakan at Lakambini finalists @ Gaisano Mall

February 22, 2010

9:00 AM Open House: Barangayan sa Kalilangan Showcase @ Oval Plaza

3:00 PM Showdown: Kadsagayan Instrumentalists @ Oval Stage

5:00 PM Grand Ceremonial Opening Program @ Oval Stage

7:00 PM Grand Fireworks Display @ Oval Plaza

February 23, 2010

2:00 PM Back-to-back Finals: Sayaw Pambata Raprapan @ Gaisano Mall

6:00 PM Singing for Peace in Mindanao @ Oval Stage

6:00 PM Heritage Gensan: A Cultural Presentation Night @ PBA Sports Arena

February 24, 2010

3:00 PM Lakan at Lakambini Pageant Night @ Gaisano Mall

6:00 PM Binibining Masayahin Pageant Night @ Oval Stage

6:00 PM Indak Mindanao Cultural Dance Revolution @ PBA Sports Arena

February 25, 2010

1:00 PM Strings Acoustics Competition @ Gaisano Mall

3:00 PM Queen of the Festivals of Mindanao Pageant Night @ Robinsonâ€™s Place

6:00 PM Malakas at Maganda Doble Kara Singing Contest @ Oval Stage

6:00 PM Kulintangan, Kantahan at Sayawan sa Kalilangan @ PBA Sports Arena

February 26, 2010

8:00 AM Festivals of Mindanao Street Dancing Competition @ PBA Sr. Sports Complex

8:00 AM Dance Sports Workshop @ NDDU

10:00 AM Opening: Kasalan sa Gensan Wedding Tourism Fair @ Gaisano Mall

1:00 PM Smart Telecoms Day @ Oval Stage

3:00 PM Dance Sports Competition @ Robinsonâ€™s Place

7:00 PM Smart Presents: Live Concert @ Oval Stage

7:00 PM Kalilangan for Jesus @ PBA Sports Arena

7:00 PM Street Party @ East Asia Royale Hotel

7:00 PM Bamboo live and in concert @ 18-hole driving range

February 27, 2010

5:30 AM Thanksgiving Mass @ OLPGV Church

7:00 AM Ecumenical Service @ GPS Shrine

8:00 AM Parangal Sa Watawat @ GPS Shrine

8:30 AM Wreath Laying @ GPS Shrine

9:00 AM Brunch of the Generals

2:00 PM Kadsagayan Street Dancing Showdown @ Pioneer Avenue

3:00 PM Cokeâ€™s Open Happiness Zone @ PBA Sports Arena

4:00 PM Kadsagayan Focal Presentation Showdown @ Oval Stage

6:00 PM 71st Foundation Anniversary Ceremonies @ Oval Stage

7:00 PM Grand Fireworks Display @ Oval Plaza

8:00 PM Street Party 2 @ East Asia Royale Hotel

9:00 PM Globe Presents: Live Concert @ Oval Stage

February 28, 2010

9:00 PM Kasalan sa Gensan Wedding and Tourism Fair (Day 3)

Panagbenga 2010 Schedule

Larry Ngaosi — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 08:21:00 +0000

The Panagbenga sits at the top of the Philippines’ Fiesta Calendar and promises to bet, yet again, one of the most important, popular and visited events of 2009.

Visitors to usually plan their trip to coincide with the Grand Parades, which will be held on February 28 (Street Dancing) and March 1 (Floats) instead of the usual 3rd weekend, as the celebrations this year have been extended to five weeks.

Panagbenga 2009 Schedule

Larry Ngaosi — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 03:48:36 +0000

The Panagbenga sits at the top of the Philippines’ Fiesta Calendar and promises to bet, yet again, one of the most important, popular and visited events of 2009.

Eating Dog and Cat for Dinner, (WARNING! this may be offensive!)

Larry Ngaosi — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 05:24:52 +0000

Basic Filipino Foods

Philippines are part of the rice culture countries therefore the staple food here is rice. There are a few bakeries that sell sweet soft bread, buns and few other sweety-spongie things. Healthy breads, such a rye or multi-grain is rarely found. White rice is served 3 times daily hot of cold with a few fried fish or beans. The diet of the average person is very basic due to poverty. For the richer Filipinos, supermarkets offer numerous products common in first world countries. Although there are many customs that are the same as other countries in Asia, there are a few radical differences.

Eating Dog

As a traveler hungry for experience, I try to be open on new things and habits wherever I go. I don’t look down on people just because their customs are different, rather, I try to be part of the group and see the world through their eye.

When I came to the Philippines, I didn’t know that killing an chicken, duck, dog or cat for dinner is a common event. It is common to see someone carrying a live chicken to be slaughtered and cooked at home.
Dog eating which is hideous to most westerners is an accepted part of the Filipino culture. Many Filipinos don’t own up to it but with a little digging, I discovered that plenty of them have eaten a dog. It’s perceived as last resort meal for the poor, and frowned upon by wealthier Filipinos.

My first introduction to eating a dog was during Easter Sunday when the leader of a Filipino group that I was with suggested killing a dog in order to celebrate rebirth of Jesus Christ. The dog was purchased from the neighbors, brought in a sack and slaughtered by the barbecue. The village dwellers, burned off the animal’s fur, (photo above) chopped it into pieces and started preparing meals from it. It was a drinking event with 80 proof Gin being offered freely that sells for about $1 for a 26 oz bottle. I tried a bit of the meat, and found it hard and disgusting. The locals laughed at my expressions. A few hours later, I was told to try it again as it was properly cooked. It tasted like or rabbit.

Cat as a meal

I love cats and always considered them as great friends. We, in the western world cannot even imagine our furry companions as food. Yet to another culture a cat is the same as a chicken.

Eating a cat in the Philippines is not so widespreaded as eating a dog, many of locals refuse to do it because of strange beliefs that eating cat meat makes you behave like a cat and instead of fighting off a attacker you will try to scratch them to death. Traveling the remote province of Masbate “cat meat” was part of the dinner. It tasted no different than pork.

Frogs and Filipino Barbecue

Amphibians Filipinos gather frogs after rain in the meadows and ricefields. You can easily avail them in the markets of rainy areas such us Baguio or other mountainous regions.

BBQ Other interesting thing that you will find in the Philippines are local barbecue businesses. Yet it is another example of Great Filipino Adaptivity. Genesis of these bbqs are when U.S. military bases were selling scraps of meat to locals and they learnt how to prepare them in the delicious way. What you can find in these barbies are pig’s skin, ears, intestines, chunks of blood, heads and claws of chickens, fish and others. After painting with sauce, grilled it is served hot on the side of the road.

Balot and One Day Old Chicks

Eat one day old fertilized chicken eggs is a popular Filipino snack. It is called “Balot”. What looks like a normal chicken egg is a partially developed chicken’s embryo still encased in the shell. Locals describe it to foreigners as an “abortion egg”. Balot vendors wander through urban areas carrying a basket full of balot covered with towels in order to keep them hot, and shouting: Baaaloooot, Baaaalooot. It’s served with either salt or a bit of vinegar.

To eat it, you first break the shell, drink the liquid from inside and then after removing top part of the shell, slowly start to eat the inside of the egg. The egg doesn’t have it’s usual yellow yolk inside. Instead, a chicken embryo. There will be some egg white although much less of it. Filipinos believe that it is good for potency and call it a “Filipino Viagra”. I personally love this snack and find it tasty. Although, considered as a national snack the Balot has it’s genesis in 13th centuries Chinese emigrants that brought it here with them.

Fried Chicks. The snack consists of two or three fresh hatched chicks without any feathers which are fried and eaten with a wooden stick. They taste good with some vinegar on them. It can really disgust Western tourists, but for those few able to break from Western cultural conditioning, you will experience the tastiest chicken ever eaten.

Right or Wrong?

Some say it is immoral to eat dog, cats and chicken embryos, but to me, culture is what we are used to. Most Westerners that consider eating cat of dog very offensive, line up for hamburgers and chicken wings with a clear conscious. In India the cow is sacred and are harried by a McDonalds hamburger. Traveling is invigorating as it breaks is free of cultural conditioning and challenges us to see the world anew.

Much of the Philippines is modern and similar to western society in look and value, yet the people of the outlying regions live as their ancestors without electricity, refrigerators, stoves, TV’s or radio living of the land or sea. In this region, of the Philippines, there were incidences of cannibalism up to the year 1991 when the volcano Mt. Pinatubo erupted and wiped them out. Traveling the back woods of the Philippines is like going back in time a journey not for the weak at heart, yet for the braver of heart and the more open minded an incredible experience.

Jozef Gorka

Philippines vs. Thailand

Larry Ngaosi — Tue, 27 May 2008 13:09:09 +0000

Philippines and Thailand, both are tempting locations in South East Asia for tourists and retirement living. Philippines and Thailand have many benefits. Let’s have a closer look at both of them.
Airports and Transportation
BANGKOK When you land on Thailand’s latest and biggest Bangkok International Suvarnabhumi Airport it surely will be one of the biggest and most technologically advanced buildings you ever been to. It’s so huge that Thais use little cars and Segways to commute inside the airport’s building. When you finally get trough all the emigration and acres of the airport and decide to go to downtown Bangkok, nothing easier. Just go with one of the taxis companies by the airports exit and go on the smooth and new freeway, with multi leveled intersections. Big and modern metropoly will start to unveil before your eyes with high skyscrapers and some traditional buildings. Then when you decide to travel in the city it’s infrastructure will amaze you how modern and advanced it is. One option you have is to hop on on one of the Skytrains that is hanged above the city and admire cities tall apartment buildings of different shapes and amazing locations. Bangkok’s subway system runs smooth and quiet. You can use your mobile phone on the trains and on every station they have barriers protecting the passengers from the live tracks and they are closed until the train stops completely. The transportation in Bangkok is simply state of the art. On the roads of the city you don’t really see cars older than 20 years. Most of them are brand new or in the good condition. Taxis are not older than six, seven years and very colorful. Other means of transportation in the city are Tuk-Tuks (kind of a motorcycle tricycle) which are of the same price as taxis. You also can hail one of the motorbike taxis. They are just simply motorbikes with a rider that can get you from one place to another for again price not different than a regular cab, although quicker.

MANILA: The Filipino airport is far less advanced. Upon arrival to the Manila’s airport NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) you will be struck that the main Filipino airport looks like they were still the seventies. During rather quick walk through emigration, arrivals and customs you can notice that the electronics (displays, fans, etc.) don’t really work as they should. When you make your way out of the building you can take dilapidated taxi or simply walk out to the street and take a jeepney. Jeepneys are one of the most popular means of mass transportation in the Philippines, on the front they resemble old U.S. military vehicles. During your journey towards the centre of the Manila you will experience heavy traffic with plenty of ancient vehicles pumping tons of pollution in to the air, people and street vendors walking between the cars. Roads are often uneven and high volume of cars occurs most part of the day. You can find buses in the capitol all of them at least fifteen years old, sometimes thirty. All of them ram packed. In the downtown and on it’s outskirts they are three lines of elevated railways. First two form LRT (Light Railway System) and the third line bit more roomy is called MRT (Manila Metro Railway Transit System). Above systems had intentions of decongesting the city although when you travel on them you are often bond for heavy human congestion inside the wagon. From the trains you can have a glimpse on the dirty metropoly, full of dirty buildings, poor people trying to make ends meet and skyscrapers in the vicinity of slums. If you want to just commute on a short distance in the local area you can use a tricycle. This invention one can only find in the Philippines. It’s basically a motorbike with a side car welded to it. Great and fast for maneuvering between the traffic.

Climates: Thailand vs Philippines

THAILAND CLIMATE: Thailand lies in the tropical weather sphere. In the north of the country they are mountains, rest of it is rather flat with few bigger mountains in the middle and hills and valleys here and there. In the mountains there are nice places to hide from civilization and there are interesting religious sites. Chung mai is one of the bigger cities in the north and has much to offer. In the south there are numerous beach resort cities with large ex pats communities such as Pataya or Phuket. In the country you can find cool spots for rock climbing or nice tropical forest hideouts.

PHILIPPINES CLIMATE The Philippines are located more to the south than Thailand, the climate there depends on the location but is generally hot and humid. The country is located on more than 7.000 islands and on them you can often find mountain retreats that can help you have a rest from constant heat during the hot season. The Philippines’ fauna and flora are one of the richest in the world and the vistas are breathtaking. In the Philippines you can find high mountains, volcanos, forests, jungles, beautiful beaches and tremendous diving spots. Manila, the capital lays in the biggest north island, Luzon. In the middle there’s Cebu, second biggest city known for having great diving spots in it’s vicinity. Far up north there’s Baguio city which is nicknamed the Summer Capital of The Philippines thanks to it’s colder mountainous climate that gives Filipinos a place to rest from continuous heat. Boracay and Puerto Galera are one of the many beach resort areas that have many foreigners settled in them.

Thailand’s and Philippine’s history

THAI HISTORYThailand is the only South East Asia country that never has been colonized by western powers. In the past it has strong hand rulers that were able to exploit tensions between the colonial powers. During the II world war Thailand was Japanese ally and straight after war they arose as American supporter. It’s a kingdom ruled by monarchy to this day with a fresh constitution written just in 2007.

FILIPINO HISTORY The Philippines were early discovered by Magellan in 1521 and added to Spanish Crown Territory in 1565. Spanish have changed the life o tribes living on the islands unifying them into one nation: The Philippines. At the beginning of 20th century the Philippines gained independence although U.S. were in charge of the foreign affairs. During the WWII Japanese invaded the islands which were claimed back by U.S. forces in 1945. After war until now the Philippines stayed more less a democracy. Although the corruption here is classified as 8th in the world.

Culture and Religion in both countries

THAILAND The countries culture has many influences from India, China and bordering Cambodia. Thailand’s main religion is Theravada Buddhism with other minor theologies like Islam, Christianity and other kinds of Buddhism. Thailand’s visual arts and music is rich and sophisticated. Traditional Thai wear and architecture is beautiful with many small details. They catch and eye being so rich in gold and colors.

PHILIPPINES The Spanish brought to country Christianity, it’s religion for over 90% of Filipinos, second is Islam with only 5%. You also find here Taoism, Buddhism and other religions. Culture of The Philippines as cooking has been diversified by many influences, mainly Spanish, American and also Mexican. Although there are tangible left overs of Austronesian culture, names, expressions and numbers are Spanish. There’s plenty of building erected in the Spanish style. Biggest American legacy is use of English that is official language of the Islands, and therefore the Philippines are the 3rd biggest English speaking country in the world with the population of over 90 millions. Plus the culture differs from region to region as The Philippines are unified tribes under the flag of the Philippines.

Cuisine and goods: Thailand vs Philippines

THAILAND The Thai cuisine is thought to be one of the best and richest in the world. Is a bit similar to the Chinese cooking although has much more character to it because of it’s spiciness, hotness, often also sweet, sour, salty and bitter, many times all above tastes are mixed together. The Thailand’s basic staple food is rice, often noodles too. Meats of all sort are used in the meals, fish and seafood. The best thing about countries kitchen are the spices and sauces, they are delicious and there’s wide variety of them. Vegetarians can have a hard time in Thailand as most of the meals consist either meat or seafood. But there is never problem with finding fresh fruits as there’s abundance of them there. Western meals can get pricey although generally there’s no problem with finding them. Also one can easily avail plenty of western food products and goods.

PHILIPPINES The Filipino cuisine is quite diversified. It’s a mixture of influences of the Chinese, Spanish, Japanese, Indian and sadly American kitchens. Many tourists don’t even try it being misled by guidebooks saying bad things about it. The local cantinas sometimes look shabby although most of them sell delicious, fresh food free from GM products. Staple food is of course rice but inn the Philippines you can also find noodles, potatoes and bakery. The later is rather not very good with plenty of sweet soft breads. From Chinese Filipinos have their national snack, balot and many other more sophisticated meals. From Spanish they inherited a bit of European cooking, and Americans commercialized the market bringing fastfoods and barbecued greasy scraps of meat (like: heads, ears, noses, skins) that U.S. used to sell to locals who managed to make delicious! The selection of western goods is poorer than in Thailand although plenty of them have much cheaper equivalents. Prices of fruit and veggies differ from region to region, but there’s no problem with finding them cheap in western standards.

Most important now!!!

Societies in Thailand and the Philippines

Thailand Thailand’s society is a hierarchical one and it depends on the social position and the age of the person. Generally the oldest members of the society plus buddhist monks receive most respect. It’s an undemocratic society with believe in authority and favoritism. Thais rather avoid confrontation and try to keep calm, I don’t touch you and you don’t do anything to me. People of Thailand have in their tradition building a social net of relations. Although the foreigners are kept outside this net of contacts and don’t be surprised when they sometimes ignore you or look on you with a disgrace. Only one type of relation you surely can experience by dealing with Thai people: the relation with a material background. Mostly on the street from the locals you’ll hear short and most of the time same dialogue: What’s your name? Where you from? Do you want to buy my T-shirt, bracelet or a ring. After so many years of western influence locals still refuse to learn English so sometimes you can have a hard time trying to ask for a way or a product. Thailand is advertised by it’s government as a land of smile, although foreigners can have an impression of coldness from the locals. The smile in Thai tradition has a bit fake meaning and it helps them to avoid conflicts with others. Perhaps the Thai’s monarchs were smiling this way to their enemies in the past.

The Philippines Filipinos’ society is based on a supportive barkada. Barkada is a group of friends, very often family that support each other. In this relationship everyone supports everyone by doing there bit for survival of the whole group. It has very long tradition and is making the Philippines happy and special place. Filipinos are very friendly and open on new people with disregard on their beliefs, gender, sexual orientation, social position or color of the skin. They are very hospitable and always willing to help. One of the most popular expressions on the islands is: ‘KAININ TAYO!’ which means: ‘Let’s eat together’. Filipinos always invite you to eat with them, always. The people of the Philippines are open minded lot with big hearts and able to generate happiness in the hardest moments. In the latest rankings for the happiest people in the world they have taken very high place to their own amazement. Also there is no tendency of these people to moan about their dead relatives. BAHLA NA! Is another expression that means: ‘go with the flow and don’t worry!’. Materialism is not so widespreaded like in western countries although it’s existing and growing mainly due to Yankees’ influence. Over all The Filipinos are one of the most pleasant people on planet earth to deal with and around 90% of them speak English. They love foreigners to come to their country and this love is not based on materialism. It’s a human to human love that the rest of the world should learn from them.

Security in the countries

Plenty of people think that there are guns on the streets of the Philippines after seeing one of security guards with a shotgun. There are guns in the Philippines, it’s true. But on the other hand country is very well secured by those heavy armed security guards where Thailand is the 3rd country in the world for murders with use of firearms. I have walked through doggiest areas of Metro Manila at night such as Paranaque or Las Pinas and never felt in danger.

So reassuming, two countries are both beautiful with rich natures and interesting cultures. Yet they differ a lot. One has supporters the other has opponents. You really would have to visit both countries yourself to make the decision which is better. Although the Philippines have much more welcoming character and it’s easy to communicate with locals since most of them speak English, even children and elderly in little villages. Thailand lost it’s oriental character because of it’s industrialization and westernization. It’s nothing like in 1971′s movie: “Bruce Lee Karate A Muerte En Bangkok”. Bangkok has lost it’s character due to to many expensive apartments and people getting cold in chase of money. If you want to learn what the life is really about come to the Philippines and see yourself!

Jozef Gorka

Buying and Driving a Car in the Philippines

Larry Ngaosi — Sun, 25 May 2008 16:23:48 +0000

Choosing A Car

Many ex pats make a choice of buying a brand new small japanese sedan car like TOYOTA VIOS or HONDA CITY which you can avail from around 650 000 Philippine peso (around $15 000). You can go much higher above that or go for a second hand car, it all depends on your budget. It’s good value for many since used cars are more expensive in the Philippines than in the western countries. Although the repairs are cheap. For example for used Toyota Corolla year 1990 you probably gonna spend around 100 000 Philippines peso (around $2300). Repairs will cost you from P250 for simple repair in the authorized garage to P2000-P5000 per day for some serious repair. In the Philippines you can find plenty of mechanics, if you befriend one then they can work for you for cheaper with better effect plus you always sure of the repair since the mechanic is your friend.
If you fancy a vintage car there are plenty of VW bugs here going cheap. Like for a perfect condition, fully refurbished will cost you around P150 – 200 000(around $3500 – 4600). Also you can find here some nice vintage japanese cars from 70s and really nice ones american cars from 50′s 60′s and 70′s. You can also go Filipino style buying a brand new small jeep made of scrap aluminum. It’s new, parts are new, it’s reliable in the hard terrain and easy to repair by anyone. Downside of the project is security since the jeep doesn’t have either doors or windows. Protection from the rain gives you sheet of tarpaulin on the back. and the windscreen with a bit of roof on the to

Sorting Out Papers

After purchase of a car you take the papers to the local LTO (Land Transportation Office), pay a tax equivalent to the VAT (about 10% ) and get your papers. Like everything else in the Philippines that has to do with the government offices, The process can take all day or a few minutes. All depending on how much “snack money” you are willing to use to grease the wheels. You can easily find “fixers” outside the LTO who will charge you whatever they think you will pay but P500 is more than enough. Often they will be retired government workers, policemen, etc. or their wives. When I was buying my car I was lucky enough that the person who was selling me the car had their connections in the LTO.

Ownership

It’s not always a wise idea to put a car in your own name. Accident settlements here are generally low. For example you can’t find a motorcycle liability policy for more than P50 000 but this can change if a “rich” foreigner is involved. No matter who is driving, the owner is ultimately responsible. This is what I have done. My car is registered on somebody’s else name. I am not scared that he will ever claim my car as his because the courts in the Philippines are more interested in equity and if you can show that you provided the money for the purchase of the car and that it has never been paid back than in what is written on the papers. It’s very unlikely the court would award the car to the other person plus it takes months and a lot of money which most Filipinos are usually not willing or having to provide.

Driving vehicle in the Phills

Then comes the most important thing, driving a car in the Philippines! Well, driving here is a bit chaotic. There’s a lot of vehicles on the road, plenty of tricycles, bicycles, jeepneys and old fuming cars. (For the latter reason is wise for you to get a car with good Air Conditioning.) Drivers don’t save on the horns, there’s loads of tooting but the drivers don’t argue! They simply either letting you know that they coming and you should stay where you are instead of joining the traffic, or over taking you. Also there’s whole galactic of another purposes like tooting on a friend, on a too slow going jeepney, on a dog or sexy lady.It gets noisy. After a while you notice that the chaos is only an impression and most of Filipinos drives very cautiously to avoid damaging there ‘expensive’ vehicles.
Parking in the bigger cities may be a problem although in smaller cities you can park literally everywhere. Traffic lights are quite rare here in the Philippines, instead you often see a Policeman coordinating the traffic.

Don’t always expect drivers to use lights at night because they just might be broken, same goes for brake lights and indicators. Also badly tinted windows adding to the danger at the night time when a young driver cannot see enough because of his ‘cool’ car tints. I’ve heard about few accidents caused by negligence in brake servicing as well.
If you have experience in driving in a big city like New York or London with high volume of traffic, then you should be fine. If not you may have a problem with getting used to new ‘road environment’. This problem can be solved by hiring a chauffeur (prices start from P2500/£60 per month) for your vehicle and trying to get a feeling of the Filipino road conduct.

Driving License Laws

So called “international” drivers licenses are not recognized here. You can legally drive on your foreign license for a period of 90 days along with your passport. Then you have to get a RP license. Again, it’s just a visit to the LTO. In theory you take a written test and a driving test but again P500 of “snack money” gets you your “temporary” license immediately. No matter where you are, all permanent licenses come from Manila and will take 6 to 8 months because of the overload there. Although, your “temporary” license is good until you actually get the permanent one.
Plenty of people will tell you how they drove on their US/UK/whatever licenses for years and just played ignorant when caught. That happened to me few times here and Police/Traffic enforcement never asked any questions when saw my british driving license. Sometimes you will be warned to get an RP license immediately. There are also cases when a policeman will use such an opportunity to extort money so it’s up to you what you gonna do.

See you on the road!

Jozef Gorka.

Foreigners Buying Property in the Philippines

Tom Coghill — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 03:12:59 +0000

Foreigners Buying Property in the Philippines have the property in another persons name.

I visited the Philippines for the first time in 1997. Upon arriving at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, I instantly realized that I had come to a country with an ill deserved reputation as over-Americanized and not Asian enough. The warm weather was a relief after coming out of a New York winter. There was a band playing Filipino folk music in the airport, wearing straw hats and the traditional barong tagalong shirts. I was overwhelmed by the sounds and colors that swirled through the streets as I made my way to the domestic airport for a flight to Cebu. I stayed in Cebu for one month and on my return to the U.S., I knew that I wanted a place of my own there to go back to.

In 1998 I made a second visit. This time along with Cebu I took excursions to the islands of Bohol and Palawan, thereby giving myself a look at a few of the over 7,000 islands the Philippines has to offer. Cebu appealed to me because it is a city but with a relaxed air and without the congestion of Manila. I also figured that real estate would be somewhat cheaper, so I decided to concentrate on Cebu.

Philippines Property Categories

There are many categories of properties in the Philippines. The most expensive real estate is the subdivisions. Subdivisions are geared towards foreigners and middle to upper-middle class Filipinos, including those who work abroad. They vary but generally subdivisions have there own infrastructure and security. Developers often set up booths in local malls to display their models. You can buy a house and lot with the developer building the house, or sometimes just the lot and build the house yourself. Subdivisions are good because they usually have flexible payment schemes. If you don’t have money to pay for the house in full you can opt for term payments. Make sure they give you an interest rate you can live with. All of the subdivisions I’ve seen offer a maximum of 5 years to pay. So, for a house that costs $USD20.000 you’re talking about $USD500/month for five years and it’s yours. There are simple subdivisions without pools and clubhouses that offer a house and lot for just over $USD10.000 so shop according to your budget.

Another category of property is the house or house lot outside of a subdivision. This type of property will generally be cheaper, especially if it is outside of a major city like Cebu. One concern is that you have to rely on public services when it comes to water and waste removal, as well as the maintenance of your electrical grid. In other words, you’re in the “real world”. If you fancy the countryside you can find extremely cheap lots and local carpenters to build your nest. Lot listings such as these are easily found on the internet. There are a variety of Filipino realtors online from reputable companies. My advice is to make contact and then get on a plane and take a look.

Another option is the condominium. New and used condominiums are everywhere and like subdivisions, offer payment plans. Newer condos can be overpriced so be picky.

Where to Buy Property in The Philippines

Deciding which island to buy on is a complicated affair. I would suggest thinking about the kind of environment you like. Every major island in the Philippines has an area with ample countryside but not every island has a major city. Cebu is the middle road. There is a good size city and a geographically diverse countryside. Bohol is an almost entirely agricultural island with a quaint seaside town. Palawan, often called the Philippines “Last Frontier”, is vast and breathtaking. If the beach is your thing, you will find it in Palawan. Land in Palawan is much cheaper than other areas of the Philippines. I’ve seen subdivisions with lots advertised as low as $USD1.800. Domestic travel is inexpensive so find out what island speaks to you.

How to Buy Buy Property in The Philippines

The procedure for buying real estate in the Philippines takes some getting used to. Foreigners (non-Filipinos not including former Filipinos) can not buy property outright. The easiest way for a non-Filipino to buy property is to have a Filipino spouse purchase the land. Former Filipinos can buy land up to a certain amount. The foreigner can own the building but not the land, unless the foreigner has a Philippine Special Retirement/Investment Visa. To qualify for this visa you must be at least 35 years old and meet the bank deposit requirement which can be withdrawn at a later date for your investments. There is a processing fee and the amount of the deposit/investment needed depends on whether or not you are married to a Filipino or former Filipino. This allows you almost all of the investment privileges of a Filipino citizen. For specifics on the program, check out the Philippine investors visa website. Foreigners are allowed to own condominium units outright but are only allowed to own 40% of a building or complex. You can also form a corporation where you and a Filipino or former Filipino partner, divide the ownership. This partner could be your spouse or child. For corporations, the Philippine government recognizes the right of succession in the case of foreigners.

The Philippines offers a unique environment for your get-away or permanent home. There are so many islands to choose from and a well developed industry accustomed to accommodating foreigners.

Original Post

However, there are various means by which noncitizens can hold property in the Philippines.

The most common way is a corporate structure. Corporations can own land, so long as Filipino citizens own 60 percent of the company; the rest can be owned by a foreign partner or partners. The arrangement makes it particularly easy for foreigners to buy condominiums, as long as they don’t compose more than 40 percent of a building’s ownership.

As a result, Walters owns two of his properties in his own name. He has put the other two in his wife’s name, a common practice but one that can cause problems in the event of a divorce.

Foreigners cannot claim citizenship in the Philippines without renouncing their original nationalities. Hardly any do.

But people of Filipino descent may be able to claim dual citizenship and, with it, the right to buy land. And even natural born Filipinos who have lost or given up their citizenship can own as much as 5,000 square meters, or about 54,000 square feet, in an urban development or three hectares, or 7.4 acres, in the countryside.

As a result, it is increasingly popular for overseas Filipinos to invest back home.

The expatriate Filipino population is global and extensive, but centered in the United States. Big developers like Ayala Land, Megaworld and Rockwell Land have started advertising their developments in major U.S. cities, trying to attract investment from the Balikbayans, the Filipino word for nationals who live abroad permanently.

Foreigners without local blood ties who want to make purchases other than condos must get more creative. Sometimes they fall back on a variation of the corporate structure: The foreign partner makes an off-the-books arrangement with local “owners.”

“Basically you can set up a Philippines corporation, have your lawyers or Filipino friends as 1 percent owners, but in reality the entire money is foreign,” said Monique Pronove, managing director for Pronove Tai & Associates property consultants. However, there are laws explicitly aimed at preventing such dummy partnerships.

“The reality is, yes, you can do it,” Pronove said. “But I would rather, if you are my client, that you be safe and do it legally and own condominium properties. And anyway, it is easier as well.”

Some foreigners have managed to secure beachfront property legally, through the use of 25-year leases, often with automatic renewals. This is particularly common on the popular resort island of Boracay, where Germans pioneered the resort trade and there are many properties in foreign hands. The lease holders then are free to build homes, although eventually the ground can be sold out from under them.

For the most part, though, foreign interest is centered on high-end condo developments in Manila’s best neighborhoods. There are some condo projects in Cebu, the country’s second city, but almost none elsewhere.

John Riad, chief executive of the online real-estate brokerage HousingInteractive.com, said he specialized in condos in the Makati, Rockwell and Fort Bonifacio neighborhoods, the most exclusive parts of Manila.

Original Post http://www.iht.com/articles/2006/01/19/news/rebuyphil.php

Philippine Retirement Visa

Tom Coghill — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 01:23:56 +0000

Philippine Retirement Visa Benefits

Low Cost

$1400 one time payment. Unlimited stay in the Philippines.

Once you are an SRRV Visa holder, it opens the door to vast opportunities and benefits. These include:

1. Option to Retire Permanently

• You may live, work and study in the Philippines

2. Multiple Entry Privileges

• You may travel outside the Philippines and re-enter anytime

3. Exemptions from:

• Income tax over your pension and annuities;
• Exit and re-entry permits of the Bureau of Immigration;
• Annual registration requirement of the Bureau of Immigration;
• Customs Duties and Taxes with regard to the importation of household goods and personal effects up to US$7,000.00;
• Travel tax, if you stay in the Philippines is less than one year from the last entry date; and
• I-Card

As an SRR Visa holder, the PRA can assist you in obtaining basic documents from other government agencies. These include, but are not limited to:

• Alien Employment Permit
• Driver’s License
• Tax Exemption/Extension Certificate
• Tax Identification Number
• National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance

Cost $1400

Email us for more information and to determine eligibility.

Cotabato City, Philippines

Tom Coghill — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 10:58:50 +0000

Cotabato City Description

The City of Cotabato economically is a trading center for farm products coming from the nearby municipalities. These products are copra, rice, corn, cassava and beans. Cotabato City is also a great source of aquatic products like shrimps, crabs, various tropical fishes most especially the yellow fin tuna.

Some thirty minutes from Cotabato City, is a spectacular coral reef formation that would entice divers, both amateur and professional. Cotabato City is justifiably famous for its woven fabrics because of the intricate and uniques designs made with fine and expensive threads making them the hallmarks of an industry being carried out for many centuries.

Cotabato City in particular is also proud of tradition in this ancient craft and produces some of the finest examples of Loom woven material to be seen anywhere in the world.

Cotabato City Attractions

Spend your leisure time on both historical and natural attractions you can find here in Cotabato City.

Rio Grande de Cotabato is the most famous landmarks in Cotabato City. Next spot travelers can visit is the Tamontaka Church which was built in 1872 of Spanish architecture and design. About a 5 minute ride from the city is a serene and tranquil place with an area of about 50 hectares were the major seminaries are lcoated. It has a St. Bernadette Grotto and a giant Jesus Scupture that is very ideal for those who want to get in touch with their inner selves. It is the oldest church in the city, a relic of the living past.

Lourdes Grotto is a replica of Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto in France. The compound is equipped with ideal retreat house for recollection and seminars, a mini zoo and a children’s park.

Nature lovers and thrill-seeking explorers will be fascinated by Kutang Bato Caves. The only cave in the country that is right in the heart of the city. These caves were also the source of the city’s present name for “KUTA” means FORT and “WATO” means STONE hence the name “Fort of Stone” which later on became Cotabato. Its walls of white, beige and brownish shade glitters in the dark and echoes a colorful past dating back to the days when no foreign foot yet trampled upon its land. The caves had given sanctuary to the natives when the Spaniards tried to convert them into the Castillan Faith and has served as refuge when the Filipino guerillas fought the invading force of the Japanese Imperial Army during the Second World War.

Takumi Butai Memorial Shrine- A monument in honor of Takumi Butai and Japanese soldiers who died here during the Second world War. Takumi was the Provincial Commander of the Japanese forces assigned in Cotabato City. Before he died, he requested that some of his ashes be buried in Cotabato City. This shrine was put up by the Lion’s Club of Kyoto, Japan in cooperation with the City Government of Cotabato.

Cotabato City Location

Cotabato City is an undertaken city geographically surrounded by the Province of Maguindanao that belongs to the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). Yet the City is considered part of Region XII, not of ARMM.

Cotabato City is located at the southwestern part of the Philippines, approximately 698.9 nautical miles (1294 km) from Manila, the country’s capital. Cotabato City is roughly about 240 kilometers west of Davao City, about 154 kilometers northwest of General Santos City, 180 nautical miles east of Zamboanga City and 350 kilometers south of Cagayan de Oro City. It has a total land area of roughly 27,564 hectares.

Cebu City, Philippines

Tom Coghill — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 09:23:08 +0000

Cebu City Description

The City of Cebu is the capital of Cebu in the Philippines and is the second most important metropolitan center in the country. It is the country’s main domestic shipping hub and is home to more than 80% of the country’s inter-island shipping companies. Cebu is also the main hub, outside of the capital, of international flights into the country and is the most important center of commerce, trade, and industry in the Visayas and Mindanao, the southern parts of the country. Cebu City is dubbed the Queen City of the South because of these important functions the city does. According to the official 2000 census, it has a population of 718,821 people in 147,600 households. Metro Cebu has a total population of more than 2 million people.

Cebu City Attractions

Cebu City is almost like Metro Manila because of the central trading, shipping business and commerce. However, there are historical and natural wonders you might want to discover and experience here in the Queen of South.

The 485-year-old cross, Magellan’s Cross, is housed in a small chapel next to the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño on Magallanes Street (Magallanes being the Spanish name of Magellan), just in front of the city hall of Cebu City. Magellan’s Cross is a symbol of Cebu City and the chapel’s image can be found in its city seal. It is also seen as the symbol of Roman Catholicism in the Philippines.

Cebu’s oldest Roman Catholic Church, the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño, also still retains the original stone texture and natural color it had in 1735. Its towering facade blends Muslim, Romanesque, and neo-classical architecture, this church of the Señor Santo Niño de Cebu-which translates literally as “holy child of Cebu.” And if you are one of those devoted Roman Catholics, you wouldn’t want to miss seeing this church in your life.

Fort San Pedro is the oldest and smallest fort in the Philippines. Built by the Spaniards to fight off sieges by hostile natives and Muslim pirates, the fort was finished in 1738, some 200 years after it started construction.

The fort at one time or another also became the American Warwick Barracks during the American Regime, got turned into classrooms where Cebuanos received formal education from 1937 to 1941, used as prison camp and fortification for Japanese soldiers during World War II or from 1941 to 1945, served as hospital when battle for liberation was fought, and became an army camp from 1946 to 1950. This place is really amazing by serving a lot of purpose for the Cebuanos.

Cebu City Location

The city lies on the eastern shore of the island of Cebu and is the first Spanish settlement in the country. The Mactan-Cebu International Airport, located in Lapu-Lapu City is only a twenty-minute drive away from Cebu City. Its geographic coordinates are 10°17′0″N, 123°54′0″E. To the northeast of the city are Mandaue City and the town of Consolacion, to the west are Toledo City, the towns of Balamban, and Asturias, to the south are Talisay City and the town of Minglanilla. Across Mactan Strait to the east is Mactan Island where Lapu-Lapu City is located.

Cavite City, Philippines

Tom Coghill — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 13:03:25 +0000

Cavite City Description

Cavite City occupies a hook shaped peninsula projecting out into Manila Bay. Evident in the city’s shape, the province’s name was derived from the Tagalog word “kawit” which means hook.

Cavite City has been a birthplace to some of the national heroes like Emilio Aguinaldo. Also, the Corregidor Island gained international fame as the site of the valiant, last ditch stand of the Filipino-American forces against the Japanese invaders in 1942. The fortress island is now a major tourist attraction, as the buildings, tunnels, gun emplacements and other structures remain well-preserved.

There are more to expect on Cavite City because the historical attractions of Cavite City is one of the phenomenal things you can find here. Cavite City is filled with historical events seen in locations and museums. Read along to find out more about what to see in Cavite City.

Cavite City Attraction

The Aguinaldo Shrine and Museum in Kawit is where the independence of the Philippines was proclaimed on June 12, 1898 by General Aguinaldo, the Philippines’ first president.

The Andres Bonifacio House in General Trias is the former home of the country’s revolutionary leader. The site of his court martial in Maragondon is also preserved. Other historical sites include the Battle of Alapan and Battle of Julian Bridge Markers, the House of Tirona, and Fort San Felipe.

Cavite features religious landmarks that reflect the province’s devotion to the people’s beliefs. The main churches of the province are the Imus Cathedral, Silang, General Trias and Maragondon Catholic Churches. The Shrines of Our Lady of La Salette, Silang, and St. Anne, Tagaytay, also attract pilgrims.

The picturesque natural wonders are mostly found in the upland areas such as Tagaytay Ridge, Macabag Cave in Maragondon, Balite Falls in Amadeo, Malibiclibic Falls in General Aguinaldo-Magallanes Boarder, Mts. Palay-Palay and Mataas na Gulod National Park in Ternate and Maragondon, Sitio Buhay Unclassified Forest in Magallanes and flowers, vegetables and coffee farms.

Cavite City Location

Cavite City lies 35 kilometers southwest from Manila by road. It borders the municipality of Noveleta to the south. The peninsula encloses Bacoor Bay to the southeast and Cañacao Bay to the northeast, both small parts of Manila Bay. The Sangley Point Naval Base is part of the city and occupies the northernmost portion of the peninsula. This used to be an American military naval base and has since been converted into a special Philippine military base.

Cavite City Hotels and Resorts

Mount Sea Grand Resort is approximately 28kms. away or a one-hour drive away from Manila and 45 minutes away from the NAIA airport. No need to worry if you’re thinking of emergency cases, it is only 10 minutes away from the nearest hospital. this is one of the best of the resorts at Cavite City and you can enjoy the stay for 4,700 pesos for a night in one room. And complete meals come in package.

Microtel Inn and Suites Eagle Ridge is a 57-room hotel situated in the flourishing town of Gen. Trias, Cavite which features four championship golf courses designed to provide enthusiasts with the opportunity to enjoy an international-caliber golfing venue. Nearby are the Gateway Business Park/Special Economic Zone and the First Cavite Industrial Estate.

Caylabne Bay Resort is one of the Philippines’ most promising resort-hotel which is just 90 minutes from Manila. It has a panoramic view of pristine beaches and virgin forests. Treat yourself to the best of Asia in this Spanish Mediterranean-themed hideaway set in a secluded cove along the rugged coast of Ternate, Cavite.