LAWSTUDE'S JOURNEYS

Batad - Tappia Waterfall Hike

2008-07-25T09:34:00.002+08:00

Trip to Batad takes practically the whole day and recommended only to strong hikers. Approximately 16 kilometers from town proper, 12 kilometers of which is traveled by either a jeepney or a tricycle and the rest of the distance to be traversed by foot on mountain trails. Going down to the falls is a much easier 1 1/2 hour trek but the challenge lies on coming back where it took me almost three hours of climbing and trekking just to go back to our jeepney.

Although this probably is my hardest hike so far, (and would probably not climb a mountain again this year), I consider this hike one of the most memorable because of the magnificent landscapes and beauty of nature that surrounded me.

Let me share to you these photos I have taken during my hike:

Hanging House on the Way to Batad

"I am Half-way There." A bench overlooking the Place I have been.

Contoured and Amphi-theater like Rice Terraces of Batad

Clay and Stone Walking Trail that is Slippery When Wet.

A View of Batad Village

One of the Stop-Over in a Three-Hour Hike.

Niche at the Center of the Terraces. My guide said unclaimed bodies of hikers are temporarily placed here.

Tall Inverted-Cone Shaped Mountain Surrounded by a Stream.

The Refreshing Tappia Waterfall

A refreshing reward for an arduous trek.

Hiwang

2008-07-22T09:36:00.003+08:00

Nature at it's best. Hiwang definitely is Ifugao's hidden paradise. To wake-up one morning with these magnificent views is definitely priceless. So, I will just let these photos speak for themselves:

Hiwang Native House Inn is just 9 kilometers from Banaue on the road to Hapao. It is an ancestral property managed by Noel, a soft-spoken and very accomodating Ifugao. The place also offers antiques specially the bulol or Rice Gods which have gone thru traditional rituals. And best of all, the place is perched atop a high ridge with amazing views of the terraces below.

I have promised Noel to advertise the place, so I posted his card and contact number here. So, if you plan to spend the night in Ifugao and if you really want to feel the nature, go check his place out or contact him at the number above.

Hapao-Hungduan-Ducligan Trek

2008-07-20T08:44:00.003+08:00

The Hapao-Hungduan-Ducligan Trek is one of the easiest and pleasurable hike in Ifugao. It will take you just barely four hours (back and forth) to walk through the dazzling rice terraces of Hapao and Hungduan which are spread out over the valley floor.

To walk to a small hot springs beside a river in Hapao, you need to take on the concrete steps behind the Hungduan Viewpoint and follow the paved irrigation canal for about 10 minutes until you reach a small group of houses. Then, it is another 20 minute hike to the river where you can cool off in the refreshing water or soothe yourself in the warm hot springs.

Here are some photos I have taken on the awe-inspiring hike featuring the Rice Terraces of Hapao and Hungduan, the walking trails, the river and the hot spring:

Personal Notes:

Firstly, in this blog's poll last week, I ask you, my dear readers, where do you want me to go next? The results were not really a surprise. The top vote goes to BATANES while the second and third places go to CAMIGUIN and TUBATTAHA REEF respectively. I always wanted to go to BATANES had several postponed trips to that place in previous years. Your votes just made me eager to go to BATANES and I will probably go there in the summer of 2009 or earlier if opportunity knocks. I just hope that my dream of going there will be fulfilled soon.

Secondly, I joined Top 100 Traveling Sites about a month ago just for curiosity's sake. I first saw it in Tutubi's famous Backpacking Philippines and Asia site so I decided to join it. I am just so amazed that in just short span of time that I have joined them, this site is now ranked at 61. I am just so amazed 'coz I really do not know that this site is also getting such attention worldwide. My hats-off too to Tutubi for his site is ranked in the high top 20s.

And lastly, I have been receiving e-mails and comments about why am I not posting new law topics. Pardon me for not having to post legal matters in recent months. Thank you for those who have noticed it and I really have some posts made up for taxes and some about the latest laws and jurisprudence. It's just that I still have lots of catching-up to do with regards to postings of my recent travels particularly on Ifugao and Pangasinan. I do promise however that once all of these travel posts are over (it's rainy days anyways), I'll post more about laws and some other stuff.

But for the meantime, I do hope that you enjoy my upcoming travel posts.

Banaue Rice Terraces

2008-07-17T13:02:00.000+08:00

Hailed as the 8th Wonder of the World, the Banaue Rice Terraces showcase a truly mesmerizing display. These mus-walled rice terraces is North Luzon's most famous sight and has a pleasing, organic quality that differentiate the place from stone-walled terraces in most of the Cordillera.

World Heritage-listed, the Banaue Rice Terraces are impressive not only for their chiseled beauty but because they were created around two thousand years ago.

Here are some more photos I have taken from the place:

The rice terraces were built by the Ifugao. Along with being the most feared head-hunters in Cordillera, they were skilled engineers who invented a sophisticated irrigation system of bamboo tubes and elaborate mud channels to bring water to the terraces.

What's sad however is that some of the terraces are nearing deterioration because of the occurrence of calamities such as earthquakes and storms. Some farmers even opt not to continue farming because of the high costs farm goods as well as high-cost of eradicating pests such as worms and other bugs.

Aesthetically, there are even some houses made of galvanized sheets and cement which encroach on the rice terraces making them an eyesore.

While Banaue remains the center of the rich Ifugao culture, tourism undoubtedly shapes the town. A paved road from the lowlands ensures that thousands of tourists visit the place each year. There are numerous guides, drivers and hawkers around the area so the best option really is to ask the well-staffed Banaue Tourist Information Center in the town center.

It's worth to note that besides Banaue, there are four other Ifugao rice terraces that are included on the UNESCO World Heritage list. These are Batad, Mayoyao, Hapao and Kiangan. I am fortunate enough to trek in the terraces of two of the mentioned places and I will share pics and personal experiences on these places on my up-coming posts.

Ifugao Road Trip

2008-07-14T21:12:00.000+08:00

The province of Ifugao is best known for its rice terraces, which can be found in almost all the municipalities of the province. Considered one of the eight wonders of the world, the famed terraces are a marvelous engineering feat achieved by the ancients to maximize use of the land for food production. But before my posts on these famed rice terraces, let me just feature here five municipalities in Ifugao that I have passed going to my target destination.

Lamut is the first municipality that I have passed just right after Bagabag, Nueva Vizcaya. It is where the Ifugao State University is located. Other the occasional scenic mountain by the roadside, there is really nothing much to see here.

Kiangan is dubbed The Heritage Town of Ifugao. Believed to be the first human settlement in Ifugao, it is where Ifugao and American troops helped force General Yamashita to make his informal surrender in World War II. Sights to see here include the War Memorial Shrine, Million Dollar Hill, Nagacadan and Julungan Terraces and Pangaggawan Cave.

Lagawe is the capital of Ifugao and basically the province' commercial center. A nice, laid back town with lush trees and gardens by the roadside and magnificent view of the montains as a backdrop to the smooth concrete road. A small rice terraces in these mountains serve as a hint of greater views to come.

Hingyon is another laid-back town sanwiched between Lagawe and Banaue. It's main attraction is the Hingyon View Point where you can have a glimpse of the rice terraces. It even have several Ifugao huts by the roadside manned by the bulol or sacred wooden statues magnificently carved by the natives of Ifugao.

And of course, the pitstop of the trip is Banaue. Banaue is famous for its mud-walled rice terraces which is listed as World Heritage. These rice terraces are impressive not only for their chiseled beauty but because they were created around two thousand years ago.

This is just a prelude, more posts on Ifugao's famous terraces soon.

Quezon Island

2008-07-11T09:50:00.000+08:00

The biggest and the most developed island in the Hundred Islands is Quezon Island. It is named after the late President Manuel L. Quezon of which a commemorative statue for his honor sits on top of the island. It is not only the biggest island but the most crowded as well. So after eating in one of their picnic tables and wandering around the island for about an hour, we decided to find our own isolated island to spend the day with.

But before going to the next island, here are some shots taken at the Quezon Island:

A footbridge connecting Quezon Island with a smaller island.

The Smaller Island Connected by the Footbridge.

A Park on Top of the Quezon Island.

View of other island.

The place offers several cemented cottages mostly for overnight tourists.

A winding stairs between rocks.

View of other islands taken from top of Quezon's.

The Crowded Beach Front.

Governor's Island

2008-07-08T09:00:00.000+08:00

The Hundred Islands and National Park in Alaminos, Pangasinan covers a land area of 1,884 hectares. It comprised of One Hundred Twenty-three islands of which only three were developed - The Governor's Island (featured in this post), the Quezon Island (to be featured on the next post) and the Children's Island.

Here are some more shots taken in the Governor's Island of the Hundred Islands:

Governor's Island Marker

View of the Surrounding Islands.

View from the Deck.

Easy Steps Leading to the Observation Deck

View from Inside the Cave

Governor's Island Shore.

Governor's Island is a twenty-minute boat ride from Lucap. It has a guest house which can accommodate a family. This island is not much fun for swimming but it is has an observation deck which will allow you to have a magnificent view of the rocky and green islands and islets above the blue sea.

Look Up @ Lucap

2008-07-05T20:16:00.002+08:00

This post will start my Hundred Islands Series. You may wonder why such title. Well, Lucap has one of the best skyline in Pangasinan that all photos in this set involve shots of the sky - thus, while in Lucap, you should look up.

Barangay Lucap in Alaminos, Pangasinan is the jum-off point to the Hundred Islands. From its wharf, it takes about 20 minutes to reach the islands.

Although there are few accomodations on the islands itself, it is in Lucap where Hotels and resorts are located. If you are planning on an overnight stay, it is advisable to stay at one of the hotels in Lucap and leave for the beach by early morning. Other than a stroll in the Light Tower and it's nearby park, there is really nothing much to do in Lucap. The food however in Maxine By The Sea (where we stayed) are great specially their calamare. But just to make the trip worthwhile, one thing you could do is gaze up in the sky (preferably with San Mig Lights on hand) and wander at the amazing sunset as it fades in to the sea.

More on the Hundred Islands soon...

Taong Putik Festival

2008-07-02T09:41:00.001+08:00

June 24 marks the observance of the feast day of Saint John the Baptist. This is the day when dousing water on unwary people is an excuse to engage in revelry.

However, in Barangay Bibiclat, Aliaga, Nueva Ecija, hundreds of devotees of the village's patron saint, John the Baptist, transform themselves into "mud people" or literally "taong putik."

These devotees wake-up early in the morning and wear dried banana and other leaves and cover themselves in mud. Then they walk the streets of Bibiclat, going from houses to houses to ask for candles or money to buy candles. Then at 6 in the morning, they converge in the Church Plaza to offer the candles to Saint John the Baptist and attend the mass.

Here are some pictures taken on the Festival of June 24, 2008:

From the Nueva Ecija Journal, I gather that nobody really knows exactly when the Taong Putik Festival in Aliaga started. One legend says the image of the patron saint which was brought to Bibiclat by early Ilocano settlers, helped in driving away poisonous snakes from the village. The name "Bibiclat" came from the Ilocano word "biclat" meaning snake.

Another legend says that when Japanese soldiers during World War II were about to execute all the men in the village in retaliation for the death of 13 fellow soldiers, it rained so hard that the male villagers had to be herded into the church to seek shelter. After a while, the Japanese soldiers had a change of mind and set their captives free. The residents attributed this to a miracle of Saint John the Baptist, and vowed to pay homage to him on his feast day by wearing costumes patterned after his attire - this time, using native materials.

The Taong Putik Festival - a unique and indigenous ritual in honor of Saint John the Baptist by the people of Bibiclat.

Pagudpud Wind-Up

2008-06-28T16:21:00.003+08:00

I know, no amounts of words can surpass the amazing beauty of Pagudpud shown by the photos below. In fact, I do not have to advertise the place because if I have to base everything from the comments you have made in my Pagupud posts, then I gather that you really want to be there and enjoy the places I have been too.

Saud White Beach

Kabigan Falls

Aqua Grande

Blue Lagoon

Bantay Abot Cave

Timmangtang Rock

Dos Hermanos Islands

Patapat Bridge and Viaduct

Kalbario Patapat National Park

Pasaleng Bay

To be honest with you all, I went to Pagudpud for its famous beach. I wanted to know why is it called the Boracay of the North. Although it does have gorgeous white beaches, I believe that the comparison ends there. Pagudpud is not a party place, there is really not much people, but just an old-fashioned wonderfully scenic beach.

However, I was pleasantly surprised that Pagudpud is not all about beaches. It has a river, a falls, amazing rocks, a nature park, caves and more. Having a great time exploring the place therefore is an understatement. And I am very happy and pleased to have share that wonderful traveling experience to all of you.

Personal Note:

Thank You Guys for your votes and support in The Filipino Blog of the Week Contest of Talksmart. This Blog was nominated in Weeks 113 and 114 and won both times. Your support was truly overwelming and I truly appreciate them. Again Thank You Very Much.

This Logo is given to Weekly Winners. This Blog was nominated and won First Place in Week 113 from June 15-21, 2008 with a mark of 94.4% and won First Place again in Week 114 from June 22-28, 2008 with a grade of 93.4%.

This Badge is given to deserving Filipino bloggers who have at least won once as "Filipino Blog of the Week" or have been consistently in the top three for weeks or those who really impressed Talksmart and the judges. I guess they have given this to me because of the overwhelming votes I had for the last two week.

Again, thank you very much and long-live Pinoy Bloggers.

Bantay Abot Cave, Pagudpud

2008-06-26T09:39:00.001+08:00

They call this a cave but it is more of a mountain with a hole. Bantay Abot Cave is just a few minutes away from Blue Lagoon and it is a worthy stop-over when you head to the beach.

The cave has a lustrous vegetative cover on top and a door-like opening on the middle of the mountain. Inside the cave, you can hear the waves as it splash on the rocks of the mountain. On the opposite side of "The Hole", you will be greeted with a fascinating view of the sea and the islands therein.

View of the Bantay Abot Cave

Sharp Rocks Make The Place Unfit for Swimming

The Panoramic Hole

View from the Hole

Although, the place is not fit for swimming, a stroll in its shore could invite you pick a souvenir or two of its mixed white sand and fragments of shells,rocks and corals.There are also parts of the shore where you can sit and relax on the rocks and just enjoy the panoramic view of the wide sea and verdant mountains.

Ah life. If you happen to visit Pagudpud, be sure to drop by this place because it will make your trip more interesting.

Have a nice day everyone!

Blue Lagoon, Pagudpud

2008-06-23T12:24:00.000+08:00

The first thing that comes to my mind when I hear Blue Lagoon is definitely a young and innocent Brooke Shields who is stranded in an island-paradise with some lucky chap. Little did I know that such paradise really exist and I would actually be there.

Fine and White Sandy Shore

Dos Hermanos Islands

Nice shades of trees along the shores

Picture-Perfect Sea and Sky

Located in Barangay Malingay Pagudpud (about 15 kilometers from Saud Beach), Blue Lagoon is a large hidden cove comprising of a good kilometer and a half of almost white and fine sand shore. Since, the wind were strong that day and the waves are literally big, I decided not to swim but just get my feet wet by walking along the sandy shores and enjoying the sight.

Walking on a long, beautiful, relatively pristine beach is just so calming. Si Brooke Shields na lang ang kulang.

Kabigan Falls, Pagudpud

2008-06-20T20:58:00.005+08:00

One of the main attractions and a must-go-to destination in Pagudpud is the 80 feet waterfall Kabigan Falls. This enchanting waterfalls is located at the eastern part of Barangay Balaoi and is about a 30 minute walk from the national highway.

Although it is a 30-minute walk (about 1.8 kilometers), trekking is not boring because of the spectacular views of thick foliage, farms and native huts. Plus you will pass by at least three streams of shallow river on your way to the falls. The sight and the sound of the place definitely is pleasurable leading to the spectacular falls.

The falls itself is famous for its concave basin where trekkers, after a long walk, could reward themselves with a dip in a natural pond just below the falls.

Here are some photos I have taken of and on the way to Kabigan Falls:

This cool hut will mark the start of the walk.

Trekkers enjoying a refreshing dip below the falls.

Passing this river could be quite a challenge.

The Kabigan Falls at the background and a shorter falls in front.

The gushing sound of river makes the trip more fascinating.

The beautiful falls up-close.

Patapat, Pagudpud

2008-06-18T19:46:00.005+08:00

One of the best thing to experience in the beautiful town of Pagudpud is to drive down its famous Patapat Bridge. Passing there will enable you to see the forested mountain on your right side and an amazing view of the sea on your left side will. You just can't help but be amazed at the feeling that you are being sandwiched by the best elements of nature.

Patapat is home to the Kalbario Patapat Natural Park which was declared as protected area by the DENR. The area is composed of 3,800 hectares of forested and rocky lands. No trail has yet been developed so it is quite an arduous task if you wanna trek the place.

The park has many little falls which remain untouched by civilization.

One of Patapat's interesting place is the bus stop-over just in front of the Nature Park. I found it interesting because it is situated near a road that is constructed between two huge mountains. Moreover, the foliage above the mountains were so thick that it felt like you were entering a tunnel when you pass this road.

The never-ending flow of clear and cool water on slippy boulders is quite a challenge to trek. The cool waters however, is a reward for tired feet.

For those brave enough to do a different adventure, a visit to the old and abandoned government building just across the Patapat Nature Park will provide you with a different thrill. Locals said that the old center is haunted and guarded by a white lady who died there. An eerie feeling greeted me while I traverse the wooden bridge leading to the old building so after taking just few snaps of the facade, I decided to go back to the main street.

And finally, Patapat is most famous for its 12-km winding bridge located at the foot of the cliff of the North Cordillera Mountain Range. A stop-over at the middle of the bridge is a must to see the awe-inspiring panoramic view of the verdant mountains and the sea below. A glimpse of the old footbridge adds grandeur to the breathtaking view.

So, if you happen to go to Pagudpud, do not forget to include Patapat in your side trip. I guarantee you that you will enjoy the unspoiled beauty of the sea, mountain and forests all in one place. And while you are on it, do not forget to buy a souvenir from those friendly locals there. Tourists there does not come in plenty so a small purchase could help these locals a lot.

Aqua Grande, Pagudpud

2008-06-16T09:37:00.001+08:00

Pagudpud is not all about beaches. In this, and in forthcoming posts, I'll share to you the places that I have wondered while I was in that awesome place starting with the picturesque Aqua Grande.

Aqua Grande is where the river meets the sea. Crystal cool clear water from the mountains cascades through huge rocks and boulders before eventually flowing to the sea.

The place is perfect for picnics or just take-pictures with the choice background of the flowing river or the giant sea. If you decided to stay there, you could dip into natural several ponds while having a spectacular view of the blue sea.

Here are some more pics I have taken of the place:

The fresh water meets the salty one.

Mini man-made falls dropping-off in one of the pools.

Take a dip into one of the fresh water pools.

The never-ending flow of water is a sight to behold.

Large boulders on the sea shore.

Spectacular view of the rocky shores of the sea.

Saud White Beach, Pagudpud

2008-06-12T23:23:00.002+08:00

So much has been said about the haven in the north that is Pagudpud. So when an opportunity presented itself, I readily packed my bags and head to what is considered to be the Boracay of the North.

Pagudpud prides itself with one of the longest stretch of fine sand white beaches and that is exactly what Saud White Beach offers. One could walk along its powdery off-white fine sand or take a dip in its warm - aquamarine clear waters. Or one could just wander around the beach and play sports or build sand castles.

The long stretch of fine sand beaches perfect for strolling.

A little girl enjoying the beach.

Spectacular backdrop of mountains and palms.

One could just sit here and enjoy the view.

Kayak duo with the Bangui Bay Windmills at the background.

Romantic, calm and serene beach perfect "for you know what".

A couple of coconut tree stands witness to the fun in the sun.

It may be a twelve-hour trip but once you set foot on the beautiful white beach of Saud in Pagudpud, the travel time is well worth it.

Honestly, it is one of the most amazing beaches I have been to and simply put, it is Bora without the people and the partying. Just plain good old-fashioned beaching - just the way I like.

Addendum:

Hey guys I have learned that this humble blog is nominated for the Filipino Blog of the Week Award.

If you like this blog please visit the site (or just click this link) of Talksmart and vote for Lawstude in the sidelinks. Thank You Very Much!!!

The Windmills of Bangui Bay (and a Tag)

2008-06-09T17:21:00.004+08:00

On my way to the the Northern Paradise of Pagudpud, I have seen these amazing structures on the left side of the road in the Municipality of Bangui. These windmills seemed like they were planted on the sea so I stopped on the road side and marvel at these amazing structures. Not contented with what I saw on the viewing deck at the road side, I turned around and proceeded to the Bangui Bay (roughly 10 minutes from the roadside) to have a closer look at these giants.

Often referred to as The Magnificent White Giant of Bangui, these 15 windmills are not planted on the sea but on the shore. They are arranged in a single row spaced 326 meters apart. The windmills height is 70 meters and each blade is 41 meters long.

Although I would have love to take photos of these windmills on a clear sky, unfortunately, it was raining that afternoon and there were build-up of dark clouds above. Nevertheless, I am glad that the gloomy weather that afternoon added a dramatic effect on these shots taken at the bay.

Update:

Let me just play this because I promised the tagger to do so. I was tagged by Kitem from France who owns one of the best gardens I have seen and displayed on her blog.

The Rules:

1. Link to your tagger and post these rules on your blog.
2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.
4. Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

Here it goes:

1. I am thirty-something (lower half) and have the same birthday as Mama Mary;

2. I used to be so thin when I was younger but now my BMI says I am overweight;

3. I am afraid of spiders, scorpions and cockroaches that I have to kill them at first sight (my bad) because if I missed, I would freak out at the thought that they would have their revenge on me;

4. I have a toy dog Dilbert(Jap Spitz-Shih Tzu mixed breed), a talking bird Nichael (a mynah), and a dragon fin I had for almost eight years now. I used to have another dog, Enzo (a labrador retriever) but he died of exhaustion while on a loan to a friend who used him as a stud to her two lady labradors. I thought of suing her but the taught that Enzo died a happy dog made me think twice;

5. I used to have odd jobs like vending cigarette, baby-sitting, selling candies as well as doing the homework and research work of my schoolmates for a fee;

6. My longest relationship was for almost seven years while my shortest was seven days and yes, I am still single and would probably be single for the rest of my life (insert canned witch laughter here);

7. And finally... I love traveling and blogging to the point of trifling some of my work. So, I might be fired soon. But I don't care. Life is short.

The Rules said I have to tag 7 bloggers so I am tagging the following bloggers whom I am exchanging comments recently hoping that they play this so we could know them better:

1. Vanny
2. The Dong
3. Luna Miranda
4. Dra. Rio
5. Redlan
6. Eloiski
7. Madbong

Next stop... PAGUDPUD!!!

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

2008-06-06T09:36:00.001+08:00

There is something about Cape Bojeador Lighthouse that is spooky. Maybe because it is old, or maybe it is isolated, or maybe because the weather that time gloomy. But one thing for sure, even if the place is a bit eerie, this Lighthouse is definitely a must place to visit and include if you are touring Ilocos.

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse is located at the Municipality of Burgos, Ilocos Norte and holds the distinction of being the highest elevated lighthouse in the Philippines. It was built in 1890s and is considered a heritage structure.

The caretaker of the place was kind enough to let me go up the tower and boy, climbing it ain't that easy with its rusty, slippery metal spiraling stairs plus the heavy blowing of the wind can be felt thru the open windows of the lighthouse (and of course, the eerie feeling of what if there is a ghost in there is also playing at the back of my mind). But once you are at the top, the view is just spectacular.

Here are some photos I have taken of the lighthouse:

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse

Hallway?Corridors of the Old House

Commemorative Heritage Marker

View From The Top

The Light in the Lighthouse

Open Windows

The Spiral Staircase

The Ancient Tower

Spooky Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Monochrome

Related Post:
Cape Bolinao Lighthouse

Fort Ilocandia

2008-06-03T14:44:00.000+08:00

The most famous and probably the best resort destination in Ilocos Norte is Fort Ilocandia in Laoag City. The place provides a taste of the old hispanic architecture showcasing massive brick walls and thick cobble stones. The interior is accented by carved shiny hardwood planks. A trip into manicured gardens and old-styled hallways takes one back to the 19th century.

This resort/complex was originally built by the Marcos family for the wedding reception of the then presidential daughter Irene. At present, the resort is owned by Taiwanese investors and has turned it into a casino where baccarat-hungry foreigners and locals alike horde the place.

Here are few shots I have taken on my visit to the place:

A Knight Guarding The Facade of the Resort

Coffee Table For a Little Chat

Well-Maintained Manicured Garden

The Swimming Pool Area

Bougainvilla by the Entrance

The Ancient-Felt Hallways

The Spot Where Most Visitors Strike a Pose

Fort Ilocandia is open to both guests and non-guests where some fun activities can be had. Aside from the casino, the place is offers unique and seemingly endless coastal sand dunes. Hollywood movies like Mad Max and Born on the Fourth of July as well as local movies like Panday have been filmed here. It also has swimming pool, shooting range, paintball, archery, golf course and other sports activities.

Check out their website by clicking here, if you wanna check-out more of the place.