Another long weekend is coming up as the nation observes Independence Day on June 12, and chances are families are already scouting for nearby getaways for bonding moments. This year’s celebration is special, being the 125th year of Asia’s first democracy and republic; and it isn’t a bad idea to weave our patriotic duty with fun and recreation.
The good thing is we don’t have to look far and burn tires for long drives to mark this glorious event. For a shining guide for a road trip, we just need to look at our national flag which has a sun with eight rays representing the provinces which prominently figured in the Philippine Revolution.
Below are some of these valiant provinces which offer a unique blend of history and culture, cuisine and nature, just at the metro’s doorstep.
Pit Stop 1: Cavite.
The epicenter of the Revolution and proclamation of Independence, its iconic spot is the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit where the momentous event unfolded in 1898. Aside from this all-too-familiar landmark, historic places in the vicinity include the St. Magdalene Church, Battle of Binakayan Site, and Baldomero Aguinaldo Shrine.
Cavite City, the colonial-era hub of economic and social life, is reclaiming its old glory days being home to the Spanish-era naval base and fortress Fort San Felipe, the famed 13 Martyrs, Samonte Park, Porta Vaga Church, and ancestral homes of ilustrados who supported the Revolution.
Indang, Magallanes and Maragondon, once considered frontier towns, are now hubs of farm tourism sites, cozy garden homes and intimate concept dining spots. The latter, where Andres Bonifacio was tried and executed, is a travel hotspot with its river cruise, Pantihan Falls, powdery beaches, roadside restos, and handwoven and bamboo crafts.
Pit Stop 2: Laguna.
Jose Rizal’s birthplace, the province abounds in natural springs which continue to lure travelers with its variety of hot or cold spring resorts situated around the foot of Mt. Makiling and Mt. Banahaw.
Adventurers will love Lumban and Cavinti whose upland portions in Lakes Caliraya and Lumot are now glamping and motor camping hotspots.
Magdalena town is monikered as “Little Hollywood” because of its postcard-pretty población where many old Filipino movies were shot. It is also the site of the Maimpis River Battle where Emilio Jacinto was wounded in a gunfight with the Spaniards, and the baroque St. Magdalene Church where he ran for refuge.
Pagsanjan Falls, Laguna’s postcard image, is a must-see for the breathtaking shooting the rapids experience. The mid-1800s provincial capital town, Pagsanjan is making a name as a gastronomy center with its plethora of fusion restaurants.
Pit Stop 3: Batangas.
Dotted with ancestral houses-turned-museums of prominent nationalists, its most notable destination is Taal which is regarded as a heritage village. The town is known for the massive St. Martin of Tours Basilica, barong embroidery, balisong fan knife, and mouth-watering longaniza, adobo sa dilaw, and beef tapa.
Travel back to the 1800s and dress up in period costumes for a vintage-looking portrait or spend the night in old houses repurposed into bed and breakfast lodgings.
The lakeshore towns of Tanauan, Talisay and Laurel are lined with quaint resorts with a mesmerizing view of the placid Taal Lake and Volcano, while Nasugbu, Calatagan, Balayan and San Juan boast of powdery beaches which witnessed some of World War 2’s key events.
Lipa and Batangas cities are a merry mix of Old World charm, agro-industry, urban living, special interest tourism establishments, and local specialties of goto, lomi, and barako coffee.
Pit Stop 4: Bulacan.
This northern province has the unique distinction of being the birthplace of three republics—Kakarong de Sili in Pandi, Biak-na-Bato in San Miguel, and the First Philippine Republic in Malolos which made us a full-pledged nation in 1899.
The latter is home to the iconic Barasoain Church, Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Casa Real Shrine and the Kamestizuhan district which became Aguinaldo’s presidential headquarters until the Filipino-American War.
The 659-hectare Biak-na-Bato National Park which straddles San Miguel and Dona Remedios Trinidad, which became Aguinaldo’s hideout, is now a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Embedded within the battlefields of Plaridel, Baliwag, and San Rafael are new townships, recreational centers, and theme parks which will take you closer to history.
With the confluence of history and hideaways, celebrating Independence Day has just become more fun and exciting.
