Corregidor
Posted on December 11, 2007 - Filed Under Travel Destinations
The Paradise Philippines was no exception to the targets of warring countries during World War II. During that time, the Philippines was under the control of the United States of America. The enemies of the Allied Countries had their eyes set on American military installations and bases on our country. And so, a few days after the Pearl Harbor Bombing of 1941, the Japanese set out to take control of the Philippines.
And perhaps the place within the Paradise Philippines that has the most number of physical evidence of war still present today is the island of Corregidor. Its location at the entrance of the Manila Bay makes it an ideal place for defenses. During the stay of the Spanish and the Americans here in the Philippines, this island served as a point of defense and early warning system for hostile ships approaching the bay. In the second World War, Corregidor was the site of several battles between the Filipino - American Forces and the invading Japanese.
Nowadays, there are lots to see in this island. Most of them are the structures that Spaniards and Americans built during their stay here in the Philippines. The lighthouse on Corregidor is one of the oldest landmarks of the island, and was built by the Spaniards in 1836. It was replaced with a better lighthouse in 1853, and was inproved further in the 1892. However, during the siege of Corregidor the lighthouse was reduced to ruins. The lighthouse that we see today is a reconstructed one, which stands at the same spot where the Spaniards put up the lighthouse.
In addition, there are 56 coastal guns and mortars in the island of Corregidor, plus 13 anti-aircraft defenses. There are also numerous war structures here. To name a few, there’s the Malinta Tunnel and Fort Mills. Corregidor Island is currently under the territorial jurisdiction of Cavite City, of the province of Cavite.
Hundred Islands
Posted on December 8, 2007 - Filed Under Paradise Philippines, Travel Destinations
Paradise Philippines is surely blessed with many wondrous works of Nature. In the northern part of Luzon alone, there are numerous places where Nature’s best are evident. One good example is the Hundred Islands of Alaminos City, Pangasinan.
The Hundred Islands, an island group numbering 123 at high tide and 124 at low tide, is a natural wonder, as the group is nestled within the Lingayen Gulf. These islands can be reached by a boat ride from the city’s shore. The boat ride usually takes 30-40 minutes. Once in the islands, recreation and relaxation are all that awaits each and every visitor. Whether it be splashing on the beach, taking a tan under the sun, or simply enjoying the cool breeze, everyone going to the islands will surely have a good time.
Out of the numerous islands, only three are developed for tourists. These are namely the Governor’s Island, the Children’s Island and the Quezon Island. In one of the islands, there are floating nipa huts for rent. Visitors can rent these floating huts for dining and relaxing purposes. This is a very good deviation to the standard beachside huts and sheds.
But bathing and tanning are not the only activities in the Hundred Islands. Boat tours are also available for those wanting to see the rest of the islands. Furthermore, one can simply enjoy the scenery that the surroundings bring. There are viewing points where one can get a good view of the splendor of the Hundred Islands. Add to this experience is the cool breeze of the sea – truly a great way to relax.
The Hundred Islands is surely a piece of paradise amidst the blue seas. It gives people an overview of how wonderful Paradise Philippines truly is.
Moriones Festival
Posted on August 10, 2007 - Filed Under Festivals, Paradise Philippines
Having the shape of a human heart, the island
Among these is the Moriones Festival, which is observed during Holy Week. Morion, which means “mask” or “visor”, is a part of the Roman armor which covers the face. In turn, Moriones refers to the repenting people clad in costumes and masks searching for Longinus.
The festival re-enacts the story of the Roman Centurion Longinus, who was blind in one eye. Legend has it that when Longinus pierced the side of the crucified Christ, blood spurted out and some of it came in contact with his blind eye, restoring his sight. With this, Longinus converted to Christianity. This greatly angered his fellow centurions, who turn to capturing and beheading him.
This festival is well-known for its painted masks, helmets, and Roman costumes. It is held in the towns of Boac and Mogpog.
