Fun Facts About Rizal and Quezon Province

QUEZON

Image source: Cosmetics Design Asia

1 It is known as "The Coconut Capital of the Philippines" because it produces more coconut than any other place in the Philippines.

Image source: Wikipedia

2 Quezon province was formerly called “Kaliraya” then “Tayabas”. It was changed into “Quezon” province only in the year 1946.

3 The total land area of Quezon is 870,660 hectares or 8,706.60 square kilometers representing the largest in the region (53.63%) and the sixth largest in  the Philippines accounting for 2.96% land area share.

RIZAL

Image source: Time and Date

4 Rizal Province is one of the first provinces that were able to seek independence from Spain and were placed under martial law by the Spaniards at the start of the Philippine Revolution in 1896.

Image source: noelizm

5 The Angono Petroglyphs is said to be the oldest known work of art in the Philippines, it dates back to circa 3000 B.C. The site has been included in the World Inventory of Rock Art under the auspices of UNESCO, ICCROM and ICOMOS and nominated as one of the “100 Most Endangered Sites of the World".

Image source: dreamtico

6 Antipolo City is called the 'City in the Sky' because it is located at a higher altitude in the mountains of Rizal province compared to its neighboring cities in Metro Manila.






Sources:

http://www.funtrivia.com/en/subtopics/Philippine-General-Geography-362401.html

http://www.govisitphilippines.com/quick-facts.php?province=Rizal

http://www.govisitphilippines.com/quick-facts.php?province=Quezon+Province#

The Perfect Pasalubong and Souvenir Items from Rizal and Quezon

Pasalubong is the Filipino tradition of bringing something from the place you have visited to your friends and relatives back home. It can either be a food or a famous souvenir item from the place you have visited. To know what are the perfect "pasalubong" and souvenir items to buy from Rizal and Quezon Province, scroll down to find out! 

RIZAL

Miniature Higantes

If you were fascinated and have enjoyed the Higantes Festival in Angono, buy the miniature higantes and support Filipino folk art.

Image source: Traveler on Foot

Coco Jam

Rizal is famous for coco jams. Buy one to know why.

Image source: Miss Igorata

Aling Kika’s Bibingka                    

It looks more of a Biko than a bibingka but many have attested to its delicious taste.

Image source: Tummy Traveler

QUEZON PROVINCE

Lucban Longganisa

Image source: Jose Dimawala

Dried Pancit Habhab

Image source: foodrecap.net

Lambanog

Buy this powerful local alcoholic drink and let your friend who is the strongest drinker test his alcohol tolerance. J

Image source: Yahoo News

Sources:

• Traveler on Foot
• Penfires
• The Tummy Traveler
• Virtual Tourist
• Yahoo News
• Choose Philippines

Breathtaking Views in Rizal and Quezon

1. Palo Alto Falls

Just an hour away from Metro Manila is Palo Alto Falls. It lies at the foot of Sierra Madre Mountain Range. The waterfall can be found in Brgy. Pinugay, Baras, Rizal and can be reached after climbing 249 steps at almost 1000 feet high.

Image source: Traveling Up

2. Mount Balagbag

According to Rizal Government’s website, Mt Balagbag has a waterfall that looks like infinity pools. Climbing the waterfall is somewhat challenging, some part of the rocks were slippery and sharp.…. imagine climbing up an 80 degree incline almost 2 storeys high, using only your wits and balance to guide you to the top.

Image source: Beyond Outdoor Adventures

3. Calinawan Cave

“The Calinawan Cave of Tanay, Rizal will provide a spectacular experience inspired by the view of bountiful natural rock and mineral formations which can attract tourists and adventurers. The very step of its dark claustrophobic corridors gives a thrilling feeling. For spelunking enthusiasts, Calinawan also offers a treat. It is a true gem within the mountains of this nature-favored town.”

Image source: I am Jandean

I have already featured these next three tourist spots in my previous blog post. But since they are really breathtaking, I am going to feature them again.

The next 3 tourist spots can be found in Quezon Province.

4. Puting Buhangin Beach

Located in the famous Pagbilao Grande area, Puting Buhangin Beach is like the Boracay or Pagudpud of Quezon with its pure white sand beach, crystal-clear and calm water. It is the tropical dream of every tourists with the summer-like setting and coconut trees.

Image source: shoestringtravelers

5. Durungawan, Mt. Banahaw

Once you have reached the peak of the popular Mt. Banahaw, Durungawan will greet you. Durungawan is the perfect place to see the towns and city surrounding Mt. Banahaw. It is a tourist’s reward for surviving the hike up the mountain. Durungawan is located in Dolores, Quezon.

Image source: geocities

6. Puting Bato

If Puting Buhangin Beach brings you to Boracay, Puting Bato will bring you to North Palawan.

“The major attractions of Puting Bato are its cliff walls, which look like limestone cliffs of North Palawan. Aside from the walls, there are small caves. Small isolated beaches, which are good for swimming, can also be found. Rock formations, which look like umbrellas, abound in the area. It is located in Barangay Puting Bato, Burdeos, Quezon”

Image source: Lakwatsera de Primera

Sources:

• http://rizalprovince.ph/tourismnature.html
• http://www.wowrizal.com/towns-and-cities/antipolo-city/natural-attractions-in-rizal- province/
• http://rizalprovince.islandsphilippines.com/rizal_natural_attractions.php
• http://quezonprovince.islandsphilippines.com/quezonprovince_natural_attractions.php

Some of the Most Drool-worthy Food in Quezon Province

1.    Hardinera

“Hardinera is a famous meatloaf dish that originated in Quezon Province. This is considered as a special dish and is often served only in special occasions such as town fiestas and other important gatherings.” (Merano, 2010)

Image source: Panlasang Pinoy

2.    Kinulob

“Big chunks of pork cooked in slow fire with vinegar and “dilaw na luya” or turmeric” (Inquirer, 2013)

Image source: Lafanggero

3.    Pancit Lucban (Pancit Habhab)

Pancit Lucban is a famous noodle dish from Quezon. I have tasted this dish when I ate at Buddy’s, a restaurant that specializes in dishes from Quezon. It is commonly served in a banana leaf and you eat it without utensils. You have to eat it like a burger but it’s a noodle dish, so can just imagine how difficult (and messy) eating it for the first time would be.

Image source: Wow Quezon

Sources:

• http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/456219/open-secrets-of-lucbans-food-treasures#ixzz3H36t4eOQ 
• http://panlasangpinoy.com/2010/06/26/hardinera/
• http://www.wowquezon.com/towns-and-cities/lucban/pancit-habhab-or-pancit-lucban-recipe/

The Most “Delish” Dishes in Rizal Province

Image source: Culture Shock PH

1. Fried Itik or Fried Duck of Angono and Binangonan

This is said to be a must-try when you find yourself in the province of Angono or Binangonan.

Tip: The best Fried Itik is not found in restaurants but on the streets. J

Image source: Eat's My Life by Jigs

2. Adobong Matanda

This is a variation of the popular Filipino dish, Adobo. Adobo is cooked a few days before, stored in a jar, and buried underground to keep it cool. It may be weird but people have said it tastes good and the meat is still tender.

3. Pinugutan or Binarutak of Taytay

Image source: GMA Network

           It is a slightly sour-spicy shrimp soup (Pinugutan) or a fish soup (Binarutak).

It’s called Pinugutan because of the way it is made. The head of the shrimp is removed, grinded, and squeezed to get its flavour and juice to be mixed with the dish’s soup.  The soup is compared to a sinigang but have different vegetable ingredients like talbos ng kamote (Camote tops), puso ng saging (Banana Bud), sigarilyas, patola, and many more. This dish is the pride of Taytay, Rizal. 

Sources:

• Culture Shock PH
• Rizal Province
• GMA News Video
• Eat's My Life by Jigs

10 Natural Attractions in Rizal and Quezon

Rizal and Quezon may not be the first two provinces you will think of when it comes to tourism in the Philippines . But after reading this blog post, it may change your mind as you will see the hidden natural wonders in these provinces.

Interested and enticed because of the wonderful photos?
Read more.

1.    Daranak Falls (Bgy. Tandang Kutyo, Tanay, Rizal)

This place is said to be a popular shooting area for both local and internationals movies and advertisements. IT is located at the foot of the Tanay mountains. It has the elements of a beautiful waterfalls, ponds, and rivers with trees and plants.

Image source: wowrizal.com

2.    Batlag Falls (Tanay, Rizal)

A smaller but not lesser of a beauty is the Batlag Falls. It is secluded in a forested area. A deeply preserved natural wonder.

Image source: wowrizal.com

3.    Susong Dalaga (Bgy. Sapang, Talim Island, Binangonan, Rizal)

Curious why it was named “Susong Dalaga”? It was because its shape is said to be like a virgin’s breast. A 200 meter-high mountain, Susong Dalaga gives its hikers a bit of a challenge. Don’t worry. All of the hikers’ efforts will not be wasted as the scenic Laguna Lake and its surroundings await them as they reach the mountain’s highest point.

Image source: wowrizal.com

4.    Hinulugang Taktak (Taktak Road, Antipolo City)

Growing up, I have always heard a song about Hinulugang Taktak. So maybe this is the most famous tourist attraction in Rizal (or not). It has been said that the mountain resort has picnic cottages, a swimming pool, artificial paths, and steps to view the waterfalls. During the month of May, cultural concerts and plays are held in the area fronting the waterfalls.

Image source: wowrizal.com

5.    Talim Island (Binangonan, Rizal)

It offers a breathtaking view to the tourists. Enough said. 

Image source: wowrizal.com

6.    Puting Buhangin Beach

Located in the famous Pagbilao Grande area, Puting Buhangin Beach is like the Boracay or Pagudpud of Quezon with its pure white sand beach, crystal-clear and calm water. It is the tropical dream of every tourists with the summer-like setting and coconut trees.

Image source: shoestringtravelers

7.    Tikub Lake

"About two kilometers in diameter and 75 meters deep, Tikob Lake lies on the crater of an extinct volcanoIt is located in Tiaong, Quezon"

Image source: Trip Advisor

8.    Malusak Cave

“It is probably the longest cave in Atimonan, with a clearance of more or less 2 feet in height. It is located in Barangay Malusak, Atimonan, Quezon.”

Image source: Atimonan Gov't

9.    Durungawan, Mt. Banahaw

Once you have reached the peak of the popular Mt. Banahaw, Durungawan will greet you. Durungawan is the perfect place to see the towns and city surrounding Mt. Banahaw. It is a tourist’s reward for surviving the hike up the mountain. Durungawan is located in Dolores, Quezon.

Image source: geocities

10.    Puting Bato

If Puting Buhangin Beach brings you to Boracay, Puting Bato will bring you to North Palawan.

“The major attractions of Puting Bato are its cliff walls, which look like limestone cliffs of North Palawan. Aside from the walls, there are small caves. Small isolated beaches, which are good for swimming, can also be found. Rock formations, which look like umbrellas, abound in the area. It is located in Barangay Puting Bato, Burdeos, Quezon”

Image source: Lakwatsera de Primera

Sources:    

http://www.wowrizal.com/towns-and-cities/antipolo-city/natural-attractions-in-rizal- province/

http://rizalprovince.islandsphilippines.com/rizal_natural_attractions.php

http://quezonprovince.islandsphilippines.com/quezonprovince_natural_attractions.php

9 Best Things to do in Rizal and Quezon

1. APPRECIATE ART and BE AMAZED by visiting Pinto Art Museum

You think you will never enjoy looking at art pieces? Think again because you will surely be amazed by the different works of art in Pinto Art Museum. The art gallery is situated in a perfect setting surrounded by nature. The art pieces go from abstract to those with social relevance. Everything is pure beauty. 

Image source: Pusang Kalye

Pinto Art Museum is just a 35-minute drive via Ortigas Extension. It is the perfect escape from the city and weekend getaway!

2. DISCOVER the secluded paradise in Daraitan.

Image source: Backpacking Pinoy Couple

Famous places are not the only places you should visit. Mount Daraitan and Tinipak River in Brgy. Daraitan in the province of Tanay, Rizal is said to be a secluded paradise. If you are one of the Adventure type of tourist, then this is the perfect place for you. You will go trail trekking (this includes rappelling and rock climbing) to get to the main attraction of Tinipak River. 

Image source: Backpacking Pinoy Couple

3. BRAVE and ENTER the Mystical Cave

Image source: Alluring Antipolo

The Mystical Cave in Antipolo, Rizal is believed to be, from the name itself, “Mystical” because of the rock formations and holy images inside the cave. The water and stone is also said to be holy because they can heal people from illnesses and provide protection. 

Image Source: Alluring Antipolo

Curious if it is true? Find out for yourself by visiting the Mystical Cave!

4. GO ON A ROAD TRIP and DINE at Paseo Rizal

Paseo Rizal is the perfect combination of art, music, and cuisine. With a lot of interesting art, a Baguio-like feel of lush and green place, and serene live music during weekends, Paseo Rizal will give its visitors a relaxing experience. They also have great Filipino cuisine. 

Image source: The Travellesque

5. EXPERIENCE Higantes Festival

A celebration in honor of San Clemente, devotees are dressed in bright and colourful costumes with higantes (huge paper mache images).

Image source: It's More Fun in the Philippines

Discover the story of why they celebrate this festival!

6. EAT and DRINK!!

Quezon is known for their Longganisa, Pancit Habhab, Lambanog, cassava cake, fried siopao, and other delicacies. So when you visit Quezon Province, be sure to try these out and fill your tummies with delicious food! Or get tipsy with Lambanog (if you are 18 and above). ;)

Image source: journeyingjames

7. EXPLORE Lucban Church

Majority of Filipinos has Roman Catholic as their religion. So every province has one of their churches as their pride. Why not visit the beautiful Lucban Church? With a historic-looking façade, the interior of the church is even more beautiful.

Image source: journeyingjames

8. WALK AROUND the town and SEE Heritage Houses

Take a tour back to the old times by walking around the town and see heritage houses. Here’s the catch: It’s for free! You don’t have to pay anything, but you get to feel like you are taking a trip back to the old times!

Image source: journeyingjames

9. JOIN THE FUN in Pahiyas Festival 

A visual and culinary feast of harvest. A feast for the eyes and for the, well, hungry tummy! Immerse yourself to their culture by celebrating with the locals of Quezon as they give honor to the patron saint of harvest, San Isidro Labrador. 

Image source: Islands of the Philippines

Sources:

• http://keepingtraces.blogspot.com/2014/06/tinipak-river-secluded-treasure-of.html
• http://alluringantipolo.weebly.com/mystical-cave.html
• http://travellesque.wordpress.com/2013/01/03/road-trip-to-paseo-rizal/
• http://www.traveling-up.com/a-taste-of-baguio-an-hour-away/#more-3731
• http://www.tourism.gov.ph/sitepages/FestivitiesList.aspx?festivityCode=582&monthCode=11
• http://www.philippinecountry.com/philippine_festivals/higantes_festival.html
• http://journeyingjames.com/2012/04/10-things-to-do-in-quezon-province/
• http://www.tourism.gov.ph/sitepages/FestivitiesList.aspx?festivityCode=303&monthCode=05

Lakbay Patungong Quezon

ABOUT THE PROVINCE

I do not think that it is a coincidence, but the next province that I am going to be posting about is named after a famous person again. It is about the province of Quezon.

Image source: Quezon Gov't

The province was formerly known as Tayabas. In 1591, Tayabas was created into a province under the name of Kalilayan. Its capital was the ancient town of Tayabas, now a barrio in the town of Unisan where ancient tombs and artifacts can be found.

In September 7, 1947, former President Manuel Roxas renamed the province to Quezon, in honor of the late President Manuel L. Quezon who was said to be the most illustrious son of Baler, formerly part of Quezon.

The province of Quezon, although close to the urban Metropolitan Manila, maintained its rich culture and traditions. It is the place to be when you want to escape the bustling city of Manila. It has the both aspects of natural and cultural tourist attractions.

It is where Mount Banahaw is located, a 7,382-feet extinct volcano which is famous for its mystical attributes. During Holy Week, religious rituals are practiced by pilgrims who believed that Christ walked on that mountain.

Image source: Malapascua Island

It also has Polilio Islands to boast its beauty. Bird Island in Polillo, Lamon Bay, Puting Buhangin Beach in Pagbilao Grande… Just by hearing the names of these tourist attractions, you can already imagine what can be found in the area, diverse bird species, various living corals, and a white sand beach. It is the perfect place for a summer getaway.

Image source: Lakwatsera de Primera

The province of Quezon is also famous for Pahiyas Festival, noted as one of the best harvest festivals in the country. It is a colourful celebration and is celebrated to give thanks for a bountiful harvest in honor of San Isidro de Labrador. It is observed in the towns of Lucban, Candelaria, Tayabas, Sariaya, Tiaong, and Lucena City.

Image source: Pinoy Adventurista

GEOGRAPHY

The province is composed of 41 towns and one highly urbanized city, which is Lucena City. The province has 1,248 barangays, which include the barangay of Lucena City.

Quezon is one of the biggest provinces in the Southern Tagalog region in terms of land area. It is bordered by the province of Aurora in the north and Camarines Sur in the south. It is bounded on the west by the provinces of Aurora, Nueva Ecija, Bulacan, Rizal, Laguna, and Batangas and on the southeast by Camarines Norte and Camarines Sur.

CLIMATE 

It has a mild-tropical climate. It also has two-pronounced seasons: the dry cold and dry-warm climate, and the cold moist and cold dry climate.

LANGUAGE

Tagalog is widely spoken in the province.

How to get there:

Travel time is 2-3 hours.

Via Private Vehicle

• If you are from SLEx, take the Calamba exit then pass by the towns of Los Banos to Pagsanjan. You will take a right turn then left to Cavinti, Luisiana then Lucban. 
• From Quezon City, there is also a route via Rizal Province.

(Source: http://www.backpackingphilippines.com/2011/05/how-to-get-to-lucban-quezon-map-commute.html)

Via Public Transportation

• There are numerous bus lines that go from Metro Manila all the way to Quezon province. (e.g. Jac Liner, Philtranco, South Star, etc) Terminals for Jac Liner are located at Kamias, Quezon City and Gil Puyat.

Sources:

http://www.backpackingphilippines.com/2011/05/how-to-get-to-lucban-quezon-map-commute.html

http://www.tourism.gov.ph/SitePages/InteractiveSitesPage.aspx?siteID=24

http://www.quezon.gov.ph/homepage/index.php?info=aboutpage