Did You Know? (Trivial Facts About Central Luzon)

So you think you know it all? Think again! There are still a lot of things you are yet to discover in the Central Luzon Region! In this article, you would be able to uncover some interesting facts and trivia about the provinces of Bataan, Bulacan, Pampanga and Zambales that you probably haven’t heard or known before. So sit back, relax and START READING!

The Province of Bataan

1. Did you know that the Wimbledon tennis balls were made in the Philippines? They travel more than 50,000 miles before they even touch the court!

Source: Rappler

2. Did you know that when the Dutch forces invaded the Philippines in 1647, they massacred half of Abucay, Bataan’s residents?

Source: Philippine.org

3. Did you know that triathletes head to Bataan to train for cycling because of its well-built roads and varying terrains (flat, rolling, uphill, and downhill)?

Source: GMA Network

The Province of Bulacan

1. Did you know that the design of the newly built Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan was based on a nipa hut and a Narra tree?

Source: Vigattin Tourism

2. Did you know that the first Santa Cruz de Mayo, more popularly know as Santacruzan, was held in Malolos, Bulacan in 1865?

Source: Philippine Weekend

3. Did you know that in the late 19^th century, Bulacan was one of the eight provinces, which supported the call of the Katipunan for an all-out rebellion against the Spanish domination?

Source: Britannica

The Province of Pampanga

1. Did you know that the name "La Pampanga" was given by the Spaniards who saw the early natives of the province residing near the riverbanks?

2. Did you know that Asia’s only Christmas theme park is the Paskuhan Village of Pampanga?

Source: Flickr

3. Did you know that in the province of Pampanga, a statue was built to commemorate and honor the first Japanese kamikaze pilots of World War 2?

Source: Filipiknow

The Province of Zambales

1. Did you know that Zambales is in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the province that has the sweetest and most sumptuous mangoes?

Source: The Tummy Traveler

2. Did you know that among the wrecks found in the Subic area, the San Quentin is the oldest known shipwreck?

Source: Subic Bay Now

3. Did you know that the name Zambales was derived from the province’s earliest inhabitants, whom the Spaniards call “Sambali” because they were found worshipping spirits called anitos?

• http://vigattintourism.com/tourism/articles/Ten-Facts-You-Probably-Dont-Know-About-The-Worlds-Largest-Indoor-Arena
• http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/46585/santacruzan-and-mothers-day-in-the-lusty-month-of-may
• http://www.pinoyexchange.com/forums/showthread.php?t=521666
• http://www.tourism.gov.ph/SitePages/Trivia.aspx
• http://www.filipiknow.net/surprising-trivia-from-philippine-history/
• http://lakbaypilipinas.com/travel_zambales.html
• https://twitter.com/kuyakim_atienza/status/454494871487655936
• http://www.govisitphilippines.com/quick-facts.php?province=Bulacan
• http://www.rappler.com/sports/by-sport/other-sports/61443-wimbledon-tennis-balls-made-in-the-philippines
• http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/358629/newstv/biyahenidrew/history-and-adventure-a-biyahe-ni-drew-itinerary-to-bataan
• http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/356956/newstv/biyahenidrew/zambales-for-the-weekend-a-biyahe-ni-drew-itinerary
• http://www.govisitphilippines.com/quick-facts.php?province=Zambales

Take-Home Goodies from Central Luzon

Anyone who loves to travel surely loves to take home pasalubong and souvenirs too so as to remind them about the places they have been too. To cater to the needs and wants of the tourists, Central Luzon provinces offer a lot of different goodies that everyone would surely want to take home! Want to know some of these goodies? Read on!

The Province of Bataan

1. Araro Cookies

Source: Tatak Bataan Pasalubong and Souvenirs

Araro cookies are made of arrowroot instead of the usual flour and eggs mix, thus giving it a milkier and richer taste than the puto seko.

2. Tinapang Boneless Bangus

Source: Tatak Bataan Pasalubong and Souvenirs

One of the famous delicacies of Bataan is the Tinapa! The Tatak Bataan Pasalubong and Souvenirs have their own variety of this product, which is the Tinapang Boneless Bangus (vacuum sealed) and is sold for Php145 only!

3. Balanga Longganisa

Source: Tatak Bataan Pasalubong and Souvenirs

Balanga’s version of the infamous longganisa is sold by the Tatak Bataan Pasalubong and Souvenirs for just Php75 for two dozens!

The Province of Bulacan

1. Breads, Sweets and Pastries

Source: Bulacan. Gov

Some specialties of Bulacan that you can take home are the Minasa (Cassava Cookies), Ensaymada (Filipino Sweet Bread), and Pastillas (Carabao’s milk candies). Many small and large businesses in Bulacan manufacture these kinds of specialties so you’ll surely be able to bring some of these home.

2. Chicharon

Source: Bulacan. Gov

One of the famous pasalubongs from Bulacan is the Chicharon (Deep-fried pork rind) that is loved by many people.

3. Bags

Source: Bulacan. Gov

Some of the bags that are manufactured in Bulacan are the Sabutan Bag which is a molded bag made of sabutan fiber and leatherrete, and the Buntal bag which is a molded bag made of buntal fiber. Both bags are manufactured by Buntal Ethnic Enterprises of San Ildefonso, Bulacan.

The Province of Pampanga

1. San Nicolas Cookies

Source: Clarkisit.com

San Nicolas Cookies are also known as the Panecillos de San Nicolas, which are made of flour, sugar, coconut milk, etc. These cookies are unique because of the embroidered-like handmade designs. The most famous business that offers these cookies is the Atching Lilian Borromeo.

2. Tibuk-Tibuk

Source: Clarkisit.com

Tibuk-tibuk is Pampanga’s version of Maja Blanca but without the corn and is one of the famous desserts during fiestas in the province. This specialty is made of carabao’s milk mixed with dayap zest and topped with latik!

3. Moche

Source: Clarkisit.com

Another Kapampangan specialty snack is the Moche, made of glutinous rice dough filled with bean paste and topped with sweet coconut milk!

The Province of Zambales

1. Mangoes

Source: Choose Philippines

Probably the most famous pasalubong from Zambales are its Mangoes! Awarded by the Guinness Book of World Record in 1995 as the province that has the sweetest and most sumptuous mangoes, tourists really go to Zambales to taste and bring home these mangoes.

References:

http://www.clarkisit.com/10-pampanga-pasalubong-buy/

http://www.bulacan.gov.ph/business/products.php

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tatak-Bataan-Pasalubong-Souvenirs/540393036014770?ref=stream

http://www.choosephilippines.com/do/festivals/1325/zambales-mango-festival/

Scenic Views in Central Luzon

Every tourist would always want to visit the destinations that have the most scenic and amazing views once they visit a place. Why? Because being able to see these breathtaking views alone already relieves their stress plus these provide great photo opportunities! Are you one of those tourists? Then this article about Central Luzon's scenic views would definitely please you!

The Province of Bataan

1. Mt. Samat

Source: Blogspot

One can already marvel at the beauty of Mt. Samat even without climbing it because the mountain alone is already an eye candy. But for those who want to explore and see more of the place’s scenery, a hiking opportunity is available. The bravery of the Filipino soldiers is commemorated at the 30-storey cross at the summit of Mt. Samat, more popularly known as the Dambana ng Kagitingan (Shrine of Valor), which now provides the tourist an opportunity to enjoy the panoramic view of the area.

2. Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar

Source: Flickr

Spanish-era houses were acquired from different places in the Philippines and were then dismantled and rebuilt in Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar. Cobblestone streets, Spanish-era houses, and calesas are just some of the things that tourists would be able to see in this place. Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar offers a perfect scenery for those who want to revisit or experience the vibe of the Spanish Era even just for a little while.

3. Westnuk Beach Resort

Source: Discover Bataan

Tourists would be able to experience seeing the scenic views of mountains and seas along the way to Westnuk Beach Resort. Upon arrival, tourists will already be enveloped with the natural beauty of the unspoiled island. Also, this spot is not that crowded with many tourists so it is truly a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Province of Bulacan

1. Mt. Manalmon

Source: Lumanog Photos

It was when I thought that there is nothing more in Bulacan that I came across the beauty of Mt. Manalmon. The said mountain is not one of those cliché mountains that the tourists go to but I think it is one of the best spots if you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy the view. The view from the mountain’s summit would surely make your mouth drop in awe and it is also best to visit here when the weather is fine to be able to see the crystal clear water of the river at the foot of Mt. Manalmon.

2. Hilltop

Source: The Backpacker's Adventures

Looking for a literally cool place to visit in Bulacan? Then go to Hilltop, Bulacan’s little Baguio! Not only does it have a very cool atmosphere, it has always mesmerized tourists too because it offers an amazing view of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range. It also offers an astonishing view of the Angat Dam and the powerplant. From the Guesthouse of Hilltop, tourists would be able to enjoy the amazing view it offers while breathing in the cool and fresh air enveloping the place.

3. Bakas ni Bernardo Carpio

Source: Bulacan.gov

A place popularized by the legend about a giant leaving its footstep in Bulacan, Bakas of Bernardo Carpio is now a well-known tourist destination. It is known for its big natural white stones along the riverbank, the green scenery surrounding it, the calm current and fresh air. Many tourists opt to go here to be able to marvel at the beauty of nature.

The Province of Pampanga

1. Candaba Swamp

 Source: The Philippine Wonders

Candaba Swamp is a vast breathtaking wetland that has always been a magnet for Ecotourism ever since migratory and domestic birds started flocking the area. Many ecotourists would really enjoy going in this destination because they will be able to take part in the protection of wildlife that Candaba promotes. Apart from being a home for migratory and local birds, this wetland is awesome by itself because it provides a peaceful and excellent rural scenery for everyone looking for some tranquility.

2. Hot Air Balloon Fiesta

Source: Blog Benetton 

The Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is held every year in the province of Pampanga providing the tourists and locals one of the most spectacular exhibitions of different hot air balloons that are launched all at the same time. Hot air balloons of all shapes and sizes in the sky is one of the things that every tourist should not miss, so don’t forget your cameras to grab this amazing photo opportunity.

3. Mt. Pinatubo Crater Lake

Source: Chachic

After an exhilarating 4x4 ride and a 20-minute trek, an amazing view of the Mt. Pinatubo Crater Lake would greet you. With the bluest waters enclosed by the walls of the volcanic cliffs would definitely make you want to jump right in, but unfortunately the water is no longer appropriate for swimming! Nonetheless, tourists would surely be captured by the amazing view of the crater lake of Mt. Pinatubo.

The Province of Zambales

1. Capones Island and Lighthouse

 Source: Shoestring Travelers

Source: Lakwatsero

A beautiful landscape and a pristine beach are the things that Capones Island offers. The island also has a lighthouse that provides an opportunity for tourists to further marvel at the breathtaking view of the whole island that does not fail to make every tourist’s mouth drop in awe.

2. Anawangin Cove

Source: Pinoy Adventurer

One of the best beaches to consider for a vacation place is the Anawangin Cove, not just because it offers a wide space for many campers and visitors, it also has the perfect replicas of pine trees which makes it even more beautiful! Given that, the Anawangin Cove truly portrays an amazing and serene place that will surely go on the top of your to-visit list because it would surely be a pleasure to visit this amazing place.

3. Potipot Island

Source: Gafablogsite

Dubbed as the “Little Boracay” of Zambales, Potipot Island offers tourists an experience like no other because by opting to visit in this island, tourists are also choosing simplicity over commercialization. Being a virgin island, it enables the tourists to fully enjoy the serenity and immaculate beauty of nature through its clear blue water and almost-fine white sand.

• http://www.traveltothephilippines.info/2012/06/26/where-to-go-and-have-fun-in-bulacan/
• http://thebackpackersadventures.blogspot.com/2013/04/norzagaray-bulacan.html
• http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/149767/in-candaba-swamp-birds-are-friends
• http://www.clarkisit.com/potipot-island-little-boracay-zambales/
• http://lumanog-photos.blogspot.com/2013/06/mt-manalmon-bulacan.html
• http://travelogphilippines.com/index.php/2009/12/mount-pinatubo-crater-lake/
• http://www.bulacan.gov.ph/norzagaray/history.php
• http://www.skyscanner.com.ph/news/five-best-places-visit-bataan
• http://discoverbataan.blogspot.com/2013/02/west-nuk-beach-resort-in-morong-bataan.html
• http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com/zambales/things-to-do/?page_id=3586
• http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/358629/newstv/biyahenidrew/history-and-adventure-a-biyahe-ni-drew-itinerary-to-bataan
• http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com/clark-pampanga/top-things-to-do/?page_id=3396

A Sweet Escape (Part 2)

Hello there, ETC readers! Are you ready for the continuation of my family’s Ilocandia Tour? Let’s get it on!

(Day 2)1^st destination: Malacañang Ti Amianan, Paoay, Ilocos Norte! One of the best places to revisit the past is by going to the Malacañang of the North, a two-storey rest house of the late President Ferdinand Marcos. The mixture of Spanish and Ilocano influences is evident in the design of the mansion and by using some of the rooms in the house to showcase the different items related to the Marcos regime, its historical value has been highlighted more. Upon visiting, a local tour guide about my age accompanied and told us many stories about the Marcoses and their contribution to the country. Unfortunately for us, many tourists were also there during the time of our visit, so my mom and I were not able to get many photos of the interior of the house. Nevertheless, I really enjoyed roaming around the house, taking in the beautiful scenery outside, and gaining more knowledge about the late president and his family. 

Want to discover more? Just click here!

Mouth-watering Food of Central Luzon!

Source: I Love Filipino Food

A trip is never complete without tasting the local and traditional food of the places you have visited. In this article, I would be sharing with you some of the best and yummy dishes that you can try once you visit the southern area of Central Luzon!

The Province of Bataan

1. Araro Cookies

Source: Flickr

Samal is known as the Araro Capital of Bataan because of its infamous Araro cookies. The cookies are made of arrowroot instead of the usual flour and eggs mix, thus giving it a milkier and richer taste than the puto seko. Not just that, the araro cookies also have little carvings that make it aesthetically beautiful! 

2. Sinigang na Manok sa Ayo

Source: Tourism Philippines

The province of Bataan is known for its version of the classic sour soup of Southeast Asia, Sinigang, because it uses a different ingredient that makes the dish have its distinct taste. The Ayo leaves gives the Sinigang na Manok a twist because of the sweet and sour flavor that it contributes to the dish. Thus, making the Bataan version of Sinigang, a dish to remember. 

3. Tinapang Banak

Source: Linamnam

Being one of Bataan’s thriving industries, the people of Bataan had already perfected the art of pagtitinapa. Having many fishes that are freshly caught, the province is able to sustain the excellent flavor that it has been giving to the tinapa. Contributing to the fresh flavor of tinapa is the smokey flavor caused by using wood shavings as pampausok to the fishes.

The Province of Bulacan

1. Pancit Marilao

Source: Choose Philippines

Make way for another pancit variety, Pancit Marilao! Pancit Marilao is almost the same as the pancit palabok but unlike the classic dish, the pancit marilao is topped with crunchy okoy (crispy shrimp fritters) and slices of kamias as a better substitute for calamansi. The dish might sound adventurous but with the right blend of crunchiness given by the okoy, the tenderness of the noodles, and the sourish taste of kamias, every bite is surely a fun experience!

2. Pastillas de Leche

Source: Sweet Caroline

Pastillas de Leche, which literally translates to “milk tablets”, is one of the delicacies that are famous in Bulacan, particularly in the town of San Miguel. Unlike other pastillas that uses condensed and powdered milk, the pastillas in Bulacan are made with cooked carabao’s milk, which makes it tastier and more delectable!

3. Ensaymada Malolos (Buttered Brioche)

Source: Pinas Muna

When I asked my dad about the famous delicacies of Bulacan, he immediately said “Yung ensaymada ng Malolos!” According to him, Bulacan is known for its unique and yummy ensaymada. The ensaymada of Malolos has a slightly darker color from other ensaymadas. Butter, cheese and a slice of salted duck egg on top are the ingredients that completes this yummy treat!

The Province of Pampanga

1. Batute Tugak

Source: 8list

One of Pampanga’s exotic dishes, Batute Tugak or stuffed frogs, is a must-try for adventurous foodies! The Batute Tugak are made by stuffing each frog with seasoned ground beef and then deep-fried so as to attain its crispiness. No worries, the frogs that are being used in this dish are farm-raised and poison-free, so everyone are free to indulge!

2. Balo balo

Source: 8list

Another Kapampangan dish is the Balo balo, more commonly known as ‘buro’, which is composed of fermented rice with shrimp suahe and then sautéed in garlic and tomatoes. Serving the dish with mustasa, grilled talong and grilled hito will make the dish more enjoyable. The sour funny smell of the delicacy might make you reconsider eating it but you can never stop yourself from eating once you have tasted the dish!

3. Bringhe

Source: 8list

Pampanga’s version of the Spanish Paella is the Bringhe, made with glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk and turmeric, which gives the yellow green color and distinct flavor to the dish. A lot of different ingredients are also mixed into the dish like chicken, chorizo, bell peppers, carrots and raisins. It is also common to top the dish with slices of boiled eggs to make it more tasty and picture-perfect. The Bringhe is usually served during special occasions and fiestas but it is actually very easy to prepare.

The Province of Zambales

1. Mangoes

Source: Choose Philippines

In 1995, the Guinness Book of World Records has awarded Zambales as the province who has the sweetest and most sumptuous mangoes! The mangoes of Zambales are one of the reasons why tourists keep coming back to the province. Today, the mangoes of the province are being transformed into delectable desserts, refreshing drinks and cocktails, thus diversifying the uses of mangoes and enhancing the experience of tourists!

2. Linga

Source: Sonia Sweets

A nutritious yet scrumptious candy can be found in Zambales? Yep! Linga, more commonly known as “sesame seed candies”, is one of the native delicacies of Zambales. One would surely love these candies once he has tasted one! The linga is a sweet delicacy that is made of just two ingredients, namely: raw sugar and freshly roast sesame seeds!

3. Ginipang

Source: Flickr

Another native delicacy of Zambales is the Ginipang that is made of dried rice grains and has a unique sweet taste. Once you visit the northernmost part of Zambales, do not forget to have a taste of this delicious yet affordable delicacy!

References:

• http://www.pinasmuna.com/2014/05/eurobake-ensaymada-of-malolos-bulacan.html
• http://www.filipino-recipes-lutong-pinoy.com/pastillas-de-leche.html
• http://www.choosephilippines.com/do/festivals/1325/zambales-mango-festival/
• http://www.visitmyphilippines.com/index.php?title=PinasSarapCulinarySites&func=all&pid=8670
• http://www.choosephilippines.com/eat/local-flavors/386/pancit-marilao/
• http://www.pinasmuna.com/2014/05/eurobake-ensaymada-of-malolos-bulacan.html
• http://8list.ph/kapampangan-food/
• http://testcook.businessmirrorireport.com/?p=75
• http://tourism-philippines.com/bataan/
• http://www.linamnam.com/anak-ng-tinapa