‘Ala eh, Batangas’
ONE
of the more famous tourist destinations near Metro Manila is the province of Batangas. Its rich history and culture, coupled with its pristine beaches and breath-taking mountains that every budding mountaineers dreams of conquering, highlight the natural beauty and awe of Batangas.
However, it is not only Batangas’ natural beauty and rich culture that attracts tourists to flock to this part of Calabarzon. Batangas is also a picture of a locality that is rapidly growing economically. The port in Batangas City is a primary hub for the delivery of goods, services, and people from the island of Luzon to various parts of the country. Economic activities flow at rapid paces in various part of the province because of its accessibility through efficient road networks that connect Batangas to nearby provinces.
Several prominent personalities in history, politics, and sports hail from the province of Batangas. These Batangueños have indeed brought great pride not only to their province but to the nation as well. The Sublime Paralytic Apolinario Mabini was born and grew up in Tanauan. Filipino General and hero Miguel Malvar was from Sto. Tomas. Philippine flag seamstress Marcella Agoncillo was born and raised in Taal. Jose P. Laurel who became president of the republic was born in Tanauan. Laurel’s fifth son, Salvador Roman Laurel, served as vice president of President Corazon C. Aquino. Famous athletes also come from the province of Batangas such as volleyball phenom Alyssa Valdez and De La Salle University’s pride Kim Fajardo. Both Valdez and Fajardo were vital members of the Philippine women’s volleyball team which competed during the recent ASIAN games in Indonesia.
As one of Calabarzon’s leading provinces, Batangas is truly advantaged by its rich natural resources, people, culture, and history. As it continues progressing towards the path of development, may the province’s leaders never forget to keep that balance between economic development and environmental sustainability. With governance, present and future Batangueños are assured of an even brighter future ahead.