Labor Day getaways
LABOR DAY has been known as a public holiday in the Philippines since 1913. For most people in labor organizations and unions, it is a day of protest and fighting for their rights. For some, it is a one-day opportunity — or in this year’s case, a three-day weekend — to take a breather from the hectic demands of work and get away from the hustle and bustle of the metro. People who yearn to be part of the latter could plan a quick weekend excursion in destinations near Metro Manila by considering these places:
ANAWANGIN COVE, ZAMBALES
Anawangin Cove is among the top Philippine tourist attractions in Central Luzon. Only three hours away from Manila, it has become a favorite location of beach-goers, campers, and hikers over the years. Upon reaching Anawangin Cove via boat from Pundaquit beach in San Antonio, Zambales, one could witness a serene and majestic view of the ocean and mountains encircling it. Besides taking a dip in its clear and still waters, tourists could set up their tents on the nearby campsite where they could likewise create bonfires and cook food. In the morning, people could explore the mountainous areas of the cove and take a short trek to the Nagsasa Waterfalls.
CAGBALETE ISLAND, QUEZON
Nestled in Mauban, Quezon is Cagbalete Island, an arguably underrated tourist destination of the province. Fronting the Pacific Ocean, the 1,640-hectare privatelyowned island seems like any beach junkie’s paradise due to its white sands, which exposes during low tide, and diverse ecosystem. Also three hours away from the metro, one could get there by arranging a private boat through one’s chosen resort at only P4,000 roundtrip. Among the activities that could be enjoyed in Cagbalete Island are swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, camping and picnics, bird watching, and horseback riding. Tourists may also visit its neighboring Baliscar Island and lighthouse or walk to the nearby Bonsai Island to see its 100-year-old bonsai plants.
MT. PINATUBO, TARLAC-PAMPANGA
Mt. Pinatubo is entirely about adventure. Trekking the volcano could be an unforgettable experience for most people because of its stunning scenery and turquoise waters of the volcanic Crater Lake. When traveling to Mt. Pinatubo, a crowd favorite is its exhilarating drive on an old 4x4 Filipino Jeep across Crow Valley. As described on the attraction’s official Web site, the Crow Valley is a “moon-like terrain with vast ash fields and rocky rivers.” On the way to the Crater Lake, travelers could interact with the Aetas, one of the oldest indigenous tribes of the country. After that, one may choose between a two-hour hike and a 30-minute trek to the rim of the breathtaking Crater Lake.
CORREGIDOR ISLAND, CAVITE
Some say Corregidor can awaken the history fanatic in everyone. True enough, its ruins have been around since the Spanish colonial times. Located at the doorway of Manila Bay, Corregidor Island is just a short trip away from the city. On the island, one can explore the lateral tunnels of Malinta. The Malinta Tunnel served as the last stronghold of the joint Philippine and American militaries before the Japanese took over during World War II. In the Malinta Tunnel, people could experience its lights and sounds show which could take anyone back in time. Apart from that, people could visit Corregidor’s mile-long barrack, its century-old lighthouse, and, for the adventurous souls, go on a ghost hunting adventure at night in the remnants of the island’s old hospital.