Destinations for the heart, mind and soul

Easter is one of the most anticipated holidays in the Philippines, a country where majority of the population holds a burning devotion to religion. And since the said holiday came this summer, most of us would love to take the time to snooze off, travel, and relax.

From north to south, here are the most inspiring and enchanting places in the Philippines where you could spend the Easter holiday without breaking the bank.

CAGAYAN

If you think Ilocos is the only place to visit up North, Cagayan will prove you wrong.

This region is a mixture of greenery, pristine beaches, and an active city life. For the Holy Week, you could visit the miraculous Our Lady of Piat, the newly renovated Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral or the Poor Claire Monastery, which is found on top of a hill, giving you a picturesque sight of the region’s capital, Tuguegarao City.

Aside from Sta. Ana’s fine sands, Calayan Island should also be on top of your list. The patchy signal, limited electricity, and unspoiled environment in the remote island should give you all the time to relax, reconnect, and ponder.

PAMPANGA

Every summer, Pampanga bears its two faces. Visitors gather in San Pedro Cutud in San Fernando, one of the oldest Holy Week crucifixion sites in the Philippines. During the special week, tourists witness devotees present different forms of penitence such as the actual nailing of Christ on the cross.

After a life-changing experience, be sure to have the ultimate gastronomic journey. Savor different rich Kapampangan recipes that have been handed down from one generation to another.

MANILA

If you are stuck in the city for the week, you will surely experience a peaceful Metro Manila. With majority of the populace heading to the provinces, you must enjoy a hassle-free commute to Intramuros.

The walled-city is a home to century-old churches such as Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church. Although museums will be closed for the Easter, you could still cherish the picturesque architectures and the serenity of the historic city while riding e-trikes or bamboo bikes.

BATANGAS

Hours away from Manila, you will find South Luzon’s hidden gems. If you do not have time to prepare an itinerary, Batangas has everything from untouched beaches of Anilao and Laiya, and impressive churches of Caleruega to green mountains of Panay and Pico de Loro. You must complete your brief trip with a sip of the signature Batangas Lomi and Bulalo.

MARINDUQUE

You can always choose to go the extra mile and brave a sevenhour adventure to the heart-shaped Marinduque Island. Every Holy Week, this province comes to life with its festival where Moriones march around town wearing colorful costumes and masks that depict the faces of Roman centurions.

After joining the solemn tradition, head to Mongpong Island. Here, you could jump off a cliff or shout your heart out on top rock formations. For a sun-kissed skin, walk in the middle of clear waters at Palad Sandbar.

CEBU

This island has plenty of surprises aside from the luscious mangoes. While the place had already been hit by modernization, Cebu, the birthplace of Catholicism in the Philippines, was able to preserve the miraculous Simala Shrine and century-old churches such as Santo Niño Basilica.

For adventure seekers, this place will not disappoint. Aloguinsan beach, described as the hidden beach or secret paradise, is nicely kept behind coconut trees. At the end of your short two-hour travel from the city, you will be mesmerized with its clean shoreline and crystal clear waters.

The Philippines has more than 7,000 islands, each with unique hidden sanctuaries. This Easter, you are given the freedom to go out and find yourself as you explore these destinations. Where are you hopping off?