Taal Crater Up Close

The Philippines is indeed a haven of natural wonders. I braved through the waters of Laguna Lake and hiked for hours just to see the crater of the world famous Taal Volcano.

No, this is not yet the Taal Volcano! This is what our tour guide said to us.

The crater can be found on the other part of the mountain.

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This is the other side of the mountain.

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Yes, there are people living peacefully at the foot of the volcano.

Most of them are fisher folks.

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Ahh, the sight is breath-taking!

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To reach the crater, we had to endure the mini-sandstorm created by our own sandals.

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Frt. Gil, Frt. Jojo and Fr. Raul rested for a while.

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Lo and behold, the Taal Volcano crater!

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In this very crater, a small island is growing.

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It was a great experience to see the Taal crater.

Just like every nature-friendly mountaineer,

we took nothing but pictures;

we left nothing but footprints;

we killed nothing but time.

Underground River is a Wonder!

I am supporting the Underground River’s bid for its inclusion in the New Seven Wonders of Nature. I have been to the different parts of our country from A (Abra) to Z (Zamboanga) and in one of my journeys, the Underground River left a deep impression on me.

one of the scene stealers on the way to the underground river

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the beautiful rocks of palawan

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underground river, here i come!

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ako ang taga-hawak ng flashlight

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From Puerto Princesa City of Palawan, I traveled for two hours to reach Sabang, the gateway to the Underground River. My tour-guide Kuya Boboy showed to me “the century old tomato tree.” Believe me, he is the best tour guide I ever had. If you go to Palawan, everybody knows him (Note: He is a Dabawenyo).

From Sabang, I rented a boat going to the Underground River. It was like being transported to a new world. Kuya Boboy told me that in Underground River, animals and humans lived in peaceful and loving co-existence – and it unfolded before my very eyes! Giant lizards can walk freely without being threatened by the presence of the many people in the area. They even stop for light pictorials. Monkeys are friendly too. They could even walk with you.

Beautiful Philippines

If you don't like this island,




There are 7, 106 other Philippine islands to choose from...

The Kabugan Island of Olutanga

Location: Calais, Olutanga, Zamboanga Sibugay

Kabugan Island is one of the many famous islands in Olutanga Island. "Kabugan" comes from the word "kabug" which means "bat". From the word itself, you will not wonder why bats are in the area. The island's name speaks already for itself. Thousands of bats congregate in this part of the world in broad daylight. They are a lovely sight. Unfortunately, this place has not yet been declared a bat sanctuary.