The weather was on our side. It's was a sunny day when we arrived in Tanay Rizal. Going to Daranak Falls was easy. There's no ascending trail and no rocky roads.  It was chill and smooth adventure.

Daranak Falls is a park facilitated by the local government in Tanay. It's 2.5- 3 hours away from Manila via land transportation. The falls is about 5-10 minutes away from the city proper. Jump off point is located at Brgy. Plaza Aldea.

The crazy friendship was started in Mt. Daraitan and Tinipak River. The weather was on our side the whole time. It was a chill trek in a long trail together with my cool peeps. Lots of interesting stories revealed along the trail. Every pose on the rocks, laugh trip, food trip and drinking session were memorable. 

Mt. Daraitan is one of the favorite outdoor destinations in Tanay Rizal. It is located at the boundary of two provinces – Rizal and Quezon. Major jump off is located in  Brgy. Daraitan, Tanay while other jump off is located in Sitio Cablao Brgy. Pagsangahan, General Nakar. It's a minor climb with difficulty of 4 out of 9 and  a trail class of 1 to 3.

It was raining cats and dogs when we arrived in Mt. Batulao. We're welcomed with vast grassland and sloping landscapes. It was rough, muddy trails with a combination of ascending and descending hills. We always make sure we're prepared on this situation.

Mt. Batulao lies between Balayan and Nasugbu towns of Batangas. It stands more than 800 meters above sea level and considered as a minor a climb with with 60-70 degrees assault. The jump-off point is located at Evercrest Golf Course (Hillcrest), Nasugbu with 2-4 hours trek going to the peak of the mountain. For a first-timer, you don't need to worry because it's not difficult to reach the summit.

Last year I was invited by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) to cover the 6thyear celebration of Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival. This event featured local and international artists like Tom Thum, Reo Brothers, Crwn, Lustbass, Kristian Hernandez, Bad Kiss, Mark Zero, Miro, Brigada, and The Manila Symphony Orchestra. I really enjoyed this festival simply because I love music and arts. I'm so excited to be part of Malasimbo 2017.

The organizers announced this year's Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival will be held on March 10 to 12 in Puerto Galera. The Malasimbo 2017 will feature Jordan Rakei, Tennyson, LEFTO, Similarobjects, Curtismith, and Kristian Hernandez.  Line up of artists including the local performers will be announced soon. 

Aside from the music, expect interactive arts and installations artworks around the venue. One of the arts that stand out in the past festival was called “Dandelions,” a creation of Olivia D’Aboville. This installation art was made out of recycled water bottles and energy saving light sources.

For ticket prices and other information about Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival 2017, visit www.malasimbo.com

Hapunang Banoi is a mountain located in Rodriguez, Rizal, Philippines. It is part of the Sierra Madre mountain range and is a popular destination for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. The mountain stands at around 517 meters above sea level and is known for its stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, including the nearby Wawa Dam and the Sierra Madre mountain range.

Past 3 o'clock in the morning, we started to travel to Rodriguez Rizal. Our early escapade was very smooth. It's advisable to drive early in the morning because there's no traffic. No hustle at all! We arrived at exactly 4:30AM in Barangay Wawa, the jump-off point. We saw a lot of climbers / DIYers registering their names and paying the necessary fees.

Mt Ulap is one of the favorite destinations in the province of Benguet. The mountain offers a breath-taking view of the Cordilleras as well the subalpine grassland and pine ridges. 

Most of the outdoor enthusiasts preferred dayhike when hiking Mt Ulap. Mountaineers considered it as a minor climb at 1846 MASL with a difficulty of 3 out 9. Even you are a beginner in hiking/ mountaineering, you can handle the long-hours of walking. From the jump off point, which located in Brgy. Ampucao, Itogon, expect a combination of concrete and rough roads.

One of the main attractions on Fortune Island is called the Acropolis. It features replicas of ancient buildings of great architecture like the Parthenon. The island is located about 15 kilometers off the coast of Nasugbu, Batangas which can be reached via 1-hour boat ride.

Fortune Island | (c)  Neon Ibanez

Fortune Island was once a luxury island resort. It measures 27 hectares and is filled with Grecian architecture from the famous pillars of Parthenon and structures featuring ancient gods and mythical creatures, imitating the Greek Acropolis.

Dubbed as Maldives of the Philippines, the Manjuyod Sandbar is now trending on different social networking sites because of its sublime beauty. This glorious tourist spot in Negros Oriental features powdery white sands, clear aquamarine waters and wonderful view of mountains around the sandbar.

Manjuyod Sandbar | (c) Jonathan  aka Phos Graphi

Around the Manjuyod Sandbar, you can find native wooden cottages that look like they're floating on the glimmering clear water, same set up in some resorts in Maldives. Cottages are available on the island for daytrips or overnight stay. You need to contact  Manjuyod Tourism Offic if you want to book cottage.

Not so new, but a beautiful flower garden in Sirao is one of the tourist destinations that you need to include on your itinerary if you are in Cebu. The eye-catching and instagram-worthy view garden is called Sirao Flower Farm, which also known as Mini Amsterdam Garden of Cebu.

Sirao Flower Farm/ (c) Phos Graphi/Jonathan

Sirao Flower Farm features yellow, orange and red celosia, locally known as “burlas.” These flowers came from Netherlands and became the Official Flower of Sinulog. The place offers the best venue for selfies, groupies and pre-nuptial pictorials.

Real Surf PH is one of the new beach spots in Quezon province. It is a great place for surfers, adventure-seekers and beach bums who love to swim and surf. Real Surf PH is a budget-friendly yet comfortable escape from city which features beachfront cabanas, tent areas and other beautiful structures.

Surf Real PH |  (c) Neon Ibanez

Real Surf PH is the newest beach in the small town of barrio Malapad in Reál, Quezon. It's also the nearest surfing destination from the Metro in terms of land travel--with friendly 2-4 feet waves not far from shore, for beginners or surfers of all levels. The beach spot features fine sands, amazing waves, comfy cabanas, colorful tables and beach front cabanas.

If you are looking for a budget friendly white beach near Manila, Masasa Beach in Tingloy Island is the place to be. The beach can be reached from Mabini Batangas via a 45- minute motorboat ride.

Masasa Beach features white sand with pebbles and broken corals along the coastline. The water here is clear and seaweed-free unlike in  Burot beach. You can also find some small fishing boats docked along stretch of the shore.

Palaui Island became the venue of the popular America reality series Survivor in 2013. Both the 27th and 28th seasons of 'Survivor' USA were filmed in this beautiful paradise. The island can be reached from Tuguegarao City via a two-hour land trip and a 45- minute motorboat ride.

Palaui, a 7,415-hectare national government-protected marine area, was picked by Cable News Network (CNN) as among the world’s 10 best beaches. It features beautiful coastline, great white sandy beaches, lush forest and amazing coves and rock formations.

Two new mountains were recently opened to the public that feature thick forest, amazing hills and breathtaking 360-degree of nearby mountains such as Mount Batolusong,Mount Cayabu Mount Daraitan, and Mount Maynoba and among others. These new mountains are called Mount Sapari and Mount Binutasan, which dubbed as the Maysawa Circuit.

Mt Sapari |  Photo by Alex Sabugo

Mount Sapari and Mount Binutasan are located in Sitio Maysawa in Brgy. Cuyambay Tanay,Rizal. It is approximately 12.81 km. from the jump-off area (versa). Mountaineers considered these two mountains as minor climb with a difficulty level of 2. Mount Sapari is 592 metres above sea level (MASL) while Mount Binutasan is 562 metres above sea level (MASL).

If you are planning to spend your vacation in Baguio, there's a new attraction in La Trinidad, Benguet that you need to include on your travel bucket list. It's a cluster of bright-colored houses which look like a giant mural.

Colorful houses in Benguet |  photo by Bj Carreon / @pinoytravelwhore

The hillside painting is located near La Trinidad Arc and Chinese Temple/ Bell Church. It's just three kilometers from Baguio’s Central Business District.

Having a great pair of shoes is necessary when travelling. Most of the time, I travel to a rural area where roads are not that good. Since public transportation in the province is not that aggressive compare to the Metro, what I usually do is to walk. That's why it's really important for me to have a quality pair of shoes. 

One of the shoe brands I usually use when travelling is Sandugo. It's a Filipino brand which offers footwear especially for hiking or trekking. Sandugo offers a wide variety of  shoes, sandals and slippers. I got the Sandugo Sandals 1201 for only P 1,499. Its color is a combination of blue and gray with the brand's logo, which made of mesh and synthetic leather. The trekking shoes feature durable soles with great traction, midsole designs that focus on supporting the foot for miles. There are holes on both sides that serves as water drainage and ventilation system of the shoes.

There are lots of great restaurants in Makati particularly in Jupiter Street. Each resto has something unique to offer. From Filipino cuisine, American cuisine, to Chinese cuisine, you can find a resto here that serve quality food. One of the newest resto in the city that serves happy-hearty comfort food influenced by international cuisines, the Cuore Bistro & Social Lounge.

Cuore Bistro & Social Lounge is the first restaurant of Col Cuore Corporation, a corporation established in 2016. The name 'Cuore' is Italian for heart. The idea started as a small cafe business that eventually grew to a full service restaurant after receiving much interest from investors and partners. This resto serves salads, pastas, calzones and brick-oven pizzas name a few.

Located in the heart of Quezon City near Smart Araneta Coliseum and Broadway Centrum, the Madison 101 Hotel + Tower welcomes you in a contemporary and warm atmosphere. You will enjoy peace and comfort of their room for a well deserved break after your busy work.  

Madison 101 features 101 dormitory rooms and 34 modern designed hotel rooms, which are all air-conditioned. Each of their guest rooms are tastefully decorated and perfectly equipped to provide comfort and relaxation. The dormitory room is perfect for students and young professionals that master their craft.

MassKara Festival is one of popular festivals in the Philippines which started in the early 80’s. The annual celebration held every October by locals in Bacolod, known as as “The City of Smiles.”

MassKara Festival | Photo by Syron Grande Jardeniano

The fun festival features a parade of locals wearing unique and colorful mask and a streetdance competition where participants are wearing also mask and beautiful costume while dancing to the beats of the drums. Other activities include the MassKara Queen beauty pageant, musical concerts, drum and bugle corps competitions, carnivals,  food festivals, sports events,  agriculture-trade fairs, garden shows, and other special events.

Aurora is famous for its surfing spots in the town of Baler. The province is also known for having unspoiled beaches, amazing rock formation and pristine waterfalls. One of the newest tourist destinations in the province that attracts a lot of outdoor enthusiasts is a place called "Dingalan."

Dubbed the Batanes of the East, Dingalan features a breathtaking view of the magnificent blue sea and stunning rock formations. No wonder why they compare it to Batanes. This newest attraction has also a lighthouse. You can feel here the cold breeze of the wind and it's really refreshing. Get extra careful if you're taking pictures or selfies. Please also don't step on the solar panels because you might break them or you will break if you fall down to the ground.

For those who will plan to explore the wonders of Bicol Region, visit the beautiful Subic Beach in Matnog, a municipality in the province of Sorsogon.

Enjoy the long stretch of fine white sands and crystal clear waters, as it relax your eyes on the wonders of Subic Beach. The whole area is peaceful and pristine. There are lots of trees in the beach where you can stay to protect its you from the direct heat of the sun.

Calayan Island is not just an ordinary island in the north. It is the  home to some of the most unspoiled white beaches in the country, featuring amazing rock formations, breathtaking waterfalls,  majestic caves, enchanted forest and other beautiful natural structures.

Calayan Island

Calayan is one of the municipalities in the province of Cagayan. The town is the largest of the Babuyan Islands which is composed of four islands namely: Calayan proper, Camiguin, Dalupiri and Babuyan Island. Near the town is  Fuga Island which is considered as part of Aparri municipality.

If you already visited Baler and Dingalan, head over to Casapsapan Beach, located in the town of Casiguran Aurora. The beach is famous for its unbeatable fine sand and crystal clear waters which will give you a relaxing feeling. 

Casapsapan Beach 

Casapsapan Beach is not that yet famous compared to other beaches in Baler. The beach features fine and creamy sands, pristine blue sparkling waters, and five hectares of virgin mangrove which will truly take your breath away. You can find here different resorts that offer affordable room accommodations where you can stay overnight. For those backpackers, you can pitch a tent for Php100.

There's a big table coral right by the beach which is exposed during low tide. Please be advised to get extra careful if you want to swim in this area. It's advisable to wear slippers or sandals to avoid injuries.

 How To Get to Casapsapan Beach Aurora

a) Take a genesis bus in Cubao bound for Baler. Travel time is around 5-6 hours. Bus Fare is Php Php450

b) From Baler, take a van going to Casiguran. Travel time is around 3-4 hours. Van Fare is Php250

Another way to go to Casapsapan beach is from Manila to Cabantuan to Baler. From Baler You can take a van going to Casapsapan Beach.

Travel Guide / Tips

• Electric Supply is from 5PM to 5AM
• Don't forget to bring headgear and sunblock to protect your skin from the direct heat of the sun.
• The Telecom signal is not that good in Casapsapan Beach.
• It's better to bring your own food. Goodies on the beach is a bit pricey
• The beach is far from Baler and Dingalan. It's better to take an overnight to this place to enjoy more the place. 

Where to stay in Baler? Check Room Rates HERE. 

Check Klook Room Rates HERE. 

Casapsapan Beach is a lovely destination that you shouldn't miss in the province of Aurora. Whether you want to surf, swim, or simply relax and soak up the sun, Casapsapan Beach has something beautiful for you. So, pack your bags and head out to  Casapsapan Beach for an exciting beach adventure.

Aside from Baler, another reason to spend your weekends or holiday vacation in Aurora is an island paradise called Dingalan.

Dingalan is located in the southernmost town of Aurora Province, the Philippines which is known for white beaches, caves, waterfalls, and rock formations. It's a 3-4 hour drive from Manila which is accessible by road through the Northern Luzon Express Way. You can see lots of mountains and rice fields along your way going to the island.

Some of the tourists feel like they are in Batanes while walking around Dingalan. You can find here a beautiful "Parola' (Light House) where you find a wonderful view of the ocean and big rock formations. Enjoy also the breeze of the wind as it relaxes and refreshes your mind and body

How To get to the Dingalan Aurora

a)  Take a 5-star bus in Cubao bound for Cabanatuan. Travel time is around 3 hours. Bus Fare is Php 185

b)   From Cabanatuan, take a van going to Dingalan. Travel time is around 1 and a half to 2 hours. Van Fare is Php100

c)   From Dingalan, take a tricycle going to Feeder Port. Travel Time is 10-15 minutes. Tricycle Fare is Php20

d)   From Port, Take a boat going to white beach, which is the jump-off to Parola. Travel time is around 20 minutes. The boat rental fee is Php700 (2 ways).

Travel Guide / Tips

1. It's better to go on weekdays to Dingalan. Expect a long waiting to go up to the Parola

2. It's advisable to travel in a group to save money for the boat rental. The boat can accommodate up to 10 pax.

3. the Last trip from Dingalan to Cabanatuan is 3PM-4PM

4. Buy first your food and other travel essentials in Dingalan before going to Feeder Port

5. If you want to save more money, you can trek going to white beach (mona's resort is the nearest resort to the Lighthouse). It will take around 30 minutes to walk going to white beach. 

6. It's advisable to wear trekking shoes or sandals.

7. There are resorts in Dingalan that offer room accommodation

7. For your itinerary, it's advisable to go early in the morning if you want to do it day tour. 

8. Another side trip in the area is going to the waterfalls. Kuliglig ride is one of the best activities while in Dingalan

Special thanks to certified traveler Jeff Gler for the wonderful photos

Sunburn Music Festival will be held on August 27 to 28, 2016 at the Bay Area of The Capitol Grounds in Lingayen, Pangasinan.

Sunburn Music Festival is an electronic music festival (EDM party) that will feature the best of the best DJs from around the world. This 24-hour rave party will definitely give partygoers an awesome night with lots of great music and entertainment.

The Sunburn Music Festival is to be scheduled this June 18 and was moved this August due to the recent incident that happened during the recently concluded Close-Up Forever Summer, held at the Mall of Asia Concert Grounds. 

The organizers together with the LGU and the event's sponsors want to make sure partygoers will be safe during the music festival.

For more information about Sunburn Music Festival 2016 (ticket price), you can check out their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sunburnmusicfestivalph/

Club Balai Isabel offers a breath-taking view of  Taal Lake and world -famous Taal Volcano. It's is a residential resort community situated in Talisay, Batangas, an hour and a half drive from Manila.

Not only the cold weather, Tagaytay is  famous by its view of Taal Lake and its volcano which is  the jump off point  for treks to the crater. Some tourists usually think this is the best spot to have a personal view of smallest volcano in the world.  Visit Club Balai Isabel in Talisay and you can also see here amazing view of the lake and its volcano.

Hiking is widely popular now in the Philippines. This activity is not only for mountaineers, outdoor enthusiasts can also indulge in this kind of activity. As long you are physically fit and have the passion to explore the mountain, hiking is just like a chill walk in  the morning.

Before indulging in a hiking, you should know first the do's and don't in hiking. For a beginner, this is not an easy activity.  Expect a long, vigorous walk, usually on trails (footpaths) and sometimes a sudden change of weather. Be Prepared and don't expect too much! You should be patient and have the dedication to reach the summit. Another thing, you must have the proper attire to avoid injury along the trail and some essentials for hiking like bag, tent, sleeping bag, flashlight, etc.

Are you one of the million fans of Amazing Race? Are you imagining yourself that you are on screen doing diffrent challenges as you travel around the world? This is right time for you to be part of Amazing Race Asia Season 5.

Are you one of the million fans of Amazing Race?  Are you imagining yourself that you are on screen doing diffrent challenges as you travel around the world? This is right time for you to be part of Amazing Race Asia Season 5.

The Amazing Race Asia Season 5 is looking for couples or pairs (with pre-existing relationships) who are ready to face different challenges as they race around the world.

The show will debut in its fifth run on AXN in late 2016. Ten teams chosen from across the Asia-Pacific region will compete for a chance at the winning crown and US$100,000 in cash. The show will be hosted by Allan Wu

Contestant Requirements:

1. Aged 21 years old above

2. must have valid passports

3. must be a citizen or resident of Asia

4. Physically and mentally fit

5. must be outgoing, adventurous and socially savvy

6. At least one member must have a driver's license and can drive automatic transmission and manual transmission

The site is now open for application and this can be found at: www.axn-asia.com/TARA

Interested applicants would need to fill up the online application form on our website and will have to submit a 3 minute audition video online.

After the class, some of the students in UP Diliman go to Mang Larry's Isawan, the famous isawan in Metro Manila. The store sells grilled isaw (pig or chicken intestine).

Mang Larry's Isawan is famous not only among scholars (ISKA and ISKO) of University of  the Philippines but also to all Pinoys who love streetfood. The small food cart was already featured on different local TV shows like Rated K and Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho.

Baler is one of the summer destinations in the Philippines. It is famous for beautiful historical landmarks and amazing waves. The town is considered as one of "top surf spots" in country.

This surfing paradise is the capital of  Aurora province. It's six hours away from Manila. Baler situated on a vast plain at the south end of Baler Bay, a contiguous segment of the Philippine Sea. You can reach the town via a mountain pass accessible by bus and private vehicle.

Island hopping is one of the exciting activities to do in the province of Quezon. You can find here a lot of beautiful destinations that are perfect for budget-travellers or backpackers.

One of the best island to explore in Quezon province is Jomalig Island. It's located in the north eastern most part of the province which measures 5,665 hectares (14,000 acres). The island is near to the famous Polillio group.

Mt. Maynoba & Mt. Cayabu are newly-opened mountains in the province of Rizal. It's formally opened to the public last March 22, 2016.  Its jump off point is located in Brgy. Cayabu. 

Mt Maynoba in Tanay Riza (c) Belle Lo Li

Dubbed as Maynoba Circuit, it's recommended for beginners in hiking as well mountaineers/ climbers looking for a dayhike. Mt. Maynoba and Mt. Cayabu feature a breath-taking view of grassland ridges, peaks in Sierra Madre and  nearby mountains like Mt. Batolusong.

Aside from Cavinti Falls and Majayjay Falls, another waterfall that's now trending in social media, the Hulugan Waterfalls.

Hulugan Falls became more popular after it was featured in GMA's travel show, Byahe ni Drew which was hosted by Drew Arellano. The lively waterfall is located in  San Salvador, Luisiana.

The jump-off point or entry point is located in  Baranggay San Salvador. Registration fee is required and guide fee is not mandatory. At this time, the local government is not yet implementing a fixed rate for guide fees.

The trail to Hulugan Waterfalls is a combination of concrete and rough roads. It only takes 1-2 hours to reach the falls. Expect an assault trail once you go back to the entry point.

During the weekend expect a lot of tourists that flock to the waterfalls. It's advisable to go early in the morning like 6AM-8AM. Wear trekking shoes or sandals. The road gets slippery and muddy when it rains.

The budget for this trip will be less than P1000.

Aside from Hulugan Falls, you can also visit the Aliw Falls, Talay Falls (also known as Hidden Falls, and Cavinti Falls or Pagsanjan Waterfalls

Itinerary

0400 Depart for Manila
0630 Depart for Sta Cruz
0730 Arrival in San Salvador
0745 Start Descend to Hulugan Fall
0845 Arrival in Hulugan Falls
0945 Start Ascend to San Salvador
1045 Clean Up
1100 Arrival at San Jose
1215 Start Trek to Aliw Falls
1300 Arrival in Aliw Falls
1430 Start Trek to entry point
1545 Clean Up
1645 Arrival in Sta Cruz
1830 Arrival in Manila

For DIY expesenses

Cubao-Sta, Cruz via DLTB bus - Php 140
Sta Cruz- Brgy San Salvador via Jeep - Php 30
Registration Fee- Php15
Camp Site Fee - Php50
Tour Guide: Not Mandatory. It's up to you on the amount that you will give to your guide

How to get to Hulugan Water Falls

By public transportation: Ride a bus bound for Sta. Cruz, Laguna via Calamba.  The bus terminal is located both in Cubao and Taft. From Sta. Cruz, ride a jeep bound for Luisiana. Ask the driver if it passes by San Salvador. If not, ride a tricycle from Luisiana to San Salvador.

Another way to go to Hulugan Falls is via bus (Jam)  bound for Pulo. From there, take a jeep going to SM Calamba, then take a van going to Luisiana.

By private transportation: Take the Calamba exit on the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) going through Pansol, Los Banos, Pila, Sta Cruz and Pagsanjan.  From Pagsanjan,  look for the San Salvador arc on your right past a waiting shed.

Reminders

1. It's advisable to wear close shoes. It's wet and slippery when it rains
2. Don't forget to bring sunblock, a hat or an umbrella to protect your skin from the direct heat of the sun
3. Bring bottled water.
4. Get extra careful when taking pictures in Hulugan Falls, Rocks are slippery and water near the falls is unpredictable.

If you are looking for a great restaurant in Quezon City the offers authentic Chinese food, the Oriental Palace is a must-visit resto. It's located at Scout Gandia corner Tomas Morato.

The Oriental Palace Restaurant and Banquet Hall is owned by a Chinese family headed by Mr. Henry Chua. This family business was started in 1978 and traced its roots to Wah Yuen (Chinese Garden), a famous dim sum and noodles resto across the Love Bus in Escolta.

For a long hour of travel, it's advisable to ride in a big bus with an air conditioner, a comfy chair and has its own CR. It's good to arrive at your favorite destination with good sleep or without complaints about the bus.

Genesis Transport Service Inc. (GTSI) offers a deluxe bus that will provide its passengers a different travel experience. This bus is called JoyBus. It is the executive coach of Genesis, and promises to give its passengers a “joy ride,” convenience and safety ride.

Mt Ulap is one of the popular mountains in the province of Benguet. Its jump off point or entry point is located at Brgy. Ampucao, Itogon. It has 1846 MASL with a difficulty of 3 out 9. Mountaineers or outdoor enthusiasts can take it dayhike or overnight . The mountain features grassland and pine ridges as well the scenic views of the Cordilleras.

photo was shot by Almond Pader

A lot of mountaineers said that Mt Ulap is like a mini Mt. Ugo. Both mountains feature pine and grassland ridges with stunning views of the mountains. Some of the trails are covered with trees (Pine trees) and most are exposed grassland slopes. Near the summit, there're cows around the area enjoying the fresh grass.

Mt. Manalmon is one of the popular mountain destinations in Bulacan. Its major jump-off point is located in Sitio Madlum, Brgy. Sibul, San Miguel. Mountaineers consider Mt. Manalmon as a minor climb with a a difficulty of 2/9 and trail class 1-2. It's 160 meters above sea level which features Madlum Cave and River and views of neighboring mountains.

Mt. Manalmon is part of the historical Biak-na-Bato National Park in San Miguel, Bulacan. You will be amazed on different natural wonders and rock formations along the way going to the summit.

Get ready for the Philippine International Pyromusical Competition 2016 that will start on February 13, 2016 and the final show as  well the announcement of winners will be on March 19, 2016 at the Seaside Area of SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

photo by Haw Santiago

Competing countries for the Philippine International Pyromusical Competition 2016 include Australia, USA, Canada, China, Germany, Portugal, Italy, The Netherlands, France and United Kingdom.

Last year winner was Royal Pyrotechnie of Canada beating Pyrotex Fireworx Ltd. of United Kingdom. Who do you think will win this year's competition.

The 7th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition Schedule

Aside from Valentines Day, the month of February is also the celebration of Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. It gathers aviators from the Philippines and the world. The event will be held on February 11-14, 2016 in Clark, Pampanga.

This annual balloon festival features lots of hot air balloon in different forms, aerobatics, skydiving, paragliding, remote control aircraft, kite flying and other interesting outdoor activities.