Huwebes, Agosto 29, 2013

Pangasinan: The Heartland of the Philippines

Feel like going on a road trip? Why not go to Pangasinan, the heartland of the Philippines? It is home to the famed Hundred Islands National Park, the Bangus Festival, and the white sand beaches of Bolinao and Dasol.

Balungao Hilltop Adventure

Nestled at the foot of Mt. Balungao, this nascent hot and cold springs resort offers both fun and relaxation to weary travelers. The resort also boasts of having a 600-meter long Zipline—the longest in Region 1. For those who are looking for some adventure, Balungao Hilltop Adventure also offers ATV Riding, Hiking, Mountain Climbing, Mountain Biking, and Trail Walking.

Goat and Sheep Farms
The trip to Balungao’s goat and sheep farms was both engaging and enlightening. Not only did we learn a lot about raising goat and sheep, but we also got to interact with these beautiful and docile creatures. The farms came about as part of the livelihood project of the local government for the farmers. Consequently, the project has paved the way for the development of agritourism in the area.
Agew na Pangasinan 
We were fortunate enough to be in town to witness the colorful celebration of the province’s founding anniversary. A Commemorative Program featuring the awarding of prizes to the winners of the Kurit Panlunggaring Literary Contest and Balitok a Tawir Culture and Arts Festival kicked off the celebration. A colorful float parade from the various participating municipalities and establishments followed suit. Another highlight of the fete was the lively street dance competition.

Calasiao Church
If you like visiting old buildings and learning about history, then a trip to the Sts. Peter and Paul Parish Church in Calasiao would just be the thing. This Baroque church, which was built during the Spanish colonial era, was declared a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA).

Princesa Urduja House
Named after the legendary warrior princess Urduja, this attention-grabbing building serves as the residence of the provincial governor. The building’s impressive architecture and ornate furnishings are a sight to behold. A portion of the residence is open to organized public visits.
The province of Pangasinan truly has plenty of natural and man-made attractions which you must visit. Among them are the Mangrove Nursery and Fish Farm, the Capitol Building, the Veterans Memorial Park War Museum, the Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Center Lagoon Ride, the St. James the Fortress Church, the Baniaga River Water Sports Adventure, the Umbrella Rocks of Agno, the Bolinao Caves, and Tondol Beach.

 

Editor’s Picks

El Puerto Marina
This beach resort and spa is probably one of the best in the area. The rustic atmosphere was well complimented by the modern and elegant furnishings. Everything you’ll need to have the perfect vacation is here: spa, restaurant, bar, skin boarding, surf boarding, ATV rental, videoke, billiards, and darts. You can even go on a tour of the Hundred Islands. Oh, did I mention about the humongous fish in their pond?
Capitol Resort Hotel
This provincial government-owned hotel fronting the Lingayen Beach is conveniently located at the provincial capital district. You can have a fun and relaxing time either by strolling at the beach or at the plaza. You can also visit the the Veterans Memorial Park War Museum nearby. You can expect good service from the hotel’s accommodating staff. The hotel also features air-conditioned rooms, open cottages, swimming pools, and a driving range.
Bangsal Restaurant
This restaurant in Binmaley is one of the longest-running dining establishments in Pangasinan. When in town, make sure that you sample their delectable dishes. Be prepared to gorge on their lechon, oriental dishes, dimsum, noodles, and seafood dishes.

- R. F. Necio

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