Blog

Angeles City parties for a whole month every October. Indeed, the Fiestang Kuliat 2026 schedule runs from October 1 to 30, and it packs more than 40 activities into a single calendar. Notably, the city government launched the festival in 1992, a year after the Mount Pinatubo eruption. Since then, the month-long fiesta has honored [...]

The “City of Smiles” is gearing up for one of the most vibrant, color-drenched spectacles in Southeast Asia. The MassKara Festival 2026 in Bacolod City brings together world-class street dancers, smiling mask artisans, illuminated night floats, and infectious drum rhythms. Whether you are planning your first trip to Negros Occidental or returning for the annual […]

Experience the Magic of the 2026 Lubao Hot Air Balloon and Music Gathering If you are looking for an exciting weekend trip, make sure to visit Pampanga during the first week of March. The highly anticipated aviation and entertainment event is making its return, promising a phenomenal blend of daytime aerial showcases and thrilling evening […]

Experience “A Weekend of Everything that Flies” in the Heart of Tarlac’s Architectural Marvel. Experience the breathtaking collision of architectural brilliance and aviation wonder. This February 13-15, 2026, the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) transforms the futuristic landscape of New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac into a vibrant sky-canvas. Themed “A Weekend of Everything […]

foodpanda today announced the launch of ‘PRO Weeks,’ a limited-time savings event from September 1 to 15, offering exclusive deals and up to 50% off for its pandapro subscribers. The two-week campaign provides members with significant discounts and free delivery on food, groceries, and shop items from popular partners. “Our goal with pandapro is to […]

Century Properties Group (CPG) is strengthening its presence outside Metro Manila with the launch of a new mid-rise residential development at Azure North Estate in San Fernando, Pampanga. Building on the success of its initial developments, the second phase of Azure North will feature four (4) mid-rise residential buildings and 49 townvillas, complemented by new amenities designed to […]

Mr. Eric Alberto, DITO Telecommunity Chief Executive Officer with Mr. Noel Manankil, LIPAD President and CEO during the ceremonial turnover of DITO’s WiFi services held on November 7. DITO Telecommunity, in partnership with Luzon International Premiere Airport Development (LIPAD) Corporation, elevates the digital experience at Clark International Airport with a PHP 50 million investment in […]

The Singkaban Festival 2024, a vibrant celebration held annually in the province of Bulacan, Philippines, is renowned for its colorful parades, intricate bamboo arches, and a wide array of cultural activities. Although the Singkaban Festival is often known for its grand floats, the Indakan sa Kalye remains a captivating street dancing competition. The Indakan sa […]

I recently had the privilege of attending the vibrant Aliwan Fiesta 2024 hosted by the Manila Broadcasting Company. The atmosphere crackled with energy as diverse cultural groups from across the Philippines converged to showcase their heritage through dance, music, and stunning costumes. A Feast for the Senses The grand parade was a visual spectacle. Adorned […]

Pampanga, Philippines — Breaking news! Brace yourselves for a whirlwind of bookish delight as the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale, the biggest book sale in the world, hits the road! First stop: Clark, Pampanga! Following the resounding success of its first venture in Pampanga back in 2019 at San Fernando, the Big Bad Wolf Book […]

As a kapampangan photographer, I’m always drawn to events that showcase unique cultures and traditions. This year, for Good Friday, again, I found myself captivated by the powerful Maleldo 2024 celebrations in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga. The atmosphere in San Pedro Cutud, San Juan and Santa Lucia was unlike anything I’d ever experienced. […]

The skies above the Philippines came alive with vibrant colors and awe-inspiring displays as the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF) returned for its grand comeback February 16-18, 2024. Held at its new location in New Clark City, Capas, Tarlac, the event, known as “A Weekend of Everything that Flies,” offered a thrilling experience […]

Halamanan Festival 2024 Nestled in the heart of Bulacan, Philippines, the charming town of Guiguinto bloomed with color and excitement on January 20, 2024, as the highly-anticipated 2024 Halamanan Indakan sa Kalye Grand Championship unfolded. With the enchanting backdrop of the Garden Capital of the Philippines, the day painted a vivid picture of Filipino tradition, […]

Date: January 9, 2024 Location: Manila In a historic gathering, over 6 million devotees converged in Manila on January 9, 2024, for the highly anticipated Feast of the Black Nazarene. This year’s Traslacion, the religious procession honoring the revered Black Nazarene image, made headlines for its record-breaking 15-hour duration – the fastest in its storied […]

In a dazzling display of creativity, innovation, and community spirit, Barangay Telabastagan emerged as the shining star of the Giant Lantern Festival 2023, held at Robinsons Starmills in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga. Under the dedicated leadership of Barangay Captain Hon. Elmer Manguerra, the talented lantern maker Arnel Flores, and their team, Barangay Telabastagan […]

Pampanga, known as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines, recently celebrated the 26th Sinukwan Festival on December 8, 2023. This year’s festivities were nothing short of spectacular, with the theme “Kayanakan Manimuna, Masabal King Kultura”. Echoing through the streets of the Megaworld Capital Town, Pampanga Capitol, and the City of San Fernando City Hall. Grand […]

The Cordilleras, a mountainous region in northern Luzon, Philippines, is a treasure trove of rich cultural heritage. This cultural vibrancy was showcased in the recently concluded Second Cordillera Festival of Festivals, held in Baguio City on November 11, 2023. This grand cultural event was an initiative of the Department of Tourism-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR), aimed […]

The MassKara Festival in Bacolod City holds a special place in the hearts of Filipinos, and it’s not hard to see why. This highly anticipated event captivates attendees with its vibrant colors, lively music, and contagious energy. The MassKara Festival of 2023 was a shining example of this, and at the forefront of it all […]

In the vibrant city of Angeles, Philippines, something truly unique and exciting took place recently. Fiestang Kuliat’s Kambal Festival 2023 concluded with a flourish on October 7th, and it was a celebration like no other. The festival showcased the rich cultural heritage of the city, with a special emphasis on twins, and it was all […]

Carcar City, Cebu emerged as the overall champion of the 2023 Pasigarbo sa Sugbo, winning the Ritual Showdown and Street Dancing Competition. The city’s Kabkaban Festival also bagged the Festival Queen title, with Jhesidy Thea Alberca being crowned as the new queen. The Pasigarbo sa Sugbo is an annual festival that showcases the rich culture […]

A Town Alive with Color and Sound In the heart of the Philippines lies Betis, a charming community in the municipality of Guagua, Pampanga. Every June, this town bursts into life with vibrant colors, lively music, and exuberant dances. The Kuraldal Festival takes center stage, drawing locals and visitors into its festive atmosphere. Betis is […]

Today, I’m thrilled to recount an extraordinary festival I had the privilege of witnessing in the Philippines. The Taong Putik Festival is a remarkable event that takes place every June 24th in the charming village of Bibiclat, nestled in Aliaga, Nueva Ecija. The festival holds deep religious significance as it honors Saint John the Baptist, […]

World Travel Fair is back and bigger than ever with 6 massive regional events covering the entire archipelago. From the highlands of North Luzon to the beaches of Palawan and Beyond, the festivities kick off on June 23-25 at the SMX Convention Center- Clark with endless opportunities to curate your own Philippine adventure. With massive […]

Angeles City came alive with glamour and elegance as it hosted the highly anticipated inaugural Reyna De Las Flores pageant on May 20, 2023. Under the administration of Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr., the city government organized this enchanting event to celebrate the beauty of Angeleños while promoting the vibrant flower industry that thrives within […]

The 2nd Regional Cybersecurity Conference was held on May 10, 2023 at the University Theater of Holy Angel University in Angeles City, Pampanga. HAU-School of Computing organized the conference. Over 500 participants from government, education, and the private sector attended. The conference was opened by Mr. Leopoldo Jaime N. Valdes, OIC – President of Holy […]

The AWS Summit Asean 2023 was a huge success, with over 5,000 attendees from all over Southeast Asia. The event brought together customers, partners, and AWS experts to learn about the latest AWS products and services. Additionally, it provided a platform for networking with other professionals in the cloud computing industry. Laura Grit, VP/Distinguished Engineer […]

The Zambayle Street Dance Parade and Competition is indeed one of the highlights of the Dinamulag Festival, a yearly celebration of Zambales’ abundant harvest. Furthermore, through their dance performances, the competition highlights the various cultures and traditions of the municipalities in Zambales. This year’s Dinamulag Festival 2023 Zambayle held on April 29, 2023, at the […]

Binatbatan Festival 2023 Schedule Every year, the Binatbatan Festival takes place in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. The festival honors the Abel weaving community, which produces cotton fabric using a traditional handloom. The phrase “Binatbatan” derives from the Ilocano verb “batbat,” which means “to beat,” and relates to the first phase in the Abel weaving […]

The Dinamulag Festival 2023 will be held from April 22 to 30. The Festival Highlights APRIL 28, 2023 (FRIDAY) DRUM AND LYRE COMPETITION 9:00 AM Zambales Sports Complex. Zone VI. Iba ZAMBA-LIWANAG FLOAT-PARADE COMPETITION 5:00 PM Zambales Sports Complex. Zone VI. Iba APRIL 29, 2023 (SATURDAY) ZAMBAYLE STREET DANCE PARADE AND COMPETITION 2:00 PM Zambales […]

SM Supermalls Job Fair 2023 SM Supermalls, the primary and official partner of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), invites you to join the BIGGEST Job Fair Nationwide! Since 2008, Supermalls has been holding job fairs across various SM malls in the Philippines, and it’s making a big comeback in time for Labor Day […]

Clark International Airport Poised for Growth in 2023 with New Flights from Major Airlines. International Airport (CRK) is set to welcome more flights this year, with several airlines announcing new routes from the airport. The new flights are expected to boost tourism and decongest the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Cebu Pacific Air (CEB) is […]

Ladies and gentlemen, fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime journey thanks to Cebu Pacific Air’s recent announcement of thrilling new flights beginning on April 26, 2023, between Clark International Airport and General Santos International Airport! Fly with one of the Philippines’ most reputable airlines and benefit from the convenience of flights leaving […]

The Bangus Festival Gilon Gilon Ed Baley is a traditional dance ritual from Dagupan City in the Philippine province of Pangasinan. The word “Gilon Gilon” translates to “rolling” or “twirling” in Pangasinense. The dance is performed as part of the Bangus Festival, which honors the province’s rich fishing culture and industry. A group of performers […]

11th Sabuaga Festival Santo Tomas Pampanga A yearly activity held during Easter Sunday that takes place in Poblacion Santo Tomas, Pampanga, Philippines. Sabuaga is derived from the Kapampangan words “sabuag” and “sampaga,” both of which mean “to shower flower.” One of the highlights of the Sabuaga Festival is the street dance competition. Participants from different […]

A Grueling Display of Faith: The San Pedro Cutud Lenten Rites A Controversial Spectacle The San Pedro Cutud Lenten Rites in San Fernando, Pampanga, is a profoundly visceral and controversial religious spectacle that unfolds annually on Good Friday. A stark reenactment of Christ’s Passion, this ritual culminates in a harrowing display of penance where devout […]

Santa Lucia Maleldo 2023 in City of San Fernando, Pampanga. The “Crucifixion Rites,” an annual Good Friday event in San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines, is well-known for luring thousands of tourists and devotees each year. Penitents flagellate themselves, carry wooden crosses, and some even go through physical crucifixion as part of the discipline. Which entails a […]

Maleldo 2023 San Juan, City of San Fernando Pampanga Dalan ning Guinu, Pusanan me ing Krus, Tuki ka Kanaku. The “Crucifixion Rites,” an annual Good Friday event in San Fernando, Pampanga, Philippines, is well-known for luring thousands of tourists and devotees each year. Penitents flagellate themselves, carry wooden crosses, and some even go through physical […]

The Unique Cultural Experience of Tulauk Tulauk stands out as a distinctive form of sarsuela, offering a special cultural experience that highlights the creativity and artistic prowess of the Filipino people. This unique art form blends humor, drama, and music to narrate the story of Jesus Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection. The performances of Tulauk […]

12th Panata at Panalangin Peter de Vera’s12th Panata at Panalangin – A healing performance Sa bawat pagtatanghal ng Panata at Panalangin, nakikita ang pagiging buhay at makulay ng kultura ng mga Kapampangan. Ang mga sumasali at nanonood ng produksyon ay nabibigyan ng pagkakataong maunawaan ang kahalagahan ng pananampalataya at pagkakaisa sa pamamagitan ng mga tradisyunal […]

The 50th Iloilo-Guimaras Paraw Regatta Festival in Iloilo was a grand celebration of the rich cultural heritage and seafaring traditions of the region. The event featured colorful paraw sailboat races, cultural performances, and a showcase of local handicrafts and delicacies. Thousands of locals and tourists alike gathered along the coast to witness the thrilling race […]

Sinamba sa Regatta 2023: A Dance Extravaganza at the 50th Iloilo-Guimaras Paraw Regatta Festival The 50th Iloilo-Guimaras Paraw Regatta Festival was a grand celebration of Iloilo’s rich culture and heritage, a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of tradition, music, dance, and maritime prowess. Furthermore, one of the festival’s most anticipated events was the Sinamba sa […]

The province has been holding this annual festival to celebrate its rich history and cultural heritage for many years. The Kanlahi Festival is a highly-anticipated event in the province of Tarlac, Philippines.  This year, the 7th Kanlahi Festival in Tarlac promises to be an exciting and memorable event for locals and tourists alike. The Kanlahi […]

Balacat Festival 2023, Mabalacat City, Pampanga The Balacat Festival is an annual celebration held in Mabalacat, Pampanga, Philippines. This vibrant festival is a celebration of the rich culture and traditions of the local community, and it attracts visitors from all over the country. The festival is held every March, and it lasts for several days. […]

Giant Lantern Festival 2022(Ligligan Parul 2022) As the sun dips below the horizon and darkness descends upon the city of San Fernando, Pampanga, the Philippines, a magical transformation takes place. The streets come alive with a kaleidoscope of colors as giant lanterns, each more intricate and mesmerizing than the last, illuminating the night sky. It’s […]

Sinukwan Festival: A Vibrant Celebration of Kapampangan Culture The Sinukwan Festival 2022 is a dazzling and vibrant week-long celebration that proudly showcases the rich culture, history, and traditions of the Kapampangan people. Held annually every December in the bustling city of San Fernando, Pampanga, this lively festival honors Sinukwan, the revered ancient god of the […]

Fiestang Kuliat 2022 Calesin Tilbury race Angeles City, Philippines   Robin Pinzon Kapampangan Photographer 2018 Fiestang Kuliat Calesin Tilbury Race

The Kambal Festival is Angeles City’s festival of twins, held under the Fiestang Kuliat umbrella each October. Twins from the city and beyond gather in matching outfits for the parade — one of the most distinctive sights of the month-long fiesta season. These photos are from the Kambal Festival 2022 edition in Angeles City, Pampanga. […]

Every January 9, millions of Filipino devotees join the Feast of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. The centerpiece is the Traslacion, the day-long procession that carries the image of Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno — the dark-skinned, kneeling Christ bearing the cross, brought from Mexico in […]

Pasigarbo sa Sugbo Festival of festivals, Cebu Literally translates to the “Celebration in Cebu”, this Festival is a relatively new festival in Cebu, conceptualized in 2008. This festival was the “Brainchild” of Cebu’s first female governor, Gwendolyn Garcia. This festival was a program and a major tourism endeavor initiated by the governor in order to […]

Ilocos Sur Binatbatan Festival: A Celebration of Ilocano Culture A Vibrant Showcase of Ilocano Heritage The Ilocos Sur Binatbatan Festival is an annual spectacle that encapsulates the heart and soul of Ilocano culture. This week-long extravaganza transforms the historic city of Vigan into a living canvas of artistry, music, and dance. Vigan: The Stunning Backdrop […]

#LubaoIBMF2019 Pradera Verde, Prado Siongco The Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival (IBMF) is an annual event held in Lubao, Pampanga, Philippines. The festival features hot air balloon rides, live music performances, and a variety of other activities. The IBMF is a popular event that attracts visitors from all over the Philippines. The 2019 IBMF […]

Passi City, Iloilo  

Paraw Regatta Festival 2019: A Vibrant Tapestry of Sail and Art The Paraw Regatta Festival, a spectacular celebration of Iloilo’s rich maritime heritage, is a visual and cultural feast that captivates hearts and minds. In 2019, the Pinta Layag theme added a vibrant layer of artistry to the already breathtaking event. As a photographer, I […]

47th Iloilo-Guimaras Paraw Regatta Festival 2019

Iloilo’s Dinagyang Festival 2019 Dayang Tribes Competition

Kasadyahan is Dinagyang’s cultural showcase. At the 2019 edition, staged under the Fiesta Pilipinas banner, festival contingents from across the region performed the dances and traditions of their home provinces in Iloilo City, the day before the Ati tribes took over the streets. These photos are from the Kasadyahan Fiesta Pilipinas competition at the Dinagyang […]

With just with a single touch of a shutter button, you can make time stand still, capture a moment, and treasure it forever. For me, this is what makes photography an essential part of being a travel blogger. Our country has more than 200 hundred festivals celebrated all throughout the year. Some of them are […]

Before the grand parade takes over Cebu City, the barangays get their own Sinulog stage. Sinulog sa Barangay brings the devotion to the Santo Niño down to the neighbourhood level, with contingents from Cebu City’s own barangays performing the Sinulog dance in competition — the same choreography of candle vendors and festival queens, staged by […]

Capturing the Spirit of Sinulog Festival 2019: A Photographer’s Journey at Sinulog sa Lalawigan 2019 The rhythmic beat of the drums, the vibrant hues of the costumes, and the infectious energy of the crowd – the Sinulog Festival is an experience that truly ignites the senses. Thrilled to immerse myself in the heart of this […]

The 2019 Traslacion repeated the familiar January 9 scenes in Manila: the image of the Black Nazarene carried from the Quirino Grandstand back to Quiapo Church through a sea of barefoot devotees, many hoping for a touch of the image or its ropes. These photos add to our record of the annual procession, one of […]

A Photographer’s Lens on Ligligan Parul 2018 A Paradise of Light and Color City of San Fernando, Pampanga, transformed into a photographer’s paradise during the Ligligan Parul 2018. The 110th anniversary of this iconic festival promised an extraordinary spectacle, and it certainly delivered. As a photographer, I found myself immersed in a world of color, […]

The Sinukwan Festival is the City of San Fernando, Pampanga’s celebration of Kapampangan culture, named after Aring Sinukuan, the legendary fairy guardian of Mount Arayat. Held as the year closes, the festival gathers the province’s towns for street dancing, cultural performances and festivities that put Kapampangan heritage — its dances, costumes, food and folklore — […]

Every November, Angono, Rizal parades its higantes — giant papier-mâché figures hoisted through the streets for the feast of San Clemente, the town’s patron saint. The Higantes Festival 2018 edition filled the streets of the Art Capital of the Philippines with the towering effigies, brass bands and devotees. These photos are from that celebration in […]

Fiestang Kuliat is the annual city fiesta of Angeles City in Pampanga, a festive October celebration in honor of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary. Among its most distinctive events is the Calesin Tilbury Race, where horse-drawn carriages called calesin, or tilbury, race through the streets in a friendly contest of speed and skill. […]

Kadayawan Festival 2018: A Vibrant Celebration of Davao City The Kadayawan Festival , Davao City’s crown jewel, is a resplendent celebration of life, nature, and culture. This annual event, held every third week of August, encapsulates the city’s vibrant spirit. A Tapestry of Culture and Nature Derived from the Mandaya word “madayaw,” meaning “beautiful” or […]

The Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival returned to Pradera Verde in Lubao, Pampanga, in March 2018, combining dawn hot air balloon flights with a full-day music festival. Balloons from international pilots rose over the Pampanga countryside at sunrise, while the grounds hosted food stalls, activities, and a concert lineup of local bands and artists […]

Soaring Highs: Capturing the Magic of the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2018. 22nd Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is an annual spectacle that transforms the skies of Clark, Pampanga into a vibrant canvas of color. As a photographer, this event is a dream come true […]

The Ati tribe competition is the heart of Iloilo’s Dinagyang Festival: contingents in soot-darkened warrior paint, feathered headdresses and Santo Niño images dance through the city streets in honour of the Child Jesus, drums pounding from the parade route to the judging areas. These photos are from the Ati Tribe Competition at the Dinagyang Festival […]

Kasadyahan opens the Dinagyang weekend in Iloilo City. At the 2018 edition, staged under the Fiesta Pilipinas banner, cultural contingents from across Western Visayas presented their home festivals — their dances, harvests and histories — in a single competition. These photos are from the Kasadyahan Cultural Competition at the Dinagyang Festival 2018. See also: Dinagyang […]

Sinulog sa Barangay sa Dakbyan 2018 #Sinulog2018 #Cebu The enchanting Sinulog Festival celebrates the ancient Cebuano traditions and cultural riches of Cebu City. This remarkable festival brings the island’s historic spirit and devotion to the forefront. As the queen of festivals in Philippines’ southern islands, Sinulog draws massive crowds to witness the spectacular colors, rhythmic […]

The Sinulog is Cebu’s grand festival in honour of the Santo Niño, the Holy Child Jesus, celebrated every January with street dancing, processions and colourful costumes. At its heart is the sinulog dance, whose steps mimic the movement of water, offered in prayer and thanksgiving. Sinulog sa Kabataan sa Lalawigan is the Sinulog competition for […]

The Feast of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila is one of the biggest expressions of Catholic devotion in the Philippines. Its highlight is the Traslacion, the grand procession in which the image of the Black Nazarene is carried through the streets of Manila. Huge crowds of devotees, many of them walking barefoot, join the […]

The Giant Lantern Festival 2017 once again lit up the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, as barangays presented their giant lanterns in the annual Ligligan Parul. The huge lanterns, animated by thousands of lights moving in time with music, are the pride of Fernandino lantern makers. San Fernando’s lantern-making tradition is the reason the city […]

A Festive Heritage Lubenas ning Paku is a cherished Christmas lantern festival that has illuminated Angeles City, Pampanga for centuries. This vibrant tradition traces its roots back to the 1800s when locals began crafting lanterns from bamboo and paper to celebrate the birth of Christ. Initially, these lanterns bore religious symbols like stars, angels, and […]

Sinukwan Festival 2017: A Vibrant Celebration of Kapampangan Culture The Sinukwan Festival 2017 was a dazzling and vibrant week-long celebration that proudly showcased the rich culture, history, and traditions of the Kapampangan people. Held annually every December in the bustling city of San Fernando, Pampanga. This lively festival honors Sinukwan, the revered ancient god of […]

Masskara Festival 2017: A Celebration of Smiles and Unity Bacolod City’s Iconic Festival The Masskara Festival, a vibrant celebration held annually in Bacolod City, Philippines, is a testament to the city’s resilience and spirit. Originating in 1980 as a response to a local economic crisis, the festival has evolved into a beloved tradition that showcases […]

The schools category is where the MassKara Festival finds its next generation of performers. In the MassKara Festival 2017 street dance competition, school contingents from across Bacolod City took to the streets in smiling masks and bright costumes, performing choreography they had rehearsed for months. The school category has long been a crowd favourite: the […]

Every October, Angeles City, Pampanga, celebrates Fiestang Kuliat, its month-long city fiesta honoring the Holy Guardian Angels, Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary (La Naval), and Apung Mamacalulu. Among its most distinctive events is the Calesin Tilbury Race, a traditional race of two-wheeled, horse-drawn carriages — the calesa in its light tilbury form — […]

The Kadayawan Festival is Davao City’s annual celebration of thanksgiving for nature’s bountiful harvest, its rich culture and its people. Held in August, it is one of the most colourful festivals in the Philippines, with street parades, floral floats and displays of flowers, fruits and local produce filling the city. Pamulak sa Kadayawan, the festival’s […]

A Kaleidoscope of Culture: Kadayawan Festival 2017 The Kadayawan Festival, a vibrant celebration of Davao City’s rich cultural heritage, is a feast for the senses. One of its most iconic events, the Indak-indak sa Kadalanan (Street Dancing Competition), is a spectacle of color, music, and dance that leaves a lasting impression. A Symphony of Color […]

Shrimp Avenue serves Cajun-style seafood the messy, hands-on way: seafood in a bag, boiled and seasoned, poured out and eaten with your hands. On this visit the table filled up fast — a bag of mixed seafood, T-bone steak with marinara pasta, seafood chowder, buffalo wings, and classic fried chicken with the house special sauce. […]

Bohol’s Sandugo Festival runs through the month of July in Tagbilaran City, commemorating the 1565 blood compact — the sandugo, “one blood” — between Datu Sikatuna and Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi, regarded as a first treaty of friendship. Its street-dancing highlight is the Bangga sa Kuradang ug Subli sa Sandugo: “bangga” is a […]

Kuraldal is a distinctly Kapampangan expression of devotion: a dancing procession in which devotees take to the streets in honour of a patron saint, many of them dancing as a panata, or vow, in thanksgiving or to ask for favours and healing. In Betis, Guagua, the Kuraldal is held in honour of San Juan Bautista […]

The Pahiyas festival celebrates the bountiful harvest of the lucbanenos and is marked by breathtaking decorations called “kiping” made from colorful fruits and vegetables. Entire houses are decked out in a kaleidoscope of designs and arrangements, vying for recognition. It is said to have started many years ago when young Lucbanenos decorated their houses to […]

Angeles City’s Sisig Festival A Celebration of Sisig’s Legacy At the Sisig Fiesta in Angeles City, you’ll embark on a culinary journey that pays homage to the beloved Filipino dish known as sisig. This vibrant festival celebrates the rich legacy of sisig, which originated in Pampanga, the culinary capital of the Philippines. Sisig is a […]

Dagupan City, Pangasinan, celebrates its most famous product every April with the Bangus Festival, honoring the bangus (milkfish) that made the city known as the Bangus Capital of the Philippines. Its street-dancing centerpiece is the Gilon-gilon ed Baley, where barangay contingents dance stories of bangus culture — from pond to harvest — in colorful fish-inspired […]

The Sabuaga Festival is the town festival of Santo Tomas in Pampanga, a celebration that brings the community together in colourful street dancing and festivities. Like many Kapampangan town festivals, it is a showcase of local culture, faith and pride in one’s hometown. The 2017 celebration was the festival’s eighth edition. The photographs in this […]

Maleldo is the Kapampangan observance of Holy Week, and Pampanga is known across the Philippines for the depth of its Lenten traditions. Throughout the week, Kapampangan towns hold processions, pabasa readings and public acts of penance as communities commemorate the Passion of Christ. In the City of San Fernando, Angeles City and Bacolor, devotees fill […]

San Guillermo Parish Church is a stunning example of Baroque architecture located in Bacolor, Pampanga. It is considered one of the most beautiful churches in the Philippines and is recognized as a National Cultural Treasure. The church was built in 1576 but was destroyed in the catastrophic eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991. The lahar […]

St. James The Apostle Church, better known as Betis Church, is a historic Roman Catholic church in the district of Betis in Guagua, Pampanga. It is admired for its richly decorated interior, especially its painted ceilings and religious artwork, which have earned it a reputation as one of the most beautiful heritage churches in the […]

Santa Rita de Cascia Parish Church is the Catholic parish church of Santa Rita, Pampanga, dedicated to Saint Rita of Cascia. Like many parish churches in the Philippines, it is both a place of worship for the local Catholic community and a familiar landmark at the heart of its town. Pampanga is known for its […]

A Brief History The San Agustin Parish Church, also known as the Lubao Church, is a 17th-century Neo-classic structure made from Spanish stone and brick. It stands as a testament to Pampanga’s rich history and is located in Barangay San Nicolas 1st, Lubao. Originally founded in 1572 by Augustinian friars, the church was initially situated […]

Crystal Beach Resort in Barangay La Paz, San Narciso, Zambales is one of the best-known surf spots on the Zambales coast. Facing the West Philippine Sea, its grey-sand beach draws a steady mix of first-time surfers taking lessons, campers pitching tents under the agoho trees, and weekenders up from Manila for the swell. The resort […]

The Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival is a hot air balloon festival held at Pradera Verde in Lubao, Pampanga. It combines early morning balloon flights with live music and other attractions, drawing families and photography enthusiasts who watch the colorful balloons rise over the Pampanga countryside. Balloon festivals are a beloved tradition in this […]

San Felipe, Zambales launched its own festival in 2017: the first Panagkakadua-an Festival, headlined by an invitational street dancing competition. “Panagkakadua-an” speaks of unity and togetherness, and the contingents — including guest groups from beyond the town — performed routines built around family, harmony and the town’s mango harvest, the same harvest that neighbouring Zambales […]

Color Manila brought its color-drenched fun run series to Pampanga with the Color Manila Challenge at Clark Parade Grounds in March 2017. Unlike a regular color run, the Challenge course adds inflatable and obstacle stations along the route, so runners climb, slide, and crawl between color stations that shower them in bright powder. The event […]

The Pindangan Festival is the City of San Fernando, La Union’s annual celebration of its cityhood and its roots. The city takes the festival’s name from its original name, Pindangan — “a place for sun-drying meat” — and marks the occasion every March, around the cityhood anniversary on March 20 (San Fernando became a component […]

The 21st Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta lifted off at Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga, on February 9 to 12, 2017. Billed as the “Weekend of Everything that Flies,” the fiesta is the country’s biggest aviation and ballooning event, drawing dozens of hot air balloons from around the world — including special-shaped balloons — for […]

Iloilo City’s Dinagyang Festival is held every fourth Sunday of January in honor of the Santo Niño, and also recalls the legendary barter of Panay between Malay settlers and the indigenous Ati people. Its centerpiece is the Ati Tribes Competition, where tribu performers in warrior costume, feathered headdresses, and soot-darkened skin perform tightly choreographed routines […]

The Kasadyahan Cultural Competition is one of the main events of Iloilo City’s Dinagyang Festival, the January celebration in honour of the Santo Niño. In the Kasadyahan, festivals from different towns across Western Visayas take to the stage with cultural performances retelling local legends, harvest rituals and stories of faith. Unlike the Ati tribes competition, […]

The Feast of the Black Nazarene 2017 once again filled the streets of Manila on 9 January, as devotees joined the Traslacion — the grand procession of the image of the Black Nazarene from the Quirino Grandstand area to Quiapo Church. The annual procession is among the largest displays of Catholic devotion in the Philippines. […]

The Giant Lantern Festival (Ligligan Parul) lit up Robinsons Starmills in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, on December 17, 2016. Barangays of the city competed with giant lanterns around 20 feet across, each running thousands of colored bulbs through a hand-built rotor that makes the lights dance in patterns to music — the craft […]

The Giant Lantern Festival, known in Kapampangan as Ligligan Parul, is the signature Christmas celebration of the City of San Fernando in Pampanga, a city widely regarded as the Christmas Capital of the Philippines. Competing barangays present giant lanterns, or parul, built with thousands of light bulbs arranged in intricate, kaleidoscopic patterns that have made […]

Metung ang City Of San Fernando dito sa Pilipinas ing masagana pa kareng Architectural heritage. Kalupa na lang ning Archdiocesan Chancery keng Barangay San Jose. Dito dati nakatuknang si Wenceslao Dizon at Felisa Hizon na nasali na ng Archdiocese of San Fernando keti Pampanga. Kabang nakasake ako ng kalesa minsan nakakalingwan kong kumang litratro keng […]

Angeles City, Pampanga boasts a rich history and culture. One of the city’s most beloved Christmas traditions is the Lubenas ning Pasku, or the Lantern Parade. The Lubenas ning Pasku traces its roots back to the 1800s when Spanish missionaries introduced lantern making to the Kapampangan people. People used the lanterns to celebrate Christmas and […]

The Sinukwan Festival is the City of San Fernando’s celebration of Kapampangan culture and heritage, held in honour of Aring Sinukuan, the legendary god of Mount Arayat in Kapampangan folklore. Through street dancing, colourful costumes and cultural performances, the festival keeps Kapampangan traditions, stories and identity alive for younger generations. Groups from different towns and […]

Kung naghahanap kayo ng mura pero manyaman a tinape, cake at dakal pa, dito na kayo munta ampong sale. Mitalakad ya ito anyang 1992 keng Tarlac, Tarlac. Meron na ining labing-metung(11) a tindahan, anam(6) sa Tarlac, tatlo(3) keng Pampanga ampo dalawa(2) sa Pangasinan. Yung alwa nilang pamisali akit niyo sa piling tindahan ning 7-11. Ing masali da kareng tinitinda nila ing eggpie, yema cake, asado bun and fruitti roll. Ing […]

The first ever TravelBook.ph Blogger Affiliate Get Together has been a huge success! From the event proper, to The Legend Villas Hotel Tour, and Buffet Lunch of Lola Maria Restaurant , TravelBook.ph’s Blogger Affiliates surely enjoyed the rest of the day! True to its word, with the event’s fun and interactive contests, games, raffles, and […]

Breakfast – they say, is the most important meal of the day. For Filipino families, it’s a common affair to start the day with a big and usually heavy breakfast that commonly consists of viand and a lot of rice. However, due to all the morning hustle that modern Filipino families need to attend to […]

The Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival is Tacloban City’s fiesta celebration in honor of the Santo Niño, held around June 29. “Pintados” — the painted ones — was the name Spanish colonizers gave to the tattooed natives of the Visayas, whose ink marked bravery, rank, and achievement in battle. The Pintados Festival, first held in 1987 by the […]

The Lubao International Balloon Festival was, in its run, billed as the biggest annual hot air balloon festival in Southeast Asia. Its third edition flew on April 14–17, 2016 at Pradera Verde in Barangay Prado Siongco, Lubao, Pampanga, with around 40 colorful balloons from different countries lifting off at sunrise over the Pampanga fields. On […]

Sto. Tomas, Pampanga, greeted Easter Sunday 2016 with the Sabuaga Festival, the town’s joyful festival of flowers. “Sabuaga” blends the Kapampangan words “sabu” (to shower) and “aga” (morning): on Easter morning, street dancers in bright costumes shower the crowd with flower petals, celebrating the Resurrection of Christ after the solemn observances of Holy Week. Barangay […]

Maleldo is the Kapampangan word for Holy Week, and in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, it is marked by one of the Philippines’ most intense Lenten traditions. On Good Friday, penitents called magdarame walk the streets as flagellants, while in Barangay San Pedro Cutud the Via Crucis passion play — first staged in 1955, […]

The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is the country’s longest-running hot air balloon event, held in Clark in Pampanga. For a weekend, balloons in bright colors and special shapes lift off at dawn, alongside aviation shows and other flying attractions for the whole family. The fiesta is a favorite outing for families and photographers, […]

Every 9th of January, Manila marks the Feast of the Black Nazarene with the Traslación, the solemn procession of the revered image of the Black Nazarene through the streets to Quiapo Church. It is one of the largest religious gatherings in the Philippines, drawing huge crowds of devotees who walk barefoot and hope to touch […]

The Giant Lantern Festival (Ligligan Parul) of the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, held its 2015 competition night on December 19, 2015 at Robinsons Starmills. Eleven barangays battled with giant lanterns about 20 feet in diameter, each running thousands of bulbs through a hand-built rotor that choreographs the lights to music — the signature craft […]

The City of San Fernando, Pampanga — the Christmas Capital of the Philippines — staged the Giant Lantern Festival (Ligligan Parul) 2015 on December 19, 2015 at Robinsons Starmills. Eleven barangays competed with giant lanterns about 20 feet in diameter, each one a moving kaleidoscope of thousands of bulbs controlled by hand-built rotors that sync […]

Gerry’s Plus, Yakitori Binchotan and Ramen Sora are now open. Three new restaurants in #AngelesPH under one roof.    

The Giant Lantern Festival (Ligligan Parul) is the crown jewel of San Fernando, Pampanga, the Christmas Capital of the Philippines. After the main competition night — held on December 19, 2015 at Robinsons Starmills — the giant lanterns of the competing barangays stayed on public exhibition at Robinsons Starmills so that visitors who missed the […]

SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan Festival 2015 SInukwan [...]

The Binulo Festival is an annual celebration that takes place in the municipality of Porac in Pampanga, Philippines. This colorful and vibrant festival is a celebration of the town’s rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions, specifically their unique way of cooking rice called “binulo.” Binulo refers to the process of cooking rice in bamboo tubes. […]

GraciAngeles, the Festival of Angels, is one of the most charming events of Fiestang Kuliat in Angeles City, Pampanga. True to the city’s name — Angeles means angels — the festival gathers children and young participants dressed in angel costumes, complete with wings and halos, at Plaza Angel. The celebration is a playful tribute to […]

Dayaw: The Indigenous Peoples Festival is the Philippines’ biggest celebration of indigenous culture, organized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) every October during National Indigenous Peoples Month. “Dayaw” is a word shared by several Philippine languages meaning celebration, pride, and honor. The festival gathers indigenous groups from all over the country […]

The Calesin Tilbury Race is one of the highlights of Fiestang Kuliat, Angeles City’s annual fiesta celebrations held every October. In the race, calesin — traditional horse-drawn carriages — speed through the streets, a nod to the days when the calesa was everyday transport in Pampanga. The event draws crowds along the route as kutseros […]

The Singkaban Festival 2015, a colorful and vibrant celebration held annually in Bulacan, Philippines, is a testament to the province’s rich cultural heritage. In 2015, the festival reached new heights with its theme, “Sining at Kalinagan ng Bulacan,” showcasing the province’s unique arts and traditions. This blog post will take you on a nostalgic journey […]

Graceland Estates and Country Club in the historic town of Tayabas, Quezon is a quiet and peaceful resort away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Situated amid rolling hills and mountains, tall trees and lush green surroundings, it offers a relaxing and serene atmosphere that will surely let your stresses away. With its […]

Capturing the Essence of Niyogyugan: A Photographer’s Guide The Niyogyugan Festival, a vibrant celebration of Quezon province’s rich coconut heritage, is a photographer’s dream come true. With its colorful parades, energetic street dances, and stunning coconut-themed displays, this festival offers a plethora of captivating photo opportunities. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the heart […]

Taong Putik Festival 2015 Deep within the rural town of Aliaga in Nueva Ecija, Philippines, lies an enigmatic festival that has captured the curiosity and imagination of locals and tourists alike. Known as the “Taong Putik” or “Mud People,” this extraordinary celebration has become a remarkable symbol of Filipino culture, folklore, and tradition. The Taong […]

Viva San Isidro Labrador The Kneeling Carabao Festival of Pulilan, Bulacan The Kneeling Carabao Festival is an annual festival held in Pulilan, Bulacan, Philippines, on May 15, the feast day of San Isidro Labrador. The festival celebrates the bountiful harvest and the importance of carabaos in Philippine agriculture. The festival begins with a parade of […]

Located on the stretch of the Pampanga River in Porac, Pampanga, Poracay Resort is the ultimate countryside escape just a stone’s throw from Manila. Perched on the hillside, the rooms and villas offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and greenery. Spend your days lounging by one of the many swimming pools taking in the […]

The Sampaguita Festival is the town festival of Lubao, Pampanga, a celebration named after the fragrant sampaguita flower that the town is known for. It brings the community together for street dancing, floral displays and festivities. The 2015 celebration was the festival’s fourth edition, carried by the theme “Pamamukadkad king Kasalpantayanan at Kabyayan.” The photographs […]

Inside Magayon Festival: Colors, Culture and Community in Legazpi Albay The vibrant Magayon Festival in Legazpi City, Albay brings the colorful culture, traditions and spirit of the Bicolanos to the forefront. This annual festival celebrates the Bicol Region’s rich heritage through cultural shows, food festivities, and performances depicting the history and legends of this breathtaking […]

Festival’s Festival of the North Dagupan Pangasinan

Reliving the Feast of the Fish In 2015, I had the incredible opportunity to experience Dagupan City’s Bangus Festival as a photographer. Eager to immerse myself in the festivities, I aimed to capture the unique blend of culture, tradition, and culinary excellence that this annual event embodies. The Bangus Parade: A Visual Spectacle The Bangus […]

The Dinamulag Festival, also known as the Zambales Mango Festival, is the province of Zambales’ celebration of its most famous fruit. Zambales is known for its sweet mangoes, and the festival in Iba, the provincial capital, gives thanks for the mango harvest with street dancing, parades and other festive activities. The celebration brings together communities […]

Salbag Sampanga ning Sto. Tomas Pampanga

The fourth day of the Lubao International Balloon Festival 2015 continued at Prado Siongco in Lubao, Pampanga, with hot air balloons once again rising over the town’s fields. Multi-day balloon festivals give spectators several chances to catch the morning flights and the sight of dozens of balloons drifting over Central Luzon’s plains. Lubao’s balloon festival […]

The Lubao International Balloon Festival brought hot air balloons to Prado Siongco in Lubao, Pampanga, drawing crowds to watch the colourful balloons inflate and lift off over the fields. Billed as the 2nd Philippine International Balloon Festival, the event put Lubao on the map as one of the country’s ballooning destinations outside Clark. Aside from […]

Panagbenga, the Baguio Flower Festival, is the most famous festival of Baguio City, held every February in the City of Pines. The festival, whose name is a Kankanaey term for a season of blooming, celebrates Baguio’s flowers with colorful street dancing and grand floral float parades. The celebration fills the city with color as floats […]

The Caragan Festival is Mabalacat City, Pampanga’s tribute to its Aeta heritage — “Caragan” recalls the city’s first Aeta chieftain — celebrated with street dancing and cultural presentations each February around the city fiesta season. These photos are from the Caragan Festival 2015 edition in Mabalacat. See also: Sabuaga Festival 2015 Mabalacat City

The Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is the country’s best-known hot air balloon and aviation festival, long associated with the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga. Balloons from local and international pilots lift off in the early morning, while the rest of the day is filled with aviation displays and activities for spectators on the […]

The Feast of the Black Nazarene is one of the largest Catholic devotions in the Philippines, centered on the image of the Black Nazarene enshrined at Quiapo Church in Manila. Every January, devotees join the Traslacion, the long procession that carries the image through the streets of Quiapo, with crowds reaching for the carriage and […]

The Giant Lantern Festival (Ligligan Parul) 2014 lit up the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, in December 2014, continuing the Christmas tradition that made the city the Christmas Capital of the Philippines. Barangay lantern makers competed with giant parul about 20 feet across, each animated by thousands of bulbs sequenced through hand-turned rotors, creating kaleidoscopic […]

Big Bite! The Northern Food Festival is the annual food celebration of MarQuee Mall in Angeles City, Pampanga, showcasing the cuisines of Northern and Central Luzon. Dozens of food stalls and exhibitors — from famous Kapampangan kitchens to provincial delicacy makers from Ilocos, Cordillera, Cagayan Valley, and Central Luzon — serve regional specialties, heirloom recipes, […]

La Rose Noire is a French-Swiss bakery and café that found a home inside Clark Freeport Zone, Pampanga. Founded by Swiss pastry chef Gérard Dubois, the brand is known across Asia for its artisan breads, French pastries, cakes, and signature macarons — and its Clark presence put freshly baked European goods within easy reach of […]

The Kneeling Carabao Festival is the unique highlight of Pulilan, Bulacan’s town fiesta, held every May 14 to 15 in honor of San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers. During the festival, decorated carabaos — the farmers’ partners in the rice fields — are paraded through the town and, in front of the San […]

Talaga la palang sisiklod rening kalabong areni. Masaya at gulyakan lareng tao pag ikit deng siniklod ing kalabo.                                 Atin lading grupung teterak keng dalan na magdalang imahi ng San Isidro, teterak ne ning Reynang ating magarbung malan.     […]

The Sampaguita Festival is the town festival of Lubao, Pampanga, named after the fragrant sampaguita flower that the town is known for. The celebration fills the town with street dancing, floral displays and community festivities. The photographs in this post are from the Sampaguita Festival in 2014 in Lubao, Pampanga. Lubao’s sampaguita farmers supply garlands […]

The Sampaguita Festival of Lubao, Pampanga, celebrates the sampaguita — the fragrant white flower that is the Philippines’ national flower and a source of livelihood for Lubao’s garland makers and vendors. The festival’s street-dancing parade fills the town with contingents dressed in white and green, echoing the colours of the sampaguita bloom, performing dances that […]

This photo set captures the street presentations of the Festivals of the North 2014 in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, the festival-of-festivals staged during the Bangus Festival each April. Champion contingents from fiesta towns across Northern Luzon — the Ilocos, the Cordilleras, Cagayan Valley, and Pangasinan — performed the dances that won in their own hometowns, in […]

The Festivals of the North is the street-dancing showdown staged in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, as part of the Bangus Festival every April. Champion festival contingents from across Northern Luzon — each already a winner in its own hometown fiesta — compete in one arena, performing their local festival dances in full costume before judges and […]

As part of Dagupan City’s Bangus Festival in April, the Festivals of the North gathers the champion street-dancing groups of Northern Luzon’s many fiestas for one grand competition. Each contingent performs the festival dance that won in its own town — bringing the colors of the Ilocos, the Cordilleras, Cagayan Valley, and Pangasinan to a […]

The Bangus Festival is the flagship festival of Dagupan City, Pangasinan, celebrated every April in honor of the city’s famous product, the bangus (milkfish). One of its main events is the Gilon-Gilon ed Baley, a street-dancing competition where barangays perform dances depicting the harvest and culture of bangus raising — “gilon-gilon” refers to the traditional […]

Mag alas tres na anyang umpisan da ing banuahang Bangus Festival keng Dagupan City. Madacal dakal larin reng mekyabe ngeni, miras ku hanggan alas sinku magletratu keng dalan. Mangasantin la baru at peg-adyan de talaga ing aldong ayti para apakit de ing celebrasyun da keng karelang piyesta. Asnakung tula kabang akakit ko reng mangadagul a […]

The Sabuaga Festival is the Easter Sunday celebration of Sto. Tomas, Pampanga. Its name comes from the Kapampangan words “sabu,” to shower or scatter, and “aga,” morning — and true to its name, street dancers in colorful costumes shower the crowd with flower petals on Easter morning, celebrating the Resurrection of Christ after the solemn […]

Sto. Tomas, Pampanga, welcomes Easter Sunday with the Sabuaga Festival, a joyful counterpart to the town’s solemn Holy Week observances. The name blends the Kapampangan words “sabu” (to shower) and “aga” (morning): on Easter morning, street dancers flood the streets and shower flowers on the crowd, celebrating the Resurrection with color and music after the […]

Maleldo is the Kapampangan observance of Holy Week, and in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, it is best known for the Good Friday Lenten rites in barangays such as San Pedro Cutud and Santa Lucia. Devotees take part in processions, self-flagellation, and the reenactment of the Crucifixion as acts of penance and devotion that […]

The Philippine International Balloon Festival 2014 was held in Prado Siongco, Lubao, Pampanga. The festival brought hot air balloons and aviation displays to Lubao, a town in the western part of Pampanga, continuing the Philippine tradition of a big annual hot air balloon gathering that had long been associated with Clark. This post is from […]

The Philippine International Balloon Festival 2014 was held in Prado Siongco, Lubao, Pampanga, in April 2014. Hot air balloon festivals are among the most photogenic events in the Philippines, filling the early morning sky with balloons of different shapes and colours. Lubao, in the western part of Pampanga, hosted the balloons, pilots and spectators for […]

The Philippine International Balloon Festival is an aviation event in the Philippines built around hot air balloon flights, with colorful balloons lifting off in the early morning and other air-sport displays on the program. Events like this draw families, aviation enthusiasts, and photographers who come for the sight of dozens of balloons rising together. Balloon […]

In the heart of the Philippines lies the province of Pampanga, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals. Among the many colorful celebrations that take place throughout the year, the Caragan Festival of Mabalacat stands out as a captivating showcase of the town’s history, traditions, and boundless community spirit. The Caragan Festival of […]

Dinagyang Festival is Iloilo City’s major January festival held in honor of the Santo Niño, the Holy Child Jesus. Centered on the Ati competition, tribes in elaborate costumes perform choreographed street dances to pounding drumbeats, celebrating devotion, Ilonggo culture, and the story of the Ati people. The festival fills Iloilo City streets with music, color, […]

Kasadyahan is the cultural competition staged as part of Iloilo City’s Dinagyang Festival season each January. Participating groups from towns and provinces in Western Visayas present dances and performances that portray local history, folklore, and ways of life, adding a regional showcase to the Santo Niño celebrations. Held alongside the Ati tribe competition, Kasadyahan gives […]

The Kasadyahan is the regional cultural competition of Iloilo City’s Dinagyang Festival, held every January in honor of the Santo Niño. While the Ati tribes competition takes the spotlight on Sunday, the Kasadyahan — staged the day before — showcases the festivals and cultural traditions of towns and provinces from across Western Visayas, with contingents […]

Sinulog is Cebu City’s grand January festival in honor of the Santo Niño, the Holy Child Jesus, whose image is treasured at the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. Its grand parade brings together contingents in bright costumes dancing the sinulog steps to drums and chants of devotion through the city’s main streets. The parade is […]

Sinulog Festival 2014 – Grand Parade     SINULOG 2014 WINNERS (Higante, Puppeteers, Float, On-Site Decor and Visual Merchandising) HIGANTE CATEGORY: 1st Place H-14 Sinulog Reveler 2nd Place H-06 Giovanni Abos 3rd Place H-01 Josielyn Buligan (Festival Queen) PUPPETEER’S CATEGORY: 1st Place P-07 Angelique Aranas 2nd Place P-01 Nino Ruben Mateo 3rd Place P-04 Orly […]

The Sinulog Festival is Cebu City’s great festival in honour of the Santo Nino, the Child Jesus, and one of its most prayerful highlights is the Solemn Procession. Devotees fill the streets of Cebu City for the procession, many carrying their own images of the Santo Nino, praying and singing as the image is carried […]

The Sinulog Festival is Cebu City’s grand annual festival in honour of the Santo Nino, the Holy Child. Its solemn procession, held during the festival days in January, is one of the most devotional parts of the Sinulog, drawing huge crowds of devotees through the streets of Cebu City. Unlike the colourful street dancing of […]

The Feast of the Black Nazarene is one of the largest religious celebrations in the Philippines, held in Manila in January in honour of the Black Nazarene, the revered dark image of Jesus Christ kept in Quiapo Church. Devotees join the long procession of the image through the streets, many of them walking barefoot as […]

Every January, Manila marks the Feast of the Black Nazarene, centred on Quiapo Church, home of the revered dark image of Jesus Christ known as the Black Nazarene. The feast’s procession draws enormous crowds of devotees through the streets around Quiapo, many walking barefoot and hoping to get close to the image as an act […]

Ligligan Parul, the Giant Lantern Festival of the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, is one of the brightest Christmas traditions in the Philippines. Competing barangays unveil giant lanterns adorned with thousands of dancing lights, each one a showcase of Kapampangan craftsmanship and creativity. The festival draws big crowds to San Fernando every December and has […]

The Giant Lantern Festival, known in Kapampangan as Ligligan Parul, is the signature Christmas celebration of the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, often called the Christmas capital of the Philippines. Barangays compete with giant lanterns whose thousands of lights dance in synchronized patterns, a tradition that has made the city famous every December. This post […]

The Sinukwan Festival is the cultural festival of the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, held every late November to early December. It honors Atching Sinhukwan (Aring Sinukwan), the mythical king of the Kapampangans in local folklore, and celebrates Kapampangan culture through street dancing, parades, cultural shows, and food fairs. Barangays, schools, and towns from across […]

The Sinukwan Festival is the week-long cultural celebration of the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, held from late November to early December. Named after Atching Sinhukwan (Aring Sinukwan), the mythical king in Kapampangan folklore, the festival showcases the province’s culture through a grand street-dancing competition, parades, cultural presentations, trade fairs, and food events. Schools, barangays, […]

Street dancing is the heart of Bacolod City’s MassKara Festival, and its school category gives students their own stage to compete in the festival of smiles. Schools from across Bacolod perform choreographed routines in glittering smiling-mask costumes, dancing to the MassKara beat before thousands of spectators along the city’s main streets. The school category has […]

The MassKara Festival is the famous festival of Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, celebrated every October. Its name combines “mass”, for many, and “kara”, for face – a festival of many faces, which fits Bacolod’s nickname, the City of Smiles. MassKara is known for its street dancing, where dancers in colourful smiling masks and elaborate costumes […]

The MassKara Festival is Bacolod City’s famous festival of smiles, held every October. It began in 1980, when the sugar industry crisis and a tragic sea disaster struck Negros, and the city chose to respond with a festival of smiling masks — “mass” for many and “kara” for face. Today MassKara is one of the […]

Pundaquit Beach is the main beach and jump-off area of San Antonio in Zambales, on the west coast of Luzon facing the West Philippine Sea. The coastal village of Pundaquit is known for its gray-sand shore, surf-friendly waves, and views of nearby islands and coves that draw weekend travelers from Metro Manila and Central Luzon. […]

The Kapurpurawan Rock Formations in Burgos, Ilocos Norte, are striking white limestone formations along the province’s rocky northern coast. Their name comes from “puraw”, the word for white in Ilokano, and their pale, sculpted shapes have been formed over time by the wind and the sea. Kapurpurawan is one of Ilocos Norte’s best-known natural landmarks, […]

Hijo Resorts Davao: Your Eco-Agritourism Sanctuary Awaits Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Davao Gulf, the resort offers a transformative travel experience unlike any other. It’s not just a resort; it’s a sanctuary designed for those seeking a perfect getaway to recharge, unwind, and reconnect with nature. The Philippines’ Premier Eco-Agritourism Destination Hijo holds the […]

Freedom Park is a public park in Panabo City, Davao del Norte, in Mindanao. Like many Philippine city parks, it is an open gathering place at the heart of the community – a green space for strolling, resting and watching everyday life in the city go by. The park is best known for its large […]

The Giant Lantern Festival, known in Kapampangan as Ligligan Parul, is the signature Christmas festival of the City of San Fernando, Pampanga. Barangays compete with giant lanterns – parul – built with thousands of bulbs and intricate, kaleidoscopic light displays, which is why San Fernando is known as the Christmas Capital of the Philippines. This […]

The Kadayawan Festival is Davao City’s grand thanksgiving celebration, held every August in honor of the city’s bountiful harvest, rich culture, and its indigenous peoples and Moro communities. Festival highlights include the Indak-Indak sa Kadalanan street-dancing competition, floral floats laden with fruits and flowers, and exhibits of Davao’s famous produce — durian, mangosteen, orchids, and […]

The Kuraldal is a traditional Kapampangan dance devotion in which devotees dance in the streets as a form of prayer — for healing, for a child, for thanksgiving, or for a granted wish. Dancers sway and step for hours in front of the image of the town’s patron, believing the sacrifice of dancing itself carries […]

The Kuraldal is one of Pampanga’s oldest dance devotions. In this tradition, devotees dance through the streets for hours — swaying, hopping, and singing in prayer — believing that the dancing itself brings healing, thanksgiving, and blessings. The most famous Kuraldal is held in Sasmuan, Pampanga, in honor of Santa Lucia (St. Lucy), where thousands […]

The Santacruzan is a traditional Filipino procession held in May, the culmination of the Flores de Mayo celebrations. It honours the finding of the Holy Cross by Saint Helena — Reyna Elena — and features participants in elaborate gowns representing biblical and historical figures, escorted through the streets. In Angeles City, Pampanga, the Sabat Santacruzan […]

Saud Beach in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, is known for its long stretch of white sand and clear water on the northern coast of Luzon. Away from the crowds of more commercialised resorts, it has a quieter, more open feel that makes it a favourite subject for photographers. This photograph captures Saud in a quieter mood, […]

The Sinulog Festival in Cebu is one of the Philippines’ grandest celebrations in honour of the Santo Niño, the Child Jesus. Its street parades are famous for their elaborate costumes — bright, detailed and often carrying images of the Santo Niño — worn by dancers moving to the rhythm of drums. Costume is at the […]

The Bangui Windmills, part of the Bangui Wind Farm in Bangui, Ilocos Norte, are rows of giant wind turbines standing along the shoreline of Bangui Bay. Driven by the strong winds in the area, the turbines generate electricity, and their striking line along the coast has made them one of the most recognisable landmarks in […]

Pannzian Beach is a quiet stretch of coast in Ilocos Norte, in the northern part of Luzon. Away from the busier resort areas, its appeal is its calm, uncrowded shoreline, the kind of place visited for rest, sea air, and unhurried time by the water. Northern Ilocos Norte is known for its scenic coastal drives […]

Saud Beach in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, is a long stretch of white sand and clear blue water on the northern coast of Luzon. It is the best-known beach in Pagudpud and one of the most popular stops on a trip around Ilocos Norte, valued for its wide shoreline and relatively peaceful setting. Saud is often […]

Kalibo Cathedral in Kalibo, Aklan, dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, is the town’s main Roman Catholic church. Standing in the heart of Kalibo, it is a centre of worship for the local Catholic community and a familiar landmark for visitors to the town. The cathedral is closely associated with devotion to the Santo Niño […]

Divisoria, in the heart of Manila around Recto Avenue and the districts of Tondo and Binondo, is the Philippines’ most famous bargain shopping destination. Its streets and malls — from the stalls along Juan Luna and Santo Cristo to shopping centers like 168, 999, and Tutuban — sell everything from clothes, fabrics, and school supplies […]

Aliwan Fiesta bills itself as the festival of festivals: each year, champion contingents from fiestas across the Philippines converge on the CCP Complex in Pasay to compete for the grand championship, bringing their hometown dances, props and street pageantry with them. The 2013 edition drew the country’s best festival performers into one arena, and this […]

Ramyun is the Korean style of instant noodle soup, served in a hot broth that is often spicy and usually topped with simple additions such as egg and vegetables. It is everyday comfort food — quick, filling and warming — and Korean noodle shops have become a familiar sight in many Philippine cities. A steaming […]

The Dambana ng Kagitingan (Shrine of Valor) stands on Mount Samat in Pilar, Bataan, honoring the Filipino and American soldiers who fought and died in the Battle of Bataan during World War II. Completed in 1970, the shrine’s centerpiece is a Memorial Cross rising about 92 meters above the mountain, with an elevator inside leading […]

Potipot Island is a small white-sand island just off Uacon in Candelaria, Zambales, reached by a boat ride of about five minutes from the mainland. The island is small enough to walk around in roughly twenty minutes, circling clear, shallow water, fine light-coloured sand, and a famous old balete tree that shades its middle. There […]

The Daraga Church, formally the Our Lady of the Gate Parish Church, stands on a hill in Daraga, Albay, overlooking the town and the perfect cone of Mayon Volcano. Built by Franciscan missionaries in 1773 from volcanic rock, the church is known for its richly carved Baroque facade, decorated with religious images, floral motifs, and […]

Anawangin Cove is a beach cove in San Antonio, Zambales, near the coastal village of Pundaquit. It is known for its curved stretch of light-coloured sand and the agoho trees that line the shore and shade its camping areas, giving the cove a look quite unlike most Philippine beaches. Reached by boat from Pundaquit, Anawangin […]

The Ati-Atihan Festival in Kalibo, Aklan, on the island of Panay, is one of the Philippines’ best-known celebrations in honour of the Santo Niño, the Child Jesus. Participants with faces painted in soot and dressed in colourful, elaborate costumes dance through the streets to the beat of drums, chanting in devotion. Held every January, the […]

The Feast of the Black Nazarene is one of the largest Catholic devotions in the Philippines, celebrated every January in Quiapo, Manila. Its centerpiece is the Traslacion, the solemn procession of the revered image of the Black Nazarene through the streets, drawing huge crowds of devotees who join the procession or line the route in […]

Every December, the City of San Fernando in Pampanga lives up to its title as the Christmas Capital of the Philippines with the Giant Lantern Festival, or Ligligan Parul. The 2012 edition once again pitted the city’s barangays against each other with giant lanterns around 20 feet across, each lit by thousands of bulbs sequenced […]

Sinukwan Festival 2012: A Vibrant Celebration of Kapampangan Heritage The Sinukwan Festival takes place annually in San Fernando, Pampanga, every December. It’s a week-long extravaganza. This vibrant celebration is a captivating showcase of the rich Kapampangan culture and history. History of the Sinukwan Festival Rooted in ancient traditions, the Sinukwan Festival pays homage to the […]

The Makatapak Festival is the signature festival of Bacolor, Pampanga, held every November during the town fiesta. “Makatapak” means barefoot in Kapampangan, and true to its name, participants in the festival’s street dancing and processions go barefoot. The festival is an expression of faith and resilience from a town that was buried by lahar flows […]

iPhone 5s: The Dinosaur of Smartphones Let’s talk about the iPhone 5s. Remember that thing? It’s like that one really old relative who still uses a rotary phone. You love them, but they’re seriously out of touch. The iPhone 5s is the smartphone equivalent of that relative. Battery life? It’s a marathon runner. Just kidding, […]

The MassKara Festival is Bacolod City’s world-famous festival of smiles, held every October since 1980. Born during a time of crisis in the sugar industry, the festival answered hard times with smiling masks — “mass” meaning many and “kara” meaning face — and it has grown into one of the biggest festivals in the Philippines. […]

Two years after our first visit, we returned to Potipot Island off Candelaria, Zambales — this is version 2.0 of the trip. The island had lost none of its appeal: the same short boat ride from Barangay Uacon, the same ring of white sand and clear, shallow water, and still no large-scale development on the […]

Gapan City in Nueva Ecija is known as the Tsinelas Capital of the Philippines, and every August it celebrates its shoemaking pride with the Tsinelas Festival. Local workshops in Gapan produce slippers and sandals sold all over the country, and the festival showcases that industry with parades, street dancing, trade fairs, and displays of giant […]

Pasigarbo sa Sugbo is Cebu’s own “festival of festivals,” held in August for the Cebu provincial founding anniversary. Cities and towns from across the province send their champion contingents — each representing a local festival — for street dancing and a ritual showdown that turns Cebu’s many local fiestas into one provincial championship. The photographs […]

The Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival is the biggest festival of Tacloban City, Leyte, held every June in honor of the Señor Santo Niño. “Pintados” was the name Spanish colonizers gave to the tattooed natives of the Visayas, and the festival celebrates that heritage with dancers whose bodies are painted with intricate designs, recreating the look of the […]

The San Juanico Bridge stretches about 2.16 kilometers across the San Juanico Strait, linking Tacloban City in Leyte with Santa Rita in Samar. Completed in 1973, it was the longest bridge in the Philippines for decades, and its graceful S-curve over the strait — with small islets scattered below — is still one of the […]

Planning a wedding involves a long list of decisions, from the church and reception venue to the gown, flowers, photographs and cake. Wedding exhibitions help couples compare all of those choices in one place, meeting suppliers face to face and seeing their work up close. Kasalang Filipino is a Philippine wedding exhibition that brings together […]

Manila, Philippines – The highly anticipated Glade Sport Lateral Drift Championship Series 2010 is set to ignite the Metro Manila streets today with over 30 high-powered cars vying for the top spot. As the first leg of a six-round competition, the event will transform the open parking lot of Eastwood City, Libis into a thrilling […]

Flores de Mayo is the beloved Philippine devotion to the Virgin Mary held throughout the month of May, when children and young ladies offer flowers at the altar every afternoon. Its most colorful highlight is the Santacruzan, a procession of queens representing biblical and historical figures, led by Reyna Elena. In Pampanga, towns choose their […]

Grandpa’s Inn is a restored ancestral house turned inn and restaurant in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, a short walk from Calle Crisologo in the historic mestizo district. Staying (or simply eating) here is a heritage experience in itself: heavy wooden furniture, capiz windows, and family-heirloom interiors in a city that is itself a UNESCO World […]

Paoay Church, formally the Saint Augustine Church, is a Roman Catholic church in the town of Paoay, Ilocos Norte. It is one of the most famous old churches in the Philippines, known for its massive buttresses of coral stone and brick and for its separate bell tower. Built in the Spanish colonial era, the church […]

Calle Crisologo is the most famous street in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, a cobblestone street lined with well-preserved Spanish colonial ancestral houses. Walking along it, past horse-drawn calesas and old houses with wooden shutters and capiz windows, feels like stepping back into the Philippines’ Spanish colonial past. Vigan is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage […]

Rising along the shoreline of Bangui Bay in Ilocos Norte, the Bangui Wind Farm was the first wind power project in the Philippines and in Southeast Asia. Its first phase, completed in 2005 by NorthWind Power Development Corporation, lined up 20 Vestas wind turbines along the coast, each standing about 70 meters tall and generating […]

Saud Beach in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, is one of the most loved white-sand beaches in northern Luzon. Its long crescent of fine, pale sand faces the West Philippine Sea, with coconut palms leaning over the shore and gentle waves rolling in — a scene often compared to Boracay before it was developed. Saud is the […]

The Patapat Viaduct is an elevated coastal highway in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, built where the northern Cordillera slopes meet the sea. Running about 1.3 kilometers long and rising some 31 meters above the shoreline, it was opened in 1986 to give motorists a safer route through a stretch of coast once notorious for landslides. It […]

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse has watched over the northern coast of Luzon since it was first lit in 1892. The Spanish-era brick tower stands on Vigia de Nagpartian hill in Burgos, Ilocos Norte, overlooking Cape Bojeador and the West Philippine Sea, and it still serves as an active aid to navigation today. Getting there means a […]

Narvacan is a coastal town in Ilocos Sur, fronting the West Philippine Sea. Along its shoreline, coral formations can be seen just off the beach, making this stretch of coast a quiet stop for travellers exploring the Ilocos region. The photographs in this post, of the corals and the seashore at Narvacan, are from a […]

Festivals are among the most colourful expressions of community life in the northern Philippines. Across Northern Luzon, towns and cities mark the year with celebrations built around patron saints, harvests and local products, bringing street dancing, music, food and crowds out into the streets. Dagupan City in Pangasinan, where the photographs in this post were […]

Aliwan Fiesta is often called the Philippines’ “festival of champions”: every April, winning contingents from the country’s biggest festivals — Sinulog, Dinagyang, Panagbenga and more — converge in Manila for one grand street dance competition, a float parade, and the Reyna ng Aliwan pageant, held around the CCP Complex and Aliw Theater grounds in Pasay. […]

Every April 9, the Philippines observes Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor), the national commemoration of the fall of Bataan during World War II. On April 9, 1942, after three months of fighting, the Filipino and American forces on the Bataan Peninsula surrendered, beginning the infamous Bataan Death March. The center of the annual commemoration […]

Adventure Beach Waterpark sits inside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, a beachside water park where the pools and slides meet the sand, near the Camayan Beach area. It is one of the family stops along the Subic Bay coast — close enough to Manila for a day trip, quieter than the bigger resort strips. These […]

Tarlac Recreational Park is a public sports and recreation park in San Jose, Tarlac City – open grounds where local families, athletes and visitors come for exercise, games and time outdoors. The area is now associated with the Jose V. Yap Sports and Recreational Complex, and it remains one of Tarlac’s best-known venues for sports […]

San Pedro Cutud in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga is the most watched Good Friday destination in the Philippines. Its Via Crucis passion play, staged by the community since the 1950s, ends with volunteer penitents actually nailed to crosses on a makeshift Golgotha — the culmination of Maleldo, the Kapampangan observance of Holy Week. […]

In the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, Good Friday is observed with the penitence traditions known locally as Maleldo. In barangays such as Sta Lucia, penitents take part in acts of devotion and self-mortification, including self-flagellation, as a vow or panata – practices that draw both devotees and onlookers and are documented here respectfully, as […]

The Monasterio de Tarlac houses a precious relic – a fragment of the True Cross upon which Jesus Christ was crucified. The monastery sits atop offering scenic views of Central Luzon plains. The Monasterio initially served as a hermitage house for monks in 2003. But in 2005, Fr. Archie – head of the congregation – […]

Maleldo — the Kapampangan Holy Week — begins in earnest on Holy Wednesday in the City of San Fernando, Pampanga. Hooded penitents called magdarame start their panata (vow) days before Good Friday: carrying wooden crosses, crawling on hot pavement, and whipping their backs in processions that wind through the barangays. (Warning: the photographs are graphic.) […]

San Mateo is a barangay of Arayat, Pampanga, a town that sits in the shadow of Mount Arayat – the solitary mountain that rises from the Central Luzon plain and can be seen from much of the province. Life in barangays like San Mateo is shaped by that landscape: farmland, small roads and a close-knit […]

Anawangin Cove is a sheltered beach cove in San Antonio, Zambales, reached by boat from the Pundaquit area. Its curved stretch of pale sand is backed by tall, pine-like agoho trees – an unusual sight on a Philippine beach – and for years it has been a favourite of campers looking for a quiet shore […]

Potipot Island is a small white-sand island off Barangay Uacon in Candelaria, Zambales — close enough to the mainland that the boat ride over takes only a few minutes, but far enough to feel like an escape. There are no big resorts on the island itself; what you get is clear water, fine sand, and […]

Noel Cabangon is one of the Philippines’ best-loved folk singers, a singer-songwriter whose acoustic songs have soundtracked Filipino journeys for decades. His album Byahe takes its name from the Filipino word for a journey or trip, and it is a fitting title for a musician whose music is so often about home, travel and the […]

Mud, rock gardens, river crossings and near-vertical climbs — an extreme 4×4 challenge is off-roading run as a timed competition. Modified rigs on oversized tires tackle a course built to defeat them, with drivers and spotters working as a team: one on the throttle, one reading the terrain and calling the line. The photographs in […]

Panagbenga is Baguio City’s flower festival, held every February since the mid-1990s to revive tourism after the 1990 Luzon earthquake. Its name is a Kankanaey term often translated as “season of blooming,” and for one weekend the City of Pines lives up to it — Session Road fills with street dancers and floats covered end […]

Mines View Park is one of Baguio City’s classic stops: a ridge-top viewpoint looking out over the mountains of Benguet and the old mining country below. On a clear day the view opens across ridges and valleys far beyond the city, which is why generations of Baguio visitors have made the short trip out to […]

Baguio City is as much a food trip as a sightseeing trip, and its street snacks are part of the experience. Alongside the strawberries and strawberry taho the City of Pines is known for, visitors come across small, playfully named local treats – and kulangot is one of those Baguio names that sticks in the […]

Our Lady of Atonement Cathedral stands proudly as a testament to the enduring faith and devotion of Baguio City’s residents. This magnificent Roman Catholic cathedral, nestled amidst the city’s picturesque landscape, is a beloved landmark and a spiritual haven for many. A Brief History The cathedral’s origins can be traced back to the early 1900s […]

Discover the Charm of Shopping in the City of Pines When it comes to shopping destinations in the Philippines, SM City Baguio stands out as a unique and refreshing experience. Unlike its counterparts in bustling metropolitan areas, this mall offers a harmonious blend of retail therapy and the cool, crisp mountain air. A Mall with […]

Before there was a New Clark City fiesta, there was Clark. The Philippine Hot Air Balloon Fiesta at Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga was the country’s original “weekend of everything that flies” — dawn balloon flights over the airfield, special-shaped balloons, aerobatics, skydiving and aviation exhibits spread across four days. The photographs and daily sets […]

Ibon-Ebon — “birds and eggs” — is Candaba, Pampanga’s festival, and it points to the town’s greatest natural treasure: the Candaba Swamp. This vast wetland is one of the Philippines’ most important bird sanctuaries, a resting and feeding stop for migratory birds on the East Asian flyway during the dry season. The photographs here are […]

Dinagyang is Iloilo City’s great January festival in honour of the Santo Nino, and its centrepiece is the Ati tribe competition. Tribes of dancers, their skin darkened and their costumes ablaze with colour and feathers, perform powerful, tightly drilled routines to thunderous drumbeats, chanting their devotion as they move through the judging areas and streets. […]

Kasadyahan is the cultural showcase of Iloilo City’s Dinagyang Festival, the January celebration held in honour of the Santo Nino. While Dinagyang is best known for its high-energy ati tribe competition, Kasadyahan is a day of merrymaking and cultural performance, with contingents in bright costumes presenting choreographed routines rooted in local stories, history and traditions. […]

Sinulog Festival 2010: A Kapampangan’s Perspective “Sa puso ng Sugbu, ang puso ko’y nagsayaw” As a Kapampangan with a passion for photography, attending the Sinulog Festival 2010 was an experience that left an indelible mark on my soul. The vibrant colors, the infectious energy, and the profound devotion of the Cebuano people created a tapestry […]

A Majestic Display of Faith on Water The Sinulog Festival, a vibrant celebration of Cebu’s devotion to the Child Jesus, is a spectacle that captivates millions. One of its most awe-inspiring components is the Fluvial Parade, a maritime procession that showcases the city’s deep-rooted faith and cultural heritage. Though we’re looking back at the 2010 […]

The Sinulog Festival Queen is one of the most photographed highlights of Cebu City’s Sinulog Festival, the grand celebration held every January in honour of the Santo Nino. Festival queens lead their contingents in elaborate, brightly coloured costumes, dancing to drumbeats while carrying an image of the Child Jesus, a role that combines devotion, choreography […]

Every January 9, Quiapo in Manila hosts one of the largest Catholic processions in the world: the Feast of the Black Nazarene. Barefoot devotees in maroon and yellow pack the streets around Quiapo Church for the Traslacion, hoping to touch or pull the rope of the andas carrying the dark wooden image of Christ, which […]

A New Chapter Begins The turning of a new leaf, as they say, is a time for reflection, gratitude, and anticipation. As a Kapampangan photographer, my lens has been my constant companion in capturing the soul of our beloved province. Every frame tells a story, a testament to the rich tapestry of our culture, heritage, […]

The Giant Lantern Festival, or Ligligan Parul, is the Christmas festival of the City of San Fernando, Pampanga, where barangays compete with giant lanterns covered in thousands of dancing lights. San Fernando’s lantern-making tradition is why the city is called the Christmas Capital of the Philippines. The giant lanterns, or parul, are the pride of […]

A quintessential part of Philippine culture is the perya – vibrant entertainment zones that come alive at night. Perya essentially means “fair” or “fun carnival”, and that’s exactly what you’ll find in these areas. Lights, music, and activity fill perya well into the night as families, friends, and couples flock to enjoy the array of […]