The Island of Corregidor

Corregidor Island also known as "Isla ng Corregidor" or "Fort Mills" is flanked by several islands (Caballo islands, Carabao Island and El Fraile Island) that formed the harbor defenses of Manila. It is located about 48 km. of Manila (inland). Contrary to popular belief, Corregidor is actually a part of Cavite with a size of 5 sq. km. that is shaped like a tadpole and the highest elevation of the island is about 650ft above sea level. Corregidor was fortified with several artillery and ammunition magazines to defend the entrance of Manila Bay and the City of Manila from attacks by enemy warships. 

During World War II, Corregidor played an important role during the invasion and liberation of the Philippines from Japanese forces. It was actually the second most heavily bombarded island next to Malta. The ruins left on the island serve as a military memorial to American, Filipino and Japanese soldiers who served and lost their lives on the island. 

There are several point of interest inside Corregidor among which are: Pacific War Memorial, numerous gunneries, Ruins and the Malinta Tunnel, which served as a supply depot, hospital and MacArthur’s headquarters.

Corregidor tour is indeed a must for every Filipino. It is an effective reminder of the sacrifices of soldiers who fought for our freedom.

How to Get There:

1.) The best and most efficient way of going to Corregidor is thru a group tour.
2.) Go to the Esplanade Seaside Terminal located near MOA, you can book a tour at Sun Cruise, tour also includes a buffet meal..

Pagoda Hill of La Union

Situated in the city of San Fernando, the capital of La Union. Pagoda Hill is comprised of Chinese-themed architecture atop a hill which offers a commanding view of San Fernando City. The hill can be reached by a 15 minutes walk and a short hike from the city proper and has an approximate elevation of 300 ft. It is also known as the Filipino-Chinese Friendship park because it commemorates the bond of friendship and a long history between Filipino and Chinese people.  

How to get there:
1. Once in San Fernando you can ask the locals for directions

Makiling Traverse

Growing up in Laguna, I was always fascinated by the majestic beauty of Mt. Makiling- a dormant volcano named after Maria Makiling, believed to be the fairy guardian of the said mountain. It connects the province of Batangas and Laguna which spans to an estimated distance of 15 km. and has a total elevation of 3576 feet above sea level.

There are two known trails for Mt. Makiling, the common trail which is through the UPLB and the other one which is the Makiling Traverse popularly known as MakTrav. It starts in Sto. Tomas, Batangas and ends in UPLB making it a notch higher in terms of difficulty where it features a series of vertical walls, rope segments, mossy forest, narrow and steep trails and of course the notorious Limatiks. Through the years, it has become a favorite training ground among mountaineers who wish to hike Halcon or G2.

The Makiling Traverse starts in Brgy. San Miguel which passes several communities and a series of agricultural crops until reaching a dried river with a series of station markers to help hikers avoid confusion. From there on, it is a continuous ascent through a forested trail until reaching the Melkas Ridge which is the key highlight of the trail that offers a scenic view of Laguna and Batangas. After a few minutes of hike along the ridgeline, one will reach Peak 3 which is one of the summits. To continue with the traverse, one has to trek another 2 hours to reach Peak 2 which passes the Wild Boar trail characterized by a narrow and steep terrain that requires scrambling, body contortions and maneuvering through a series of obstacle along the path.

The summit of Peak 2 doesn't offer a 360 degrees view because it is covered with trees, wild bushes and shrubs. Only a tarpaulin stating that you are at the summit can be seen. The descent from the summit resembles some portions of Tarak ridge composed of forested trail where one has to cling to some roots and tree branches until reaching the Agila Base which is mostly flat surface. From there on, the trail leads to a cemented pathway all the way to UPLB Ranger jump off point.

There are some nice side trip that you can visit which includes: Flat Rocks and Mud Spring.

Mud Spring

How to Get There: 
MakTrav
1. Ride a bus bound for Lucena or any Maharlika-bound bus
2. Tell the driver to drop off at Brgy. San Felix
3. Then ride a trike to Ecopark
4. Secure a guide

UPLB Trail
1. Take a bus bound for Sta Cruz, Laguna
2. Tell the conductor to drop you off in Olivarez/College.
3. You can then ride a jeepney bound to UP College Forestry
4. You can walk to the Registration area. One ID is required.