The Department of Tourism has taken a remarkable initiative to showcase the rich and intricate tapestry of Filipino culture through the Philippine Experience Program. This three-day adventure, with a focus on the CALABARZON region, invites delegates from the Diplomatic corps, Top Department of Tourism Officials, all levels of Tourism Officers, stakeholders from the travel & tourism industry and media to immerse themselves in a whirlwind of activities and experiences that highlight the region’s historical significance, natural beauty, religious “practices” and delectable cuisine. With the easing of community quarantines and the rebounding of the Philippine economy, the Tourism Sector, one of the hardest hit, is now more than ready to welcome the revenge tourists and travelers again.

In order to create an unforgettable travel experience for these adventure seekers or leisure travelers, these caravans from the Philippine Experience Program would allow them to visit the destinations per region with more strategic interconnectivity, and above all, the interesting narratives of each destination would seal the tourism experience to a deeper and meaningful journey.

Here is the itinerary for the CALABARZON region that underwent scrutiny and validation from various Department of Tourism teams of experts. As we go along the trip, we get to experience a myriad of activities, events, and festivities that highlight each and every destination’s cultural and historical significance. To mark an indelible and tangible proof of our experience, we are handed our own CALABARZON tourism passport which we can have officially stamped at every destination as soon we arrive. After completion, we would be handed beads per province until we complete the representation to a separately provided bracelet.

Day 1: Unveiling History and Heritage (CAVITE and BATANGAS Provinces)

Flag Raising Ceremony and Legendary Breakfast Set at the Aguinaldo Shrine

The heritage journey kicked off with a patriotic flourish at the Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite. Here, we witnessed the solemn raising of the Philippine flag with a live marching band playing the Philippine National Anthem Afterwards, we got to experience the shrine and museum tour, a sneak peek of the life story of General Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President of the Philippine Republic. This iconic moment sets the tone for the upcoming cultural and historical immersion ahead of us.

Following the flag-raising ceremony, guests are treated to a hearty Filipino breakfast that includes regional specialties. Magdiwang, one of the two factions in the Philippine Revolution, inspired the breakfast’s name, which is a nod to the region’s rich history. The Magdiwang Breakfast set we got to experience is made up of tender beef tapa, smoked fish, scrambled eggs, traditional longganisa, garlicky fried rice, and kesong puti. The breakfast set truly resembles healthy protein-rich dishes that would help fuel a Filipino’s demand for energy. The Garlic Fried Rice, which is my top favorite created appealing savory flavors that complement the plethora of flavors of this historic Magdiwang Breakfast set.

Marching Band Parade of the BAKOOD FESTIVAL at Bacoor, Cavite

After a hearty meal and tour experience around the Aguinaldo Shrine complex, the morning in Bacoor, Cavite, continued with a vibrant marching band parade at the Bacoor Oval Track and Field – one of the highlighted events of the BAKOOD FESTIVAL. This lively spectacle showcases the town’s musical talent and is a reminder of the Philippines’ long-standing tradition of music and celebrations. As soon as we arrived at the Oval Track, we marveled at more than 20+ colorful and beguiling marching bands from the majority of Luzon’s provinces. A cacophony of lively music, colorful costumes, and flamboyant flicks dominated the day and imbibed a celebratory spirit throughout the marching parade path. Despite the expected heat of the noon time sun, all of the contingents truly proved their greatness during their moment at the track. They are blessed to be witnessed by none other than the Tourism Secretary herself, Hon. Christina Garcia Frasco. After marveling at the contingents’ parade performance, we capped the BAKOOD Festival experience with a scrumptious buffet and tried their homegrown Digman Halo Halo – a must-try once in Bacoor. There are also booths beside the track where local products and crafts are displayed on sale.

Heritage Tour at Taal Heritage Village

In the afternoon, the delegation of the Philippine Experience Program is transported to the charming Taal Heritage Village. This beautifully preserved heritage town would take you on a journey through time with its well-preserved ancestral homes and historic landmarks – think of it as one gigantic open-air and breathing museum. With the golden hour about set, we arrived at the front yard of the mammoth St. Martin de Tours Parish Church, the largest Catholic Church in the country. Its colossal facade brimming with captivating architectural details that certainly speak the stories of a century it beheld. From the church tour, our respected Taal Tour Guide heralded the delegation to the park where three major Taal industries are on display to engage guests. The Balisong, The Embroidery works, and the well-known whole nut “Panutsa” kiosks provided an opportunity for us to learn each industry’s historical and current significance that defined the current way of life of the Taal residents. After this, we were granted access to some of the destinations around the Taal Heritage in which we visited the Casa Recuerdos, a photography studio, and the Paradores del Castillo, one of the famous Bed and Breakfasts in Taal town that boasts in picturesque infinity pools and view deck.

Spending a Night at Twin Lakes Hotel

As the day comes to a close, participants of the Philippine Experience Program retired to the Twin Lakes Hotel in Laurel, Batangas. Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes, the hotel offers a breathtaking view of the Taal Volcano Protected Landscape, creating a serene atmosphere for a good night’s rest. A surprising and touching welcome gesture was the dance performances of the region, and a refreshing pineapple drink as we underwent the special check-in process. The night is capped with the buffet dinner at the Grand Ballroom with the Hon. Hermilando Mandanas, the Batangas Governor himself, welcoming the entire delegation in his beloved province.

Day 2: Culinary Delights and Cultural Showcases (LAGUNA and QUEZON Provinces)

Coconut Module Cooking Tour at Casa San Pablo

The morning begins with a culinary adventure at Casa San Pablo. Here, guests learn the art of Filipino cooking, with a particular focus on coconut-based dishes, a staple in Filipino cuisine. Ms. Ann Alcantara, the beguiling innkeeper took the delegation to an engaging storytelling on how the prized coconut has defined the industry and heritage of the San Pablo locals. She offered us a getaway to understand how creative the Filipinos are by having an engaging discussion on 11 ways to enjoy the coconut, from every part and product counterpart.

Unique Dining Experience and Cultural Show at the Villa Escudero Plantations & Resort

After learning the culinary arts in enjoying coconut multiple ways, it is time to indulge in a sumptuous buffet lunch at Manmade Waterfalls of the famed Villa Escudero. This unique dining experience takes place amid the cascading waters of a natural waterfall, offering a serene and unforgettable ambiance. After a scrumptious lunch, we headed to the open-air main hall and witnessed different cultural and traditional dance performances.

Cultural Fashion Show at Quezon Provincial Capitol

The second night was capped when we checked in at Queen Margarette Hotels in Lucena City and proceeded to the Tayabas Provincial Capitol where the day culminated with a captivating cultural, dance, and fashion show at the Quezon Provincial Capitol. We were greeted with live rondalla music, followed by a traditional Quezonian cuisine buffet kickstarted by their iconic Tagayan culture. The fashion show showcasing the best local designers of Quezon dominated the center stage and truly amazed the Philippine Experience Program delegation. The night is capped with their local Tangerine brand chocolate giveaways.

Day 3: Natural Wonders and Culinary Delights (LAGUNA Province)

Pagsanjan Falls of Cavinti, Laguna

On the final day, participants embark on an exhilarating adventure to the Pagsanjan Falls in Cavinti. The thrilling boat ride which they dub as “shooting the rapids” through the river’s rapids leads to the mesmerizing waterfall, offering an adrenaline rush and a chance to connect with the splendid and breathtaking beauty of Mother Nature. It is also the moment that you would understand the plight of the Pagsanjan Boatmen who kept the Pagsanjan Falls Riverpark industry rocking and rolling.

Authentic Filipino Dishes at Calle Arco 70-Year-Old Restaurant

After the waterfall adventure, it’s time to savor authentic Filipino dishes at Calle Arco, a restaurant with storied decades of history of serving regional specialties. We get to try their unique SInigang na Bangka na may Langka dish and their flavorful Pinakbet. It was a short and quick dining experience, but marveling at its interior details has provided a quick storytelling for me.

Visiting the Carving Capital of Paete, Laguna

Continuing the cultural exploration, the tour visited the quaint town of Paete in Laguna, known for its skilled carvers. Welcomed by the town mayor himself at the plaza, we were directed to marvel at their historic and iconic Paete Church, beckoning visitors to be enthralled at its intricate details observable beginning at its church facade, the bell tower, the ceiling details, and the altar retablo. Altogether, the total iconic features of their church are a testament to the town’s plethora of artisans. After a quick discussion of the town’s history, we got the moment to roam its streets and check ourselves the artisan stores. It was a quick visit and I hope I could last longer to absorb more of artistic and creative motivations from Paete.

Hand Embroidery in Lumban Province of Laguna

The tour wraps up with a visit to Lumban, Laguna. Despite being the last town in the CALABARZON leg itinerary, the town welcomed us with an energetic performance from their champion contingent from the recently concluded Burdang Lumban Festival Street Dance Competition. The feisty energy of the performance was infectious and truly engaged the delegation. Apart from the expected live demonstration of their famed hand embroidery, we get to try Laguna’s espasol – a glutinous rice delicacy rolled with toasted rice flour. Intricately designed Filipiniana and Barongs delighted the crowd. As expected, the last itinerary did not hamper the shopping capability of the delegation.

Culminating Formalities at Ted’s Kitchen, Sta. Cruz, Laguna

The grand finale is a delightful dinner at Ted’s Kitchen, known for its heirloom dishes native to the province of Laguna. It’s a fitting end to this journey through the heart and soul of CALABARZON. Known to be the home of the best Kesong Puti in the country, the town mayor welcomed the delegation and celebrated the success of the CALABARZON leg with a curated dinner buffet offering the best local recipes. The 48-hour slow-cooked carabeef and the Grilled Tilapia were among my personal favorites from the buffet menu.

THE CONCLUSION AND SUCCESS OF THE PHILIPPINE EXPERIENCE PROGRAM

The Philippine Experience Program executed by the Department of Region Calabarzon office is an extraordinary opportunity to immerse oneself in the culture, history, and natural beauty of the region. From flag-raising ceremonies to culinary adventures, cultural showcases, and encounters with talented artisans, this three-day tour promises an unforgettable and enriching experience for all who participate.

Come, explore, and celebrate the diverse tapestry of Calabarzon’s heritage!