Batangenyos have many reasons to be proud of. With the province’s abundance of natural and cultural resources, one can never be able to fully appreciate the beauty of Batangas. That means there is a lot one can do when wandering around the province. There is never a boring day, as long as you go ahead and explore. For now, here is a sample list of things to do in Batangas:
1. Go to the beach.
When you hear of Batangas, one thing would surely cross your mind—and that is, the beach. Without a doubt, the place is famous for its wide array of beaches, from white sand to diving sites. It has truly become a popular (and nearer) getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. With only a 2-hour drive away from Manila, a day or two in the province during the weekend is truly one to remember. Laiya in San Juan is now famous for its white sand beach resorts. Anilao is a known all over the world as divers’ paradise. There are other great selections in Nasugbu and Calatagan. So whether you are the adventurous type who is game for any water sport or the more laid-back type who just wants to sit back and relax while watching the waves of the sea, then you should visit Batangas beaches.
2. Visit historical sites.
Drop by the shrine of General Miguel Malvar, the last general to surrender to the Americans during the Revolution. It is located in Gov. Malvar St., Sto. Tomas. At the left side of the monument is a library dedicated to him, and contains some of his personal belongings. Similarly, the Jose P. Laurel Memorial library in Tanauan City is a personal property of the late President Jose P. Laurel. The library was his personal property which is donated to the government as a public library and historical site.
Want to take a glimpse of breathtaking view of Calatagan town and South China Sea? Then you should climb the Punta de Santiago lighthouse in Calatagan, Batangas. It is considered one of the oldest yet still functioning lighthouses of today. Another popular lighthouse is Faro de Punta de Malabrigo which is located in Lobo. Then, when you are in Lipa City, drop by Casa De Segunda Katigbak. An ancestral home of a distinguished family in Lipa City, it derived its name from Segunda Katigbak, who is known to be National Hero Jose Rizal’s first love.
3. Visit churches.
The Basilica of Martin de Tours, which can be found in Taal, is the largest in Southeast Asia. Then, the Lipa Cathedral has a beautiful Romanesque architecture, with columns and arches in an ascending and descending order. The Church of San Juan in San Jose has an interior with one aisle, so that one can have a clear view of the large main altar. The Church of Immaculate Conception in Bauan offers architecture of neoclassical with walls of a medieval fashion. The heritage town of Taal houses the Church of Our Lady of Caysasay. It contains precious artifacts dating from the Spanish colonial period, such as a 27-centimeter image of the Virgin, among others. Finally, the Carmelite chapel and convent in Lipa City is known to be the site of the miracle of the showering of petals by a visionary nun after World War II.
4. Climb a mountain.
Mt. Maculot, (makulot referring to the kinky hairs of the people in the mountain), is one of the highest peaks located in Cuenca, Batangas. A mountain trekker favorite, it offers a beautiful view of the countryside surrounding it. The Japanese also made it as its last stronghold in the province before they were defeated. While climbing on your way to the top, you can see the several tunnels built by them. Take a peek at nice views by climbing Mt. Batulao, in Nasugbu. Enjoy the most magnificent mountain in the province. Just make sure to wear long-sleeved shirts since the mountain’s climate particularly chilly especially from the months of December to Februrary.
5. Witness different festivals.
Batangenyos are naturally festive. There are just never too many reasons to celebrate. One great festival to witness is the Parada ng Lechon in Balayan every 24th of June wherein roasted pigs are displayed throughout the whole town. Another exciting one is the Tapusan festival in Alitagtag celebrated during May 31. This festival honors the holy cross, and flowers surround the floats which carries the image of the Virgin Mary. Then, Subli-an sa Batangas, celebrated during city’s Foundation day, shows the original Batangas dance known as subli accompanies by four choral voices. Stay in the province during the month of May and you will witness several fiesta celebrations. That is because it is when the barrio and town fiestas usually take place. It is an event not to miss for the typical Batangueno. In the fiestas, even if you are not invited by the host of the party, but since a friend invites you, you can go. There are lot of other festivals, such as the Coffee Festival (Lipa City), Fluvial Procession at Pansipit River (Lobo), Paskuhan sa Maraykit (San Juan), Kinulob Festival (Mabini) and Tinapahan Festival (Lemery).
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