Capiz is a province located in the central region of the Philippines. Known for being the Seafood Capital of the Philippines, Capiz is also home to several churches and pilgrimage sites that attract tourists and devotees alike. These sites attract thousands of devotees every year, especially during the Holy Week. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some of the most notable churches and pilgrimage sites in Capiz. 

Sta. Monica Church in Panay



Located in the municipality of Panay, the Sta. Monica Church is home to the largest church bell in Southeast Asia. Built during the 18th century, the church is made of coral blocks and has a bell tower where the replica of the largest church bell is currently in use for ringing. You can find the real bell outside of the church for display.






Immaculate Conception Metropolitan Cathedral in Roxas




The Immaculate Conception Metropolitan Cathedral also known as Roxas Cathedral is the seat of the Archdiocese of Capiz and is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception, the patroness of the province. It is one of the heritage sites you can visit at the Roxas City Plaza.






Sacred Heart of Jesus Shrine in Roxas 



The shrine is home to the 3rd tallest statue of the image of Jesus Christ in Asia and 5th tallest in the world measuring 360 feet above sea level. It is said to the be tallest in the Philippines and the sculpture was designed to depict Jesus Christ stoping incoming typhoons heading towards the province.





St. Martin de Tours Church in Dumalag



Dumalag's first church and monastery was built between 1600 and 1720 and the parish was dedicated to Saint Martin, Bishop of Tours. A five-story bell tower towered majestically on the left side of the church. The design of the church is shaped like a cross.







Christ the Redeemer in Ivisan



A five-storey tall white-painted replica of the world’s largest Art Deco statue in Rio de Janeiro. Heading to this site only takes a short hike. You don't need to go far to see an image of the Christ the Redeemer.



Healing Chapel at Meditation Hills in Sapian 



A 5-hectare hilly and forested property that is home to the site of the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes. The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes is located at the top of a hill, and the healing chapel is located at its foot. The site also features different kinds of saints that pilgrims can explore and pray while climbing its stairs.





In conclusion, Capiz's churches and pilgrimage sites are not only significant religious landmarks but also cultural treasures that showcase the province's rich history and architectural heritage. Whether you're a devout Catholic or a curious traveler, these churches and pilgrimage sites are definitely worth a visit.


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 The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines is participating once again in the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2023, the leading global event for inbound and outbound travel industry in the Middle East on 01-04 May 2023 at DWTC, Dubai, UAE. 



This year’s ATM carries the theme, “Working Towards Net Zero”, which explores cutting-edge and environmentally friendly travel trends and identifies the potential strategies for growth within specific sectors in the industry.





The Philippines' participation in ATM 2023 intends to expand the promotions of the Philippines as a leisure, MICE and investment destination, reconnect with the country’s partners in the Middle East, and develop sales leads and  commercial connections with consumers from the Middle East.




“The ATM 2023 will be an opportunity for us to increase our connection in the Middle East and its neighboring countries. It is a chance for us to step up our efforts in getting tourists from this region so they may discover all the wonderful destinations in the country. The abundance of our OFWs in this region provides many possibilities for Middle Easterners to learn more about the Philippines and its must-visit attractions,” said TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles. 





The Philippine delegation is headed by Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Shereen Gail Uy-Pamintuan, TPB’s Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles, together with DOT Region III, Philippine Retirement Authority, and lawmaker representatives from Batangas, Bohol, Cebu, Quezon City, and Surigao del Norte. The delegation also includes private sector companies such as Annset Holidays, Inc., Atlantis Hotel, Atmosphere Resort and Spa, Blue Horizons Travel and Tours, Cebu Pacific Air, CTPH Lifestyle and Travel Services, Divaishnavi International Inc., Earth Explorers, JLT Travel and Tours, Okada Manila, Philippine Airlines, Pink Lily Travel & Tours Inc., The Lind Boracay, Ties That Travel, Travelite Travel and Tours and Via.com.





The ATM is expected to receive more than 30,000 visitors and buyers with over 1,000 exhibitors across 150 countries. The event has become a significant platform that provides leverage and visibility to participants in order to network with new and prospective buyers.


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 In times of crisis, especially what we experienced as a nation during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, there emerged unsung heroes who worked tirelessly to safeguard our well-being and protect the essence of life itself.

The healthcare sector has some of the most dangerous workplace conditions. Health workers are routinely exposed to various health and safety hazards, such as disease-causing organisms, radiation, and chemicals. 

During times of illness and adversity, healthcare workers, comprising doctors, nurses, paramedics, and countless others, have always been our guiding lights. Their unwavering empathy, tireless commitment to caring for the sick and injured, and their relentless pursuit of knowledge make them the resilient pillars of compassion in the Philippines.

Only health workers can run health systems, and their availability is crucial for increasing healthcare coverage and attaining the right to enjoy the greatest possible level of health. 

Every May 7, we recognize our health workers' valuable contributions, sacrifices, and commitment. By virtue of Republic Act 10069, the law declared May 7 of every year as Health Workers Day to give due recognition to the important role and contribution of the health workers who provide vital health services to the people and to promote their rights and welfare and enhance their sense of worth and dignity.

In line with the observance, here are ways we can thank our health workers or our HEALTHCARE HEROES:

1. Post about them on social media
It can be a short video or a thank-you note. Your social media post can give health workers the inspiration they need to get through this trying time.


2. Thank them
Thank a health worker who has gone above and beyond for your loved one. Your words can make their day better and serve as a gentle reminder that helping others is what they do for a living.

If you don't let them know, they might not know how much the job they perform each day is greatly appreciated.


3. Offer Help
You may support a healthcare hero you know by assisting them with various tasks, whether they are a close friend or neighbor. They can be too busy to do occasional tasks since they work more hours and additional shifts.


4. Stay safe and healthy!
Staying safe and healthy is the best way to support our health workers. The COVID-19 pandemic is far from over. We must continue to get vaccinated, mask up, sanitize hands, and practice physical distancing.


The Philippine Government ensures that health workers are well compensated for their hard work. Last February 2023, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. instructed the Department of Health (DOH) to continue giving allowances to healthcare workers even after the state of calamity expiration due to the COVID-19 pandemic declared in 2020.

To encourage health workers in public and private facilities to remain in the Philippines, the DOH also proposes standardizing compensation and enhancing their benefits.

Our country is fortunate to have health workers who are compassionate warriors, healers in white coats, and dedicated souls who stand at the forefront of healthcare.

From the bustling emergency rooms in private hospitals, to public hospital wards, healthcare workers have continously faced the challenges of pandemics, emergencies, and everyday ailments with unwavering determination and dedication. It is time to express our profound gratitude and acknowledge the extraordinary contributions of these selfless individuals. The Philippine Information Agency extends its snappy salute! (PIA-NCR)

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 No Filipino child should suffer or perish from preventable diseases when vaccines can safeguard their health.

According to the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), a child who has received all recommended vaccinations is more likely to grow up healthy. Since their immune systems are still developing, young children and infants are especially vulnerable to several infections that can result in significant harm or death.

Here are some diseases, that for a time, became a distant memory because of the effectiveness of vaccines:

1. Measles
Did you know that before the measles vaccine was developed in 1963 and was widely used, significant outbreaks occurred every 2-3 years, and measles is thought to cause 2.6 million yearly deaths? Measles can be dangerous and very contagious, especially in young children. 

2. Mumps
Before the development of vaccines, Mumps might lead to complications such as irreversible childhood deafness and, sometimes, encephalitis, which could, in extreme circumstances, be fatal. A person who has received the vaccine will experience the mumps less severely than someone who has not.

3. Rubella
Known as "German measles," Rubella is contagious. The virus can cause severe congenital disabilities if a pregnant woman contracts it, though the infection is often mild with a fever and rash. Before the start of the rubella immunization program in 1969, there were an estimated 12.5 million rubella cases in the United States (US) between 1964 and 1965, 11,000 pregnancies ended in stillbirth, 2,100 infants died, and 20,000 infants were born with congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) before. 

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine

The Department of Health (DOH)  urges individuals to receive the MMR vaccine for protection against measles, mumps, and rubella. Two doses of the MMR vaccination should be given to children at 9 months and 1 year old.

4. Polio
The most feared illness globally throughout the late 19th and early 20th century was polio due to frequent outbreaks. Over 2000 people died in a significant epidemic in New York City in 1916, and over 3000 killed in the biggest outbreak in the US in 1952. The oral polio vaccination offers protection against the poliovirus, which can cause paralysis of the respiratory muscles and, in extreme cases, irreversible paralysis of the limbs. 

One dose each should be given at the following ages: 2 months old, 4 months old, 6 to 8 months old, and 4 to 6 years old.

5. Chickenpox
Before the development of the vaccine, the United States had a yearly rise of over 4 million cases of chickenpox, over 10,000 hospitalizations, and up to 150 fatalities. A fever and itchy, blistered skin rash are symptoms of chickenpox. There might be as many as 500 blisters on the body of a person with chickenpox. Particularly in infants, adults, and those with compromised immune systems, chickenpox can be dangerous and even fatal. 

Chickenpox vaccine should be given at 12 to 15 months and 4 to 6 years old. 

Every last week of April, people worldwide observe World Immunization Week. It aims to raise awareness of the importance of vaccinations and encourage their use to protect individuals of all ages from diseases. 

The event also aims to drumup that vaccines are a crucial tool in protecting our little ones from serious illnesses and even death.

By getting inoculated, we can help ensure that our children grow up healthy and strong. So let's do our part to keep our kids safe and get them vaccinated.

Health centers in the Philippines offer these vaccinations FREE of charge. For details on immunization schedules, vaccination certificates, and other nutrition and growth monitoring services, stop by the health center that is most convenient for you. (PIA-NCR)

Sources: CDC.gov || NNC.gov.ph || unicef.

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 Caloocan City Nature Park, a  2,200 square meter lush greenery that can be found at the City’s northern portion is a refreshing treat to the residents of the highly urbanized city.


Located at Barangay 179, Amparo Subdivision, North Caloocan City, the park was formerly privately owned, however the owner decided to donate the property to the city.

Portion of the park has been renovated by the Caloocan City Government with the help of the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA under the Adopt-A-Park Project.


According to the Officer-In-Charge of the City’s Parks Development Administration Services, Mr. Jesus Basmayor, collaborative effort is in the works to develop more portions of the nature park.

Aside for basking under the canopies of greeneries, residents can enjoy swimming at the Park’s two swimming pools, one for adults and one for kids. A minimum fee of P40 per head for Caloocan City residents and P80 per head for non-residents is being charged.


Function Hall that can be used for various occasion such as birthdays,  wedding is also available for rent.

Additionally, a Pavilion for seminars, trainings and other formal gatherings is also available for rent.

Basmayor said they are planning to an area that can be used as a kiddie camp site.

If you are a nature lover who gushes at the site of old trees, the Nature Park is home to, not only one, but four Heritage Trees formally declared as such, complete with markings by the Department of Environment & Natural Resources (DENR).


Visitors watch in awe the grandeur of Tangisang-Bayawak (scientific name FicusVarietaBluma and a Family Name of Moraceae); Narra (Tagalog name) Rosewood (English name) Scientific Name: PterocarpusindicusWilld and Family Name of Fabaceae); Dita (Tagalog); Blackboard Tree or Inidan Devil Tree; White Chees Wood (English) a family name of Apocynaceae.

The City Government plans to develop the Park some more to provide its 1,661,584 population with more green spaces in the future. (pia-ncr)

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As we celebrate the Filipino Food Month this April, one Pinoy’s favorite comfort foods take center stage as it goes viral on social media.

Armed with curiosity and longing to have a taste, I went with a team from our office to interview, take photos and videos of the viral ube champorado.

We traced the small business selling variety of snacks in Barangay 28, Landaska Block 2, near Dagat-Dagatan Avenue South Caloocan City.

Called “Angelique & John Merienda” they sell maja blanca, sopas, ginatang mais palabok and their best selling champorado in two flavors: Hershey’s choco and ube.

Champorado has always been chocolate flavored, but how did they came up with the ube flavored champorado.


Angelique said they have been running their business for 4 years already along with a nearby competitor who sells her stuff more.

So, the husband and wife team think of a unique product that they could sell, they came up with ube champorado. They also improved their other products, made them creamier and more delicious.

A video posted by a vlogger in Youtube caught the netizens interest and went viral.

That was when customers started to line up at their snack place.

According to Angelique, they began preparing and cooking at 5:00 a.m. and spent the entire morning cooking. They usually begin serving around 2:00 p.m. because customers begin lining up as early as 12 noon.

She added that managing a food business, no matter how small, requires careful planning and attention to detail in order to succeed.

She said, aside from hard work, ensure that your product or the food that you cook is the best in taste, safe and clean and overall quality.

The Champurrado came to the Philippines through the galleon trade between Mexico and the Philippines during the Spanish Rule.

Over time, the preparation of the Champurrado changed where whole grains of glutinous rice was used, replacing masa, creating a new variant that they called Champorado.

And though we also have different ways of cooking Champorado, the elements of whole rice, milk, chocolate, and sugar, made this dish unique to the Philippines. Even more unique is the pairing of the Champorado with the salty tuyo (dried fish) for a savory balance! 

Filipino Food Month 2023 goes with the theme: “Pagkaing Sariling Atin, Mahalin at Pagyamanin”. (pia-ncr)

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 QUEZON CITY, (PIA) -- The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) and Intramuros Administration (IA) officials signed on Friday, April 28, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that formalizes their partnership in promotion of the cultural significance of the walled city, Intramuros.

Other officials of IA and PIA stood as witnesses during the MOU signing. (l-r) IA Tourism Promotion Division Chief Sandra Martinez, IA Head Executive Assistant Vanessa Rodriguez, Atty. Padilla, DG Cualoping, PIA-NCR Regional Director Emver P. Cortez, and PIA Program Management Division Head Winthrop Torres.

Director-General Ramon Lee Cualoping III signed for PIA, while Atty. Joan M. Padilla signed for Intramuros Administartion.

During the signing ceremony, Atty. Padilla highlighted the importance of the media in the any promotional campaign and advocacy.

“The media has become an indispensable instrument in our daily lives with increasing need for a platform to express our thoughts and showcase our interest especially in promoting and accelerating the public’s enthusiasm in exploring potential tourist attractions like Intramuros,” Padilla said.

“There is no doubt that the media plays a crucial role that is why today is truly a momentous occasion and I am thrilled to see the culmination of our partnership between the IA and PIA,” she added.

DG Cualoping for his part emphasized the need to promote Intramuros not only on-ground but also online through interesting and inspiring stories shared across the country.

PIA Director-General Ramon Lee Cualoping III

“The people in Mindanao and Visayas, in the farthest areas of Luzon, must know about Intramuros, we must rekindle that kind of relationship that we all have with Intramuros,” DG Cualoping said

Witnessing the ceremonial signing are PIA Program Management Division Head Darell Winthrop Torres, PIA-NCR Regional Head Emver P. Cortez, IA Head Executive Assistant Vanessa Rodriguez, and IA Tourism Promotion Division Chief Sandra Martinez.

Under the MOU, PIA shall plan, develop, create communication strategies and publicity campaigns to raise awareness on IA’s various promotional activities and programs, cross-post IA’s social media, craft and develop Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials, and provide event support.

On the other hand, IA shall send PIA event invitations on the promotional activities and programs of IA for media coverage, provide necessary information and updates, and provide complementary and exclusive access to a venue inside the Intramuros.

IA is a National Government Agency attached to the Department of Tourism of the Philippines.

It was created by virtue of Presidential Decree No. 1616, and is responsible for the orderly restoration and development of Intramuros as a monument to the Hispanic period of Philippine history. (PIA-NCR)

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 This Mother’s Day weekend, give your mom the best getaway that she deserves. 



Pico Sands Hotel offers specially curated overnight stays from Php 7,200 with Php 1,000 discount on published rates and inclusive of 20% off at Rain, The Spa, welcome amenity for moms, and a late check out at 1PM depending on availability.


Dine at Pico Restaurant and gift mom with a preserved bouquet for Php 1,500 that comes with a box of macaroons. 


For room reservations, call +63 917 809 1289 or email reservations@picosandshotel.com. For restaurant reservations, email fnb.reservations@picodeloroclub.com.
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 On Sunday, 14 May 2023, celebrate Mother’s Day at Taal Vista Hotel. Bring your mom to a relaxing getaway with activities such as a blissful staycation, a delightful lunch buffet at Veranda and tapestry making.



Blissful Staycation

Thoughtful room packages from Php 8,500 inclusive of buffet breakfast for two adults and two children aged 7 years old and below, a 60-minute Aromatherapy spa treatment at Rain, The Spa, and a surprise gift box for mom.


Lunch Buffet at Veranda

Dine with mom with the best view of Taal lake and volcano. Specially curated by Executive Chef Jayme Natividad, lunch buffet is priced at Php 1,690 and available from 12PM to 3PM.


Sew in Love: A Mother’s Day Workshop

A sustainable tapestry making workshop featuring artist Rosa Mirasol of Ililikhaan Ceramics, using natural fibers and floral eco prints. This creative workshop will start at 3:30PM at the Sampaguita Foyer. Rate at Php 4,400 for two persons inclusive of afternoon tea time at the Lobby Lounge, mordanted fabric, fresh flowers, tools, needle, and thread. Limited slots available.


To reserve, call +63 2 7917 8225 or mobile: +63917 557 8265 /+63917 898 5421 or email foodandbeverage@taalvistahotel.com/veranda@taalvistahotel.com
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Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club and Pico Sands Hotel General Manager Anne Busfield and team members support the global Earth Day 2023.

Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club and Pico Sands Hotel demonstrated its support for environment protection in the recent worldwide Earth Day movement.

Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club and Pico Sands Hotel team members do their share through a coastal clean-up at Pico Beach.


The cleanup drive, which took place at the Pico Beach was attended by employees and the team was also delighted to be joined by some members of Pico Beach and Country Club. 

Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club and Pico Sands Hotel team members do their share through a coastal clean-up at Pico Beach.



The Earth Day clean-up was on Pico Beach and the collected plastic waste was put through a proper recycling process. 


Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club and Pico Sands Hotel are proud to continue their commitment to their green efforts for a more sustainable future.
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