Further south lies Taal Volcano – one of the world’s smallest active volcanoes situated on an island within a lake formed inside another volcano crater! Its picturesque beauty belies its destructive potential; however, this hasn’t deterred visitors from exploring its surroundings or hiking up to witness panoramic views from atop Crater Lake. Moving towards Visayas region brings us to Bohol Island where we find Chocolate Hills – more than 1,200 perfectly cone-shaped hills spread across the landscape. The Philippines is a country known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history. While many tourists flock to popular destinations like Boracay or Palawan, there are hidden gems scattered throughout the archipelago that often go unnoticed. These forgotten marvels lie in ruins, waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers seeking a unique experience. One such journey through the ruins takes you back in time to the Spanish colonial era.
Located in Negros Occidental province, Silay City is home to numerous ancestral houses that have been preserved as living museums. These grand structures showcase intricate architectural designs and offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of wealthy sugar barons during the 19th century. Walking through these mansions feels like stepping into a different era, with antique furniture, vintage photographs, and well-preserved artifacts transporting visitors back in time. Another forgotten marvel lies on an island off the coast of Iloilo province – Guimaras Island’s old lighthouse. Built during the American occupation period in 1894, this historic structure served as a guide for ships navigating their way through treacherous waters surrounding Guimaras Island.
Today, it stands tall amidst lush greenery and offers panoramic views of nearby islands and crystal-clear waters below. For those interested in World War II history, Corregidor Island should not be missed. Known as The Rock, this small island played a significant role during the war as one of America’s last strongholds against Japanese forces invading Manila Bay. The remnants of fortifications such the ruins as batteries and tunnels can still be explored today while guided tours provide insights into life on Corregidor during wartime. In central Luzon lies Pampanga province where another forgotten marvel awaits – Betis Church or St James Parish Church located in Guagua town.
