10 Famous Foods to Die for in MIMAROPA

By Phoebea Co and Ally Dizon

The Philippines is famous for its "Lutong Bahay" (home-made) cuisine (Image Source)

The Filipino culture is very well-acquainted with different types of cuisines, indeed. Every province has its distinct and particular tastes, and still have their similarities in style, finesse, and delivery. You'll be surprised what this country has in store with your stomachs! Because we all know one thing: it's that Filipinos take utter delight in eating!

Now if you're up for a diverse and eccentric food adventure, Region 4-B has a wide galore of dishes and treats for you! Read along and -try- not to get too hungry for these upcoming scrumptious dishes.

Are your tissues (you know, to wipe off the drool off your face) ready for this? Then let's go!

10 Au Naturale Attractions in MIMAROPA

By Phoebea Co and Allyssa Dizon

(source)

Ahhhh~!! Nothing beats nature in all its glory. Unspoiled, undiscovered, nature. It's like being transported into a whole new world, right? Well you've come to the right place!

Welcome to the Philippines, where we are not only known for our hospitality but also our natural attractions. Mt.Mayon is the perfect cone shaped active volcano in Albay and Boracay, located in the small island in the province of Aklan, is one of the most famous beach in the country for years on end. 

But why don't we travel to its neighboring regional provinces? Tara na sa Region 4-B! (Let's go to Region 4-B!)

5 Best Things to Do in ORIENTAL MINDORO

(Image Source: comtech-tricks.blogspot.com)

Looking for a place to travel and visit? Are you itching for the beach vibe? Yearning for an exotic place for a nightlife? Or are your soles ready for the next big hike? Yes! Travel is so exciting and fun! BUT... you're worried that you'll never find a place that has it all; or worse, it might be too far and too expensive.

WORRY NO MORE for Oriental Mindoro is just six to eight hours away from Metro Manila! From Private Transporation to buses to Ro-Ro's, Oriental Mindoro is very accessible. It is a favorite for most weekend travelers who desires for the beach that's close enough to the city, of course with the right amenities for the ideal beach destination: 1) Food Adventure; 2) Parties and Nightlife; 3) A Cultural Impact; and 4) Nature Experience, whether it's a waterfall or a mountain. Oriental Mindoro surely has what you seek for!

Here are five places and activities that any thrill-seeking, adventurous kind of tourist can explore and indulge in while in Oriental Mindoro:

1. MT. MALASIMBO: Trekking and Hiking

(Image Source: Pinoy Mountaineer)

Mt. Malasimbo is located in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro. The days required for this activity are 1-2 days and hours to Summit is 4-5 hours. According to pinoymountaineer.com, the Puerto Galera Mountain Trail cuts along these mountains, making it the most exciting climb in Puerto Galera. The hike to this amazing and thrilling place is best when accompanied with a beach trip, and traditionally, it is seen as a destination in itself.

Malasimbo has a dome-shaped summit, which is another sight to see. The trails go steep initially and beyond the watersource; otherwise there are no major obstacles in the climb.

When reaching the summit, Puerto Galera coast and Verde Island can be seen as a whole. Also, Batangas' mountains and southern coastlines can be seen whilst on top.

And unlike other descents from other mountains, going down from Malasimbo is quite a breeze! Puerto Galera's beach and nightlife awaits!

2. GO BEACH HOPPING!

(Images Source: ivanhenares.com)

There are so many beaches to choose from: Sabang Beach, White Beach, Aninuan Beach, Bulabod, Aplayang Munti, Bayanan, Haligi Beach on Boquete Island, and Long Beach on San Antonio Island. Where can we even start?!

The Sabang beach is teeming with dive resorts, and it is tourists' favorite for it serves as a jump-off point from the numerous dive areas along the coast of Mindoro. White beach is the most popular--many accommodations and restaurants, and a teeming and active nightlife. There are so many beaches to choose from, you won't even know where to start! Good thing there are available beach hopping tours around the area. They are available at Minolo Port.

3. TAMARAW FALLS: Fall in Love with Nature

(Image Source: wowmindoro.com)

(Image Source: lalamercado.wordpress.com)

There are plenty of natural landscapes in Oriental Mindoro. The most popular waterfall, being that it is the most accessible, is Tamaraw Falls. It is located in Barangay Villaflor, Puerto Galera. It is covered with lush green plants which adds an aura of freshness and naturalness to the area.

Taking pictures along the bridge is for free, although there are other amenities besides that. There are man-made pools below the bridge where the water from the falls cascades on. The pools are not as developed and is divided into 3-4 layers of different water levels. The water is also tinted greenish due to the moss, but as sources say, it is very refreshing to swim in these pools. The entrance fee is at 30php for adults. There are cottages (140 php) and tables (30php) that are also available for rental. (Geejay Geologo, March 2014)

If you'd like, you could also visit Tukuran, Aninuan and Talipanan Falls as well. They are also some beautiful recommended waterfalls found in the area.

4. MALASIMBO ARTS AND MUSIC FESTIVAL: Let's Party!

(Image Source: interaksyon.com)

(Image Source: practicalpinay.blogspot.com)

The Malasimbo Arts and Music Festival is a DOT-certified yearly event held at the foot of Mt. Malasimbo, Puerto Galera. It's a celebration of music, arts, and of nature in the outdoor natural ampitheater in the area. It is held every Black Saturday and offers a night or nights of reggae music.

Malasimbo has gained popularity since the first installment back in 2011. It also reached full capacity a year later in 2012, boasting a mountaintop with 3,000 people who are having fun and are unified by good vibes and party spirits.

Many festival-goers says: "It is life changing!"

The festival plans to promote adventure, ecotourism and harmony, in the music of amazing local and international music acts.

5. MT. HALCON: Trekking, Hiking, and Shopping

Mt Halcon is 2505 m in height and is considered by many to be the most challenging big peak in the Philippines. It stands over Calapan from the west. Authorities frequently close access into the mountain because of environmental concerns, but it was open at the time of research.

There is also a shop nearby called the Apâk Outdoor Shop. The owner of the small shop is a member of the Mt. Halcon Mountaineering Association and can give you tips in trekking along the mountain.

The basic things that you’ll need are 1) to secure a tourist guide; and 2) get a permit from the municipal office in Baco, the next town north from Calapan. Mt. Halcon might be the biggest adventure and challenge for thrill-seeking tourists, but it's always better to come prepared than to regret not having to later.




REFERENCES:

• Henares, I. (2012, June 07). Oriental Mindoro: Things to do in Puerto Galera. [Blog Post] Retrieved from: http://www.ivanhenares.com/2012/06/oriental-mindoro-things-to-do-in-puerto.html
• Geologo, G. (2014, March 10). Tamaraw Falls and Virgin Island of Oriental Mindoro. [Blog Post] Retrieved from: http://geejaytravellog.blogspot.com/2014/03/tamaraw-falls-and-virgin-island-beach-oriental-mindoro.html
• InterAksyon.com. (2012, December 18). Now on Sale: Tickets to Malasimbo Music and Arts Festival 2013 in Puerto Galera. [Online News] Retrieved from: http://www.interaksyon.com/lifestyle/now-on-sale-tickets-to-malasimbo-music-and-arts-festival-2013-in-puerto-galera
• PinoyMountaineer. (2007, November 1). Mt. Malasimbo (1,168+). [Blog Post]. Retrieved from: http://www.pinoymountaineer.com/2007/11/mt-malasimbo-1168.html
• http://www.philippinetraveler.com/mindoro-philippines.html
• http://www.lonelyplanet.com/philippines/mindoro/activities?abv=current
• http://www.lonelyplanet.com/philippines/mindoro/activities/hiking-trekking/mt-halcon/item-a-1449565-id?abv=simple
• http://www.wowmindoro.com

5 Best Things to do in OCCIDENTAL MINDORO

(Image Source: footprints of wanderlust(fr Flickr) under CC BY 2.0)

Through the southwest coast of the province of Batangas lies the wonder of Occidental Mindoro, a province that shines with natural beauty that no tourist can ignore. Occidental Mindoro is the less-traveled part of the Mindoro Island. But nevertheless, it is blessed with beautiful marine diversities, wildlife and bird sanctuaries, and long stretches of immaculate white beaches.

Occidental Mindoro is truly nature’s tranquil retreat, a paradise waiting to be unraveled.

Here are five places and activities that any thrill-seeking, adventurous kind of tourist can explore and indulge in while in Occidental Mindoro:

1. APO REEF: Diving and Snorkeling

(Image Source: Photographer: Dr. Dwayne Meadows, NOAA/NMFS/OPR.(Flickr)

The Apo Reef is located in Apo Island in Sibuyan, Occidental Mindoro. It is most famous for its 34-kilometer reef that has a thin channel separating the reef into two lagoon systems. Divers and tourists both take delight in this sight to behold. Beneath the clear waters, divers can indulge the pristine white sand bottom with a vibrant array of 400 -500 coral species. There is about 500 marine species in the area (including a variety of sharks, stingrays, and manta rays).

Other tourists and bird-watchers can also visit the extravagant bird-populated islands of Binangaan and Cajos del Bajo, which are also part of the Apo Reef Marine Park.

2. CALAWAGAN MOUNTAIN RESORT: R & R

(Image Source: yodisphere.com)

The Calawagan Mountain Resort can be found in Barangay Alipaoy, Paluan, Occidental Mindoro.The Calawagan River has been consistently voted as the Cleanest Inland Body of Water in the Department of Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) Clean and Green Program.

Tourists can jump in and enjoy the beautiful and natural pools of the area. The one-and-a-half hectare resort is a popular picnic spot and swimming area. The visitors are required to bring their own food and beverages since there are no restaurants available at the resort. The Calawagan Mountain Resort is operated by the local government since 1976.

3. AMBULONG ISLAND: Be One With Nature

(Image Source: trampingphilippines.com)

The Ambulong Island in located in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. It is yet another beach community of exquisite tranquility and rustic beauty. The place has white sand beaches and cliffs overlooking the water and underwater caves as well. Fishes are abundant in the coral gardens of the coves.

Ambulong is ideal for the divers' jump-off point headed to Apo Reef, Sardines Island, Dungan Reef, Iling Point and other dive sites in the area. There are a few budget accommodations as well as a fishing village in a sheltered area along the shore.

4. NORTH PANDAN ISLAND: Seclusion at its Finest

(Image Source: s1expeditions.com)

The North Pandan Island is an emerging tourist destination. It is sought out by people wanting seclusion, rest and relaxation. The clear waters and beautiful white sand competes of what Boracay offers, but without the massive, suffocating crowds and huge hotels and restaurants. There is no electricity available in the island, truly connecting you back to mother nature. The only source of entertainment are the vast forests, the wide sea and the lush white sands.

This island is located off the coast of Sablayan. It is an hour away from Apo Reef. The North Pandan Island Resort is the only resort in the island.

5. BESAY FALLS: Wonderful Waterfalls

(Image Source: kabaleyan.com)

The beautiful Besay Falls can be found in Baranga. Tambo, Ambil Island in Occidental Mindoro. Besay Falls  is about 5 meters in diameter. It is composed of a series of cascading water that flows into a basin of crystal clear body of aqua. The scenic road to the waterfalls passes through a rice plantation and a carabao pasture. Besay Falls is truly a beauty yet to be discovered.

REFERENCES:

• http://www.ytrip.org.ph/resources/why-you-should-visit-sablayan.html
• http://iamtravelinglight.com/2013/05/06/10-things-to-do-and-not-do-to-have-a-fun-smooth-sailing-apo-reef-adventure-part-1/
• http://www.lonelyplanet.com/philippines/mindoro/activities?abv=current
• http://triptheislands.com/destinations/occidental-mindoro-exploring-paradise/
• http://www.philippinetraveler.com/mindoro-philippines.html

5 Best Things to Do in PALAWAN

(Image Source: camillejoven.wordpress.com)

It is truly undeniable that the province of Palawan is an astounding sight to see. Blessed among the best nature reserves, heritage sites, and  of the world, the island has a lot to offer -- from beaches, caves, mountains, cliffs, and rainforests that are absolutely exciting and breathtaking. Palawan won't disappoint in the set of excellent activities that kind any tourist can indulge in.

Water is the key factor in the numerous set of attractions in this breathtaking island. From swimming to snorkeling to diving, Palawan has it all. It is surrounded by colorful coral gardens and reefs with an abundant marine life.

Here are five places and activities that any thrill-seeking, adventurous kind of tourist can explore and indulge in while in Palawan:

1. PUERTO PRINCESA: Exploring the Subterranean River

(Image Source: cityarttravelinc.com)

St. Paul's Subterranean River National Park holds pride of having the longest underground river in the world. It has been nominated as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.

The underground River is 50 km away of Puerto Princesa. There are paddle boats that take visitors to an hour-worth of exploration inside the river cave. All kinds of tourists can take delight in the awe-striking limestone formations found in the walls, and be quite surprised with bats flying above the cave. It is truly an Indiana Jones-kind of adventure. How exciting, right?

2. CORON: Diving and Snorkeling

(Image Source: coralbay.ph)

Coron Bay is located in the western-most part of Philippines, in North Palawan. It's situated between the amazing Busuanga and Culion Islands. The area is famous for its extravagant diving areas, but what separates Coron Bay from the others that it is very well-known for having the best wreck diving spot in the world. Having the underwater visibility reaching up to 20 meters, the wreck site and various rock formations are great for activities like snorkeling and diving. It has also been alleged that the Forbes Magazine placed Coron Bay as one of the 10 best dive sites in the planet.

3. HONDA BAY: Island Hopping

(Image Source: dogsbreedpicture.com)

The reefs and islets in Honda Bay is rich in colorful and vibrant marine life. The shallow waters cover and lengthy stretch of pristine white sand. These islets are suitable for activities like swimming and snorkeling. Honda Bay is admired for its clear waters, having the visibility that reaches into the floor of the seas.

4. EL NIDO: Be One with Nature

(Image Source: lakas.com.ph)

There are numerous activities one must do when in El Nido: sunset viewing, food tripping, hiking and terkking along the cliffs, swimming, island hopping, beach visiting, and so much more. These are just a few of what El Nido has to offer.

The El Nido Marine Reserve is 238 km north from Puerto Princesa. It is a treasure hidden in the center of Bacuit Bay. It has the country's largest wildlife preservation area as well. El Nido is extremely proud of its diverse ecosystems such as mangroves, white beaches, coral reefs, limestone cliffs and vast rainforests.

The beaches of Bacuit Bay is rich in beautiful sights and places being that Eld Nido is home for many kinds of species and animals. Divers take delight in the massive marine life in this area. Manta Rays are very common. When in season, divers may catch a sight of the world's rarest marine mammal, "dugong" (the sea cow). The water is also serves hawksbill turtles for their nesting sites.

5. TUBBATAHA REEFS: Diving

(Image Source: triportreats.com)

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park is located in Cagayancillo, Palawan. Since its discovery in the late 1970's, it has been recognized as one of the most remarkable coral gardens in the world. The CNN travel website ranks it among the top 8 diving sites in the planet. Its isolated location makes it only accessible via liveaboard boats.

Divers would be thrilled to experience a one-of-a-kind scenery for the Tubbataha Reefs is considered to be the mecca of diving. They can experience the reefs' underwater terrain, vast marine life and extravagant biodiversity. As visiting divers, the tourists play a key role in Tubbataha's future. Conservation fees provide the funds they need to protect the park from illegal exploitation. Tubbataha is the Philippines' first national marine park and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

REFERENCES:

• http://www.gopalawan.travel/travel-info/top-5-things-to-do-in-palawan
• http://www.lakas.com.ph/2013/09/my-top-things-to-do-in-el-nido-palawan-philippines/
• http://www.gopalawan.travel/Honda_Bay
• http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com/puerto-princesa/
• http://www.tubbatahareef.org/home

The "Bakit?"* List: Top 5 Reasons to Visit Marinduque

*"Bakit?" is "Why?" in English.

5.) Because they have a cave (complete with stalactites, stalagmites, and the likes) with a low entrance fee

Ka-amon Cave (source)

||  One of the newest attractions in Marinduque. Ka-amon has seven chambers: one has rock formations and one was believed as the banquet place in the early times. Rates are cheap and basics are included: includes tour guide, helmets, and headlamps.

4.) Because they have volcano that's still active but you can visit

Mt. Malindig (source)

|| Okay. It's dormant. It is a favorite destination among mountaineers these days. All you need to do is secure a climbing permit and you can even request for a tour guide. The trek usually takes about two hours or less, depending on the weather and the pace of the climbers. Once you reach the top, you can see the nearby provinces and the islands: Tres Reyes Islands, Elephant Island, Mindoro, Verde Island, Southern Luzon all the way to Bicol, Romblon, Batangas, Laguna, Quezon and Burias Island.

3.) Because they have a hot spring and a white sand beach too

 

Malbog Sulfuric Hot Spring (source)

Poctoy White Beach (source)

|| After that hike, take a dip in the hot springs that will relax your body. It is famous for its therapeutic qualities because it is said that taking a dip there could cure skin diseases like acne and fungi because of the sulfuric water coming from Mt. Malindig.

|| Poctoy White Beach is the pride of the municipality. Another comparable beach to Boracay, you do not have to leave Marinduque to see and experience such fine white sand and pristine surroundings.

2.) Because they will treat you like a king or queen with the traditional Filipino hospitality justified more by the locals of Marinduque

Putong (source)

|| What to do? Just go there and feel the welcome. The people of Marinduque are indigenous for this kind of ceremony. The word "putong" itself meaning to crown is a "song of thanksgiving, hope, and prayer, for a long and blessed life." All of this for the protection of the visitors or tourists. At the end of the ceremony, all will shout "MABUHAY!" and there will be shared meals and drink.

1.) Because of their devotion

Moriones Festival (source)

|| Mention the word Holy Week in the Philippines and I am sure that one of the answers would be: Moriones Festival. The province of Marinduque is known for this "festival" because of the re-enactment of what happened to Jesus Christ on the way to the cross and when He is crucified. The strong devotion of the Catholics to their faith are exhibited here as they take on roles of Jesus Christ and the moriones (men and women dressed as a caricature of the image of the Roman soldiers) as they inflict pain on themselves as an act of penance and repentance for their sins.

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Source:
http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com/marinduque/top-things-to-do/?page_id=5720
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/301298/newstv/biyahenidrew/marinduque-in-48-hours-a-biyahe-ni-drew-itinerary
http://themixedculture.com/2013/10/14/tubong-putong/
http://www.thecollectiveint.com/2013/03/moriones-festival-marinduque-philippines.html
http://www.choosephilippines.com/go/islands-and-beaches/761/Poctoy/
http://www.officiallyphilippines.com/marinduque:-a-sweet-homecoming-422
http://yesmarinduque.com/main/torrijos/
http://themixedculture.com/2013/10/14/tubong-putong/

Ro-ro-romblon: A Countdown to the 5 Best Things to do in Romblon

5.) Visit the St. Joseph Cathedral

St. Joseph Cathedral in Romblon Town (source)

|| St. Joseph Cathedral is the oldest church in the province of Romblon and has been around since the 15th century. From then till now, there have been renovations with its facade made of marbles but the religious paintings and antique collections still remain intact inside the church.

4.) Trek up the mountain...

Climbing Mt. Guiting-Guiting (source)

|| Situated in Magdiwang, Mt. Guiting-Guiting is the highest peak in Sibuyan Island. This mountain is recommended for seasoned hikers only. But if you're up for a little adventure, this is highly recommended. Remember the hiker's basic things to bring!

  ...or visit an old Spanish fortress instead

Fort San Andres [Exterior] (source)

|| Fort San Andres was built to guard the town of Romblon and as a symbol of control of the Spaniards towards the Filipinos residing there at that time. It overlooks the town and the bodies of water surrounding it making it the perfect spot to see intruders. Visit the place and travel back to the past!

3.) Explore the unspoiled beaches of Romblon

Bonbon Beach (source)

|| Boracay is sooooo last year. Explore one of Romblon's unspoiled beaches that can pass as Boracay's sister beach. Uncrowded, powdery white sand, clear water, and pristine surroundings featuring a gradually sloping ocean floor free of sea grass and sharp stones, Bonbon beach has it all for you!

2.) Visit the marble factories

Man working at the marble factory (source)

|| Not visiting the factories that produces the Romblon's best product is like eating ulam (viand) without kanin (rice), it's not complete [Filipino culture]. Just take a trike and tell the drivers to bring you to the factories and quarries and see for yourself why the people of Romblon pride themselves about their marble (and rightfully so, if I may add!) 

1.) Swim with fishes

Looc Fish Sanctuary (source)

|| Located at Looc Bay, the sanctuary is full of different types of fishes that you can swim with as well because snorkeling, diving, and fish feeding are allowed with proper supervision. Near this floating bamboo raft, multi-colored giant clams can be found.

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Sources:
http://www.lakwatsero.com/destinations/travel-guide-romblon-island/
http://outoftownblog.com/san-andres-fort-fort-santiago-forgotten-warriors/
http://vigattintourism.com/tourism/articles/Romblon-The-Marble-Capital-of-the-Philippines
http://dumaguetepropertyrentals.com/featured/romblon-marble/
http://laagnalilyput.wordpress.com/2012/06/27/looc-fish-sanctuary/

MARINDUQUE: The Literal Center of Attention

Moriones Festival (source)

To be able to function, a human and an animal need to have a heart amongst everything important in the body. Perhaps it is the most vital. Lo and behold, even the Philippines has a heart!

Proclaimed as the Heart of the Philippines because of its literal heart-shape, Marinduque is also the geographical center of the Philippine Archipelago! Marinduque is best known for the Moriones Festival (image above) done every Holy Week. This age-old tradition goes to show the deep devotion of the believers of the Catholic faith by re-enacting what was done to Jesus Christ by whipping their backs, arms, and legs as an act to receive forgiveness for their sins.

Putong: "The Crowning" (source)

This is just one of the reasons to visit Marinduque. There's also the beautiful natural attractions and beaches, native craftsmanship, scrumptious delicacies, and of course the warm Filipino hospitality magnified here is known as putong: a traditional welcome ritual, steeped in color and mirth, performed through song and dance; it is only found in Marinduque!

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FAST FACTS ABOUT MARINDUQUE

• CAPITAL: Boac
• FOUNDED ON: February 21, 1920
• TOPOGRAPHY: Geographical center of the Philippine Archipelago
• AREA: 952.58 km2 (367.79 sq mi)
• POPULATION: 288,270 people (2014)
• LANGUAGE: Visayan dialect, Tagalog and English
• CLIMATE: Dry season from November to April and wet season from May to October. It is occasionally in the path of typhoons as well.

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 GEOGRAPHY

Marinduque is part of Region IV-B, Luzon, Philippines, Southeast Asia with geographical coordinates of 13°24′N 121°58′E.

This island province is located between Bondoc Peninsula (southeastern Luzon) and Mindoro Island. It is bounded by Lucena (Quezon Province) and Tayabas Bay on the north, Mindoro on the west, Mogpog Pass on the east, and Sibuyan Sea and Romblon on the south.

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 POLITICAL SUBDIVISONS

6 MUNICIPALITIES

Map of Marinduque (source)

1. Boac
2. Buenavista
3. Gasan
4. Mogpog
5. Santa Cruz
6. Torrijos

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HOW TO GET THERE

• By Air Marinduque's airport is situated in Gasan and only Zest Air accommodates flights to and from Marinduque. The travel time is approximately 45 minutes.
• By Land... then by Sea Ride a bus bound to Dalahican Port in Lucena, Quezon Province or a bus bound to Lucena Grand Terminal, then ride a jeepney going to Dalahican Port.

  

  A RORO (Roll-on, Roll-off)

• From Dalahican Port, there are ferries or RORO (Roll-on, roll-off) bound to Marinduque. Travel time is approximately 3 hours.

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Sources: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marinduque http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com/marinduque https://jlvillareal.wordpress.com/2013/02/04/the-moriones-festival-experience/ http://yesmarinduque.com/main/culture-and-heritage-2/ http://www.thepinaysolobackpacker.com/marinduque-travel-guide/ http://www.lawstude.net/2012/04/marinduque-preview.html

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