History, culture, and adventure are often words easily, sometimes mindlessly, thrown around as part of the trappings of travel writing. Bulacan and Ilocos prove such does not apply to them. Allow curiosity to fuel your wandering feet, and explore what Northern Pride is truly about.
I’ve joined Lakbay Norte for four years now, and each time, it has presented me with discoveries, and unearthed possibilities in destinations I would’ve otherwise instinctively overlooked. And each year, I realized what a mistake doing so would’ve been.
An annual project of the North Philippines Visitors Bureau, Lakbay Norte gathers members of the media, and brings them to explore the myriad of wonders that lie in the northern regions of the country. Over the past years, not only has it served as a personal vehicle to experience what the North has to offer, it has become a tradition that kick starts a year peppered with adventures.
NLEX’s network of toll ways have now made these amazing places exponentially more accessible – allowing both the northern Philippines’ tourism industry, as well as the untapped wanderlust in people’s souls to flourish northbound.
This year, we traversed those roads to arrive at pleasantly surprising discoveries in the provinces of Bulacan, Tarlac, and Ilocos. And, as Lakbay Norte is wont to do, each stop opened our eyes and minds to new adventures, sources of local pride, and to memories we’ll frequently, and fondly, tap into.
Let’s get to some of the trip’s highlights…
 
Revisiting history
Bulacan, despite (or perhaps because of) its close proximity to Metro Manila tends to be overlooked even by the most seasoned travelers. And on this trip, I found that even its residents share the tendency.
The 1888-built Barasoain Church in Malolos would be our first stop in the province – and the first to open our eyes to what most having been missing out on. The historical landmark was the site of not only the first Philippine Republic—it was the first in the whole of Asia.

And as we went on a walking heritage tour around the Parian district of Malolos, we learned that the city was also a pioneer in social activism, particularly for women’s rights. From stories about how the first constitution in Asia was drafted, to how the first Philippine President strategically moved the seat of government to Bulacan – the tour is inundated with anecdotes and insights about the Filipino forefathers’ struggle for freedom, and the events that give historical significance to the province.
Expat tips
To know more about Bulacan’s heritage, arts, and culture, contact Rheeza Hernandez at (0998) 993-4509.
After going on a heritage tour, refuel at Bistro Maloleño – where they serve what they call “Food of Heroes” – heritage Bulacan cuisine said to be the favorites of prominent Filipino historical personalities.
Bistro Maloleno is located at 1 Valenzuela St., Bulihan Capitol View Park, Malolos, Bulacan. For inquiries and reservations, contact (044) 795-5655, or find them on Facebook @BistroMaloleno
 
Adventure and serenity
Now, some of the more attentive lot may have heard about Bulacan’s history, and had more than a whiff of why its people take pride in their province’s role in it. But it would be tough to imagine that outsiders have had a taste of its adventure.
Yes, Bulacan (apart from a few kitschy waterparks) has never been synonymous with thrills and spills – much less, adventure. But San Rafael River Adventure’s entrance to the scene changes that.
Located along the length of the Angat River – which flows from the Sierra Madre mountain range to the Manila Bay – and tucked away from even the provincial bustle, the resort and events place offers a slew of watersports activities that translate to tons of fun. From jetskiing and wake boarding, to water bike, banana, and speed boat rides—San Rafael River Adventure allows you to revel in the serene scene, with the backdrop of the country’s longest mountain range.

But what really takes the proverbial cake is how it’s a double-edged sword with its charming accommodations that are thoughtfully designed to blend perfectly with its environs.
Glass cottages and villas, and a tree house (with the latter two furnished with Jacuzzis) – all provide a quiet portal to rejuvenate both mind and spirit. While glamping tents offer a more budget-friendly alternative.

What we found during our brief visit is that, Bulacan, like a plethora of other corners in this archipelago, is just waiting to get explored.
And San Rafael River Adventure, which offers a mix of adventure and serenity – stands a surprisingly accessible destination for those needing a fix for thrills, or some much needed introspection.
Expat tips
San Rafael River Adventure is located at Barangay Talacsan, San Rafael, Bulacan (accessible via NLEX’s Balagtas Exit). The resort accommodations are exclusively by reservation only. For bookings and inquiries, contact (0995) 141-0428, (02) 513-1569, email reservation@sanrafaelriveradventure.com, or visit www.sanrafaelriveradventure.com.
 
Northern Pride
Our Northern adventure carried on when we reached the city of Laoag in Ilocos Norte. With the presence of an Ilocano contingent in many parts of the world, they’ve managed to stamp their mark as a proud people across the globe. And with a bevy of gorgeous landscapes—from heritage towns, to sand dunes, to idyllic beaches – it’s no wonder why Ilocanos are so proud.
An adrenaline rush brought about by the La Paz Sand Dunes in Laoag would jumpstart our day in Ilocos Norte. Admittedly, having sampled the thrill of driving up, down, and around the sand dunes of Laoag before, I thought awe was something I wouldn’t really come across that day.
I was pleasantly mistaken.

What I learned was that “Been there, done that” does not apply to Ilocos Norte. Some seven years since my last visit, the beauty of its diverse topography hasn’t waned one bit. If anything, having become a more seasoned traveler over the past years, my appreciation for what Ilocos Norte has to offer has only been heightened.
Expat tips
La Paz Sand Dunes is located at Barangay 33, La Paz, Laoag, Ilocos Norte. For PhP2,500 (for a group of up to five persons), you get a ride aboard a 4×4 jeep that’ll take you across the more thrilling (yet totally safe) spots of the La Paz Sand Dunes. The fee includes unlimited sandboarding. You can also rent an ATV for PhP2,000 per hour. Schedule your trip early in the morning (so the sun is more forgiving, and makes for excellent photos), or late in the afternoon (when the sunset is frequently magical).

 
By TIMOTHY JAY IBAY
Photos by MARTIN SAN DIEGO courtesy of the North Philippines Visitors Bureau