Batangas overview

If you are travelling around Manila with only a few days to spare, the small province of Batangas is one of your best options. Just two hours away from the busy capital, the resorts of Anilao in Batangas offer relatively inexpensive crash courses on diving. From Anilao, one can proceed to nearby small islands scattered along the bay – including the dive sites of Maricaban, Sombrero, Bonito and Verde. Aside from underwater sports, Batangas also boasts magnificent centuries old churches, as well as well-preserved colonial houses, particularly in the town of Taal. Among the many festivals held in Batangas each year, the most celebrated and colourful is Parada Ng Mga Lechon. Taking place every June, you will witness here the procession of roasted pigs. Not only are these already-dead pigs paraded but they are also dressed in multi-coloured costumes. Moreover, a water-dousing event similar to Thailand’s Songkran festival is observed at the same time.