Infanta Master Plan

Republic of the Philippines Eulogio” Amang” Rodriguez State College

College of Hospitality Management

September 15, 20011

Republic of the PhilippinesMunicipality of Infanta Quezon

TOURISM MASTER DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Group:Member:

INFANTA, QUEZON TOURISM MASTER DEVELOPMENT PLAN

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Introduction:- My Group mates agreed that a planning process be adopted for the

LGU. This is in recognition of the tourism planning environment in the Infanta, Quezon will exist in the next five years, with regard to changing product, market and institutional conditions. For this reason, the Planning Process described in particular steps was developed, involving stages of research and monitoring, evaluation and revision as integral components of the process.

History:

Originally, what now forms Quezon was divided among the provinces

of Batangas,Laguna, and Nueva Ecija. The area was first explored by Juan de

Salcedo in 1571-1572, during his expedition

from Laguna to Camarines provinces.

In 1591, the province was created and called Kaliraya or Kalilayan, after the

capital town which later became Unisan. In about the middle of the 18th

century, the capital was transferred to the town of Tayabas, from which the

province got its new name.

Depredation and plunder by the Moros were rampant during

the Spanish regime, because they opposed the colonizers, especially in their

efforts to spread Christianity. The destruction of Kalilayan in 1604 by a big

fleet of moro pirates caused the inhabitants to transfer to Palsabangon

(Pagbilao).

However, even the colonized people grew discontented with the Spaniards

over the centuries. The most important event in the history of the province

was the Confradia Revolt in 1841, which was led by the famous Lucbano,

Apolinario dela Cruz, popularly known as Hermano Pule. The province,

under Gen. Miguel Malvar, was also among the earliest to join the Philippine

Revolution. The Revolutionary Government took control over the province on

August 15, 1898.

The Americans then came and annexed the Philippines. A civil government

was established in the province on March 2, 1901, with Lucena as its capital.

Japanese occupation of the province during World War II began on December

23, 1941, when the Japanese Imperial Army landed in Atimonan. The

occupation witnessed the brutal murders of prominent sons of Tayabas. April

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4, 1945 was the day the province was liberated as the combined Filipino and

American army forces reached Lucena.

The establishment of the military general headquarters and military camp

bases of the Philippine Commonwealth Army was active on 1942 to 1946 and

the

Philippine Constabulary was active on 1944 to 1946 in the province of

Tabayas (now. Aurora and Quezon). The following of all stronghold of local

Filipino troops of the Philippine Commonwealth Army and Philippine

Constabulary was sending the local military operations and the military

engagements of the Anti-Japanese Imperial Military Operations in the City of

Manila, Northern and Southern Luzon and Bicol Peninsula and the island

provinces of Catanduanes, Masbate and Marinduque from 1942 to 1945 and

aided the local guerrilla resistance fighters and American liberation forces

against the Japanese Imperial forces during World War II.

On 1944 to 1945, the liberation on the province of Tayabas was the

combined U.S. & Philippine Commonwealth ground troops including the local

recognized guerrillas was invaded and fought against the Japanese Imperial

forces during the Battle of Tayabas and ended in World War II.

When the Filipino soldiers of the 5th, 52nd, 55th, 56th and 57th Infantry

Division of the Philippine Commonwealth Army and 5th Infantry Regiment of

the Philippine Constabulary was started the Battle for the Liberation of

Tabayas in 1945 and capturing the provinces through helping the various

local recognized guerrillas and U.S. liberation forces and fought against the

Japanese Imperial forces.

After the war, on September 7, 1946, Republic Act No. 14 changed the name

Tayabas to Quezon, in honor of Manuel L. Quezon,

the Commonwealth president who hailed from Baler, which was one of the

province's towns.

In 1951, the northern part of Quezon was made into the sub-province

of Aurora(which included Baler). Aurora was the name of the president's

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wife, Aurora Quezon. In 1979, Aurora was separated from Quezon as an

independent province.

Geography:

Quezon, located east of Metro Manila, is the 8th largest province in the

Philippines having an area of 892,601 hectares or 8,926.01 km². The

northern part of the province is sandwiched between the Sierra

Madre mountain range and the Philippine Sea. The southern part consists of

the Tayabas Isthmus, which separates the Bicol Peninsula from the main part

of Luzon Island, and the Bondoc Peninsula which lies between Tayabas

Bay and Ragay Gulf.

The major islands of Quezon are Alabat Island and Polillo Islands. Mt.

Banahaw, an extinct volcano, is the highest peak at 2,188 m. It

supplies geothermal power to the Makban Geothermal Power Plant.

Demographics:

The inhabitants are mostly Tagalogs. The population is concentrated in the

flat south-central portion which includes Lucena City, Sariaya,

and Candelaria. After World War II, the Infanta area received migrants

from Manila, Laguna and Batangas. People from Marinduque moved to the

southern part of the Tayabas Isthmus and the Bondoc Peninsula. And people

from Bicol migrated to Southern Towns of Calauag, Quezonand Tagkawayan,

Quezon.

Economy:

Quezon is the country's leading producer of coconut products such

as coconut oil and copra. A large part of the province is covered in coconut

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plantations. Other major crops are rice, corn, banana, and coffee. Fishing is

also a large part of the province's economy.

Health:

Delivery of public health services in the province is made through various public health facilities such as government hospitals, municipal health centers and rural health units. There are 16 government hospitals all over Quezon. Quezon Memorial Hospital renamed as Quezon Medical Center, situated in Lucena City, is considered as the biggest state-of-the-art hospital in Southern Tagalog. Other district/municipal/medicare hospitals are located in Alabat, Atimonan, Lopez, Gumaca, Mauban, Infanta, Catanauan, Tagkawayan, Sampaloc, Polillo, unisan, Candelaria, Guinayangan, San Francisco and San Narciso. These hospitals and their facilities are being upgraded to improve health and medical services. All of these hospitals operate under the supervision of their respective chiefs of hospital. Barangay health stations (BHS) all over the province, on the other hand, total to 380.

Aside from public hospitals, private hospitals are also available in Lucena City and other big municipalities for health related services. Also, medical and dental clinics are but common facilities in the urban centers of each municipality.

There are forty (40) Rural Health Units (RHUs) distributed province wide. A licensed doctor/dentist or public health nurse supervises each RHU. Despite the lack of manpower resources, medical attention given to the constituents is still rated satisfactory. To be able to address the need for medical practitioners, the present administration is pushing for the establishment of a School of Medicine in Lucena City.

Medical and dental missions are conducted throughout the province through the concerted efforts of the Office of the Governor, the Integrated Provincial Health Office and other medical practitioners in the locality and even from abroad.

Education:

Based on the 2009 data furnished by the Department of Education (DepEd), Quezon has 799 public elementary and 171 public secondary schools. Private schools on the other hand, total to 120 schools for elementary including pre-elementary and 81 for high school. Almost every municipality in the province have at least two secondary schools. The province has also 37 universities/colleges and 68 schools offering tech-voc

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programs. Sixteen municipalities have their own college institutions or technical schools.

In Lucena City, formal education is extended by 43 private schools consisting of 1 university, 10 colleges, 3 theological schools, 10 secondary schools with elementary and pre-school education, 25 preschools, and 10 vocational / technical and computer schools. Public high schools are Lucena National High School (main) with three (3) extensions located in Barangays Gulang–Gulang, Dalahican and Cotta and Quezon National High School.

In the elementary level, the classroom-to-pupil ratio is 1:37.29. The teacher-to-pupil ratio is 1:36.14 indicating that there is sufficient number of teachers for SY 2008–2009.

Classroom-to-student ratio is 1:54.24 in the secondary level, which clearly shows the insufficient number of classrooms. Teacher-to-student ratio, on the other hand, is 1:40.41.

Literacy of the Population:

Quezon is one among the provinces in the country with the highest literacy rate. This may be attributed to the fact that many educational institutions thrive in the province.

Based on the 2000 census, the province has 1,122,392 literates (91.39%) and 105,780 illiterates (8.61%) for household population 10 years old and over. Out of the 623,257 male population, 568,671 are literate and 54,586 are illiterate whereas out of the 604,915 female population, 553,721 are literate and 51,199 are illiterate.

Agriculture:

Quezon has a total agricultural area of 513,610 hectares representing approximately 59% of the provincial land area. Various agricultural crops are grown extensively in the province. Among the major crops are coconut, paddy rice (irrigated and non-irrigated), upland rice, corn, banana and coffee. Other crops include camote, pineapple, peanuts, citrus, vegetables and other fruit trees.

Coconut dominates the agricultural crops of the province. Quezon has the largest coconut production area and is the second largest producer of coconut in the country next to Davao Oriental. As a major crop, coconut farming provides direct source of livelihood to about 123,548 coconut farmers. The relative size of coconut production in Quezon has encouraged a diverse number of coconut related processing industries, ranging from oil

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milling and refining, coir decorticating/defibering to more complex processing such as coconut chemical production, to locate operations in the province. Quezon hosts 70% of CALABARZON's 46 processing firms. However, for sustainability, there is a need to intensify replanting programs and law enforcement regarding illegal cutting of coconut trees.

As of 2007, Quezon was able to contribute 38% of the total production of palay in CALABARZON. It ranked first from among the five provinces in the region in terms of palay production. The province produced 149,412 metric tons of palay followed by Laguna with 124,649 metric tons. Major producers of rice are the municipalities of Candelaria, Sariaya, Tiaong, infant, Pagbilao, San Antonio, Lopez and the Cities of Lucena and Tayabas.

Corn is another major agricultural product of the province. Quezon also ranked first in the region in terms of corn production. Out of the region's 66,249 metric tons production, the province produced 41,482 metric tons (62.6%) followed by Batangas with 17,422 metric tons and Laguna with 4,209 metric tons (6.35%). Major producers of corn are the Municipalities of Mulanay, Catanauan, San Andres, San Francisco and Buenavista.

Other agricultural crops raised in the province are high value commercial crops such as lowland vegetables i. e. pechay, mustard, lettuce, string beans, tomato, squash, bell pepper; upland vegetables i. e. cabbage, chayote, raddish, snap beans and carrots; root crops such as sweet potato, cassava, ginger, gabi, ube and peanuts; fruits such as mango, banana, magosteen, lanzones, rambutan, durian, papaya and citrus and plantation crops such as coffee, black pepper and pineapple.

Predominant livestock in the Bondoc Peninsula are cattle, carabao and swine due to the suitability of the land for grazing animals. Carabao is the most used draft animal in land preparation, as well as for hauling farm products and material inputs of farmers, although power tillers are available in the market. Horses are also utilized for hauling purposes. Cattle, however, are raised primarily for meat production. Swine, goats, chicken, ducks and geese are raised both for home consumption and as additional sources of income.

In 2007, Quezon ranked second top producer of cattle in the CALABARZON Region at 14,662 heads, next to Batangas' production of 33,869. Cattle production activities are mostly concentrated in Sariaya, Tagkawayan and Tiaong.

Regionwide, Quezon ranked third in duck production contributing 14% following Laguna's 49% and Rizal's 24% share in production. Major duck producers are based in Tiaong, Padre Burgos and Sariaya.

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Among the CALABARZON provinces, Quezon has the least production of chicken meat. However, the province ranked third in the region for chicken egg production for its output of 138,250,371 pieces in 2007.

Fishery /Marine Resources:

The length of Quezon's coastline is 1,066.36 km. It has 41 municipalities/city, 34 of which are coastline/lakeshore areas translating to 414 coastal/lakeshore

Major marine resources include Calauag Bay, Lamon Bay, Polillo Strait, Ragay Gulf and Tayabas Bay. Ticub Lake in Tiaong, Quezon is a major fresh water resource.

Fishing is an all-year round activity except in Polillo where the fishing season is from February to October. Among the commercial species found in the area are the roundsand, anchovies, tuna, lactorids and groupers.

The province is registered to have the highest fishpond production in the region. Bangus and prawn are the most common cultured species. Other freshwater species include white go by, freshwater shrimps, catfish, tilapia, mudfish and banak. Fishponds are located mostly in municipalities along the coastal areas such as Lopez, Padre Burgos, Gumaca, Unisan, Calauag, Infanta, Catanauan, Pitogo, General Luna, Real and Macalelon.

With 34 coastal municipalities, Quezon ranks first in total fish production in the region as of the 4th quarter of 2007. It was able to produce 34% of the total regional fish production followed by Rizal (32%) and Batangas (19%).

For commercial fish production, Quezon produced 86% of the regional fishing output in the same quarter. However, Laguna (38%) and Rizal (30%) had the highest municipal fish production with Quezon ranking 3rd place in the region.

Most of the aquaculture production activities in the region are more or less equally distributed in the provinces of Rizal (40%), Quezon (31%) and Batangas (24%).

Aquaculture structures such as fish pens, fish cages and fishponds can be found in relatively abundant quantities in major water bodies in the province such as Calauag Bay and the coastal waters of Infanta and Real.

Tourism:

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Quezon has 34 coastal municipalities bestowed with beautiful seashores. Some are already with beach resorts that are frequented by local and foreign tourists. Water sports equipment can be used in some of these resorts like jet ski, motorboats, snorkels and others.

The province is widely known not only in the whole country but in other countries for its different festivals notably the Pahiyas Festival in Lucban. Other famous festivals are Pasayahan sa Lucena; Mayohan sa Tayabas; Agawan sa Sariaya; Hambujan in Dolores; Aranya at Balwarte of Gumaca; Buhay na Kubol in Gen. Luna.

The province is also well known for its pilgrimage sites in Mt. Banahaw and Dolores and Kamay ni Hesus Healing Center in Lucban.

Nature lovers will also enjoy the famous Quezon Protected Landscape with its rest area for commuters, Pagbilao Experimental Mangrove Station, Mt. Banahaw trekking and beautiful untouched waterfalls and caves.

Quezon is also renowned among food lovers. Among the favorites of most tourists are langgonisa, broas, pansit lucban, budin, espasol, brown puto and many other special delicacies. Different food chains like Jollibee, Mc Donald, Chowking, Buddy Pizza and others are also available mostly in Lucena City, Candelaria, Tayabas City, Tiaong and Gumaca. Malls, Groceries and big stores also abound which offers all kinds of food and items anybody will need.

It is also a potential haven for retirees. Its long white and gray sand beaches, beautiful islands and serene hilly villages offer the best place for relaxation and enjoyment.

The province's 8,000-seater Quezon Convention Center is also an ideal venue for sports competition, conventions, trade fairs, concerts and other big events.

From January to September 2008, there were 477,572 local and foreign tourist who visited the province.

Mining and Quarrying:

Mineral reserves abound in the province. These include non-metallic minerals like limestone, marble, silica quartz, kaolin clay, sand and gravel. Metallic mineral deposits are copper, molybdenum and gold found in Infanta, General Nakar, Polillo and Buenavista.

The province is also a producer of limestone that supplies various industrial companies. Although copper is not of high quality, it is still an

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important mineral resource of the province. Generally, this was the assessment of the residents in the area. The favorite basaltic quarries are the river meanders and deposit sites of Mt. Banahaw Protected Landscape and Mt. San Cristobal. The municipality of Sariaya has the most number of quarrying activities along Mt. Banahaw and Mt. San Cristobal areas particularly on sand and gravel. More sand quarrying is seen in Mulanay and Tagkawayan.

Commerce and Industry:

Among the 3,650 establishments that registered at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Provincial Office for CY 2007, the four leading business establishments were trading (1,785), service (1,218), IT services (242) and food (148).

Municipalities with emerging signs of urbanization based on the number of industries and service establishments include Tayabas, Mauban, Lucban, Tiaong, Sariaya, Candelaria, Unisan, Lopez, Gumaca and Infanta.

Labor Force and Employment:

As of April 2003, total population of 15 years and over is 1,102,000 with a 65.8% labor force participation rate. Employment rate is 88.82% and 11.2% for unemployment rate. There is also a visible underemployment rate of 9.4%.

From a total of 644 employed persons by type of industry, 256,000 are engaged in agriculture, 103,000 are engaged in industry and 284,000 are engaged in services.

Road Network and Other Infrastructure Facilities:

Quezon Province has a very extensive road network with the Manila South Road better known as Daang Maharlika but now identified as part of Republic Highway with 164.464 kms. This major trunk line traverses the entire length of the province from Laguna boundary to Camarines boundary. Connected to this major road are interlinking secondary type of roads consisting of Bondoc Peninsula National Road, Lucena-Tayabas-Mauban-Sampaloc-Lucban Circumferential Road and the roads of Polillo Island Group which has an interlinking water facilities. Another major road network is the Famy-Real-Infanta-General Nakar Road and on-going completion of Marikina-

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Infanta Road.

The highway network is criss-crossed by provincial, municipal, city and barangay roads. Continuous maintenance and upgrading of these roads are being done to relieve urban congestion and enhance integrated development in the area.

The province has a road network that totals to 4,465.470 km. National roads constitute 905.030 km., provincial roads to about 303.489 km., municipal roads at approximately 278.852 km., city roads about 18.735 km. and 2,959.364 km barangay roads.

The total length of bridges in the province is 10,903.6400 linel meters consisting of 1,156.17 lineal meters national bridges; 940.460 lineal meters provincial bridges and 8,807.010 lineal meters municipal/barangay bridges in Lucena City and 21 municipalities only.

The railway track in the province with a total length of 181 kms. extending from Tiaong to Tagkawayan is unoperational at the moment. The system coming through Laguna via Calamba and San Pablo City from Metro Manila and to Lucena City PNR Station. The stations are for boarding and unloading passengers, cargoes and freights.

A feeder airport is located at Barangay Ibabang Iyam and is 1.75 kms. away from the city proper. It is non-operational for commercial use. A feeder port is also servicing private transport at Balesin Island and another port of commercial use servicing Jomalig and Alabat municipalities.

There are about 35 existing seaports in the province. Lucena City has two existing seaports (Talao-Talao and Cotta) and Mulanay, the rest at the 32 coastal municipalities of the province. Small privately owned ports are excluded in this number.

Power Sources:

The province is a major source of coal-fired electricity that supplies power to the Luzon grid. The coal-fired power plants are the 735 MW TeaM Energy Pagbilao Power Plant situated in the municipality of Pagbilao and the 440 MW Quezon Power Limited located in the municipality of Mauban.

The Manila Electric Company provides electricity to the City of Lucena and ten municipalities to wit; Candelaria, Dolores, Lucban, Mauban, Pagbilao, Sampaloc, San Antonio, Sariaya, Tayabas and Tiaong. The Quezon Electric Cooperative I (QUEZELCO I) supplies electricity to 23 municipalities namely: Agdangan, Alabat, Atimonan, Buenavista, Catanauan, Calauag, General Luna,

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Gumaca, Guinayangan, Lopez, Macalelon, Mulanay, Padre Burgos, Pagbilao, Pitogo, perez, Plaridel, Quezon, San Andres, San Francisco, San Narciso, Tagkawayan and Unisan. QUEZELCO II on the other hand, supplies electricity to eight municipalities namely: infanta, Real, General Nakar, Polillo, Burdeos, Panukulan, Patnanungan and Jomalig.

Waterworks System:

Quezon has three sources of water classified as follows: rainwater, surface water including rivers, springs, lakes, streams and impounding reservoirs and ground water which can be tapped by digging wells or linking pipes into the water deposits and installation of water drawing equipment like pumps.

Quezon Province being located between bodies of water has abundant water resources for domestic use. The poblacions and some barangays are using pipeline system drawing water from spring being administered or operated by the municipal government and barangay waterworks associations.

Communication:

Wireless System/Radio Communication

All the 40 municipalities in the province are equipped with communication facilities. The Bureau of Telecommunication is operating telegraph communication that transmits message locally and nationally. Its office is usually located at the poblacion or nearby barangays.

Telephone System:

Twenty-nine (29) municipalities enjoy the services of telephone. The Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. (PLDT) serves Lucena City, Tayabas and Mauban.

The Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) caters to the need for telephone system in all other municipalities.

Mail System:

Each municipality has its own postal station in their respective municipal halls. Carriers distribute letters and packages within the poblacion and nearby barangays all over its area of jurisdiction. Lucena City has four postal offices.

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Other facilities:

The province has 7 FM and 7 AM radio stations. It has also two television stations which are based in Lucena City and Pagbilao, Quezon. Ten publications are being circulated province wide which are mostly written in English and Tagalog.

MISSION:

Be a truly committed and responsible Provincial Government as partner of God in “dressing and keeping” the environment and natural resources, doing everything it can to maintain the ecological balance and dedicate its best in developing and implementing systems of environmental education, conservation and protection that will be a testimony to its deepest desire to care for God’s creation.

VISSION:

A province whose environment and natural resources could sustainably support food production and economic growth and whose people are living harmoniously with nature, having attained true freedom and happily looking after the welfare of one’s own family and the generations to come.

Political Subdivision and Land Areas

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First District

City/Municipality No. ofBarangays

Area(km²)

Population(2010)

Pop. density(per km²)

Burdeos 14 199.8 23,568

General Nakar 19 1344.8 24,895

Infanta 36 342.8 60,346

Jomalig 5 56.7 6,111

Lucban 32 130.5 45,616

Mauban 40 416 55,866

Pagbilao 27 171 62,561

Panukulan 12 226.6 11,968

Patnanungan 6 139.2 12,825

Polillo 20 253 27,912

Real 17 563.9 33,073

Sampaloc 14 104.8 13,534

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Tayabas City 66 231 87,252

Second District

City/MunicipalityNo. of

BarangaysArea(km²)

Population(2010)

Pop. density(per km²)

Candelaria 25 129.1 105,997

Dolores 16 62.6 26,312

20px Lucena City 33 80.2 236,390

San Antonio 20 172.9 30,023

Sariaya 43 212.2 128,248

Tiaong 31 168.4 87,707

Third District

City/MunicipalityNo. of

BarangaysArea(km²)

Population(2010)

Pop. density(per km²)

Agdangan 31.5 11,164

Buenavista 37 161.4 24,798

Catanauan 46 253.1 65,705

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General Luna 27 101 23,379

Mulanay 28 420 48,538

Padre Burgos 22 69.1 19,877

Pitogo 39 73.4 21,095

San Andres 7 61 29,216

San Francisco (Aurora) 16 304 53,286

San Narciso 24 263.6 39,828

Unisan 36 124.2 23,911

Macalelon 30 25,986

Fourth District

City/MunicipalityNo. of

BarangaysArea(km²)

Population(2010)

Pop. density(per km²)

Alabat 19 57.6 14,789

Atimonan 42 239.7 59,157

Calauag 90 324.7 69,475

Guinayangan 55 214.1 39,074

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Gumaca 59 189.7 63,778

Lopez 95 355.4 86,660

Perez 14 57.5 11,022

Plaridel 9 35.1 10,069

Quezon 24 71.2 15,011

Tagkawayan 45 534.4 46,878

INFANTA, QUEZON

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Infanta Quezon is a second class municipality and one of the oldest towns in Quezon Province. It has a total land area of 34,276 hectares and a population of 50,992 people in 10,220 households based on the data released by the NSO on 2007 Census. It is located 144 kilometers northeast of Manila, and 136 kilometers north of Lucena City and has a geographical coordinates of 13° 45′ N, 121° 37′ E. It is lying along the coast of the Pacific Ocean facing the island municipalities of Polillio. It straddles a portion of the Sierra Madre Mountains,

Mythical Origin Of Infanta Quezon,

Long before the Spanish colonization of the Philippines, a group of aventurous Malays residing in what is now Rizal Province under the leadership of Nunong Karugtong crossed the wilderness of Sierra Madre to find a better settlement. After several days of land travel, the group made a stop-over in the first plain area they reached. This area is now known as barangay Comon. Karugtong did not like the place because the area lies between two rivers. so they moved on until they reached the present Dinahican beach. Again, the leader did not like the place because of its closeness to the sea. They turned back until hunger, thirst and fatigue forced them to take a rest. Aged, tired and weary, Nunong Karugtong fell asleep while his men kept on gathering food and preparing for a temporary shelter. The men in search for food found a giant wild yam (ube) which, because of

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its extra-ordinary size, could not be carried by four men. With the giant yam, they returned to the place where they left the sleeping leader and presented the yam. But from his deep sleep the aged leader could not easily get up. It took some of this man to help him up and see the giant yam. Fully awake, the old man realized that the area was an ideal place for settlement due to the presence of clear water flowing in the nearby river. That area is the present barangay Bantilan. It is a plain land drained by the Bantilan River. Decided on making the area as their permanent settlement, Nunong Karugtong thought of having the place named. But he could not think of an ideal name for the place. He asked for suggestions from his men. One of his men who had helped him wake up from his deep sleep, suggested that the area be called "Binangonan del Ampon." The word recalls the staggering old leader being assisted by his men to get up much like a baby sitter would her wobbly toddler ward. The group unanimously agreed and since then, the place has been called Binangonan del Ampon. This latter name is probably the correct one rather than "Binangonan de Lampon" which a visiting Frenchman, Alfred Marche, called the place in 1879.

The Founding Of Infanta, Quezon:

The town of Infanta was founded in 1696 by Don Diego Mangilaya. Paying tribute to the name of its mythical founder, Don Diego Mangilaya led the construction of a church right to the place where Nunong Karugtong fell asleep. The first priest who reached Infanta was Rev. Fr. Esteban Ortiz, O.F.M. who planted the wooden Cross as a symbol of Christianity in 1578. That significant event in 1578 marked the beginning of Spanish colonization of Infanta. The distance of the place from Manila did not serve as obstacle for the Spanish missionaries and soldiers to come and reside in this place. From Don Diego Mangilaya, there was a succession of no less than 172 leaders who were called "Cabeza De Barangay" from 1700 to the turn of the 20th century.

Present Day Infanta, Quezon:

Present-day Infanta is what remains of the former district of Infanta after the creation of two daughter municipalities, General Nakar and Real. At its greatest extent the boundary of Infanta embraced the whole northern

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portion of Quezon Province (mainland) from the Umiray River in the north of Mag-asawang Bato in the southeast.

On July 21, 1949 the northern part of Infanta from Umiray River to gos River became the new municipality of General Nakar by virtue of executive Order 246. About a decade later the southern portion starting from Tigbi River was created into the municipal district of Real on December 15, 1960 under E.O. No. 410. Real was converted to a full-fledged municipality on June 22, 1963 by virtue of Republic Act 3754.

Much reduced in land area, present-day Infanta comprises about 34,276 hectares, about two fifths which are flat areas of the coastal plain and the three fifths hilly and mountainous. There are 36 barangays distributed into six homogeneous ecological units as follows:

Agricultural plainBatican, Ingas, Lual, Miswa, and Silangan

Coastal barangays Abiawin, Binulasan, Boboin, Dinahican, and Libjo

Estuarine barangays Alitas, Amolongin, Anibong, Antikin, Bacong, Balobo, Binonoan, Cawaynin, Langgas, Maypulot, Pulo, and Tudturan

Mountain barangays Agos-agos, Gumian, Magsaysay, and Tongohin

Riverine barangays Banugao, Catambungan, Ilog, Pilaway, and Pinaglapatan

Urban barangays Bantilan, Comon, Poblacion I, Poblacion 38, and Poblacion 39

DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION:Popolation 60,346No. of barangay 46

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Median AgeHospitals 6Barangay Health Services 36Schools 15Pre-Elementary 6Secondarry 5tertiary 4Literacy Rate 100%Crime Solution 94%labor force 44,800(15yrs. Old above)Income Classification 2nd Class

Population:

As of December 2010, total population of Infanta is 64,866. Dinahican is the most populous barangay with 8,502 while Tudturan is the least populated (445). There are 15,181 families while there are 13,486 houses. This means that there is an average of almost only one family per house. Average family size for the whole municipality is 4.14. Barangay Ilog had the smallest average family size with 2.4 while Bantilan had the highest with 8.8.

Barangay Population HouseholdsNo. of Families

Abiawin 1,617 339 398

Agos-Agos 2,442 483 507

Alitas 1,073 227 253

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Amolongin 757 148 185

Anibong 1,025 213 229

Antikin 804 168 208

Bacong 899 166 173

Balobo 600 137 137

Bantilan 2,868 551 633

Banugao 2,721 543 634

Batican 891 171 223

Binonoan 1,634 326 388

Binulasan 2,752 577 608

Boboin 1,886 387 438

Catambungan 1,542 321 346

Cawaynin 518 116 127

Comon 3,010 608 717

Dinahican 8,502 1,849 2,000

Gumian 3,921 818 893

Ilog 1,920 410 435

Ingas 1,711 364 434

Langgas 1,019 227 245

Libjo 2,292 502 514

Lual 1,131 226 273

Magsaysay 2,824 627 653

Maypulot 720 147 181

Miswa 1,980 433 475

Pilaway 1,963 385 455

Pinaglapatan 1,142 225 255

Poblacion 1 832 178 221

Poblacion 38 1,613 361 362

Poblacion 39 1,986 331 472

Pulo 808 159 191

Silangan 907 184 229

Tongohin 2,021 453 498

Tudturan 445 86 104

Total 64,866 13,486 15,181Source: BMIS/MMIS 2010

Livelihood:

According to the livelihood report of the 1995 Census, 45% of the working population was engaged in agriculture and fishery while another 41% was engaged in trade and services. Others (14%) were engaged in

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quarrying, manufacturing, construction and utilities. However, there is a need to update data for livelihood since there is an expected change in the livelihood composition because of the recent catastrophe.

Climate:

Infanta´s climate is classified as Type II. The Type II climate is characterized by no dry season and with a pronounced maximum rain period from November to January. Average annual rainfall measurement according to 1971 - 2000 periods is 4,150.1 millimeters. The data below shows that November 2007 has the highest rainfall amount with 697.6 millimeters of rain and 28 rainy days respectively. The months of February, March, and April have the same least number of 14 rainy days while February has the lowest amount of rainfall (61.4 mm.). The latest data from PAG-ASA Infanta station for the month of February 2008 indicating the most rainiest month compared in 2007, with a rainfall amount of 799.3 millimeters. The large effect was caused by La Niña which will be felt till March.

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AVERAGE MONTHLY AND ANNUAL RAINFALLFor the Year 2007 and 2008

Month2007 2008Rainfall(mm)

RainyDays

Rainfall(mm)

RainyDays

January 339.7 29 518.2 28February 61.4 14 799.3 28March 183.6 14 - -April 231.9 14 - -May 175.0 20 - -June 309.4 19 - -July 222.0 15 - -August 172.9 16 - -September 209.9 16 - -October 435.8 25 - -November 697.6 28 - -December 509.6 21 - -

Annual 3,548.8 231

1. Vision of Tourism Master Plan:

These reviews and consultations led to a vision of expanding and strengthening the Infanta, Quezon tourism as An instrument of economic and social development in a manner that benefits all Infantahins, in all parts of the Province. This vision also encompasses steady development of the industry as a model ofSustainable development of tourism with environmentally and socially responsible tourism practice the following goals are identified to achieve this vision:

2. Goals Tourism Master Plan: Facilitate sustainable growth and high-level investment in the industry,

while enhancing the public Share of economic benefits from tourism. Increase employment opportunities and gainful community

participation in the tourism industry. Develop and maintain supporting infrastructure required for the growth

of the tourism industry. Ensure environmental sustainability in the development and

operation of all tourism products, And strive for excellence in environmentally-responsible tourism. Continue to brand the INFANTA as a unique destination with innovative

products and retain the increase foreign exchange earnings and government revenues; ensure increased revenues from tourism ultimately ensure improved conservation and management of the

natural resources

3. Target:  to introduce the beauty of the natural resources of the area

a.) Integrated Development Plan:

Enhancing and Expanding the Tourism Product

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- Introduction of accommodation grading & classification system

· Development plans for- Infanta, Quezon- Real, Quezon- Gen. Nakar, Quezon- Polillo, Island

Preparation of selected product profiles - The coastal of Pacific, Ocean- The Mount Sierra Madre

- The green fertile plains- The cool sea breeze

Conservation/ preservation plans- The River and Mangroves trees - The historic house/Gabaldon Building

Improving Access and Infrastructure- Identify road network improvements to- Facilitate tourism development.

Improving Security - Conducting a security awareness plan

Improving Service Standards- Establish tour guide training programme- Formulate manpower training policy and plan

Attracting Investment Capital- Rationalise tax regime- Review of investment incentive

Potential Markets- Student- Local Government Unit

- Foreign and Local Tourist

- Foreign and local Investor

- Community

b.) Tourism Circuit Development:

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Need to find and explore the hidden beauty of nature in the area, make build an infrastructure that are unique and competitive in the industry and it can accommodate the number of tourist. The tourism circuit needs to develop and provide the tourists needs, must also to convey the people's interest in that particular area.The circuit may include the following destination and maybe package as 2nights 3days tours.

c.) Tourism Circuit Components:

The Infanta, Quezon witch one of the oldest town of Quezon, 1st class have a hidden beauty, like mountains, Ocean, Waterfalls, River and Mangroves Areas that have a potential to attract tourist and fit to the tourist wants.

4. Nature:Infanta, founded in 1696 by Don Diego Mangilaya, is one of the oldest

towns in Quezon Province.

With the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Sierra Madre Mountain on the other, the people on the once Binangonan Del Ampon have always enjoyed the simple things in life that money could not buy.

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The mystique that envelopes the mountain as the early morning light strikes its great form is enough to generate a touch of awe and admiration to the curious onlooker.

The green fertile plains can grow and provide more than enough food for anyone who is industrious enough to cultivate its richness.

While waiting for the two sides to meet with the catch, we took a walk along the grey sand beach for a breath of fresh sea breeze and to catch the rising sun partially hidden by grey skies.

The cool sea breeze tempts one to walk barefooted on the sand while watching the sunrise.

Infanta offers several establishments/tourist destinations. There are well-maintained beach resorts and restaurants that can accommodate local

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and foreign tourists alike. Lamon Bay offers itself not only as a red tide-free source of bountiful harvests of fish and other marine products, but also as potential unexplored sites for recreational fishing and scuba diving in the east coast of Luzon.

Libjo Beach, The beach is about two kilometers long, 30 meters wide, and has been the favorite picnic area of many locals especially during the summer months. The sand is fine and light gray in color. The drop-off is about 20 meters from the shore. It is located in Barangay Libjo, Infanta, Quezon

Enjoy the dillos Boating Ride into the 15kilometers River surrounded mangroves and Nipa trees, after that you can go to the winery native nipa lambanog maker, the alcoholic beverage of infant, Quezon

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THE PLANNING PROCESS

1. Review the tourism in infanta, Quezon

a.) Overview of the infanta tourism industry- Infanta, founded in 1696 by Don Diego Mangilaya, is one of the

oldest towns in Quezon Province- With the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Sierra Madre Mountain

on the other, the people on the once Binangonan Del Ampon have always enjoyed the simple things in life that money could not buy.

- The mystique that envelopes the mountain as the early morning light strikes its great form is enough to generate a touch of awe and admiration to the curious onlooker.

- The green fertile plains can grow and provide more than enough food for anyone who is industrious enough to cultivate its richness

- The cool sea breeze tempts one to walk barefooted on the sand while watching the sunrise.

- Infanta offers several establishments/tourist destinations. There are well-maintained beach resorts and restaurants that can accommodate local and foreign tourists alike. Lamon Bay offers itself not only as a red tide-free source of bountiful harvests of fish

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and other marine products, but also as potential unexplored sites for recreational fishing and scuba diving in the east coast of Luzon.

- Seafood lovers would definitely enjoy a visit to Infanta. The mouth-watering delicacies of the countryside present an inviting perspective to any visitor

- Describe the different hotels, inns, dormitories and even training centers in the area. Be sure to include the contact numbers, complete mailing and email addresses and URL (if any) of each.

b.) Hotel and Resorts:

Cote de Azur:- Cote de Azur Beach Resort is located at Barangay Abiawin,

approximately 2 kilometers from the town proper. The place is for you to explore. Experience the warmth of the sun brushing your skin, enjoy the clear waters of the wide swimming pools for kids and adults. Enjoy the cool breeze along the shoreline and feel the serenity of nature while watching the sun rises along the wide beach and enjoy swimming with family and friends for relaxation after a tiring day!! . For additional information, please contact, Ms. Nora Sardea, cellphone 09202740182 / land line (042) 535-3047 & 535-4290 or visit their website, http://www.cotedazurbeachresort.com/

Malachi-Legacy Hotel and Resort:- Malachi-Legacy Hotel and Resort is now the choice resort spot of

Quezon. It is located at 243 Ilang Ilang, Brgy. Comon, Infanta, Quezon and approximately1- 2 kilometres from the town proper. A nature given gift with panoramic view of Sierra Madre Mountain and cozy and relaxing ambience soothing to everyone longing for beautiful hideaway. It is ideal for family, friends, group and company outings. Also caters to camping and retreats. A great place for varied events like birthdays, baptismal, graduation, weddings, conferences and meetings. Enjoy and unwind a fine alternative treat for everyone. For additional information, please contact, Ms. Joy Anne A. Motel, Marketing Supervisor, cell phone 09052585733/ land line (042) 535-3047 

Pacific Beach Resort or "Tando Beach Resort" is the one of the most affordable resort in Infanta. It is located at Barangay Libjo, Infanta, Quezon and approximately 2 - 3 kilometres from the town proper. It is owned and managed by Tando and Bella Gucilatar. It is ideal for family, friends, and group outings. Entrance fee is P20 only and

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P300 for cottage rental fee. Air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned rooms are available for your accommodation. For additional information, please contact, Mrs. Bella Gucilatar, cell phone 09192522770

Pacific Beach Resort:- Pacific Beach Resort or "Tando Beach Resort" is the one of the most

affordable resort in Infanta. It is located at Barangay Libjo, Infanta, Quezon and approximately 2 - 3 kilometres from the town proper. It is owned and managed by Tando and Bella Gucilatar. It is ideal for family, friends, and group outings. Entrance fee is P20 only and P300 for cottage rental fee. Air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned rooms are available for your accommodation. For additional information, please contact, Mrs. Bella Gucilatar, cell phone 09192522770

c.) Environmentally Sustainable Tourism- In particular, LGU focused attention on preservation of the environment

and centralised infrastructure, creating a legacy defined by unprecedented awareness amongst stakeholders in practising sustainable and responsible tourism. As a result of the local government process process, environmental protection and sustainable development measures have been engendered effectively.

Establishment of Tourism Zones and Tourist Centres- Conceptualised that each Island, like polilo Island and each Barangays

near the coastal sea will be served by a tourist centre, Polillo Island Having “a complete internal transportation and communication system, central facilities for storage and supplies, central services and tourist information

- The rationale behind advocating such tourist centres in coastal areas was to suggest ways and means of developing new and separate tourist-centres in parts of the Government

- Where economic growth are needed. Towards that end, a thorough analysis of the infrastructure and facilities available on the ground at that time was made, including transportation, communications, water-supply, sewerage, waste disposal, energy and general supply to the resorts.

Institutional Strengthening- Institutional Strengthening the LGU most significant thrust was the call for

institutional strengthening. It emphasised the need for creation of financial institutions and enabling legal framework for attracting foreign investments. Subsequently, the Department of Tourism and Foreign Investment was allocated further funding. Although a financial institution

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to specifically assist tourism development has not emerged, existing banks‟ support to the industry has been strengthened. The legal framework to encourage foreign investment has been implemented as well. However, these areas need further development.

Strengthening the Institutions- While acknowledging that the Ministry of Tourism had successfully led the

development of tourism in the past, the I suggested new roles and functions for the Ministry to further enhance future planning, development, marketing and human resource development

2. Situational analysis

This section will analyze and articulate future planning directions for each of the key areas mentioned below.

Economic Growth Analysis:

- In view of the increasing daily transaction of the municipal government of Infanta, and with the objective of providing a more efficient service to the transacting public, the present administration under Mayor Grace R. America prioritized the construction of 3-storey municipal extension building. This hopes to address the need for additional office space.

- The local government of Infanta included among its priorities the clearing and dredging of Kwago, Balucanag and Bantilan creeks. Said initiative aims to reduce the physical extent of floods, lessen its effect on humans and the community and mitigate the tendency toward flooding in different barangays of the municipality, especially in the poblacion barangays. Also, this aims to complement the rechanneling project being implemented along Agos River.

- The Gabaldon Building Restoration Project is a joint undertaking of Metro Infanta Foundation based in USA, Municipal Government of Infanta and Infanta Central Parents Teachers Community

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Association (PTCA). Proponents of the project target to raise P15M by soliciting donations

- Mayor Filipina Grace R. America, together with Vice Mayor Roehl Ram D. Velasco and other representatives of Infanta community, received a Plaque of Recognition for being one of the Top Ten Awardees for 2007 Gawad Galing Pook last February 28, 2008 in Malacañan Palace. The said award was given to the trailblazing Community-based Disaster Preparedness and Management Program (CBDPM) of the local government of Infanta, Quezon. 

Tourist Arrivals, Markets and Product Analysis:- This section discusses tourist arrivals, markets and products. These

areas are analyzed together due to their interrelationships: arrival trends depend on source markets and products offered. Arrival patterns are presented first, followed by a brief market and product analysis. Finally, future directions that relate to marketing and product development are presented.

- Infanta, Quezon is the 2nd tourist markets in Quezon in terms of tourist arrivals.

- The arrival trends in the key source markets are provided below.

Arrival growth percentage (2001-2006)

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 200100

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

T. ArrivalsMarketsProducts

Statement of recieptMunicipality of Infanta, Quezon

General Fund Amounts

Particila Acc Income Past year Current Budget year

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rs t. code

Classification

year

Net Available for the Appropriation

99,589,883.65

127,228,324.61 114,380,211.00

Doreen E. Porpura Marieta Avelleno Susan M. AmericaMonicipal Treasurer Budjet Officer M.P.D.C.

Approved By: Filipina R. Grace America

Municipal Mayor

Human Resource Situation Analysis:

- The Infanta, Quezon has a relatively young population – forty five percent is below 20 years of age. Consequently, seventy one percent of the total population is less than 35 years of age. Given this high percentage of youth population, tourism is considered as one of the most promising sectors to provide gainful employment for the growing young population.

Enrolments and Graduates 2006-2009Enrolment 89 80 98 112Graduates 53 46 48 54Year 2006 2007 2008 2009

Environmental Analysis:- A process where environmental management is fully integrated

into the organizational structure within the resort management. There will be clear roles and responsibilities for each staff within the organization to achieve the environmental objectives and targets. An environmental manager/DENR or an environmental officer can be responsible for management of the environmental aspects of the resort. Many resorts already have an environmental officer‟ whose job is to educate the guests on the environmental issues. This task should go beyond that of a PR exercise.

- Minimizing the Impact of Channel Clearance and Construction of Sea-walls

- Poor Sewage Treatment Facilities and Inadequate Waste Disposal- Inappropriate use of hard Engineering Solutions- Conflict of Interest with Fishermen and Dive Operators

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Community-based Tourism Analysis:- The current policy is geared towards locating tourist resorts on

polillo islands. This policy has been effective in limiting the influence of tourism on local communities. Additionally, resorts built on isolated islands have supported branding Maldives as a high-end and upmarket destination. It is widely believed that if Maldivian communities are allowed to run tourism enterprises on inhabited islands, then the quality and standard of the tourism product of the country would decline. Any new policy that could potentially compromise the exclusive up-market tourism image of the country needs careful consideration.

Geography:- It is believed that the Wideness of sea shore would pose a challenge

to development of community tourism in the infanta, Quezon- Developing cultural attraction in particular places, like the

preservation of the Gabaldon building which is 250 years built.

Infrastructure and Support Services Analysis:- Marine-transport, Storage Facilities and Distribution Logistics- Establishment of a ferry transportation going to Pollilo Island and

vice versa

3. Strategies and Action:

The “strategies” in this document are statements derived to achieve the vision and goals set out in this Master Plan. These strategies reflect the Government’s policy directions and would adapt to the changing Scope, availability of resources and evolving conditions. The success of each strategy will be monitored during the Master Plan period.

Facilitate sustainable growth and increase investment in the industry, while enhancing public share of economic benefits from tourism

Development of Sea side’s:This involves to development of various barangays near by the ocean.

Build highly competent resorts and restaurants of the bay,

Action Due Date Performance Measure

Issues And Concerns

Policy

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Development1 Establishment of a

ferry transportation going to Pollilo Island and vice versa

20011-2012

Government funds and private sector

Safety Of Passengers

Proper Coast guard Monitoring

2 Establishment a seaside bars, restaurants, cafes, resorts and hotels.Establishment a seafood restaurant that serves freshly farm fish from the beach.

20011-2012

Government funds and private sector

Garbage Proper Waste Disposal

3 Establish a boat riding and jet ski rental

20011-2012

Private sector

Safety every resort have a life guard

4 Establish a function centre near the sea breeze.

20011-2012 LGU

Funds, Private sector

Garbage Proper Waste Disposal

5 Conducted seminars and workshops related to travel management and development plan

20011-2012

LGU funds Resource Lecturer/Speaker

Provide A highly Skilled Lecturers

Mountain Side’s:1 Establish a

horseback riding and bicycle trail.

2011-2013

LGU, DENR, Private

Scattered the mountains

Do not yell or make any noise

2 Establish a camping area to the mount sierra Madre

2011-2013

LGU, DENR Safety Forbidden to build tent by the river or even close to the abyss

3 Establish a 2011- LGU,

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botanical herbal garden

2013 Private

4 Tree trek Tours -A spectacular network of suspension bridges, boardwalks and trails take you from the forest floor to the upper reaches of Seerra Madre

2011-2013

LGU, LGU Garbage Proper Waste Disposal

5 Visiting TRIVAL- the native human of Quezon Lives in Sierra Madre visiting its culture and old types of living

2011-2013

Community insult to the inhabitants of the forest

Do not Slur the Ita’s

River Side’s:1 Native dillos

boating to the antikin river surrounded by mangrove and nipa hut trees

2011-2014

LGU, DENR, Private

Destruction of tataya that they used in making lambanog

Do not pick any tatay

2 Walking tour near the river side’s to know how to create lambanog

2011-2014

LGU Lack of tour guide provides risk in river

Drug into the river without tour guide

3 Establish a floating bar

2011-2014

LGU, Private

Garbage Proper Waste Disposal

Increase employment opportunities and, open up opportunities for gainful public and community participation

Action Due Date Performance Measure

Issues And Concerns

Positive Ecological ImpactsProduct Revenue optimizationAppropriate OperationImproved business paradigm

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2 Conduct school-based awareness programs on tourism and career opportunities in tourism

2011-2013

Number of Programs conducted

The number of graduate and employers become rich

help to open new businesses, to find employees

3 Monitor and enforce the implementation of the human resource development commitments in lease agreements

2011-2013

Number of Programs conducted

4 Review the quota system to provide for an increase in the number of infantahins employed in Supervisory and Management positions of the industry

2011-2013

Percentage of Maldivians inSenior Management positions

Reduce the number of employment abuse

The employee can work fairly

In the tourism industry:

Develop and maintain supporting infrastructure required for the growth of the tourism industry

1 Development of roads infanta via cogeo

2010-1012

LGU, DENR, NGO, Community

strenuous work Make easier to travel Infanta via Manila

- We started the New Year 2010 January 1 with a bang. We checked in to a Pranjetto Hills cottage, 51 kilometers from White Plains in Quezon City via Cogeo. In the morning as they checking out we asked the hotel lady if the new road towards Infanta, Quezon Province was open to vehicular traffic, she said a most definite yes, her friend who is a fish dealer just passed by the new road.

Marine-transport, Storage Facilities and Distribution Logistics1

Establish a pier 2010-2013

DENR, NGO, LGU

Safety Of Passengers

Proper Coast guard

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from infant to polillo island.

Monitoring

2 Development of barangay dinahican fish port.

1010-2013

DENR, NGO, Provide a high quality seafood product.

to identify Qezon is no.1 in the field of seafood

tourism products, and strive for global excellence in environmentally-responsible tourism

1 Establish souvenir shop witch the tourist can buy a very unique items like lambanog, sukang sasa, and other things you can see here.

2011-2014 LGU, Private

Order of priority for tourism development of attractions

First Priority Attraction Second Priority Potential Attractions

With the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Sierra Madre Mountain on the other, the people on the once Binangonan del Ampon have always enjoyed the simple things in life that money could not buy.

The mystique that envelopes the mountain as the early morning light strikes its great form is enough to generate a touch of awe and admiration to the curious onlooker.

The cool sea breeze tempts one to walk barefooted on the sand while watching the sunrise.

Infanta offers several establishments/tourist destinations. There are well-maintained beach resorts and restaurants that can accommodate local and foreign tourists alike. Lamon Bay offers itself not only as a red tide-free source of bountiful harvests of fish and other marine

The green fertile plains can grow and provide more than enough food for anyone who is industrious enough to cultivate its richness.

Seafood lovers would definitely enjoy a visit to Infanta. The mouth-watering delicacies of

39

products, but also as potential unexplored sites for recreational fishing and scuba diving in the east coast of Luzon

the countryside present an inviting perspective to any visitor

Reference: Department of Environmental and Natural Resources (DENR)National Statistics Office (NSO)Municipal Socio-Economic Profile

Tanay, Rizal to Infanta, Quezon Road Experience

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We started kind of late… 9am… we were passing through Tanay, Rizal around 10:30 when we decided to stop and get a bite to eat. As with small towns, deciding where to park in the narrow streets is always a dilemma. A church always makes a good parking area. We thus stopped at the Tanay ChurchPerhaps due to budget constraints or maybe it was intentional, it was nice to see that the church was not too modernized, thus retaining its “genuine” feel.They had a hodgepodge of saints and religious artefacts. People who know me, know I love nitpick… I found it amusing to find that they had a category for “Special Waste” which oddly includes Diapers and Sanitary Napkins.

KM3 Restaurant Following the National Road, we turned left a major

intersection at Famy and towards Infanta. We headed up the Sierra Madre

mountain range. It was around 12nn at the time so we decided to look out

for a place to eat. We then saw an interesting restaurant at around a curve

up the mountain called KM3

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Not sure why it was named that way… it certainly wasn’t a kilometre marker.

I was initially bothered by the fact that there were no customers. It had one

waitress and the cook was outside at the time. It had all these motorbikes

outside… maybe it was someone’s parking.

As we went in… it was quite sparse. The menu looked interesting. My next

thought was interesting. I was expecting the waitress to tell us that items on

the menu were not available. Tempted by what we saw, we ordered Bulalo

and Lechon Kawali. When I went to the washroom which was downstairs, I

discovered that it was 3 levels and even had a sort of events/conference on

the middle level. Needless to say, it was big! I then assumed that we were

probably quite early… and that it could be THE evening venue of the area.

Our food then arrived…When the Bulalo arrived. It was big… especially for

just the two of us. But of all the bulalo I have ever had… this is the tastiest!

The soup had a sotanghon-type flavour and the whole dish was full of

pepper… I loved it. If you look closely, the soup isn’t your typical clear bulalo

soup.

Not realizing how big the bulalo was, I had ordered the ever reliable lechon

kawali. Yes it was yummy and classic.

All in all, lunch was very very satisfying. If I ever pass this way again, I will

insist on eating here again. I give these place two thumbs up!

The Sierra Madre

While I have seen the Sierra Madre mountain range many times, I have

never crossed it. Beautiful views and full of coconut trees.

The Pacific Ocean… reaching Infanta

After crossing the Sierra Madre, a small patch of the Pacific Ocean started to

peek through the trees… my heart jumped! Wahoo!!! After all these years, I

made! That was the end of the excitement for this venue.

Needless to say, after seeing the beaches of Palawan, Bohol, etc. I must say

that nature did not reach out to me here.

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