It’s More Fun in the Philippines: Wonders of Zambales

WOW Philippines! More than the usual.

» The Philippines is officially known as the Republic of the Philippines. It is a sovereign island country in Southeast Asia situated in the western Pacific Ocean. The Philippines covers more than 7,100 islands, but the 11^th largest islands form most of the country’s land area and all are ripe for explorations. The mountainous terrain includes many active volcanoes, stunning marine body and dazzling spots give the Philippines one of the place called paradise. Agriculture has long formed the backbone of the economy. The republic’s cultural institutions, industries, and federal government are concentrated in this rapidly growing metropolitan area.

Philippines has it all. Mabuhay Las Islas Filipinas! Choose Philippines!

There are many beautiful places in the Philippines and one of these is Zambales. Zambales is truly one of kind. It is a place where you can relax and enjoy things. Summer is approaching and if you have any plan for summer, come and let us discover what’s with Zambales. 

Map of Zambales

All About Zambales

By: Nickle Kayta C. Lopez

→ Zambales is a province of the Philippines which is located in the Central Luzon region in the island of Luzon. The capital of it is Iba. Zambales borders Pangasinan to the north, Tarlac and Pampanga to the east, Bataan to the south and the South China Sea to the west. With a land area of 3,830.83 km², Zambales is the second largest among the seven provinces of Central Luzon.

• History

The province’s name came from the word zambal, which is a Hispanized term for Sambali. Zambal refers to the language spoken by the early Austronesian inhabitants of the place. A contending version states that the name was derived from the word samba, meaning worship, because the Spanish supposedly found the native inhabitants to be highly superstitious; worshiping the spirits of their ancestors.

The area now occupied by Zambales was first discovered by the Spanish in 1572, piloted by Juan de Salcedo. Among the earliest towns established were Subic (1572), Botolan (1572), Masinloc (1607), Iba (1611), and Santa Cruz (1612).  The first capital of Zambales was Masinloc. However, the capital was moved among the last three towns above during its history before settling in Iba, due to its strategic location. Seven of the province’s original northern towns, which included Bolinao, Infanta and Alaminos were later transferred under the control of Pangasinan because of their distance from the capital. The first civil governor of Zambales during the American era was Potenciano Lesaca from 1901-1903.

Zambales Day is celebrated every August 30.

• Geography

Zambales lies on the western shores of Luzon island along the South China Sea. Its shoreline is ragged and features many coves and inlets. The Zambales Mountains in the eastern part of the province occupies about 60% of the total land area of Zambales. Subic Bay, at the southern end of the province, provides a natural harbor, and was the location of the U.S. Naval Base Subic Bay until its closure in 1992.

Subic Bay Philippines

Mt. Pinatubo Crater Lake

The summit and crater lake of Mount Pinatubo lies within Botolan municipality in Zambales, near the tripoint of Zambales, Pampanga, and Tarlac provinces. This volcano, once considered dormant, erupted violently in 1991. The former summit of the volcano was obliterated by the eruption and replaced by a 2.5 km (1.6 mi) wide caldera, within which Lake Pinatubo is situated.

Zambales has two pronounced seasons: dry from October to June, and wet from July to September.

Zambales is subdivided into 13 municipalities and 1 highly urbanized city, which are divided into two legislative districts. Olongapo City is a highly urbanized city and administers itself autonomously from the province.

• Demographics

The Aetas of Mount Pinatubo were the earliest inhabitants of what is now the province of Zambales. They were later displaced by the Sambal, an Austronesian people after whom the province is named. Many Sambal still believe in superstitions and mysteries that have been handed down through the generations.

Sambal, Tagalog, and Ilokano are the three main languages of Zambales. Other languages as their mother tongue, such as Kapampangan, including non-Philippine languages such as English are spoken.

• Education

There are a number of higher educational institutions in the province. The Ramon Magsaysay Technological University is the first state university in the province that can be found in Iba. It has also satellite campuses in the municipalities of Sta. Cruz, Candelaria, Masinloc, Botolan, San Marcelino and Castillejos. St. Joseph College-Olongapo and Columban College are college run by the Roman Catholic Church which can be found in Olongapo City while Gordon College is a non-sectarian college which can be found also in the city. The Magsaysay Memorial College is also run by the Roman Catholic Church which can be found in San Narciso.

• Economy

Tourism plays a large role in the economy of Zambales. Local and foreign tourist flock its many beaches creating many job opportunities and contributing to the economy. Most of the province is still agricultural but there are considerable industrial zones that provide jobs not just for residents of Zambales but also for neighboring provinces. Mining has recently been booming in Zambales where there is an abundant deposit of Nickel and other minerals.

• Tourist Attractions

Zambales is one of those places that pretty much has it all – untainted forest landscape, the Sierra Madre mountain range, communities that practice living traditions and 107 miles of pure beach. Plus a whole bunch of cool islands and shoals for day trips and quiet camping trips.

Some Aeta guides hold Jungle Survival classes within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone. Perfect if you’re a fan of “Man vs. Wild” scenarios. You could also be lucky enough to interact with the Aeta in their own mountain villages.

Of course, this is more likely to happen if you choose to go hiking.

If you want to go hiking, you have lots to choose from as about 60% of the area is covered in mountains. Some of the more popular ones are Mt. Tapulao, Mt. Cinco Picos and Mt. Balingkilat.

Of course, since you’re in the Philippines, there must be a beach or a lake somewhere. Here, there are beaches with wreck drives, snorkeling options and even pine-tree lined beaches like the ones in San Antonio!

Pundaquit Beach

San Antonio is where you’ll find the coastal town of Pundaquit, the jump-off point to Anawangin Cove and Nagsasa Cove.  The mountains, pine trees, and rivers here seem a landscape more apt for Colorado – except, it’s a beach! This unique scenery has made the coves a favorite spot of photographers. And because these are coves, the water is calm and the shore gently slopes.  Feel free to pitch a tent and stay the night, just don’t go looking for a cellphone signal!

Right across Pundaquit is Camara Island and Capones Island.  Though both islands are around 30 minutes away by boat, Capones gets more attention because it’s bigger and offers more activities.  You can surf, sunbathe, have a picnic, explore the different sides of the island, or hike up to the Faro de Punta Capones lighthouse.

Faro de Punta Capones lighthouse

Zambales faces the West Philippine Sea, so surfers, expect to get stoked here, especially in San Narciso and San Felipe.  These beach side towns don’t have a shortage of resorts, but The Circle Hostel in San Felipe is the hot new thing.  It’s stripped down to the bare minimums (think three-level bunk beds, no air-conditioning), but you can paint art on the wall, try slack lining (tightrope walking), or join the weekly yoga classes.

The Circle Hostel

Farther north in Candelaria, you’ll find Potipot Island. And the name is perfect, because it’s a cute name for a cute island. In fact, the island is tiny enough for you to walk around it in less than an hour.  The beige sand is fine and it’s perfect for sunbathing.  Sun too harsh? Don’t worry, the large camachile tree provides ample shade.

Pine tree lined beaches, untainted forests, challenging waves, art and yoga by the beach — all within a few hours away from Manila. Zambales is not to be missed!

Top Destinations in Zambales

MUST SEE IN SUBIC

By: Dan Adrian E. Magalong

Subic is a first class municipality in the province of Zambales, located along the northern coast of Subic Bay in the Philippines. It is also a fast-growing municipality and expected to become a component city.

⇒ Ocean Adventure

Step next door for a world of wonder – Ocean Adventure, the only open-water marine park in Southeast Asia. Featuring fantastic shows, 2 aquariums, and multiple opportunities to get up-close and personal with our amazing dolphins, sea lions, and rescued forest animals.

Ocean Adventure!

Swim with Dolphins

Watch the Dolphins Dance at Their Show

Laugh at the Sea Lion Show

Learn at the Wild Life Show

Explore the Aquariums

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Balancing Act

⇒ Camayan Beach Resort and Hotel

Camayan Beach Resort and Hotel is located right next door to Ocean Adventure. Enjoy the shows and attractions at Ocean Adventure, then give yourself a break and enjoy the comfortable rooms, lovely beach and pleasant dining at Camayan Beach Resort.

You will discover a full array of activities including biking, kayaking in the mangroves, snorkeling, diving, walking in the forest, horseback riding, beach games, and more.  Round out the day with a sunset cruise and relaxing massage.

Unwind at Camayan Beach Resort: The Reef Restaurant and Hotel

⇒ Zoobic Safari

Zoobic Safari, the adventure park that made Subic Bay Freeport doubly attractive and a prime tourist destination, has added new features to make every step in the 25-hectare wildlife sanctuary a truly unforgettable experience. Zoobic Safari is one tourist attraction you will find at Subic Bay Freeport’s ForestAdventure. Embracing a twenty five-hectare land, local and foreign guests can expect an astonishing sight of diverse exotic animals roaming and frolicking in their simulated natural habitat. It features a wide range of habitats present in the forest due to the terrain, presence of streams, and fringing grasslands. These represent the major habitats for varied exotic animals featured in Zoobic Safari Adventure Park.

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Zoobic Safari has the following attractions to look forward to, namely:

Zoobic Park A two-hectare forest wherein guests will have a mini-trekking experience to see exotic, wild and semi-domesticated animals in their simulated natural habitat. Have the wonderful chance to pet and feed these wonderful animals – parakeets, bearcats, camels to name a few.

Savannah A sanctuary of the wild that features a wide range of ostriches, potbellies, wild boars, and guinea fowls.

Serpentarium Get inside an old ammunition bunker where you will see a showcase of various species of reptiles like snakes, lizards and  turtles.

Rodent World Features an amazing collection of rodents. Be amazed in Mice Surprise area and you may even see some guinea pigs being groomed in the Rodent Salon.

Animal MuZOOeum A rare collection of real stuffed animals, bone collections and preserved animal skin.

Close Encounter A facility that allows one to take a close look at our Siberian-Bengal tigers only 2 feet away!

Tiger Safari Hold on to your seats as you enter a two-hectare enclosed area aboard our customized Safari Jeep and experience the thrill of being chased by full-grown tigers on the loose!

Bird Walk Experience feeding the parakeets/love birds on the palm of your hand. Lovely!

Aetas’ Trail Have a glimpse of the beauty of our Native Aeta Brothers’ culture as they perform some of their traditional dances.

Croco loco  Have the chance to feed our crocodiles!  Just dangle a chicken tied to a bamboo pole and see how high they can jump to get your treat!

Now Open:

Zoobic Cave and Forbidden Cave Bunkers used by the Americans before which were converted to house preserved/stuffed animals, animal robotics and an array of surprises. Watch out what you’ll see as you walk through the Forbidden Cave’s suspension bridges!

They also offer ZOOMBIC PHOTO a once in a lifetime photo opportunity with our live tigers, bear cat, iguanas and python with personalized photo frame in an affordable price. For a unique souvenir and safari items, visit ZOOVENIR SHOP where you can find different kinds of toys, garments and other safari inspired items.

Only Zoobic Safari can give you a total wild safari experience!

⇒ Tree Top Adventure

Tree-top type adventures and adventure tourism in general are gaining tremendous popularity worldwide. The Tree Top Adventure Park at Subic Bay is patterned after the canopy tour or zip-line tour originally developed in Costa Rica. Situated in the incredible Upper Cubi, deeply-forested jungle-area of Subic is Treetop Adventure; a facility delivering some of the most exciting experiences available in the entire Philippines.

Embark on adventure tourism 100 feet above the ground, as expansive vistas entrench and bathe you in the lush wonder of the Subic rainforest. Experience jungle trails, not of the ordinary variety at all; no, these trails are situated 100 feet above the ground, consisting of platforms, suspension bridges and a motorized treetop canopy system; the world’s first such wilderness-ride.

Tour to Pundaquit

By: Jochelle M. Evalaroza

San Antonio, Zambales San Antonio is a second class municipality in the province of Zambales in the Philippines. San Antonio is increasingly known for its beautiful beaches, majestic mountains and scenic coves. Pundaquit is also fast becoming as surfing capital of Luzon.

⇒ Capones Island

Capones Island This is the bigger of the two islands and is a little further out. The island is thin and you can cross from one side to the other in just a few minutes. Here you find a long sandy beach with rocky water, great for snorkeling. The island has little mini-hikes where it’s easy to climb and you can get a great view from high up. If you’re super adventurous, you can bring your own tent, get dropped off and stay for the night, just you and your crew.

⇒ Anawangin Cove

Anawangin Cove Anawangin is the closest of the 7 coves that line the rocky-cliff coastline from Subic Bay in the south all the way north to Pundaquit where the beach begins again. Not so off-the-beaten-track, this destination has grown in popularity over the past few years with thousands of weekend warriors making this their favorite getaway. It’s a beautiful cove with a kind of grayish white sand beach, great and perfect protected conditions for swimming.

Old Times Never Fade

By: Nathaniel B. Bermillo

⇒ Ramon Magsaysay Ancestral House

Magsaysay Ancestral House, located at Castillejos, Zambales is the ancestral of the seventh Philippine President Ramon Magsaysay. It is open for public viewing. With traces of the past, the Magsaysay residence is was the former leader of the Philippines grew up. This structure houses some of the personal belongings of the late president, from his furniture, appliances, clothing, medallions, and books, to his 1945 Cadillac limousine, and a Willy’s Jeep said to be in good running condition.

⇒ San Augustine Church Iba, Zambales

The faith flourished in the region until the troubled days of the Revolution of 1896. Leaving ruined churches and convents in its wake the revolution, rendered the region practically unattended; only some time later did secular priests took over the some of the vacated parishes. In this state of things the territory became a fertile ground for the Aglipayan schism to gain a foothold and prosper, so much so that almost the whole length and breadth of the province came under Aglipayan influence.

The administration of the faith in the province changed hand when the territory was transferred to the care of the Columban Fathers in 1951. The prelature of Iba was erected on October 18, 1955 as suffrage of the Archdiocese of Manila. The Most Rev. Henry Byre, see was appointed the first prelate ordinary and he took ecumenical possession of concentrating on their work. On November 15, 1982, iba was elevated to diocese upon the death of Bishop Byre, the most Rev. Paciano B. Aniceto, then auxiliary bishop of Tuguegarao, was appointed second bishop of iba. On January 31, 1989, he was appointed Archbishop of San Fernando, Pampanga. The most Rev. Deogracias S. Yniguez, Jr. succeeded him on December 27, 1989.

⇒ San Andres Church Masinloc, Zambales

It is one of the cultural heritage churches in the Philippines because of a polychrome portal leading to the choir loft. It was built with coral stones by Augustinian Recollects in the 18th century and is approximately 400 years old. It is the oldest church in the Diocese of Iba and it has a stood intact until it was damage by an earthquake in the early 1990’s.

As all baroque churches, San Andres Church is characterized by magnificence, grandeur and richness in design. The size of the church is compelling. Though more than four centuries old, the structure still possesses a beauty that will make an experience worthy of journal entry. Perhaps all these years made the church even more beautiful and breathtaking; it goes to prove that there really is beauty in age. The facade of the church, which is believed to be an architectural breakthrough the era it was built, equals the eminence of its size. In the early times niches at the facade were placed and images of San Agustin, San Andres and San Nicholas were installed.

 ⇒ Ina Poon Bato Botolan, Zambales

The original image of Our Lady brought by the friars in 1894 is long gone and in subsequent years, various renditions of the image of Nuestra Senora de la Paz y Buen Viaje of Poonbato have been sculptured. The position of her hands which are now praying hands differ from the original outstretched hands. Versions of Our Lady have been reproduced. Nevertheless, the devotion of Our Lady of Poonbato continues to be a favorite devotion to the people of Zambales.

Delicacies of Zambales

By: John Renzimir Mirano

• Bagnet

This is Zambales’ answer to Ilocos’ Pork Chicharon. Scrupulously prepared by the locals of San Felipe, this Zambales version of chicharon is crispy and too delicious to describe. Harmonized perfectly with a bowl of chili and vinegar, a bowl of hot steaming rice and local pinakbet, this dish will truly give one a taste of heaven. Crispy, juicy and flavourful what can you ask for when you taste the best Lechon Kawali of Zambales! Yeah! It’s called Bagnet! Bagnet is available at the San Felipe Public Market, best bought from 8 till 10 in the morning every day. Juicy! Yummy! Peng! Peng! Peng!

• Mangoes

It’s ordinary fruit yet this is the fruit that comes alive in Zambales. If this fruit is ordinary for the urban places like Manila change Zambales to them because this fruit is a magical fruit and a very important fruit for them because Zambales is just the only Mango Capital of the Philippines. Although, Philippines is the best countries when it comes in producing sweet, sour and different mangoes, Zambales is the major source of Philippines. Perhaps the most famous delight of Zambales is its sweet, sumptuous mangoes! Known for its incomparable sweetness and its taste beyond words, the DInamulag variety is the most popular among Zambales mango varieties. Having the provincial festival named after the Dinamulag variety, Zambales mangoes are one of the thousand reasons why people keep coming back to the province. Aside from bringing home a bagful of mangoes, Zambales mangoes are also transformed into delectable desserts, intriguing cocktail drinks and fresh mango thirst quenchers. Mango-rific!

Many wonderful things can be seen in Zambales. Hope that you will have the opportunity to experience one of them. Mabuhay Zambales! Mabuhay Pilipinas!