BATANGAS: MORE THAN A RAY IN THE FLAG

Batangas is one of the first eight provinces that participated in the 1896 Philippine revolution alongside Manila, Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Cavite, Nueva Ecija, and Laguna which are represented by the eight rays of sun in the Philippine flag. But aside from being the home of kapeng barako, balisong, the Taal Volcano, and its well-renowned governor, Vilma Santos, Batangas is more than just a tourist destination and a name represented in our flag.

Aside from Batangas being famous for its beaches as a hot spot for retreats, team buildings, family outings, and vacations Houses and lots for sale in Batangas are also in high demand because of its close proximity to the metro which is just a 2- hour drive away . Factor in the cool weather and Batangas quickly becomes a refreshing escape from the Manila hustle.

But behind the comforting image of Batangas is a history that is worthy of a tale.

Batangas is home to some of the most influential and unforgettable icons of our time. The Brain of the Revolution, Apolinario Mabini, is from Batangas; Marcella Agoncillo, one of the women who made the Philppine Flag, is also from Batangas and so is Miguel Malvar, a young general during the American war; Jose P. Laurel, the third president of the Republic of the Philippines; Segunda Katigbak, the alleged first love of our national hero; Ogie Alcasid, an award winning singer/composer/comedian; Renee Salud, one of the most celebrated fashion designer in the country; Dr. Bienvenido Lumbera, national artist for literature; and other stars like Ai-ai delas Alas, Ryan Agoncillo, and Leo Martinez are all from the esteemed province.

Batangas is also known for its magnificent and well-preserved churches. Taal Church was even chosen as a location to shoot the famous “chicken vendor scene” in the recent critically-acclaimed movie, Heneral Luna. Another scene, wherein Luna kneeled and his men prayed before going out to war was inside the same church.

You can also find the Mabini Shrine in Batangas. This shrine houses the remains and belongings of Apolinario Mabini. The General Malvar Museum and Library can also be found in Batangas to commemorate the last general who surrendered to the American forces. The Punta de Santiago Lighthouse, the oldest functioning lighthouse that has guided ships since 1890, can also be found in Calatagan, Batangas.

Those seeking for a slice of culture won’t be disappointed too. The Taal Heritage Village is one of the preserved cultural sites that datesd back to theSpanish colonial era which conforms to the hall-school-church and houses layout. Basilica of San Martin de Tours, a church that has withstood the calm and rage of the Taal volcano, was once hailed to be the biggest church in the whole of East Asia.

These are just some of the things that make Batangas more than just a ray in our flag. And if you’re not yet convinced, then take a tour and see how Batangas will tell youits tale and maybe you can join the hunt for house and lot for sale in Batangas too.