Early Christmas Treat to the "Shrine City of the Phillipines"- Dapitan

It was a complicated itinerary we took last December 2012. Mama, Papa, Beboy and Queenie together with some KCES teachers needed to travel by land from Kalilangan to Dapitan for more than 9 hours while me on the other hand traveled overnight on board George Peter Lines from Cebu City. I was the earliest to arrive in Dapitan at around 6am. New to this city was such a challenge; no one fetched me at the pier hence I decided to disembark around 6:30am. I even thought of staying in the ship while I wait for them to arrive but I realized that it is not safe at all especially that I am travelling alone. By the way,they were scheduled to arrive at 10am so I have to wait for more than 3 hours.

Surprisingly, upon arrival I was greeted by friendly folks. I did not have any qualms of asking a vendor as to  where I can spend my time while waiting for my family. After having a quick breakfast I then rode a tricycle to visit Rizal Shrine which is less than 20 minutes ride from the pier.

Tip: Opt to ride a tricycle and pay PHP20 rather than a motorcyle.

I spent my entire morning in Rizal Shrine while waiting for my family and KNHS teachers. Kudos to the caretakers of this place for making me feel "at home". 

Rizal's Family Tree

The group arrived around 11am. We then quickly toured the place and took our lunch at Gloria de Dapitan theme park. Part of the package was a city tour which allowed us to see the historical landmarks of Dapitan.



@ Rizal Shrine

San Vicente Parish Church and Map of Mindanao created by Dr. Jose Rizal

San Vicente Ferrer Parish Church Interior

Streets of Dapitan City

Lunch at Gloria de Dapitan

After taking a quick rest at Dakak Beach Resort, the group conquered the rides at Gloria de Dapitan.

It was a tiresome but fun-filled day. Our pictures says it all :) To cap the night, we headed back to Dakak Beach Resort..stroll the area for few minutes then dozed off.