“It was a combination of everything I wanted in a study abroad experience: course work, community service, and cultural excursions. I learned so much about myself and the world around me. Being Filipino-American, I discovered what it meant to be Filipino and how it translates into who I am today, which has been the greatest gift of the IPSL program.”
- Antoinette, University of California - San Diego
On weekends, students go on trips visiting historic sites such as Corregidor and Subic Bay or to enjoy the breezes of Baguio City (the summer capital of the Philippines ) or the famous resort of Puerto Galera.
Corregidor is a historic island, the last bastion of the joint forces of American and Filipino soldiers during World War II. It stands as a monument to the friendship of America and the Philippines. Touring the island reminds visitors of the struggle of both forces for freedom and democracy. A special feature on the island is the sound-stage production of the fateful days of Corregidor before it fell on May 6, 1945.
Subic Bay is a village rehabilitated after the Americans left the military camp in 1986. Patterned after the American territory, the site has a modern hotel/hostel, commercial amenities and a beach resort.
Baguio City is the summer capital of the Philippines. It is a 7-hour ride from Manila on land. Bounded by mountains, the city’s weather is cool. The highlight of the city is the 150 steps ascending to the statue of the Lady of Lourdes and the Philippine Military Academy, where the brilliant Filipino soldiers were schooled and trained.
Tagaytay is a 3-hour ride from Manila. Through the city, one can reach Taal Volcano or just watch its magnificence along the highway while eating the famous pineapple or sipping buco (coconut) juice. To feel a European ambience, one can visit Tagaytay Highland, an exclusive village where hotels and hostels have European-inspired architecture with amenities such as swimming pools, golf courses, spas and mono-trains.
Puerto Galera is a haven from the fast life of the metropolis. A 3-hour bus ride from Manila to Batangas and a ferry boat from Batangas to Mindoro, Puerto Galera promises good swimming and exciting night life. There is also an opportunity to meet Mangyans, an ethic tribe living along the mountain ranges.
Sagada, a mountain province, is a 14-hour bus ride from Manila into the spiraling trail of the mountains. The province boasts of intercultural interaction with the mountain tribes of Ifugaos, Bontoks, Kankanais. Famous waterfalls within the caves and hanging coffins in the entrance of the caves promise an exhilarating experience for visitors. Along the route, one can stop in Banaue and catch a glimpse of one of the world’s greatest wonders, the Banaue Rice Terraces.
Trekking in the mountain provinces and visits to beach resorts are permitted depending upon the pervading climate of the season.
