It’s been a while since I have been to Laguna. The last time I was there was in 2000 in Cabuyao visiting a wake for my aunt after spending 14 years in Japan. It’s totally fascinating to see the place progress through the years with so many structures and attractions. Prime real estate housings has emerged throughout the province with family attractions such as the Enchanted Kingdom and an unlimited number of class A hot spring resorts are now more visible and more modernized than ever. Well Laguna is famous as it is the birth place of Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippine’s national hero and one of the provinces that comprise the CALABARZON Region. The University of the Philippines Los Banos ( UP Los Banos ) is still the top regional school for agriculture and with other normal courses offered. Fishing and fish farming is one of the top grossers of the province’s economy as bangus and tilapia are abundant in Laguna, a major supplier for Metro Manila, and thanks to its still clear waters of Laguna de Bay.

Laguna which has a very flourishing and promising economy is also one of the big producers of coconut and related products such as oil, copra and soap with other agri products locally grown; sugar cane, corn and unlimited varieties of tropical fruits. Laguna also grows abundantly and the only place to find Lanzones that is noted for its sweetness. With so many agriculture products Laguna produces, other towns and municipalities have their own specialties that made them known such as clothing embroideries in Lumban, the wood carving industry in Paete, the shoe and slipper industry of Liliw are just a few examples. Landmarks of churches and shrines are also a major and favorite destination places with Binan, Calamba and Nagcarlan to name a few.

Attractions and resorts are still a prime movers and shakers for Laguna with the top natural getaway for locals and foreign travelers is still the Pagsanjan Falls with its cold fresh water to take a dip or for camping, trekking, mountain climbing in Mount Makiling, hots springs of Pansol, the seven lakes of San Pablo City and a tour of its garden of fresh flowers in Caliraya and Cavinti. Man made attractions should not be discounted as well as a number of these has emerged through the years with an unlimited modern resort facilities of hot springs, dive and pools. The Anilag Festival is the most sought after of its yearly affairs and colorful parades celebrated in the month of August.