Cover Film still from Quezon's Game (Photo: ABS-CBN Film Productions)
Film still from Quezon's Game (Photo: ABS-CBN Film Productions)
1 / 1
Find out more about these gorgeous locations that breathe life into some of our favourite historical Filipino movies
They might have caught your eye many times as you indulge in your favourite Filipino romantic drama set in ages past or an epic historical war film that unleashed your nationalistic pride. Try planning a getaway trip or a leisurely walk in these places in the country. With much history, beauty, and old-world charm, there's so much for you to see.
In case you missed it: Let's Keep Filipino Heritage Alive, Escuela Taller de Filipinas Shares Their Story
1. Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar
Jose "Jerry" Acuzar of San Jose Builders envisioned this heritage resort in Bagac, Bataan to be a new dwelling place of the most iconic ancestral homes and structures in the country's history that have been lost throughout time. Giving them a "second wind", the builders recreated the heritage structures from rediscovered blueprints and archival photographs. Dotted with 1880s-designed streetlamps with streets and sidewalks laden with cobblestones, one would feel the air of the past in every corner of Las Casas. Visitors may opt to stay in any of the houses specifically made for accommodation purposes, or host a grand event in Hotel de Oriente.
Seen in Quezon's Game, Hele sa Hiwagang Hapis, Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral, Heneral Luna, Supremo, and more
Related: Meet The Artisans And Craftsmen Of Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar In Bagac, Bataan
2. Negros Occidental
Mostly spared from the destruction of WWII, the so-called "sugar capital of the Philippines" is home to many surviving art deco mansions and buildings. As the home of the illustrious sugar baron families, Negros exudes style and elegance in its interpretation of the French architectural style. The Gaston ancestral house at Manapla is perhaps the most recognisable being used in the films of Peque Gallaga, but the Hofileña ancestral house and Ledesma Golez heritage house at Silay are just some of the most adored due to their undeniable allure. Meanwhile, tourists often visit the ruins of the Mariano Ledesma Lacson mansion being the most iconic of all. It is a two-storey structure featuring Italian architecture with neo-romanesque columns.
Seen in Oro Plata Mata, Sonata, Gumising Ka...Maruja, and more
See also: Inside the Storied City of Silay
3. Intramuros, Manila
Once the centre of commerce, trade, and politics in Manila during the Spanish Colonisation Period, Intramuros is one of the oldest districts in the capital. Despite the destruction of the Battle of Manila, it had its fortified walls survive the test of time. Most of the structures inside Intramuros suffered from irreparable damages during the war and so the Intramuros administration reconstructed most of these and opened the "Walled City" to the public as a tourist destination. With Jose Rizal who lived, studied, and was imprisoned in the said district as the most prominent of the country's list of heroes, Intramuros has been the filming location of many historical dramas, either in film or in television.
Seen in Jose Rizal, Ang Larawan, Kakabakaba ka ba?, Unoffcially Yours, and more
More from Tatler: Where To Travel In The Philippines: 7 Places To Discover Filipino Heritage
4. Vigan, Ilocos Sur
Another idyllic location that still resonates Spanish era architecture is Vigan, a UNESCO world heritage site, in the province of Ilocos Sur. Aside from having visitors marvel at the architectural wonders of Calle Crisologo and other areas in the city, Vigan also promotes local artisans and craftsmen, dishes, and snacks, and encourages tourists to support heritage conservation.
Seen in Eternity, Spirit Warriors: The Shortcut, Saan Ka Man Naroroon, Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay, and more
5. Mindanao
The Philippines' very own "land down under" is a cultural melting pot of indigenous tribes, Catholics, and Muslims. The vast landscapes in Bukidnon, hidden natural wonders of South Cotabato, and the rich culture of the entire island region, to name a few, make up for Mindanao's distinctive charm and mystery.
Seen in Birdshot, K'Na the Dreamweaver, Mindanao, Women of the Weeping River, and more
NOW READ
An Instagram-Worthy Stay: 12 Picturesque Hotels Around the World
The Walls That Built a Hero: The Houses Where Dr Jose Rizal Stayed
About
Before assuming the Art and Culture Editor position, Franz has always had a penchant for visual and performing arts. He is passionate about exploring and writing about the local cultural scene and rediscovering the country’s storied past and rich heritage. Besides working on this luxury lifestyle magazine, Franz is an avid book reader, local traveller, museum-goer, chorister, and community theatre playwright.
Work
Franz earned a degree in Journalism from the University of Santo Tomas. He writes about local visual and performing artists and their craft; drinks wines, liquors, and spirits and talks about the creativity of their respective winemakers and master blenders; tries to learn more about business and investments; respects the tradition and artistry that go behind the making of watches and jewellery; and appreciates the genius of architecture and creative design.
As head of Tatler Philippines’ pool of writers, he helps them bring impactful and socially relevant stories to light.
For any leads, you may reach him through @franzsorillaiv on Instagram or franz@tatlerphilippines.com via email.
