The cultural wanderer’s guide to Baler: More than just a surf town

The ancestral home of Aurora Aragon turned museum, the Doña Aurora Aragon-Quezon House, gives tourists a glimpse into what life was like for one of the Philippines’ most notable figures. Inside, you’ll find Doña Aurora’s original dresses and old photographs. While the house has been restored now, one pillar of the foundation is from the original structure.

Fun fact: Doña Aurora Aragon-Quezon loved to read and often had a stack of books in each of her residences. 

Famously known for being the site of the Siege of Baler, the San Luis Obispo Church was originally built in 1611 and was the last Spanish garrison in the Philippines—even after the Philippine independence had been declared. The church was rebuilt in 1939, retaining its original details such as the La Campana de Baler, the church’s bell which dates back to the 17th century.

Fun fact: The 2008 film, Baler which was shown at the Metro Manila Film Festival was based on the siege.

Designed by Luis Yee, Jr—better known as Junyee, the father of installation art in the Philippines—the Baler Monument is dedicated to the people on the occasion of the 400th Anniversary of Baler’s township. The structure itself is composed of four white pillars interconnected by 100 steel bars, representing the town’s continuous rise from its humble beginnings. The platform of the 12-metre tall monument is made of vigan tyles meant to highlight Baler’s kayumanggi race—a product of the town’s Spanish heritage.

See also: Road Less Travelled: Exploring the splendour of Mayon Volcano in Legazpi, Albay

Situated just 20 minutes away from Baler’s town, the Millennium Tree is estimated to be over 600 years old and is the largest of its kind in Asia. Towering over 65 metres tall with a circumference of 15 metres, the tree has formed intricate patterns with its roots and branches over the years—forming a cave deep enough to enter. Visitors are allowed to climb the tree’s trunk, just make sure not to exceed three metres in height.

Tatler tip: Due to the tree’s massive bulk, panoramic photos are best to play around with to capture its whole glory.

Aurora is home to numerous waterfalls, however, the Ditumabo Mother Falls in Baler’s neighbouring town, San Luis, is set apart from the rest due to its stunning beauty and cascading tiers. Getting here is a great effort, requiring a 45-minute to an-hour guided trek. It’s best to wear comfortable waterproof shoes as you’ll get wet before you even get to the waterfall. Upon arrival, you’re free to take a dip in its crystal clear and icy cold waters. If you want a rush of adrenaline, you can jump from any of the tiers to the pool below.

Fun fact: It’s called the ‘Mother Falls’ as it’s the tallest waterfall in Aurora at 43 metres high—described as the ‘mother’ of all waterfalls in the province.

Baler, just like any coastal town, is renowned for its seafood—particularly big fishes such as blue marlin and mahi-mahi. Fried, grilled, or in sinigang, you can have it however way you like. The best spots are around Sabang Beach, namely Kusina Luntian—a modest open-air restaurant that encourages diners to eat with their hands—and Kubli Bistro which offers fusion Filipino dishes and innovative cocktails. The town is also famous for its pako salad which can be found in almost every establishment you’re bound to visit, so make sure to try that.

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