I call this place "heart of my soul", not because it was my birthplace, neither it was the place i spent my chilhood ..but indeed it was the place to where the two most important men in my life spent their grown up years,..the place where i gave my heart and my life to the man i love,.the King and Prince of my life....my husband and my only son...."inaro ko kamoy luwa tan mahalaga kamo ha biyay ko."
And to all who read this let me share you the opportunity to reveal,explore and unfold the hidden beauty ,history and uniqueness of ZAMBALES..
To all people of Zambales,... WELCOME HOME!!!
Friday, March 7, 2008
Province of Zambales
Zambales is a province of the Philippines located in the Central Luzon region. Its capital is Iba. Zambales borders Pangasinan to the north, Tarlac and Pampanga to the east, and Bataan to the south. The province lies between the South China Sea and the Zambales Mountains. With a land area of 3,700 km, Zambales is the second largest among the six provinces of Central Luzon. It has a population density of 170 people per square kilometer², one of the lowest in the country. The province is noted for its mangoes, which are abundant from January to April.
Zambales is served by the Subic Bay International Airport, which is located in Subic, Zambales and part of Bataan province. Subic Bay Freeport Zone is host to many tourist attractions which include casinos, beach resorts, parks, beachside huts and cottages and historical artifacts.
Zambales is served by the Subic Bay International Airport, which is located in Subic, Zambales and part of Bataan province. Subic Bay Freeport Zone is host to many tourist attractions which include casinos, beach resorts, parks, beachside huts and cottages and historical artifacts.
Zambales Mountains
The Zambales Mountains are a mountain range located on the western side of Luzon, in the Philippines. The mountains separate Luzon's central plain from the South China Sea and extend out as the Bataan Peninsula to the south, enclosing Manila Bay.
Mount Pinatubo is an active volcano in the mountain range and it erupted at 8.50 am on June 12, 1991. It was the second most powerful volcanic eruption of the 20th century after the 1912 eruption of Novarupta. The volcanic eruption coincided with the arrival of tropical typhoon Yunya. The U.S. Military Base at Clark Field near Angeles City, Pampanga, was covered in thick volcanic ash and lahar.
Mount Pinatubo is an active volcano in the mountain range and it erupted at 8.50 am on June 12, 1991. It was the second most powerful volcanic eruption of the 20th century after the 1912 eruption of Novarupta. The volcanic eruption coincided with the arrival of tropical typhoon Yunya. The U.S. Military Base at Clark Field near Angeles City, Pampanga, was covered in thick volcanic ash and lahar.
Language,Writings and Religion of Austronesian
Writing among pre-modern Austronesians were limited to the Indianized states and sultanates in Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. However, prehistoric petroglyphs like the Rongorongo and Angono Petroglyphs may suggest otherwise.
Writing systems include abugidas from the Brahmic family, such as Baybayin, the Javanese script, and Old Kawi. Other writing systems include Jawi, an abjad derived from the Arabic script, as well as the modern alphabets derived from the Latin alphabet (ex. Hawaiian alphabet, Tagalog alphabet).
Religion
Indigenous religions were initially predominant. Mythologies vary by culture and geographical location, but are generally bound by the belief in an all-powerful Divine being. Other beliefs such as Ancestor Worship, Animism, and Shamanism are also practiced. Currently, many of these beliefs have gradually been replaced. Examples of native religions include: Anito, Gabâ, Kejawen, and the Māori religion. The moai of the Rapa Nui is another example since they are built to represent deceased ancestors.
Southeast Asian contact with India and China allowed the introduction of Hinduism and Buddhism. Later, Muslim traders introduced the Islamic faith during the 12th century. The European Age of Discovery brought Christianity to various parts of the region. Currently, the dominant religions are Christianity (East Timor, Madagascar, Pacific Islands, Philippines), Islam (Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei), and Hinduism (Indonesia and Fiji).
Writing systems include abugidas from the Brahmic family, such as Baybayin, the Javanese script, and Old Kawi. Other writing systems include Jawi, an abjad derived from the Arabic script, as well as the modern alphabets derived from the Latin alphabet (ex. Hawaiian alphabet, Tagalog alphabet).
Religion
Indigenous religions were initially predominant. Mythologies vary by culture and geographical location, but are generally bound by the belief in an all-powerful Divine being. Other beliefs such as Ancestor Worship, Animism, and Shamanism are also practiced. Currently, many of these beliefs have gradually been replaced. Examples of native religions include: Anito, Gabâ, Kejawen, and the Māori religion. The moai of the Rapa Nui is another example since they are built to represent deceased ancestors.
Southeast Asian contact with India and China allowed the introduction of Hinduism and Buddhism. Later, Muslim traders introduced the Islamic faith during the 12th century. The European Age of Discovery brought Christianity to various parts of the region. Currently, the dominant religions are Christianity (East Timor, Madagascar, Pacific Islands, Philippines), Islam (Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei), and Hinduism (Indonesia and Fiji).
Austronesian Culture
The culture of Austronesia has been influenced by a variety of different nations, particularly that of India, China, and the Western world.
Many countries have been Westernized to varying degrees. The cultures of the Philippines, Palau, Northern Marianas Islands, and Guam have been largely affected by Hispanicization and Americanization. That of French Polynesia have been affected by Francization. Austronesians living in Malaysia, Indonesia, East Timor, Micronesia, Kiribati, Tonga, Vanuatu, Fiji, Solomon Islands, and Western Samoa have also undergone Westernisation, although to a lesser degree.
The early Austronesian peoples considered the sea as their basic tenet of their life. From their diaspora to Southeast Asia and Oceania, they used ships to migrate to other islands. Boats of different sizes and shapes have been found in every Austronesian culture, from Madagascar to Polynesia, and have different names.
In Southeast Asia, head-hunting was particularly restricted to the highlands, while in Oceania, head-hunting was\s virtually widespread, both as a ritual method as a result of warfare and as a source of food. Cannibalism was also practiced in the southern fringes of Oceania, especially in New Guinea and Vanuatu, while it is very uncommon in Southeast Asia. Mummification is only found among the highland Austronesian Filipinos and in some Indonesian groups in Celebes and Sumatra.
Many countries have been Westernized to varying degrees. The cultures of the Philippines, Palau, Northern Marianas Islands, and Guam have been largely affected by Hispanicization and Americanization. That of French Polynesia have been affected by Francization. Austronesians living in Malaysia, Indonesia, East Timor, Micronesia, Kiribati, Tonga, Vanuatu, Fiji, Solomon Islands, and Western Samoa have also undergone Westernisation, although to a lesser degree.
The early Austronesian peoples considered the sea as their basic tenet of their life. From their diaspora to Southeast Asia and Oceania, they used ships to migrate to other islands. Boats of different sizes and shapes have been found in every Austronesian culture, from Madagascar to Polynesia, and have different names.
In Southeast Asia, head-hunting was particularly restricted to the highlands, while in Oceania, head-hunting was\s virtually widespread, both as a ritual method as a result of warfare and as a source of food. Cannibalism was also practiced in the southern fringes of Oceania, especially in New Guinea and Vanuatu, while it is very uncommon in Southeast Asia. Mummification is only found among the highland Austronesian Filipinos and in some Indonesian groups in Celebes and Sumatra.
History of Austronesian
The first Austronesian speakers are believed to have originated on the island of Taiwan following the migration of a group, or groups, of Pre-Austronesian speaking peoples from continental Asia approximately 10,000-6000 B.C. Due to a lengthy split from the Pre-Austronesian populations, the Proto-Austronesian language and cultures emerged on Taiwan (Blust,1988).
Beginning around 5000-2500 B.C., the large scale Austronesian expansion began. Population growth primarily fueled this expansion. A society that gives prestige and a higher status to the descendants of a community's founder added more incentive to settle new lands.
These first settlers landed in northern Luzon in the Philippines. Over the next thousand years up until 1500 B.C., their descendants started to spread south to the rest of the Philippine islands, Celebes (modern-day Sulawesi), northern Borneo, Moluccas (modern-day Maluku), and Java.
The settlers in Moluccas sailed eastward and began to spread to the islands of Melanesia and Micronesia between 1200 B.C. and 500 B.C. repectively. Those that spread westward reached Sumatra, the Malay peninsula and southern Vietnam by 500 B.C.
The oceanic Austronesians had discovered Remote Polynesia by 1000 B.C and settled its three extremities Hawaii by 400 A.D. New Zealand by 1300 A.D. and Easter Island by 300 A.D. In the Indian Ocean they reached Madagascar.
Trade with India and China flourished within the first millennia A.D., which allowed the creation of Indianized states. Muslim traders began arriving during the 10th century and brought with them Islam as well as the sultanates.
Europeans in search of spices later colonized most of Austronesia, starting from the 16th century, with British and Portuguese colonization of Malaysia, Portuguese and the Dutch colonization of Indonesia and East Timor, and the Spanish colonization and, later, the American governance of the Philippines. Meanwhile, the British, Germans, French, Americans, and Japanese began establishing spheres of influence within the Pacific Islands during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Japanese later invaded during World War II. The latter half of the 20th century initiated independence of modern day Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines and many of the Pacific Island nations.
Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines enjoyed a high rate of economic growth during the authoritarian rule of Suharto and Marcos that were later established years after the independence of Indonesia and the Philippines. Due to political and economic pressures from within and outside the countries at the time, stagnation resulted for a short period. Marcos' regime was toppled in 1986 and Suharto's rule ended in 1998 and the economies of the two countries are finally recovering but problems and challenges remain.
The Asian financial crisis in the mid-to-late 1990s largely devastated the economies of the Austronesian nations in Southeast Asia. Most economic indicators are back to pre-crisis levels as of 2006.
The Sumatra-Andaman earthquake hit Indonesia in 2004, killing 130,000 individuals there and producing a worldwide total of 230,000 casualties; it also displaced at least a million people.
Beginning around 5000-2500 B.C., the large scale Austronesian expansion began. Population growth primarily fueled this expansion. A society that gives prestige and a higher status to the descendants of a community's founder added more incentive to settle new lands.
These first settlers landed in northern Luzon in the Philippines. Over the next thousand years up until 1500 B.C., their descendants started to spread south to the rest of the Philippine islands, Celebes (modern-day Sulawesi), northern Borneo, Moluccas (modern-day Maluku), and Java.
The settlers in Moluccas sailed eastward and began to spread to the islands of Melanesia and Micronesia between 1200 B.C. and 500 B.C. repectively. Those that spread westward reached Sumatra, the Malay peninsula and southern Vietnam by 500 B.C.
The oceanic Austronesians had discovered Remote Polynesia by 1000 B.C and settled its three extremities Hawaii by 400 A.D. New Zealand by 1300 A.D. and Easter Island by 300 A.D. In the Indian Ocean they reached Madagascar.
Trade with India and China flourished within the first millennia A.D., which allowed the creation of Indianized states. Muslim traders began arriving during the 10th century and brought with them Islam as well as the sultanates.
Europeans in search of spices later colonized most of Austronesia, starting from the 16th century, with British and Portuguese colonization of Malaysia, Portuguese and the Dutch colonization of Indonesia and East Timor, and the Spanish colonization and, later, the American governance of the Philippines. Meanwhile, the British, Germans, French, Americans, and Japanese began establishing spheres of influence within the Pacific Islands during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Japanese later invaded during World War II. The latter half of the 20th century initiated independence of modern day Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines and many of the Pacific Island nations.
Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines enjoyed a high rate of economic growth during the authoritarian rule of Suharto and Marcos that were later established years after the independence of Indonesia and the Philippines. Due to political and economic pressures from within and outside the countries at the time, stagnation resulted for a short period. Marcos' regime was toppled in 1986 and Suharto's rule ended in 1998 and the economies of the two countries are finally recovering but problems and challenges remain.
The Asian financial crisis in the mid-to-late 1990s largely devastated the economies of the Austronesian nations in Southeast Asia. Most economic indicators are back to pre-crisis levels as of 2006.
The Sumatra-Andaman earthquake hit Indonesia in 2004, killing 130,000 individuals there and producing a worldwide total of 230,000 casualties; it also displaced at least a million people.
Austronesian (first native of zambales)
The Austronesian people or Austronesian-speaking people, are a population group present in Oceania and Southeast Asia who speak, or had ancestors who spoke, one of the Austronesian languages. They form a diverse group of peoples stretching 57% around the globe west-to-east, ranging 206° from 44°E in Madagascar to 110° W on Easter Island. The territories settled primarily by Austronesian peoples are known collectively as Austronesia.
Aeta (native of zambales)
The Aeta (pronounced as “eye-ta,”), Agta or Ayta are an indigenous people who live in scattered, isolated mountainous parts of Luzon, the Philippines. They are considered to be Negritos, who are dark to very dark brown skinned and tend to have features such as a small stature, small frame, curly hair, small nose, and dark brown eyes. They are thought to be the first inhabitants of the Philippines, preceding the Austronesian migrations.
The Aeta were included in the group of people termed "Negrito" during Spanish colonial rule as Negritos. Various Aeta groups in northern Luzon are known as "Pugut" or "Pugot," a name designated by their Ilocano-speaking neighbors, and which is the colloquial term for those with darker complexions. In Ilocano, the word also means "goblin" or "forest spirit."
The Aeta were included in the group of people termed "Negrito" during Spanish colonial rule as Negritos. Various Aeta groups in northern Luzon are known as "Pugut" or "Pugot," a name designated by their Ilocano-speaking neighbors, and which is the colloquial term for those with darker complexions. In Ilocano, the word also means "goblin" or "forest spirit."
Sambal People
The Sambal (Spanish: zambales) are a Filipino ethnic group living primarily in the province of Zambales, the city of Olongapo, and the Pangasinense municipalities of Bolinao and Anda.
Traditions
The Sambal are the original Austronesian inhabitants of the province of Zambales and the city of Olongapo in the Philippines. They speak Tina, Bolinao, or Botolan, all of which are Sambalic languages. The Sambalic languages are most closely related to Kapampangan and to an archaic form of Tagalog still spoken in Tanay in the province of Rizal. This has been interpreted to mean that the Sambal originated from that area, later being displaced by migrating Tagalogs from Marinduque around 600 BC, pushing the original inhabitants northward to what is now the province of Zambales, in turn, displacing the Aetas.
The Spanish, in their first encouters with the Sambal, supposedly found them to be highly superstitious and who worshipped the spirits of their ancestors. To this day, most Sambal still believe in superstitions and mysteries.
Like the Moros, the culture and customs of the Sambal are different from that of neighboring groups. This is evident in their traditional dress, which consists of a single-shoulder short-sleeved shirt, paired with short trousers. Usually worn at the chest and shoulder areas of the shirt are badges that resemble multicolored crosses.The way they do their hair is also different. They shave off half of their head at the front, the remaining hair flowing from the top of the skull and hanging at the nape, and making their foreheads look wider.
The Sambal were known to be fierce warriors, notorious for their bloody raids on Christian settlements.They have been occasionally recruited by Indio commanders (indio was the term used for the Austronesian inhabitants of the Philippines) in campaigns against the Spanish, who then governed the islands. The Sambal were also once known to have captured and enslaved Diego Silang as a child, eventually being ransomed by a Recollect missionary in Zambales.
It was recorded as customary for the Sambal to execute those who have taken another person’s life, unless done by decapitation. Their manner of execution was to bore a hole at the top of the skull and then scrape out the brains.
Traditions
The Sambal are the original Austronesian inhabitants of the province of Zambales and the city of Olongapo in the Philippines. They speak Tina, Bolinao, or Botolan, all of which are Sambalic languages. The Sambalic languages are most closely related to Kapampangan and to an archaic form of Tagalog still spoken in Tanay in the province of Rizal. This has been interpreted to mean that the Sambal originated from that area, later being displaced by migrating Tagalogs from Marinduque around 600 BC, pushing the original inhabitants northward to what is now the province of Zambales, in turn, displacing the Aetas.
The Spanish, in their first encouters with the Sambal, supposedly found them to be highly superstitious and who worshipped the spirits of their ancestors. To this day, most Sambal still believe in superstitions and mysteries.
Like the Moros, the culture and customs of the Sambal are different from that of neighboring groups. This is evident in their traditional dress, which consists of a single-shoulder short-sleeved shirt, paired with short trousers. Usually worn at the chest and shoulder areas of the shirt are badges that resemble multicolored crosses.The way they do their hair is also different. They shave off half of their head at the front, the remaining hair flowing from the top of the skull and hanging at the nape, and making their foreheads look wider.
The Sambal were known to be fierce warriors, notorious for their bloody raids on Christian settlements.They have been occasionally recruited by Indio commanders (indio was the term used for the Austronesian inhabitants of the Philippines) in campaigns against the Spanish, who then governed the islands. The Sambal were also once known to have captured and enslaved Diego Silang as a child, eventually being ransomed by a Recollect missionary in Zambales.
It was recorded as customary for the Sambal to execute those who have taken another person’s life, unless done by decapitation. Their manner of execution was to bore a hole at the top of the skull and then scrape out the brains.
NAVCOMSTAPHIL
U.S. Naval Communications Station San Miguel (NAVCOMSTAPHIL), also, Naval Station San Miguel was a facility of the United States Navy located in San Antonio, Zambales, The Philippines. During the Vietnam War, all communications from Vietnam to the United States Mainland was routed first through here by an undersea cable from Nha Trang, and was then forwarded to [[Naval Link Station Mount Santa Rita then to the HF transmitter site at the Naval Communication Transmitting Facility, Capas in Tarlac.
Spanish Gate
Spanish Gate- construted to protect the arsenal built by the spaniards.located also in Olongapo City.
Botolan Wildlife Farm
Situated less than 20 minutes away from the capital Iba, Botolan Wildlife Farm is the place for the whole family to escape to. We welcome you to our paradise in Zambales, we will amaze you with our extensive range of exotic animals and beautiful plants.
You can relax, surrounded by beautiful gardens, while the children can let off steam, play and discover wildlife at their own pleasure. Come and discover the fun!
The zoological garden offers a rich pallet at observation and information possibilities for visitors. Our groups of animals, the main actors in their near nature arranged habitats, expect you !
Be surprised by the exciting behaviors of our animals and variety of the farm's surroundings ! We wish you and your family a joyful and interesting outing !
You can relax, surrounded by beautiful gardens, while the children can let off steam, play and discover wildlife at their own pleasure. Come and discover the fun!
The zoological garden offers a rich pallet at observation and information possibilities for visitors. Our groups of animals, the main actors in their near nature arranged habitats, expect you !
Be surprised by the exciting behaviors of our animals and variety of the farm's surroundings ! We wish you and your family a joyful and interesting outing !
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Well Known Tourist Spots in Zambales
Zoobic Zafari-
The famous animal tourist spot known as" Zoobic Zafari "is located at Subic Bay ,Olongapo City.
Well Known Tourist Spots in Zambales
Pres.Ramon Magsaysay ancestral house-
The popular "Man of the Masses" was the most famous citizen produced by Zambales Province. His deeds are commemorated by the Birth Marker in Iba and the Ancestral House in Castillejos Zambales.
Well Known Tourist Spots in Zambales
Butterfly Garden-
As might be expected in a rainforest region, Zambales is home to a dazzling variety of insects including manyrare butterflies at Subic, a tourist spot known as the" Butterfly Garden" showcases an enclosed butterfly farming exhibit.
Well Known Tourist Spots in Zambales
Mt.Pinatubo-
While some areas of the vast Mt.Pinatubo watershed are still biologically sterile, most regions have recovered since lahar flows stopped in 1997.Aquatic ecosystem including fish,vegetation, insects,algae,crustaceans, and the like have returned.
Well Known Tourist Spots in Zambales
White Rock Beach Ressort-
it is a 5.7 hectare property nestled along the beaches of subic bay,just 2 hrs. drive from Balintawak toll plaza.It is a leisurely drive passing through national highways,farmlands and scenic spots.
Well Known Tourist Spots in Zambales
Mt. Tapulao-
Palauigians knew the existence of this gorgeous mountain and kept it to themselves. Its high peaks and climate can be compared with that of Baguio's. If developed this could be the nation's second summer capital. Serious hikers and mountaineers are regular visitors of this mountain.
Well Known Tourist Spots in Zambales
Potipot Island-
Located at Candelaria, it also boasts of clean beach front and natural caves good for spelunking.
Tourist Attractions
Zambales hosts 173 kilometers of beaches, with coral reefs, diving, surfing, hotels, and day-use beach huts. The beaches are approximately a 3 to 4 hour drive from Manila, though this can vary greatly with traffic.
The "Fiesta Poon Bato," held in January, is a religious festival that attracts over half a million people each year. The festival venerates Ina Poon Bato (Nuestra Senora de la Paz y Buen Viaje), the oldest known image of the Virgin Mother in Asia . The actual barrio of Poon Bato was completely destroyed during the Pinatubo eruption, but the icon was saved and moved to Danac Bunga in Botolan, where the Fiesta is held.
The "Mango Festival" is held in the provincial capital of Iba every April, and the "Domorokdok" festival is held each May in Botolan. These include street dancing, agricultural shows, competitions like sand castle building, "bikini open" beauty pageants, etc.
Pundaquit, in San Antonio, is a Spanish Light House from the 1800s. It is found atop the "Islas de Punta Capones."
The "Fiesta Poon Bato," held in January, is a religious festival that attracts over half a million people each year. The festival venerates Ina Poon Bato (Nuestra Senora de la Paz y Buen Viaje), the oldest known image of the Virgin Mother in Asia . The actual barrio of Poon Bato was completely destroyed during the Pinatubo eruption, but the icon was saved and moved to Danac Bunga in Botolan, where the Fiesta is held.
The "Mango Festival" is held in the provincial capital of Iba every April, and the "Domorokdok" festival is held each May in Botolan. These include street dancing, agricultural shows, competitions like sand castle building, "bikini open" beauty pageants, etc.
Pundaquit, in San Antonio, is a Spanish Light House from the 1800s. It is found atop the "Islas de Punta Capones."
Demographics,Culture,Language and Economy
Demographics and culture
Aeta, Sambal people, Tagalog people, Ilocano people, and Kapampangan people
The Aetas of Mount Pinatubo were the earliest inhabitants of what is now the province of Zambales. They were later displaced by the Sambal, an Austronesian people after whom the province is named. Many Sambal still believe in superstitions and mysteries that have been handed down through the generations.
The Sambal, the Tagalogs, the Ilocanos, and the Kapampangans today constitute the four largest ethnic groups in Zambales; these identities may and do, however, overlap with one another due to intermarriage and other factors. Most of the people of southern Zambales are migrants from different parts of the country owing to the influx of job opportunities brought on by the U.S Subic Naval Base (San Antonio and Subic) during the American regime of the country. Many people found jobs and permanently settled there. The presence of the Americans greatly influenced the inhabitants, from their tastes in food, clothing, and style.
Respect for elders is still importantly observed. Feast days of patron saints are still being practiced in the area, and hospitable Zambaleños are very accommodating when it comes to feasts.
Language
Sambal language, Tagalog language, Ilocano language, and Kapampangan language
Sambal, Tagalog, and Ilocano are the three main languages of Zambales. Ilocano has 115,337 native speakers, Sambal has 114,637, and Tagalog has 114,637 (plus 24,995 non-native speakers).119,126 spoke other languages as their mother tongue, such as Kapampangan, including non-Philippine languages such as English. About 75 percent of the population speaks and understands English to varying degrees of fluency, and road signs are written in that language.
Economy
Zambales is a rich source of Nickel & Chromite.
Zambales is a rich source of Nickel & Chromite.
Zambales Geography
Geography
Climate
Zambales has two pronounced seasons: dry from October to June, and wet from July to September.
Physical
Zambales lies on the western shores of Luzon island, between the Zambales Mountains and the South China Sea. Its shoreline is very ragged, and features many coves and inlets. The mountain range on the eastern part of the province occupies about 60% of its total land area. Subic Bay, in the southernmost part of the province, provides a natural harbor, and was chosen as the location of an American naval base. The peak of Mount Pinatubo lies on the intersection of the boundaries between Zambales, Pampanga, and Tarlac. This volcano, once considered dormant, erupted violently in 1991.
Political
Zambales is subdivided into 13 municipalities and 1 city. Olongapo City is a highly urbanized city and administers itself autonomously from the province. Scarborough Shoal (Panatag Shoal), a Philippine-claimed EEZ is a designated part of the province.
City:Olongapo City
Zambales Municipality:
1.Subic 2.Castillejos 3.San Narciso 4.San Antonio 5.San Marcelino
6.San Felipe 7.Cabangan 8.Botolan 9.Iba 10.Palauig 11.Masinloc 12.Candelaria 13.Sta.Cruz
History
The area now occupied by Zambales was first explored by the Spanish in 1572, led by Juan de Salcedo. Among the earliest towns founded were Masinloc (1607), Iba (1611), and Santa Cruz (1612). Masinloc became the province's first capital. However, the capital was moved between among the three towns during its history before settling in Iba, due to its strategic location. The first civil governor of Zambales during the American era was the Honorable Potenciano Lesaca from 1901-1903.
The province's name came from the word zambal, which is a Hispanized term for Sambali. Zambal refers to the language spoken by the early Austronesian inhabitants of the place. A contending version states that the name was derived from the word samba, meaning worship, because the Spanish supposedly found the native inhabitants to be highly superstitious; worshiping the spirits of their ancestors.
Climate
Zambales has two pronounced seasons: dry from October to June, and wet from July to September.
Physical
Zambales lies on the western shores of Luzon island, between the Zambales Mountains and the South China Sea. Its shoreline is very ragged, and features many coves and inlets. The mountain range on the eastern part of the province occupies about 60% of its total land area. Subic Bay, in the southernmost part of the province, provides a natural harbor, and was chosen as the location of an American naval base. The peak of Mount Pinatubo lies on the intersection of the boundaries between Zambales, Pampanga, and Tarlac. This volcano, once considered dormant, erupted violently in 1991.
Political
Zambales is subdivided into 13 municipalities and 1 city. Olongapo City is a highly urbanized city and administers itself autonomously from the province. Scarborough Shoal (Panatag Shoal), a Philippine-claimed EEZ is a designated part of the province.
City:Olongapo City
Zambales Municipality:
1.Subic 2.Castillejos 3.San Narciso 4.San Antonio 5.San Marcelino
6.San Felipe 7.Cabangan 8.Botolan 9.Iba 10.Palauig 11.Masinloc 12.Candelaria 13.Sta.Cruz
History
The area now occupied by Zambales was first explored by the Spanish in 1572, led by Juan de Salcedo. Among the earliest towns founded were Masinloc (1607), Iba (1611), and Santa Cruz (1612). Masinloc became the province's first capital. However, the capital was moved between among the three towns during its history before settling in Iba, due to its strategic location. The first civil governor of Zambales during the American era was the Honorable Potenciano Lesaca from 1901-1903.
The province's name came from the word zambal, which is a Hispanized term for Sambali. Zambal refers to the language spoken by the early Austronesian inhabitants of the place. A contending version states that the name was derived from the word samba, meaning worship, because the Spanish supposedly found the native inhabitants to be highly superstitious; worshiping the spirits of their ancestors.
Olongapo City(the only city of Zambales)
The City of Olongapo (Tagalog: Lungsod ng Olongapo; Sambal: Syodad nin Olongapo) is an urbanized city located in the province of Zambales, Philippines. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 194,260 people in 43,107 households.
Unlike the rest of the Philippines which gained independence from the United States after World War II in 1946, Olongapo was governed as a part of the United States naval reservation. After lobbying efforts of James Leonard T. Gordon, the area was relinquished to the Philippine government and converted into a municipality on December 7, 1959. Six years later under Mayor James Leonard T. Gordon, Olongapo was reconverted to a chartered city on June 1, 1966. Olongapo City administers itself autonomously from Zambales province. Adjacent to the city is the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, which until 1992 was a United States naval base. Like his father before him, Mayor Richard Gordon lobbied for the turnover of the facility and its conversion into a freeport after the Senate of the Philippines rejected an extension of a treaty with the United States government. The city is known for it's innovative methods of urban management in the 1980's in addressing crime and cleanliness that has been copied by local governments nationwide. These include the public utility color-code, traffic management system, waste management system earning Olongapo City national and international award such as the UNESCO Cities for Peace representing Asia and the Pacific in 1997 and the Konrad Adenauer Local Medal of Excellence in 1999. Furthermore, the Asian Development Bank and World Bank have also recognized it's successful urban redevelopment and city development strategy after the US Base turnover.
Legend of the name Olongapo
According to popular legend, there once were a group of warring tribes who lived in the area in and around what is now the modern city. A wise, old man, seeing the perils of disunity, exerted great effort toward uniting the warring tribes. There were, however, some who bitterly opposed his idea and, one day, the old man just disappeared.
After a long search, the old man's body was found, but with the head missing. It is said that the tribesmen launched search parties to locate the severed head of the man. (To the Sambal, decapitation was the only permissible form of assassination.These efforts proved to be futile, and the search was eventually called off. A boy, however, vowed to himself that he would not stop searching until he found the elder’s head. He searched for weeks, but found nothing. Then, one day, he chanced upon what appeared to be the old man’s head, resting on top of a bamboo pole. The boy ran back to his people crying, “Olo nin apo! Olo nin apo!” “head of the elder” in Sambal; translates as “ulo ng apo” in Tagalog, running hysterically from village to village.
The phrase stuck, and that, according to legend, is how the area got its name, Olongapo. To this day, the old man’s head acts as a symbol of the unity of the people of what is now a modern city.
Olongapo City is politically subdivided into 17 barangays:
- Asinan
- Banicain
- Barreto
- East Bajac-bajac
- East Tapinac
- Gordon Heights
- Kalaklan
- Mabayuan
- New Cabalan
- New Ilalim
- New Kababae
- New Kalalake
- Old Cabalan
- Pag-asa
- Santa Rita
- West Bajac-bajac
- West Tapinac
Sta.Cruz, Zambales
Santa Cruz is a 2nd class municipality in the province of Zambales, Philippines. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 49,269 people in 9,754 households.
Santa Cruz is politically subdivided into 28 barangays:
- Acoje
- Babuyan
- Bangcol
- Bayto
- Biay
- Bolitoc
- Bulawon
- Canaynayan
- Gama
- Guinabon
- Guisguis
- Lipay
- Lomboy
- Longos
- Lucapon North
- Lucapon South
- Malabago
- Mapalad
- Naulo
- Pagatpat
- Pamonoran
- Poblacion North
- Poblacion South
- Sabang
- San Fernando
- Tabalong
- Tubotubo North
- Tubotubo South
Candelaria,Zambales
Candelaria is a 4th class municipality in the province of Zambales, Philippines. This municipality is known for its Uacon Lake, the cleanest lake in Central Luzon, and for its numerous beach resorts. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 23,399 people in 4,321 households.
Candelaria is approximately 42 km (26 mi) from the capital town of Iba. It is nestled at the foot of Zambales Range in the east and lies along coastline of the South China Sea in the west, with a total land area of 437.6 km² (169.0 sq mi). Candelaria is the third-largest town in terms of land area in Zambales.
History
During the pre-Spanish era, Candelaria was unsettled forest laof the oldest towns of Zambales. Settlement by Sambal fromnd. It was then a sitio of Masinloc, one other parts of Masinloc, who found Candelaria an ideal location to live, played an important role in how this sitio became a town separate from Masinloc in 1870.
The name of the town could have come from the name of the wife of the first Alcalde Mayor, who named the town after her as a birthday gift. There was also a story that the Spanish first saw many candles in this place and called it Candle-Area, a place of many candles; this story is anachronistic, however, as "Candle-Area" would have been an English rather than a Spanish name. It should also be noted that candelaria is also the Spanish word for Candlemas. As the years passed, it was customarily called Candelaria.
Candelaria is politicaly subdivided into 16 barangays:
- Dampay
- Binabalian
- Lauis
- Libertador
- San Roque
- Malimanga
- Pamibian
- Panayonan
- Pinagrealan
- Sinabacan
- Uacon
- Yamot
Mayor- Jean M. Morana, MD
Vice Mayor- Pedro C. Ecunar, MD
Sangguniang Bayan Members
Harold Kevin Edquid
Leonides Echon
Gilbert Hermoso
Bernard Barrera
Romeo Fallorina
Roman Joseph Alop
Jury Ebuen
Purificacion Atrero
Famous Candelarians
Hermogenes E. Ebdane, Jr.- Former Chief PNP; Cabinet Secretary
Lou Diamond Philips- Hollywood Actor
Schools in Candelaria
Saint Vincent's Academy- Catholic-secondary school run and administered by the St. Paul de Chartes (SPC) Sisters
Candelaria School of Fisheries and RMTU Candelaria Campus
Lauis National Highschool
Masinloc,Zambales
Masinloc is a 1st class municipality in the province of Zambales, Philippines. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 39,724 people in 7,790 household.
Masinloc is politically subdivided into 13 barangays:
- Baloganon
- Bamban
- Bani
- Collat
- Inhobol
- North Poblacion
- San Lorenzo
- San Salvador
- Santa Rita
- Santo Rosario
- South Poblacion
- Taltal
- Tapuac
Palauig, Zambales
Palauig is a 3rd class municipality in the province of Zambales, Philippines. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 29,983 people in 5,945 households. The municipality of Palauig is the nearest landmass to the Philippine-claimed EEZ, Scarborough Shoal (Panatag Shoal). It is a designated part of the municipality. This act strengthened the Philippine claim to the Scarborough Shoal, through UNCLOS, which disproves China and Taiwan's claims.
Palauig is politically subdivided into 19 barangays:
- Alwa
- Bato
- Bulawen
- Cauyan
- East Poblacion
- Garreta
- Libaba
- Liozon
- Lipay
- Locloc
- Macarang
- Magalawa
- Pangolingan
- Salaza
- San Juan
- Santo Niño
- Santo Tomas
- Tition (San Vicente)
- West Poblacion
- Scarborough Shoal (Panatag Shoal) EEZ
Iba,Zambales
Iba is a 2nd class municipality in the province of Zambales, Philippines. It is the capital municipality of Zambales. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 34,678 people in 7,260 households.
Iba is the birthplace of former Philippine President Ramon Magsaysay.
Iba is politically subdivided into 14 barangays:
- Amungan
- Bangantalinga
- Dirita-Baloguen
- Lipay-Dingin-Panibuatan
- Palanginan (Palanginan-Balili-Tambac)
- San Agustin
- Santa Barbara
- Santo Rosario
- Zone 1 Pob. (Libaba)
- Zone 2 Pob. (Aypa)
- Zone 3 Pob. (Botlay)
- Zone 4 Pob. (Sagapan)
- Zone 5 Pob. (Bano)
- Zone 6 Pob. (Baytan)
Monday, March 3, 2008
Botolan, Zambales
Botolan is a municipality in the province of Zambales, Philippines. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 46,602 people in 9,629 households.
Botolan is the largest municipality in terms of land area in the province. Located just south of the provincial capital of Iba, Botolan is known for its larger Aeta population, gray sand beaches, and as the location of the famous Mount Pinatubo.
Botolan is the largest municipality in terms of land area in the province. Located just south of the provincial capital of Iba, Botolan is known for its larger Aeta population, gray sand beaches, and as the location of the famous Mount Pinatubo.
Botolan is politically subdivided into 31 barangays.
- Bancal
- Bangan
- Batonlapoc
- Belbel
- Beneg
- Binuclutan
- Burgos
- Cabatuan
- Capayawan
- Carael
- Danacbunga
- Maguisguis
- Malomboy
- Mambog
- Moraza
- Nacolcol
- Owaog-Nibloc
- Paco (Pob.)
- Palis
- Panan
- Parel
- Paudpod
- Poonbato
- Porac
- San Isidro
- San Juan
- San Miguel
- Santiago
- Tampo (Pob.)
- Taugtog
- Villar
The barangay of Binoclutan is the "Beach Capital" of Botolan, featuring several first class resorts. The area is a habitat of sea turtles, as is all of the Zambales coastline. Olive Ridley, Green and Hawksbill turtles nest along the beaches of Binoclutan every year between September and January. Rama International Beach Resort has a turtle hatchery located adjacent to the resort. The area also has many other attractions, beach resorts, waterfalls, hiking paths, views of the lahar fields left by the 1991 eruption of Mount Pinatubo, and views of Mount Pinatubo itself.
The Fiesta Poon Bato, held January 23-24, is a religious festival that attracts up to 500,000 devotes. Features include cultural dancing from local Aeta tribes in the town plaza on the first night.
The Domorokdok Festival, held May 3-4, includes street parades, street dancing, a beauty pageant and displays of Botolan products and industries.
Cabangan, Zambales
Cabangan is a 4th class municipality in the province of Zambales, Philippines. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 18,848 people in 4,032 households.
Cabangan is politically subdivided into 23 barangays.
- Anonang
- Apo-apo
- Arew
- Banuambayo (Pob.)
- Cadmang-Reserva
- Camiling (Camiing)
- Casabaan
- Del Carmen (Pob.)
- Dolores (Pob.)
- -Diaz
- Laoag
- Lomboy
- Longos
- Mabanglit
- New San Juan
- San Antonio
- San Isidro
- San Miguel
- San Juan (Pob.)
- San Rafael
- Santa Rita
- Santo Niño
- Tondo
San Felipe,Zambales
San Felipe is a 4th class municipality in the province of Zambales, Philippines. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 17,702 people in 4,094 households.
San Felipe is politically subdivided into 11 barangays:
- Amagna (Pob.)
- Apostol (Pob.)
- Balincaguing
- Farañal (Pob.)
- Feria (Pob.)
- Maloma
- Manglicmot (Pob.)
- Rosete (Pob.)
- San Rafael
- Santo Niño
- Sindol
San Narciso,Zambales
San Narciso is a 4th class municipality in the Philippines. It is famous for its beaches that is suited for surfing. Many local celebrities have already visited San Narciso to surf in its beaches which is nearest to Manila, a mere 4 hour drive away. The current mayor of San Narciso is Incumbent Mayor William Lim, a local businessman before becoming a mayor. The Philippine Merchant Marine Academy or PMMA is located here. San Narciso also houses one of the best college institutions in southern Zambales, Magsaysay Memorial College, which offers bachelors courses and other 2-year courses. Also located in San Narciso is the Zambales academy, one of the oldest secondary education institution in the province, it is where the former president Ramon Magsaysay took his secondary education.
Barangay:
- Alusiis
- Beddeng
- Candelaria
- Dallipawen
- Grullo
- La Paz
- Namatacan
- Natividad
- Omaya
- Paite
- Patrocinio
- San Jose
- San Juan
- San Pascual
- San Rafael
- Siminublan
San Antonio,Zambales
San Antonio is a 4th class municipality in the province of Zambales, Philippines. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 28,248 people in 6,483 households.
San Antonio was formerly just a hunting lodge where hunters from the northern towns of the province would stay to rest. The first Ilocano families from the Paoay area of Ilocos Norte arrived in 1830 and founded the first settlement that grew into what is now the town.
The town was the site of the United States Navy San Miguel Naval Communications Station. After Mt. Pinatubo's eruption in 1991 the Americans decided to leave, it is now used for educational purposes of the Philippine Navy and merchant marine.
San Antonio called at first PAMALISARAOAN and later PAMISARAOAN, the settlement was given the status of a Barrio in 1836. The Teniente of the barrio in that year was DON GREGORIO BANAGA from 1836 - 1846 and Nov. 25, 1847 - 1849. He was followed by DON VICENTE LACUESTA, May 12, 1849, from Teniente Primero to Teniente Absoluto. Pamisaraoan organized as Pueblo May 12,1849, named SAN ANTONIO. The last Teniente Absoluto1855 was DON SANTIAGO LADRILLONO followed by DON DIMAS PASCASIO as Gobernadorcillo of 1856. They selected their leaders every year. In 1891- 1898, DON PABLO CORPUZ was the only Capitan Municipal selected then appointed DON FELIX MAGSAYSAY as first Presidente Municipal and many more follows up to 1931. From 1931 to 1942 , Commonwealth Government, they elected their Alkalde. Japanese Regime were all appointed. Then Mayor election started 1945.
San Marcelino,Zambales
San Marcelino is a 2nd class municipality in the province of Zambales, Philippines. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 25,440 people in 5,866 households.
San Marcelino is politically subdivided into 18 barangays.
- Aglao
- Buhawen
- Burgos (Pob.)
- Central (Pob.)
- Consuelo Norte
- Consuelo Sur (Pob.)
- La Paz (Pob.)
- Laoag
- Linasin
- Linusungan
- Lucero (Pob.)
- Nagbunga
- Rabanes
- Rizal (Pob.)
- San Guillermo (Pob.)
- San Isidro (Pob.)
- San Rafael
- Santa Fe
Castillejos,Zambales
Castillejos is a municipality in the province of Zambales, Philippines. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 33,108 people in 7,238 households.
Castillejos is politically subdivided into 14 barangays:
- Balaybay
- Buenavista
- Del Pilar
- Looc
- Magsaysay
- Nagbayan
- Nagbunga
- San Agustin
- San Jose (Pob.)
- San Juan (Pob.)
- San Nicolas
- San Pablo (Pob.)
- San Roque
- Santa Maria
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Subic
Subic is a 1st class municipality in the province of Zambales, Philippines. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 63,019 people in 13,882 households.
It is a former home of one of the largest US military facilities outside of the US mainland, Subic Bay Naval Base.(see also, Port of Subic)
Barangays:
It is a former home of one of the largest US military facilities outside of the US mainland, Subic Bay Naval Base.(see also, Port of Subic)
Barangays:
Subic is politically subdivided into 16 barangays.
- Aningway Sacatihan
- Asinan Poblacion
- Asinan Proper
- Baraca-Camachile (Pob.)
- Batiawan
- Calapacuan
- Calapandayan (Pob.)
- Cawag
- Ilwas (Pob.)
- Mangan-Vaca
- Matain
- Naugsol
- Pamatawan
- San Isidro
- Santo Tomas
- Wawandue (Pob.)
U.S. Naval Base,Subic Bay
U.S. Naval Base Subic Bay was a major ship-repair, supply, and rest and recreation facility of the United States Navy located in Zambales, Philippines. It was the largest U.S. Navy installation in the Pacific and was the largest overseas military installation of the United States Armed Forces after Clark Air Base in Angeles City was closed in 1991.
History:
Subic Bay's famous strategic location, sheltered anchorages, and deep water was first made known when the Spanish explorer Juan de Salcedo reported its existence to the Spanish authorities upon his return to Manila after Salcedo arrived in Zambales to establish the Spanish crown but it would be a number of years before the Spanish would consider establishing a base there.
Cavite, which had been home to most of the Spanish fleet in the Philippines, suffered from unhealthy living conditions and was vulnerable in time of war and bad weather because of its shallow water and lack of shelter. Because of these, a military expedition was sent to Subic Bay in 1868 with orders to survey the bay to find out if it would be a suitable site for a naval yard. The Spanish explored the entire bay and concluded that it had much promise and thus reported their findings to Cavite. This report was not well-accepted in Manila as the Spanish command was reluctant to move to the provincial isolation of Subic. Finally, in 1884, a Royal Decree declared Subic Bay as a naval port.
Cavite, which had been home to most of the Spanish fleet in the Philippines, suffered from unhealthy living conditions and was vulnerable in time of war and bad weather because of its shallow water and lack of shelter. Because of these, a military expedition was sent to Subic Bay in 1868 with orders to survey the bay to find out if it would be a suitable site for a naval yard. The Spanish explored the entire bay and concluded that it had much promise and thus reported their findings to Cavite. This report was not well-accepted in Manila as the Spanish command was reluctant to move to the provincial isolation of Subic. Finally, in 1884, a Royal Decree declared Subic Bay as a naval port.
Port of Subic
The Port of Subic, Subic, Zambales, Philippines, is located in the vicinity of Subic Bay, One of the Philippines Finest harbours and most strategically based. The Port of Subic is one of the busiest, largest, historical and most important of Ports in the Philippines Islands.
Subic Bay is a bay forming part of Luzon Sea on the west coast of the island of Luzon in Zambales, Philippines, about 100 kilometers northwest of Manila Bay. Its shores was formerly the site of a major United States Navy facility known as the,U.S. Naval Base Subic Bay, it is now the location of an industrial and commercial area known as the Subic Bay Freeport Zone (SBF) under the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA). The bay is surrounded by the town of Subic and Olongapo City, both in the province of Zambales and the town of Morong in the province of Bataan in the east. Also in the bay are Grande Island, once home to Fort Wint, and was later turned into a rest and recreation island for the U.S. Seventh Fleet.
History:
Subic Bay, and the port areas have experienced many events in Philippine History, This may be contributed to the fact that the Subic Bay Port area and general areas of the Subic Bay Freeport Zone was once a U.S Naval Base and Spanish Naval base, which meant Subic Bay Port and Areas took part in the Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II and the Vietnam War until Subic Bay was handed back to the Philippines, and the Port was developed into what it is today.
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