Located right at the entrance of the Assumption school campus, the PACEM Eco Park is part-garden,…read morepart-museum, and part-mini zoo. It was established by the school to raise concern for the environment for its school community and for visitors who can visit the eco park for just a minimal entrance fee. It's amazing how this little pocket of green in Antipolo houses some amazing animals endemic to the Philippines like the Monkey-Eating Eagle or the Philippine Eagle, the "Pilandok" or Philippine Mouse-deer, the Flying Lemur, the Palawan Bearcat, and the Calamian Deer among others. There's also a cheeky myna bird somewhere in there that keeps asking, "Kumain ka na?" Lol. It's a well-maintained park so you can easily walk through the mini-forest inside, peek into the pond and this wishing well at the front, and stop by the butterfly garden and mini museum as well. It's pretty cool to have something like this in this area. Makes for a great environmental education trip with family, especially for those with little kids!

This humble park sits in the heart of Ortigas' business center, and no doubt pretty popular for…read morehumans "native" to the area. But it was more than just a park to me (or to my friends). We had a lot of crazy memories here. Most notable would be one summer night when we got kicked out of my friend's house...after having a noisy marathon of Supernatural and pigging out on home-made tacos (gee, if I was the man of the house, I would've kick out the crazy kids outside my room too!) Anyway, we packed up our food, the huge grocery bag of chips and drinks and dips and headed off to--you guessed it--Ortigas Park! We actually looked like hobos having picnic outside the surrounding upscale foodplaces, which is kinda embarrassing, but not one of us gave a shizzle. And who would've thought having a picnic there is allowed? The guards patrolling the area were giving us weirded-out looks but not one told us to get the party out. Perhaps because we had our own trash bags? Hey, we love the environment! It was a funny night, until it rained, and we all have to move to Strata for shelter and eventually back to the condo. Ortigas park isn't just fun at evenings, though. I love staying there during mornings too! In my lonesome, I chill here with a sketchpad to brainstorm on new dresses. The daylight just brings out my spirit all the time, and if I'm feeling for some coffee, I will just hop right in Coffee Bean. I wish Ortigas Park will remain essentially the same, and not built-on, somehow. Because that would totally suck. It's one of the few parks that holds a dear place in my heart!

Oritgas Park is slightly less "extravagant" and quite smaller than other parks in highly urban…read moreareas, like Ayala Triangle Gardens. There's not that many people there, there's fewer trees, and the only establishments are the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf there, unless you wanna walk towards Ortigas Jr Road and their assortment of Fast Food Restaurants. But that's exactly why I love it. When it comes to parks, I like quiet ones. Ones with fewer people, where I could sit with some coffee and listen to some music. And that's exactly why Ortigas Park is probably the park for me. I absolutely love looking at the waterfall, the ambiance of the wooden benches, and basically how completely quiet the place is during the night time. It's also a really solid study/work spot for me. I've written 3000 words on one of those Coffee Bean tables before. If you like quieter places, then I suggest Ortigas Park!

Whenever my friend, Mica, and I get bored of the Belvedere Park, we end up in Merville's…read moreContinental Park. This park is more secluded and there are fewer cars that pass by this place. It's also a great place to just hang out and talk because the airplanes don't really pass overhead. Yes, the noise of the airplanes can be heard but not as bad or as loud as the sound you'll hear when you visit the Belvedere Park. When the airplanes pass, you don't have to stop telling your story to your friend. During the rainy months when Mica and I visit the park, we end up here because there's a little gazebo that has a roof. There are no tables or chairs, so we just sit around on the floor and have a little picnic. At night, children don't really visit the park. There are times when people come to play basketball or practice some dance they need to perfect. Another thing, you can smoke in this park and they won't tell you to stop. Bad for your lungs. But, oh well.

You know how Superman has his Fortress of Solitude he retreats to every now and then? Well, I have…read moremy own, too. Granted, it's not made of ice and doesn't have a statue of Jor-El and Lara holding a globe of Krypton, it is my place of solace. Post-class hours, pre-class hours, and sometimes even during class hours, you'll find college me here. To say that this park is beautiful is an understatement. Seriously, it's almost offensive! Freedom Park (aka F-park) is beyond beautiful, it's ineffable. Anyone who's ever been, can attest to this. But hey, you don't have to take our word for it, go on a roadtrip to Elbi this weekend. Bring a blanket and a telescope. You're welcome.

I lovr this place. You can bring your own food then enjoy the scenery of the campus. There are also…read morelots of people around so it is easyto meet new friends

The park at Phil-Am Village (PVHA Park to some) is wonderful. Why? Let us count the ways…read more 1. Lots of trees means lots of shade so you can actually lay a banig, rest under trees and enjoy the breeze. 2. There's a jogging patch along the perimeter of the park. Then there's one inside as well, which the trees hover upon so the path is quite shaded. 3. Aside from the jogging path, there are also benches under the trees where those who don't have their banigs can rest. 4. Free massage! The baranggay of Pamplona Dos gives free reflexology training and the dedicated are for the masseuse to put these skills to practice and gain customers is at the PVHA Park. 5. There's a well-maintained children's playground with the standards like swing sets, a slide, see-saw, monkey bars and more. 6. The full-sized basketball court at the PVHA Park is of such good quality that it is even rented by companies for their sportsfests. 7. There's also a tennis court which the PVHA Tennis Club calls home. 8. An open area serves as a small soccer field where villagers and non-villagers play in the afternoons. 9. Another structure serves as a badminton and volleyball court, plus a venue for zumba classes at least twice a week. 10. Every Sunday, there are several food stalls selling an assortment of snacks and other delicacies for villagers and church-goers alike. Would I dare say it's the best park in our area? Why not visit then you be the judge.

I swung by Ayala Triangle Gardens after a long day at the office last week, and man, it was exactly…read morewhat I needed. Grabbed a spot on one of the benches under the big trees, cracked open a book, and just let the city noise fade into the background while kids ran around laughing and joggers zipped by. The air actually felt fresher in there compared to the rest of Makati--huge green escape right in the middle of all the concrete. Ended up staying longer than planned, got an iced latte from one of the cafes, and watched the sunset hit those colorful "Make it Happen, Make it Makati" letters. Felt so peaceful and alive at the same time. Five stars, no question--I'll be back whenever I need to recharge without leaving the CBD.

Just got back from a quick evening stroll through Ayala Triangle Gardens and honestly, it never…read moredisappoints. After being stuck in back-to-back meetings all day, I needed somewhere to clear my head without fighting traffic out of the CBD. Found a quiet corner near the fountain, plugged in my favorite playlist, and just watched the lights start twinkling as the sun went down. The place was alive but not chaotic--couples walking hand in hand, groups of friends laughing over takeout, a few serious runners circling the paths. Grabbed a cold calamansi drink from one of the stalls and sat there longer than I meant to, feeling the stress literally melt away. That big colorful "Make it Happen, Make it Makati" sign glowing against the skyline is such a vibe too. It's the perfect little pocket of calm in the middle of all the hustle. Easily five stars--can't wait to swing by again soon.

While we always go to Tagaytay - both planned and unplanned. We would pass Nuvali on our way up and…read moresometimes stop over when we're hungry. I've seen the 'Wakepark' signs but didn't really know where it is, maybe because I wasn't looking hard enough. Or I just have just looked it up online to see the map. My friends took me to go Republic Wakepark because it's their recreational activity, to get away from the stress that living in the Metro brings, well, also school. And it's something that's fun to experience together as a group (individually if we're being specific but you get what I'm saying). I love these types of things because I know everyone gets tired of doing the same old thing and with Nuvali being about an hour or less drive away from Metro Manila, it's the perfect thing to do. If you don't think it's for you and you're being invited to come along then you can always go and stay at the bar or at the pool, take pictures and hang out.

This is the main hangout space for my friends whenever we come back to Manila from studying abroad…read more The employees are very accommodating and are very helpful in teaching you how to wakeboard. It is in a great location and I would definitely recommend this place to anyone who loves water sports within the South area. However, the rentals for boards are quite expensive and are very limited to only a couple of boards if you have grown out of the slip-on boards. The food service takes quite awhile for you to get your food. Putting that aside, this is a place that I would highly recommend anyone to come to for a day mainly just for the awesome facility to wakeboard. It's also best to go during the weekdays early in the morning so that you can get the most out of your buck, or else you would be in line for quite awhile as that takes up your riding time. Night boarding on the weekends are also enjoyable and are less crowded than during the day based on my experience from going.

The all new improved CDC Playground just got a major make over and it is now open for the public…read more Yup! It is free and the place is great!. There are two sets of swings, two seesaws, and two (big and small) slides. This will definitely be a treat for the kids. There is a medium size fountain with nine water spouts. My daughter and I had the chance to see it work along with other (I think five more) mini fountains. Got to appreciate the rubber flooring on the slides and attention to details on the project. The previous park was more of a settling for a horror flick and people rarely visit the place especially because the slide has a strong static shock. But this new one is miles apart from the old version. There is ample space for vehicles to park and concrete tables and benches are readily available. There is also a designated security guard manning the place plus a janitor roaming the playground to clean it. The newly renovated restrooms are also clean and stench-free. There is good amount of water coming out of the faucet, urinals, and toilets. I must admit that I am really impressed with this new development. NOTE: In case you would want to just unwind and have a little chitchat while the kids play or there is someone to take good care of them while you want to he your "ME" time, stay at the patio on the North end of the playground. People rarely go there. The singular fountain, winding pathway, and landscaping are most ideal for some friendly conversation with someone dear, or a haven for reading a good book while enjoying what nature and CDC has to offer.

Mahagony Park is the type of place I'd go to when I want peace and quiet, no need for spending,…read moreunlimited fresh air; who doesn't like hanging around a play ground? It's the type of place you can hang around on late nights without fear of shady people or getting mugged. Their playground isn't only built for kids, there's even a section where you can "gym", they built makeshift exercise contraptions for those up for a workout or if you're too ashamed to be seen in the kiddie area. In the center is a beautiful Gazebo filled with benches where a big group can hangout and have picnics, play games, or do nothing together; it's the perfect place to just space out. The only problem is that mosquitoes seem to like hanging out there as well, so be sure to spray yourself thoroughly with insect repellant before you decide to visit.

Something about parks that always excite me. Even when I was a kid, I enjoy going to parks even…read morethough I don't really know I'm going to do there. I think it's more because of the ambiance that lures me to go the park multiple times. It's relaxing to be in an area that's full of greenery. Sometimes my friends and I would prepare snacks and create picnics at the park! I remember once when one of my photographer friends wanted to have a shoot in Mahogany because of the nice scenery! It's actually fun there. One side, kids (and not kids at heart) can play with the sand while the bigger kids can swing and slide. Every time I'm here I remember times when life was just so carefree. Oh how it's nice reminisce those good old days. Nowadays I see a lot more kids with her helpers in the Park. I'm glad that kids are not bound to their iPads and they're actually running around open field enjoying nature.

Ayala Alabang is really a good housing option for you if you're one who likes open spaces and fresh…read moreair. I love this village because the roads are wide, the houses are large, and there is less congestion. Although it isn't what it used to be (it has gotten quite crowded as well) it is still a good place to live. The village is somewhat like Forbes, but at a cheaper price. If you're working in the city, commutes will normally take one hour by car. Which isn't so bad if you think that it takes just as long (if not longer) to get to Makati form Quezon City. Only thing is, you've got to pay tolls. Nature lovers will enjoy the parks in this village and the easy access to Nuvali and Tagaytay.

If you're from the south, one of the best villages to bike in is Ayala Alabang Village. The nice…read morething about this village is that there are wide roads with bike lanes. Aside from the bike lanes on the main roads, this village has much more to offer. It can be a challenge to some, and a pleasant leisurely bike ride to others. Ayala Alabang Village has an area with lots of slopes and hills for those that want to train and lots of parks and empty streets for beginners that would like to learn and practice their biking. The village is huge so most tri-athletes bike around here to train for their next event. For those that are more into mountain biking, there are trails as well. Some of the empty lots in the village have beginner trails and you can also cross bridges that cross canals. There is this one trail where you can go through a park that leads to a bridge to go to the other side of the canal which then leads you to a trail that passes along that canal and reaches the other side of the village. Since you'll be passing along a trail beside the canal, make sure you don't fall into it. Ayala Alabang Village is a place for every kind of biker and is a generally great place to bike. Make sure you know someone from the village or are a resident if you're going to go biking here. If in case you can't bike around Ayala Alabang, there's always Daang Hari road and the Filinvest area to bike around. Don't forget to wear your helmets and bike responsibly. It's a great place to bike, but that doesn't mean you can be reckless.