Republic Wakepark is basically a skate park on man-made lakes. And instead of skateboards, you have wakeboards. And instead of wheels, cables are there to pull you forward and you just have to grab hold and pray to the gods of balance that you don't make a fool of yourself. It was a little intimidating at the beginning, but I've learned that you don't have to be a total sk8rboi just to pull it off.
PROS: The location is very accessible for Manila people. Wakeboarding at Republic is for everyone who'd like to have a regular diversion from their daily grind but can't afford to go too far for watersports; You can use their boards, helmets, and vests for free, but you have to give a deposit; The staff's there to help and teach you how to wakeboard even if you're a total noob like me.
CONS: It's a steep learning curve if you want to transition from the beginners' to the pros' area. I hope there's like an in-between area; It's a little pricey if you're paying by the hour. But if you're really committing to the sport, invest in their day and night passes or even unlimited riding packages that can last for a week to even a year; Watch out for long weekends because the place tends to fill up and there'd be long lines.
TL;DR: Go to the very accessible Republic Wakepark for a real weekend activity that's different, fun, and challenging. read more