Happy to host the Miss Earth candidates in the 1st District of Batangas with my son, Leandro on November 3 to 4!
Their first day began with a coastal cleanup along the shores of Peninsula de Punta Fuego, in Nasugbu, where the candidates actively participated, reinforcing our commitment to environmental preservation. They then enjoyed swimming and taking photos, capturing the harmony of our community with nature, and ended the day with a serene sunset viewing.
On the 2nd day, they visited the Calatagan Solar Farm, a landmark project of Solar Philippines, which Leandro founded at a young age of 20. Established in 2016 as Batangas’ first large-scale solar power plant, this 63.3 megawatts solar farm continues to power thousands of homes and create sustainable local livelihoods.
Lunch in the heritage town of Taal was in a restored heritage house, Paradores del Castillo, where they enjoyed Filipino dishes and experienced the warmth of our local hospitality.
From there, the candidates explored the rich history of Batangas, starting with Casa Recuerdos de Taal, a heritage home offering a glimpse into 19th-century Filipino life. At Bordado ni Apolonia, they experienced a special demonstration of the traditional Filipino embroidery, an artisanal craft I am reviving. They continued their journey through history at Museo nina Marcela MariƱo at Felipe Agoncillo, deepening their appreciation for Filipino patriotism, followed by a stop at the Minor Basilica and Parish of St. Martin of Tours, an architectural heritage of Batangas and the largest basilica in Asia.
The day ended at the Taal Market, where they experienced local flavors and appreciated local crafts. Dinner was at another heritage home turned restaurant, cuchara y tenedor.
Through their 2-day visit in the 1st District of Batangas, we hope to inspire the Miss Earth 2024 cadidates and to our local tourism industry our message of heritage conservation, sustainability and environmental stewardship. More photos, enchanting videos to come!