Tayabas, Philippines
Region: Quezon
Geographic Coordinates: 14.016700, 121.583000
Temperature Range: 18.0°C to 35.0°C (64°F to 95°F)
Climate: Tropical climate with two distinct seasons: wet and dry.
Population: 112658
Language: Tagalog
Tayabas is a municipality situated at the foothills of Mount Banahaw in Quezon, Philippines. It has a rich cultural heritage dating back to the Spanish colonial period. The town’s name comes from a bet between two local chieftains over who could build the best town center. The Minor Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel, Also known as Tayabas Basilica, Is one of Tayabas’ most popular attractions. This magnificent structure features intricate Baroque architecture and has been declared a National Cultural Treasure by the Philippine government.
Aside from religious sites, Tayabas also offers natural wonders such as Kwebang Lampas or Hidden Cave and Malagonlong Bridge – an impressive testament to Filipino craftsmanship. Tayabas is famous for its cuisine – particularly its longganisa (Filipino sausage) which comes in different varieties such as sweet, Spicy, Garlic-flavored among others. Visitors can sample these delicacies at local eateries while enjoying scenic views of nearby lakes. The town celebrates various festivals throughout the year including Pahiyas Festival held every May 15th and Niyogyugan Festival which celebrates the coconut industry in Quezon province.
Overall, Tayabas is a charming town that offers visitors a glimpse into Philippine history, Culture and natural beauty.
Important Landmarks
- Minor Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel
- Malagonlong Bridge
- Tayabas City Hall and Plaza
- Kamay ni Hesus Healing Church and Shrine
- Villa Sariaya
- Quezon National Forest Park
- Candelaria River Eco Park
- Tayabas Limestone Formation
- San Diego de Alcala Fortress Church
- Tayabas City Market
Primary Industries
- The primary industries and businesses in Tayabas, Philippines are:
- Agriculture
- Fishing
- Poultry and livestock production
- Handicrafts like banig or mat weaving
- Tourism
- The town is renowned for its local delicacies such as:
- Tayabas longganisa
- Hardinera
- Additionally, there are small businesses such as:
- Sari-sari stores (convenience stores)
- Carinderias (local eateries)
- The Tayabas Province was established in 1591 and later renamed to Quezon Province.
- During the Philippine Revolution, General Juan Cailles led Filipino revolutionaries to victory over Spanish forces in the Battle of Tayabas on March 4, 1899.
- Manuel L. Quezon, the first President of the Commonwealth of the Philippines and after whom Quezon Province is named, was born in Tayabas.
- Teodora Alonso, Jose Rizal’s mother, hailed from Quezon Province.
- Several important churches can be found in Quezon Province including St. Michael Archangel Parish Church in Tayabas City and San Diego de Alcala Church in Gumaca.
- Notable individuals from this region include former Senator Blas Ople and actor Piolo Pascual who has roots in nearby Lucban town.
- In recent times, Quezon Province has become renowned for its annual Kakanin Festival which celebrates traditional Filipino rice cakes or kakanin made from glutinous rice flour and coconut milk amongst other ingredients unique to this region’s cuisine.
- Tayabas Basilica is a historic church built in the 18th century, known for its intricate Baroque architecture and beautiful interiors.
- Malagonlong Bridge is a historic bridge built during the Spanish era, which is now a popular spot for taking photos.
- Quezon National Forest Park is a scenic park with lush greenery, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
- Villa Sariaya is a heritage house turned museum that showcases the history and culture of Tayabas and neighboring towns.
- St. Michael Archangel Parish Museum is an interesting museum located inside a church that displays religious artifacts and cultural items related to Tayabas’ history.
- San Diego de Alcala Fortress is an old fortress built in the 16th century to protect against invaders from the sea.
- Lucban Church Bell Tower is a historic bell tower located in Lucban town, known for its unique design inspired by indigenous architecture.
- Quezon Eco-Tourism Road offers visitors a scenic road trip through forests, mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and other natural attractions of Quezon province including Tayabas City.
- Manuel Sariñana House Museum showcases some of the most significant historical events that happened in Tayabas such as World War II.
- Taytay Falls – This waterfall attraction near Tayabas City remains one of the most popular tourist spots where visitors can enjoy swimming or just relax by the falls while enjoying nature’s beauty.
- Tayabas, a town in the Quezon province of the Philippines, is renowned for its cultural heritage and historical landmarks.
- Although there are no professional sports teams based in Tayabas, it has numerous community-based sports organizations that encourage physical fitness and healthy lifestyles among its inhabitants.
- Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Tayabas.
- The town boasts a lively basketball scene with various barangays (villages) having their own teams that compete against each other during annual fiestas or local tournaments.
- Apart from basketball, volleyball and football are also gaining popularity among young athletes in Tayabas.
- Local clubs and associations organize leagues and competitions for these sports.
- In general, although Tayabas lacks a rich history of professional sports teams or national championships to brag about, it has an enthusiastic community of amateur athletes who take pride in representing their respective barangays or schools on the playing field.
- Agawan Festival is a vibrant celebration that takes place on January 15th to pay tribute to St. Vincent Ferrer, the town’s patron saint.
- The Taytsinoy Festival is a cultural event that highlights the Chinese-Filipino heritage of Tayabas and typically happens in February.
- Semana Santa is a week-long observance of Holy Week, featuring religious activities such as processions and reenactments of Jesus Christ’s passion and death.
- Pahiyas Festival occurs annually on May 15th in honor of San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers. This festival is renowned for its stunning decorations made from colorful kiping (rice wafers) and other agricultural products.
- Timpalak ng mga Banda sa Tayabas is an annual band competition held during the town fiesta on June 24th to commemorate St. John the Baptist.
- The Feast Day of Our Lady of Sorrows happens every September 15th with solemn processions and religious activities.
- December features various Christmas celebrations including parades, caroling competitions, and Simbang Gabi masses (a series of nine dawn masses leading up to Christmas day).
- 1. Pancit Habhab – a local dish made of stir-fried noodles with vegetables and meat, served on banana leaves.
- 2. Lucban Longganisa – a type of sausage made from ground pork seasoned with garlic and vinegar.
- 3. Budin – a rice cake made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, sugar, and grated coconut.
- 4. Buddy’s Restaurant – known for their Pancit Habhab and other Filipino dishes.
- 5. Kusina ni Nanay Luring – serves traditional Filipino dishes such as Adobo, Sinigang, Kare-Kare among others.
- 6. Kamayan sa Palaisdaan – offers fresh seafood dishes like grilled tilapia or bangus (milkfish) served on banana leaves with rice on the side.
- 7. Casa Nostra Ristorante Italiano- serves authentic Italian food like pizza and pasta that are perfect for families who want to indulge in something different than the usual Filipino fare.
- Tayabas City Park is a public park located in the heart of Tayabas City. The park features a playground, basketball court, and open spaces for picnics and relaxation.
- Villa Del Prado Swimming Pool is a private resort that offers swimming pools to the public for a fee.
- Quezon National Forest Park is a protected forest area that provides hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping facilities.
- Malagonlong Bridge is an iconic bridge that spans across the Malagonlong River in Tayabas City. Visitors can walk across the bridge and take in scenic views of the river and surrounding countryside.
- Mount Banahaw is a sacred mountain near Tayabas City that attracts hikers and pilgrims alike.
- Kamay ni Hesus Shrine is a Catholic pilgrimage site featuring a 50-foot statue of Jesus Christ, healing pools, and prayer rooms.
- Tinamnan Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in nearby Lucban town that can be accessed via hiking trails.
- Kwebang Lampas Beach is an unspoiled beach situated about an hour’s drive from Tayabas City offering opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and camping activities.