Tara! Let’s explore Cavite: a heritage road trip via CAVITEX
Steeped in history, faith, and culinary flavor, Cavite remains one of the most culturally vibrant provinces in the South. As part of its commitment to promoting regional tourism and local pride, Biyaheng South, Metro Pacific Tollways South (MPT South)’s tourism advocacy program, has launched “Tara! Let’s Explore Cavite,” a full-day heritage tour that brought selected participants on a journey through some of the province’s most iconic churches, landmarks, and local food spots—now made easier than ever to explore, thanks to the Manila–Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX).
The lucky participants were chosen through an online raffle held via the Biyaheng South Facebook page. They were joined by media partners, influencers, and reenactors who brought key historical moments to life during the trip, adding depth and uniqueness to the experience.
Discovering Cavite’s iconic churches
The tour began in Kawit at the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Mary Magdalene, one of the country’s oldest stone churches built in the 18th century. Revered for housing the miraculous image of Santa Maria Magdalena, the church also holds historical significance as the baptismal site of General Emilio Aguinaldo, the first president of the Philippines.
Next was the Diocesan Shrine of Saint Augustine and Parish of Holy Cross in Tanza, which honors the town’s patron saint, St. Augustine. Located beside it is the Sta. Cruz Convent Museum, home to religious artifacts, vintage memorabilia, and artworks that reflect Tanza’s rich cultural identity.
The group then traveled to General Trias to visit the St. Francis of Assisi Parish Church, another Spanish-era structure known for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance to the local community.
Walking through revolutionary Cavite
Lunch was held at Café Antix in Cavite City, where local cuisine was served in a cozy, retro-inspired atmosphere. After the meal, the group toured significant revolutionary landmarks starting with the Ladislao Diwa Shrine, ancestral home of the Katipunan co-founder, which now stands as a national shrine.
They continued to Plaza De Armas and the 13 Martyrs Monument, which commemorates the Caviteños who were executed by Spanish authorities in 1896. The group also stopped by Samonte Park, a favorite local destination for leisure and relaxation.
A highlight of the tour was access to Fort San Felipe, a 17th-century Spanish fort located inside the Philippine Navy’s Naval Base. The exclusive walkthrough allowed participants to explore centuries-old corridors and courtyards rarely open to the public.
The day ended with a visit to the newly renovated Cavite City Hall. Behind the building lies Unlad Cavite Pier, a scenic promenade offering panoramic views of Manila Bay. Nearby is a new public amphitheater designed for community and cultural events, adding vibrance to the city’s civic center.
Community impact and easy access
“We hold a deep conviction that heritage should be actively experienced rather than merely recalled. Cavite is a treasure trove of narratives that have significantly influenced our nation’s history. With Biyaheng South’s ‘Tara! Let’s Explore Cavite,’ we are honored to illuminate these vital heritage sites and invite everyone to engage with the rich cultural tapestry they represent,” said Arlette V. Capistrano, Vice President for Communication and Stakeholder Management at MPT South.
Why this matters
“Tara! Let’s Explore Cavite” is more than a road trip—it’s a celebration of identity, culture, and history. Through this initiative, MPT South affirms its commitment to rediscovering Filipino roots and making heritage tourism accessible. With CAVITEX connecting Metro Manila to Cavite’s treasures, now is the perfect time to explore and reconnect with the past, one destination at a time.
