Forget the flights abroad—paradise is right here, and with Sunlight Air, getting there is a breeze.
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There’s something special about rediscovering the Philippines, a country with 82 provinces, each brimming with breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and the best food (not biased, promise). While many dream of flying abroad, Project 82 is a call to embrace the beauty within our own shores—because why look elsewhere when paradise is right here? This ~project~ encourages Filipinos to explore all 82 provinces, reconnecting with the diverse beauty and culture our country has to offer.
Whether you’re island-hopping in Palawan or food-tripping in Iloilo, traveling across the Philippines is a way to reconnect with home, immerse yourself in diverse traditions, and witness firsthand the warmth and resilience that make Filipinos who we are. It’s not always about checking off destinations—it’s about experiencing the heart of the country, one trip at a time.
It takes years to complete this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, much like Ric Clara in 2023, who finally checked off his decade-long dream of traveling across the Philippines, one province at a time. But if you’re wondering where to begin, here are some places to start your Project 82 experience and how to make it happen—from choosing the best destinations to traveling seamlessly with Sunlight Air.
Boracay: Proof That Paradise Is Closer Than You Think
Whether you’re an adventurer or a vacationer at heart, Boracay has you covered. From parasailing and helmet diving to snorkeling at Crocodile Island, there’s no shortage of ways to explore the island. And a parasail at sunset? Non-negotiable.
Of course, food is part of the trip. Think fresh seafood at D’Talipapa, beachside eats at D’Mall, and Jonah’s fruit shakes (trust us, you’ll want more than one). Boracay gets you into the travel mindset—easy to reach, packed with experiences, and always worth coming back to.
Cagayan de Oro: Heart-Pounding Adventures Await
Dubbed the “Whitewater Rafting Capital of the Philippines,” Cagayan de Oro is a playground for adrenaline junkies. The Cagayan de Oro River offers thrilling rafting experiences for both beginners and seasoned adventurers, with rapids ranging from easy to extreme.
Beyond the river, Mapawa Nature Park is perfect for cliff jumping, trekking, and zip-lining through lush landscapes. For waterfall chasers, Tinago Falls and Katibawasan Falls (a ferry ride away in Camiguin) are worth the trip. Speaking of Camiguin, a side trip to the island rewards you with White Island’s sandbar, the Sunken Cemetery, and natural hot springs.
Cagayan de Oro proves that the best kind of trips are the ones that get your heart racing—sometimes literally.
Cebu: Adventure, Culture, and the ~Best~ Lechon Ever
Whether you’re craving cultural experiences, exciting activities, or the best food the Philippines has to offer, Cebu has it all. History buffs can experience the city’s Spanish colonial influence firsthand at Magellan’s Cross. Adventure seekers can swim alongside gentle whale sharks in Oslob, chase waterfalls in Badian, or dive into Moalboal’s mesmerizing sardine run. Island-hopping? Malapascua and Bantayan Islands serve up powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters that feel straight out of a postcard.
And let’s talk about the food—because we can all agree that Cebu’s lechon is practically a national treasure. Pair it with puso (hanging rice) for the full experience, then top it off with dried mangoes or otap for a sweet fix. If you time your trip right, the Sinulog Festival will have you dancing in the streets with colorful parades and endless energy. With all this and more, Cebu will make you wonder why you ever considered leaving the country in the first place.
Clark: A Power-Packed Pit Stop
Whether you’re flying in from different parts of the Philippines or driving from Manila, Clark makes for an ideal pit stop on your Project 82 checklist. In 24 hours or less, you can experience the upcoming Clark Hot Air Balloon Festival, where colorful balloons fill the sky and offer unforgettable views.
After the festival, refuel with Pampanga’s legendary culinary scene, where sisig, bringhe, and every mouthwatering dish prove why it’s the country’s food capital. And if adventure is still calling, Clark has everything from adrenaline-pumping adventure parks to world-class resorts—perfect for capping off your trip with a well-deserved staycation.
Iloilo: A Foodie’s Dream Destination
Iloilo is equal parts history, culture, and culinary adventure. Wander through its charming streets, where well-preserved Spanish-era churches, mansions, and heritage sites each have a story to tell. The city’s highlights aren’t just in its architecture, though—your taste buds are in for a treat, too.
Step into the heart of the city, and you’ll discover something even more mouthwatering: the food. From the savory La Paz Batchoy to the comforting pancit molo, and the freshest seafood straight from local markets, Iloilo has got you covered. And don’t forget to try the creamy biscocho, a native treat that’s as sweet as the city itself. For your Project 82 journey, Iloilo isn’t just a foodie’s dream destination—it’s a deep dive into a vibrant culture where the past and present coexist.
Palawan: The Island You Can’t Stop Exploring
If you think of Palawan, popular destinations like Coron and Puerto Princesa come to mind, but with places like San Vicente now more accessible, there’s even more to explore. That’s the beauty of Project 82—rediscovering the underrated treasures in our own backyard.
In Coron, kayak through the mirror-like waters of Kayangan Lake, free dive into the eerie depths of Barracuda Lake, or explore WWII shipwrecks teeming with marine life. Over in Puerto Princesa, the Underground River is a wonder that takes you through a labyrinth of limestone caves straight out of a fantasy novel.
San Vicente may be the new kid on the block, but it’s earning its place as the best-kept secret of Palawan with the longest beach in the Philippines. Get there before everyone else does!
Siargao: Surf, Sleep, Repeat
Siargao is more than what we see on social media—it’s an island paradise that truly lets you experience the laid-back island life. Whether you’re riding waves at Cloud 9, taking a dip in the stunning Magpupungko rock pools, or island-hopping to places like Naked Island and Sugba Lagoon, there’s always something to explore.
Beyond the adventure, Siargao thrives on communal living, where travelers often find themselves meeting new friends, from beachside cafes to surfboard rental spots. And let’s be real—you’ll probably find yourself slipping into the “surf, sleep, repeat” routine before you even realize it.
Here’s How to Make It Happen with Sunlight Air
With this list alone, you’ve already checked off several provinces from your travel bucket list. From the vibrant beaches of Boracay in Aklan to the natural wonders of Palawan, these destinations are the perfect starting points for your Project 82 journey. The Philippines is calling, offering endless beauty—sunlight, sand, and fresh air at every turn.
To make your trip even smoother, book your flight with Sunlight Air, an airline that’s committed to making your travel experience seamless and stress-free. With a newly refreshed look and the tagline “Your Next Story,” Sunlight Air is enhancing its offerings to ensure that every trip feels like an adventure worth remembering.
Excitingly, Sunlight Air is expanding its destinations and increasing flight frequency, making it even easier to explore more of the Philippines. And with its Sunlight Air Miles loyalty program coming soon, travelers will be able to earn perks for both flight and non-flight experiences. So, whether you’re soaking in the waves of Siargao or savoring the culinary scene in Iloilo, Sunlight Air takes you there with comfort and ease.
Ready for your next story? Start planning your adventure today and fly via sunlightair.ph!
