Pangasinan is one of the provinces of the Republic of the Philippines. The provincial capital is Lingayen. Pangasinan is located on the west central area of the island of Luzon along the Lingayen Gulf. The total land area of Pangasinan is 5,368.82 square kilometers. The total population of Pangasinan is 2,434,086 as of 2000, and projected to be 3,039,500 in 2010. (National Statistics Office, 2000 Census). The Pangasinan language is the primary language in Pangasinan. The estimated population of the indigenous speakers of the Pangasinan language in the province of Pangasinan is 1.5 million.

 

 

 

The Hundred Islands National Park is in the province of Pangasinan in northern Philippines. It is located in Alaminos City, Pangasinan. The islands (124 at low tide and 123 at high tide) are scattered along Lingayen Gulf and cover an area of 18.44 square kilometres (4,557 acres). They are believed to be about two million years old. Only three of them have been developed for tourists: Governor Island, Quezon Island, and Children's Island. 

 

 

Hundreds of tiny rock islands are dotted over Lingayen Gulf near Lucap. From a distance they appear as a single land mass but a closer view shows them to be islands. Ranging in area from a few square meters to three hectares, some thirty of the islands are bordered by white, sandy beaches and surrounded by coral. The crystal clear waters are suited for swimmers, snorkelers and scuba divers.

 

However, several coral reefs there have already been destroyed by dynamite fishing. One cannot get directly to many of the islands by boat because of the coral reefs which lie just below the water surface. Two islands, Urduja and Cathedral, are interesting because of their caves. The tourist office at the pier in Lucap gives information about the islands and round trips by boat. A small boat (6 persons) costs for a day tour to selected destinations P 130; for island hopping P 170, both including waiting time.

 

 The price for overnight tours is P 260. Accommodation facilities can be found only on Quezon and Governor's Island. However, the tourist office has also tents and sleeping bags for rent. "The Hundred Islands of Pangasinan are an interesting sight they appear as mosscovered mounds scattered over the Lingayen Gulf.

 

These tiny rock islands, covered with coral and seaweed, are bounded by white sand beaches. Two of the islands, Romulo and Shell, are ideal sites for a little peace, relaxation and isolation. Lopez Island has little coves and is said to be an excellent site for game of hide and seek. The Children's Island has shallow beaches and campsites while Quezon Island is ideal for holding picnics primarily because it can accommodate a large number of people.

 

Tables and benches are provided. Two of the islands are provided with cottages for overnighters. These are Governor's Island and Children's Island. Prior notice should, however, be given. It is suggested that scuba or snorkelling gear be brought along for you to enjoy the marine life that abound in the waters of Lingayen Gulf. And overnighters will enjoy a romantic evening and wake up to a fabulous sunrise.  

 

Getting to Hundred Island: 

 

A trip to Hundred Islands National Park and its home, Alaminos City, is a great diversion from the hustle and bustle of the busy, urban life. Breathe in the refreshing views - rice paddies, azure sea - and the rustic and peaceful lifestyle as you make your way to Alaminos City. And upon arrival, savor the city's unique and dynamic spirit, friendly atmosphere and especially, the beauty and adventure that lies in the hundred wonders that is Hundred Islands.

Public bus lines, namely Victory Liner, Five Star, and Philippine Rabbit have scheduled rides from Manila, Baguio, Dagupan, Subic, Tarlac, and Zambales bound straight to Alaminos City and vice versa. From the terminal, either by private vehicle or tricycle, the Lucap Wharf is only a 10 to 15-minute ride away. You can find boats bound for the islands docked near the Wharf, with the Hundred Islands National Park Center staff eager to assist you with information and other things you'll need for your island adventure.

 

The nearest islands from the Lucap Wharf are Sulpot Island, Monkey Island, Abad Santos Island and Hernandez Island, which are all 15 to 20 minutes away. The major islands, Children's, Governor's and Quezon can be reached after a 25 to 45-minute boat ride.

 

 

The most anticipated and largest crowd-drawer event in Alaminos City. Lavish celebration marks the  Hundred Islands Festival. Exhilaration rides the atmosphere with the string of athletic and challenging pursuits like sky diving competition, skills Olympics or island adventure race, inviting the thrill-seeking foreign and local tourists. Sighs of awe and approval can be heard as the best of aqua products and seafood cuisine enjoys center stage. Restaurants often let out the latest and most sumptuous menus during the festival. A trade fair also usually graces the occasion.

But the most awaited spectacle would be the fluvial parade, showcasing floats made of shells and other fabulous marine themes. Magnificent designs only gets better at each competition. And the street rings of beats for the street dances, as well as the melodic masterpieces from the drum and lyre groups of different schools, joined by the official drum and bugle group. The heat of the sun mingles with the warm smiles of people following the floats and with the hot, dynamic dance routine of the street dancers.

After which, the night glitters with the charming smiles from beautiful muses vying for the HI maiden pageant. Then, people, especially the young crowd, flock the concerts featuring famous bands or celebrities. You’ll go home with a full stomach, event-filled memory and a bagful of souvenirs and delicacies and with one promise – you’ll not miss the celebration next year.