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Sunday, September 29, 2024

Wazzup Pilipinas Leads Influencers' Tours in Rizal Province and Other Places Showcasing Local Tourism Treasures


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Aside from organizing promotional campaigns for brands, companies, events, organizations, products and even personalities, Ross Del Rosario, founder of Wazzup Pilipinas, has organized Influencers' Tours for a number of municipalities of the Rizal province like Rodriguez, Tanay and Angono. 

He has branded it as Influencers' Tours with only the invited influencers changing, and mind you, it is not limited to Rizal only as he has organized tours at other places like Pampanga where he had also combined restaurant hopping tours alongside the Hot Air Balloon Festivals that went on at Clark, and then another similar one at Lubao.

Be also had an Influencers' Tour of Batangas featuring a Lagundi farm tour together with its processing plant, and plantation or nursery for other herbs used for medicinal purposes, plus of course he will never skip the opportunity of dining at places serving the local cuisines which included lomi, crispy fried tawilis, bulalo and the kapeng Barako. He intended to add The Farm at San Benito, a health and wellness retreat place, on the list but circumstances related to the dreaded Covid forced him to reschedule that visit for another date.



The Influencers' Tour of Montalban, otherwise known as Rodriguez included tourist spots like the Wawa dam, overnight stay at the Balai sa Oro farm community where we cooked our own food of inihaw na bangus or milk fish, pork liempo barbecue, among other dishes, lighted a bonfire at night, we also tried riding a 4x4 buggy and a trek at the surrounding areas, a visit at the Rodriguez Ancestral House, dining at Prizza Pizza to try out their pizza and pasta specialties for merienda and witness them bake Infront of us, and have lunch at Ihawan ni Master which specializes on grilled tuna panga, we also tried their calamares, pork tofu sisig, crispy pata and singing sa miso salmon belly, plus the feature of the original Cha Goye's kutsinta made personally during early morning by Cha Goye or Gloria Cruz Porlas herself. 

At the Influencers' Tour of Angono, we were personally toured by the Blanco Family (Dad Jan, Mom Jaz, brothers Justin and Lemuel)around Angono's popular tourist spots which includes the Blanco Family museum and the Nono museum, the St. Clementine shrine church and a walking tour of the famous street where sculptures can be seen and ideal for selfies and photo taking, as well as tried out some dining areas for lunch and dinner, and a visit at the newest hang out place called Kampo de Angono overlooking the municipality and great to spend time during sunset while dining on their local specialties including popular grilled street food like pork barbecue, intestines, then there was also a pancit variety, and other dishes. 

We also enjoyed dining experiences at Inday at Pedring Lutong Bahay (from the name itself you'll already getting the idea that it serves home cooked specialties), Annie's Garden Cafe (which actually at the boundary of Binangonan and Angono so if considered technically by geographic location, it is a part of Binangonan) which also serves heavenly vegan meals plus their Ube champorado is to die for , and Kuya Torvits Pares and Mami (which also has superb halo-halo), and the many choices of sandwiches at Grill Out Burger, all offering budget-friendly but tasty meals that you'll surely come back to soon.

The tour included a visit to the Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs site and other notable places where we also witnessed an art exhibit via the celebration of the  Angono Arts Congress at the Eastridge Golf and Country Club.

The Influencers'Tour of Tanay was co-organized with the local Tourism office of Tanay and included a tour of the Calinawan cave, lunch at Kaminawis Garden Restaurant and Campsite, Daranak Falls, San Ildefonso de Toledo Parish church, a visit at Viewscape Nature Park, Ten Cents to Heaven Leisure Camp, a cooperative at Barangay Sampaloc called Sampaloc Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Multi-Purpose Cooperative, plus a few more dining spots like Kape Natividad Roastery and Cafe and Sinag Kapihan,p including coffee shops like Kape Bukel where they offer freshly brewed coffee from beans they personally roasted. 

These are just the preliminary tours Ross has organized for Rizal Province and that he plans to continue with the rest of the other municipalities.



Ross Del Rosario, the influential founder of Wazzup Pilipinas, has once again proven his passion for promoting local tourism by spearheading a series of Influencers' Tours across the scenic municipalities of Rizal province. These tours have not only highlighted the rich cultural and natural attractions of the area but also brought local businesses into the spotlight. With stops in Montalban, Tanay, and Angono, the tours have opened up new opportunities for tourism in the province.



Montalban: Unveiling Hidden Gems

The Influencers' Tour of Montalban, popularly known as Montalban, was a perfect mix of adventure and cultural immersion. Del Rosario took the group to the famous Wawa Dam, a historic and scenic spot offering a breathtaking view of the gorge and surrounding mountains. The participants stayed overnight at the Balai sa Oro farm community, a serene retreat where they got hands-on with preparing their meals, cooking local favorites like inihaw na bangus (grilled milkfish), pork liempo barbecue, and more. A bonfire lit up the night, offering a cozy moment for conversations and camaraderie.

The next day saw an adrenaline-pumping adventure with a 4x4 buggy ride through rugged terrains, followed by a peaceful trek around the lush surrounding areas. The tour also included a visit to the historic Rodriguez Ancestral House, a testament to the town’s rich history.

Local dining experiences added flavor to the trip. The group stopped at Prizza Pizza for an interactive treat where they witnessed pizzas and pastas being freshly baked. Lunch was served at Ihawan ni Master, where specialties like grilled tuna panga, crispy pata, and the unique sinigang sa miso salmon belly left the group craving for more. The food adventure also included a feature of the  kutsinta from Cha Goye’s, handcrafted early in the morning by Gloria Cruz Porlas herself.




Angono: Art Capital of the Philippines

Angono, famed for its artistic heritage, was next on the tour list. Guided personally by the Blanco Family (Dad Jan, Mom Jaz, and their sons Justin and Lemuel), the group explored the cultural heartbeat of the town. The Blanco Family Museum, which celebrates the family’s extraordinary contributions to the world of visual arts, was a highlight of the tour. They also visited the Nono Museum of art History, a unique space that adds depth to Angono’s creative landscape.

The tour included a stop at the St. Clementine Shrine Church, a historic and spiritual site, followed by a walking tour of Angono’s famous sculpture-lined streets. These vibrant streets provided the perfect backdrop for selfies and snapshots, capturing the town’s artistic essence.

Kampo de Angono, a newly opened dining hub, became a crowd favorite. Overlooking the town, it offered a picturesque sunset view while the group savored local street food delights like pork barbecue, grilled intestines, and a variety of pancit. The tour also included a visit to the Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs, the oldest known artwork in the Philippines, adding a historical dimension to the trip. 




Tanay: Nature and Heritage Combined

Tanay, co-organized with the local Tourism Office, provided a glimpse into the municipality's natural beauty and historical significance. The adventure began with a tour of the Calinawan Cave, a historical site that served as a hideout during World War II. Next on the itinerary was a stop at Daranak Falls, a favorite among nature lovers for its cool waters and scenic cascades.

Lunch was enjoyed at the Kaminawis Garden Restaurant and Campsite, where the group relaxed and dined in the midst of nature. The tour also featured stops at the San Ildefonso de Toledo Parish Church, Viewscape Nature Park, and Ten Cents to Heaven Leisure Camp, giving a well-rounded experience of Tanay's diverse offerings.

Ross Del Rosario’s support for local businesses shone through with visits to coffee shops and cooperatives. The group got a taste of local brews at Kape Natividad Roastery and Cafe, Sinag Kapihan, and Kape Bukel, where they learned about the process of roasting coffee beans and enjoyed fresh cups brewed on-site.



A Continuing Journey

These tours represent just the beginning of Ross Del Rosario's mission to showcase the beauty of Rizal Province. Through Wazzup Pilipinas, he continues to organize such tours to spotlight the hidden gems in these municipalities, with plans to extend to other towns in the near future. By engaging influencers and content creators, he’s helping to promote the local economy and encourage both domestic and international tourism to the province.

With his genuine dedication to supporting communities and sharing their stories, Ross Del Rosario is leading the charge to make Rizal a top destination for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and an authentic local experience.


Saturday, September 28, 2024

A Birthday Adventure to Remember: Exploring Indonesia's Bintan Lagoon Resort and Singapore


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My travel with my wife to Indonesia and Singapore was a special treat to her birthday. Our adventure began with a flight going to Singapore, then traveling by sea towards Indonesia specifically to an island resort. Wazzup Pilipinas was invited to feature the Bintan Lagoon Resort first by staying there for a few days and nights experiencing most of their dishes at the restaurants of the resort. The resort even prepared a slice of cake with a birthday greeting to my wife at our room on our arrival at the resort. Then on the second day, we went on a day tour specifically called a Tanjung Uban Heritage and Eco-Farm tour which is composed of visiting the nearby surrounding tourist spots like the Bintan Island Mangrove and the Safari Lagoi Bintan Indonesia Zoo, a Chinese temple and a Muslim mosque ...and then proceeded back to Singapore to experience a stay at the Cube Boutique Capsule Hotel in Kampong Glam where we stayed overnight before exploring Singapore's famous tourist spots like the Singapore river cruise which includes passing by popular tourist spots like the Merlion, the Marina Bay Sands, and other sites and infrastructures visible from the Clarke Quay River. We also tried affordable dining spots serving authentic dishes that are proudly rooted in Singapore as their local cuisines and travelled using Singapore's public transportation.




As a birthday treat for my wife, we embarked on an unforgettable adventure that blended the best of Indonesia and Singapore, beginning with a flight from Manila to Singapore. Wazzup Pilipinas was invited to feature the luxurious Bintan Lagoon Resort in Indonesia, and we could not have asked for a more perfect opportunity to celebrate her special day.


Arriving in Singapore: Gateway to Adventure

Our journey began as we landed in Singapore, a city known for its clean streets, cutting-edge architecture, and vibrant culture. However, the adventure did not stop there. We were headed to Indonesia's Bintan Island, traveling by sea on a scenic ferry ride. The anticipation built as the ferry cut through the sparkling waters, leading us to the tranquil beauty of Bintan Lagoon Resort.




A Warm Welcome at Bintan Lagoon Resort

Upon arrival at the resort, we were instantly enveloped in luxury. Nestled on a sprawling 300 hectares of tropical gardens with its own private beach, Bintan Lagoon Resort is the epitome of a paradise getaway. Our suite was cozy and elegant, offering views of the lush surroundings. To our pleasant surprise, the resort had arranged a thoughtful gesture—a slice of cake with a birthday greeting for my wife, awaiting us in our room. It was a personal touch that set the tone for what was to be a truly memorable stay.


Dining at Bintan Lagoon: A Feast for the Senses

The resort's restaurants provided a culinary journey like no other. Each meal was a celebration of flavors, with the chefs serving up a mix of local and international dishes. We indulged in traditional Indonesian cuisine, including nasi goreng, spicy sambal, and fresh seafood. Every bite was a fusion of rich, bold spices and delicate textures that left us wanting more. Dining at Bintan Lagoon was not just about eating; it was an experience that immersed us in the local culture, reflecting the resort's pride in its heritage.




Exploring Bintan Island: Tanjung Uban Heritage and Eco-Farm Tour

The next day, we embarked on the Tanjung Uban Heritage and Eco-Farm Tour, an enlightening experience that allowed us to see the rich cultural and natural treasures of Bintan Island. Our first stop was the serene Bintan Island Mangrove, a sanctuary teeming with wildlife. Gliding along the calm river, we marveled at the towering mangroves, listening to the sounds of nature all around us.

Next, we visited the Safari Lagoi Bintan Indonesia Zoo, where we saw a range of animals, from exotic birds to indigenous wildlife. The zoo offered a unique glimpse into the diverse ecosystem of Indonesia. We then made our way to a beautiful Chinese temple, with its intricate architecture and vibrant colors that stood in harmony with the surrounding greenery. This was followed by a visit to a majestic Muslim mosque, a peaceful and humbling place that showcased the island’s religious diversity.

It was a day filled with wonder and discovery, a perfect balance of nature, culture, and history, offering us insights into the local way of life.


Back to Singapore: A Night in Kampong Glam

After soaking in the beauty of Bintan, we headed back to Singapore, where we checked into the Cube Boutique Hotel in Kampong Glam. Known for its historic charm, Kampong Glam is a vibrant district where traditional and contemporary Singapore converge. Our boutique hotel stay was cozy and comfortable, giving us the perfect base to explore the bustling neighborhood.

That night, we strolled through the streets of Kampong Glam, absorbing its eclectic energy. We dined at an affordable local spot, savoring Singapore's iconic dishes like Hainanese chicken rice and laksa. Each dish was a reflection of Singapore’s rich food culture, where Chinese, Malay, and Indian influences meld together in perfect harmony.


A Day of Exploration: Singapore River Cruise and Famous Landmarks

The following day, we set out to explore Singapore’s famous sights, beginning with the Singapore River Cruise. Gliding along the river, we passed some of the city's most iconic landmarks. The Merlion, a symbol of Singapore’s origins as a fishing village, stood proudly against the cityscape, while the futuristic Marina Bay Sands towered over the skyline. As we passed Clarke Quay, we admired the colorful riverside buildings and bustling nightlife from afar, a contrast to the serene waters on which we floated.

The river cruise was the perfect way to cap off our adventure. It allowed us to see Singapore from a different perspective, blending the old and the new in a single, mesmerizing view.


A Birthday Celebration to Cherish

From the quiet luxury of Bintan Lagoon Resort in Indonesia to the bustling streets of Singapore, this birthday adventure was one we will always cherish. It was a journey filled with discovery, from savoring local flavors to exploring cultural treasures. Whether navigating mangrove rivers or sailing past Singapore's landmarks, each experience was a new chapter in an adventure that celebrated not only my wife’s birthday but also the joy of travel and exploration.

We returned home with our hearts full, ready to share these incredible stories with our readers at Wazzup Pilipinas, confident that this trip would inspire others to embark on their own extraordinary journeys.

The Illusion of Influence: Why Follower Counts and Viral Posts Don't Equate to Effective Reach


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The number of followers of an influencer or content creator, or how viral or trending the views of a post, are not always equal to effective reach of the target markets or audience.  Many content creators are backed up by fake followers and/or have boosted or sponsored engagement that intentionally deceives and manipulates the people and continuously enticing to blindly follow the dictates or enticement that lures people in a fake reality. Sponsored posts that we're intentionally boosted with paid engagement and managed by PR companies or agencies specifically doing image and character building to get the unfair attention of the gullible and not so knowledgeable members of society. We should not always look into the numbers but on the credibility and track record of the content creator or influencer.



In the age of social media, numbers have become a currency. We’ve been conditioned to believe that an influencer’s worth is determined by how many followers they have, or how viral their content goes. But beneath the surface, those massive follower counts and trending views aren’t always what they seem. While numbers can create the illusion of influence, they don’t necessarily reflect the real, effective reach to target audiences—or credibility.


The Problem of Fake Followers and Boosted Engagement

Many content creators and influencers have managed to grow their online presence, but not all of that growth is organic. Some influencers are backed by fake followers—bot accounts that artificially inflate their numbers, making them appear far more popular than they really are. These fake followers do nothing to engage with the content or buy the products these influencers promote, rendering their large following hollow and ineffective when it comes to genuine marketing reach.

Similarly, boosted engagement—sponsored likes, comments, and shares—can make a post seem viral when, in reality, its reach has been intentionally manipulated. These paid engagements are managed by PR companies or digital marketing agencies whose sole purpose is to craft an image of influence, not to genuinely connect with an audience. For brands and individuals, this creates a distorted sense of reality, where engagement is bought, not earned.


Manipulating Audiences: The Trap of Sponsored Posts

Sponsored posts, particularly those boosted with paid engagements, have become another tool to deceive audiences. Often managed by PR agencies focused on image and character building, these posts are strategically designed to attract the attention of gullible, less knowledgeable members of society. They create a veneer of credibility, drawing people into a carefully curated narrative that often lacks authenticity.

For instance, many influencers who appear to be at the forefront of a niche, or who seem to have massive support, owe much of their visibility to paid campaigns. This form of digital manipulation leads people to trust influencers based on numbers rather than substance, following them blindly without questioning the authenticity of their messages or values.


Credibility and Track Record: The True Measure of Influence

So, if not the numbers, what should we be looking at? The answer lies in the credibility and track record of the content creator or influencer. Numbers can be faked, but integrity cannot.

Credible influencers build their following organically over time, earning trust through transparency, consistency, and genuine engagement with their audience. They prioritize quality content and honest communication over artificial growth. While their follower counts may not skyrocket overnight, their impact is far more meaningful because they reach a targeted, loyal audience that truly values their message.

In contrast, influencers who focus solely on boosting numbers through artificial means may gain temporary attention, but their reach is often shallow. When followers don’t genuinely connect with the content, the results are fleeting. The long-term success of an influencer, or their ability to truly influence decisions and behaviors, depends on their authenticity.


Numbers Don’t Tell the Full Story

Ultimately, we shouldn’t judge an influencer or content creator solely by the number of followers they have or how viral their posts go. Instead, we should be looking at their credibility, authenticity, and track record. Do they engage meaningfully with their audience? Do they offer value beyond the superficial? Are they transparent about their sponsored content, and do they align with causes or products they truly believe in?

We live in a time when deception can be bought, but credibility cannot. As consumers, it's crucial to recognize the difference between genuine influence and inflated numbers. True reach is about quality, not quantity. It’s time we shift our focus from the illusion of numbers to the reality of integrity.

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