Nueva Ecija is a landlocked province in the heart of Luzon. It is an agricultural juggernaut that is a leading supplier of rice – a staple in Filipino households. Characterized by rolling hills, craggy mountains and stunning landscapes it has plenty to offer visitors who want to explore a different destination.
Nueva Ecija is a province in the north that is often overlooked or just passed through en route to Baguio, Banaue, and other destinations. However, it has its own attractions that are worth visiting, whether as a day trip or a multi-day one. If you’re planning to visit, here are some things to do and places of interest to include in your itinerary.

Visit Minalungao National Park

Located in General Tinio, this natural wonder of Nueva Ecija has gained popularity over the years. It is accessible by public and private transportation and is a viable day trip from Metro Manila. This attraction is characterized by high limestone formations flanking the Penaranda River. Walk around to take pictures and admire the views or you can get on a raft and ride the calm river. There are spots for cliff-jumping as well as sections that aren’t too deep for swimming. A raft ride costs approximately P500 for the day. There is also a small cave you can check out.

Visit the PMP Paradise Farm

Experience rural and village life with a trip to this farm in Nueva Ecija. This destination allows you to detach from the hustle and bustle of city life and the daily grind of a 9 to 5. During your visit you can try several activities such as herding sheep, picking fruits and riding a horse around the property. You can also try your luck catching fish on a floating kubo. Don’t leave without trying the “nilupak” or the “palitaw” both are like sweet rice cakes.

Drop By the NFA Museum

It is only fitting that the NFA Museum is in Nueva Ecija, the rice bowl of the Philippines. Here you will get to learn more about this product. You will see the different farming techniques, tools used and baskets used for storage, and other tidbits about the Filipino staple.

Camp Pangatian War Memorial Shrine

This shrine in Cabanatuan used to be an American camp but became a concentration camp when the Japanese occupied the Philippines for some time during World War II. When the war ended, more than 500 prisoners of war were freed. Today, this shrine commemorates the sacrifice and the heroism of the Filipinos and foreign soldiers who fought the Japanese. You will see memorabilia and monuments displaying the courage of fallen heroes.

Make a Trip to PhilRice

The Philippine Rice Institute allows people who want to deepen their knowledge about farming to do so. They have a program called Future Rice – its objective is to make learning about agriculture fun by integrating modern technology. You will then make your way to the fields where you can see the planting and cultivation of rice.

Three Kings Parish

Located in Gapan City, this church has a history that spans centuries. The exterior is simple yet beautiful while the interior creates a peaceful ambiance for praying and reflection. The parish is a popular pilgrimage site for devout Catholics. You will find the image of La Virgen Divinia Pastora inside.

See the Ancestral Homes in Gapan

Gapan is not just one of the oldest towns in Nueva Ecija, but also in the country. The ancestral homes in town are proof of Gapan’s long history. You’ll find plenty of old colonial houses near the Three Kings Parish. The capiz shell windows, the design of the facade and the wooden materials elicit an undeniable sense of nostalgia.

Go on a Culinary Adventure

Nueva Ecija not only has a strong cultural and historical heritage, but also delicious delicacies that will make your mouth water. The batutay longganisa in Cabanatuan is a must-eat while in the city. It is made of beef and also has garlic. Try the tilapia ice cream, this is an unusual flavor but still worth tasting. It is sweet and a slight fish taste. Eat the pinapaitang kambing with alibangbang leaves while you are in the province. As the “rice bowl of the Philippines” you can’t leave Nueva Ecija without trying the local kakanin, the two most famous are the nilupak and palitaw.

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