Musings on San Rafael, Bulacan

San Rafael, Bulacan is in the western side of the province and is one of the exciting places to visit especially during summer. It offers a wide array of places to see and enjoy. With its vast land area, it is of no wonder the it has lots of things to offer.

Of late, San Rafael has been visited by tourists for its river adventure which offers glamping activities. Glamping is short for glamorous camping. The town being at the banks of the Angat Dam-River, it took advantage of the scenery to promote this kind of activity. Now, it has other amenities for everyone of all ages to enjoy.

A baywalk at the banks of the Angat Dam-River is a refreshing area where people can stroll during the day. The 8 Waves Waterpark and Hotel is also located in San Rafael. It is a go-to resort where people can enjoy the beach in a non-beach setting complete with simulated waves.

Blessed with nice surroundings and lush greenery, the town is home to Royal Northwoods Golf and Country Club where those who enjoy the fairways can putt their golf clubs to their desire. It also has residential houses that cater to those who want to enjoy a life of peace and quiet.

But despite the modernity the is evident in any place, San Rafael still has that homey feel. Going around the town, you will discover that it has maintained its old mystique which makes it more interesting to discover.

Its San Juan de Dios Church was declared as an Important Cultural Property by the National Museum. It is the organizer of the annual Angel Festival celebrated every last week of September. It is one of the most anticipated festivals in Luzon and has gained a good number of followers.

Aside from the orchid farms that have sprouted in San Rafael, there are also a number of dragonfruit farms that were established by enterprising San Rafaelenos. Mostly, these farms are located in Barangay Capihan.

One of the recent discoveries in San Rafael is the Tukod Cave which has a natural church which is called the Simbahang Bato. It is located in a cluster of caves and rock formations in Barangay Tukod. Another one of must-visit areas in town.

With the many schools set up in San Rafael, it is considered as an educational center in the area. Bulacan Polytechnic College has a campus in town. St. Paul College is a popular private school which offers quality education for those who would want to be educated by a catholic school.

With the effective and efficient leadership of the local government officials, it has thrusted the town towards greater development and made San Rafael a fast-becoming important municipality in the province.

Personally, I will continue remembering San Rafael as quaint and unaffected by its seeming development. I will forever instill in my mind that it is home to Dragon Fireworks - the country's biggest fireworks maker.

It would still be the town that I used to go to whenever life in Metro Manila becomes toxic. Good thing that I have good friends who have invited me to their homes with open arms. Bulacan Provincial Board Member Atty. Emily Isidro-Viceo & former Mayor Boy have remained close with me through the years. Municipal Councilor Alvin Violago was a friend since San Beda days and has continually invited me to train and sit as a judge in the Hari at Reyna ng San Rafael for years now. They're not only friends - they're family in San Rafael. After the pandemic, if invited again, I would not have second thoughts of going back again.

Credit to the owners of the photos.