Tanay, Rizal: Cool Christmas spots and must-try local dishes for holiday visitors

Tanay offers a mix of cool-weather stops, family-friendly attractions, and local flavors for those looking for a Christmas-themed getaway near Metro Manila.

According to Oscar Oida’s report on “24 Oras,” Friday, one of the most visited sites is the Tanay Parola, where guests can take photos with the cool breeze and the view of the lake and surrounding mountains.

The area has become a popular spot for visitors seeking a chill experience without traveling far from the city.

For those interested in a more reflective trip, Regina Rica in the upland part of Tanay continues to draw pilgrims.

The site features the 71-foot statue of Mama Mary, a peaceful walking trail, and a wishing well. 

It has a Christmas tree decorated with 1,000 dolls of hope, which visitors may adopt to support the community.

“Tinutulungan po natin ‘yung mga Matigsalug Tribe, and then gumagawa din nito ay isang patient po na nag-undergo ng dialysis, itong si Rowena. That's the one way na makatulong din po kami,” Sister Ellen Tayo said.

Families visiting with children may also stop by the Tanay Park Playground, where kids can enjoy various play areas while the rest of the family relaxes.

Food stalls are also available in the area, offering snacks and holiday favorites, including puto bumbong.

Visitors can also explore Tanay’s well-known dishes.

One of the most notable is the sinigang bundok, a sour soup made with smoked fish and whatever vegetables are available in the backyard of mountain communities.

“Tinawag po siya na sinigang bundok kasi ‘yung main ingredient niya po is fish, so smoked fish po siya. And then ‘yung mga sahog no’n ay kinukuha po nila kung ano ‘yung available sa backyard nila sa bundok,” Tanay Municipal Office - Tourism Office OIC Mica Piguing.

Another local must-try is sinanglay, a large tilapia cooked in coconut milk.

“Sa Laguna de Bay po natin, or Manila Bay. So ‘yun pong ating mga niluluto na isda ay nagmumula din po doon,” Piguing said.

At night, visitors often head to the Tanay Municipal Hall, where the facade is adorned with Christmas lights and colorful decorations for the season.

—Carby Rose Basina/CDC, GMA Integrated News