The Tourist Gaze

Quezon Province, with its charming towns and stunning views of Mount Banahaw, is a treasure trove of cultural, historical, and culinary delights. Whether you’re visiting for a short weekend or an extended getaway, this province offers plenty of must-see destinations. On a February Sunday, after checking out of our hotel in Lucena, my family and I decided to explore two of the most picturesque towns in Quezon: Tayabas and Lucban.

Our first stop was Tayabas, a town nestled at the foot of Mount Banahaw and known for its rich history and culinary gems. One of the top tourist spots in Tayabas is Rodillas Yema Cake, a beloved delicacy that has become synonymous with the town. The main branch of Rodillas Restaurant is situated in the heart of Tayabas, exuding a rustic charm that perfectly complements the hearty meals they serve.

When Juliet Rodilla entered the restaurant scene in the 2000s, she probably didn’t know her venture would last about two decades, more so a pandemic that has shuttered other food establishments. A lot has changed since then, but her yema cake continues to be a crowd-drawer, with stores around Southern Luzon selling the delicacy.

We have our lunch at their main branch, a quaint restaurant at a street corner in the town center. It’s currently busy with the first floor swarming with customers. We find a table on the second floor, where a mural of farm folks add a rustic and colorful vibe to our lunch consisting of menudo, dinuguan, barbecue, and of course, yema cake.

Aside from Rodillas, Tayabas is also home to other historical attractions, including the centuries-old Minor Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel, one of the largest churches in the Philippines, and the Malagonlong Bridge, a Spanish-era stone bridge that offers a glimpse into the town’s colonial past.

After lunch, we head to the next town north, Lucban. The town is popular for the Pahiyas Festival, though at other times of the year, the town remains a pleasant destination, with its narrow streets, old buildings, and Mount Banahaw looming in the distance. Outside of town, the most popular destination is Kamay ni Hesus Healing Church, a popular pilgrimage site filled with sculptures of Jesus in pivotal moments of his life. A large statue of Christ’s resurrection stands on a hill a few hundred meters from the entrance.

On a Sunday afternoon, the place is filled with devotees and curious travelers alike, turning what is probably meant a solemn place into a bustling area.

After exploring Kamay ni Hesus, we strolled through the narrow streets of Lucban’s town center, marveling at its old Spanish-era houses and the ever-present view of Mount Banahaw in the distance. Of course, no trip to Lucban is complete without indulging in its culinary specialties. The Lucban longganisa, a garlicky and slightly sour pork sausage, is a must-try, as is the pancit habhab, a local noodle dish traditionally served on banana leaves and eaten without utensils. A pack of Lucban longganisa costs around PHP 180, while pancit habhab from a roadside stall costs as little as PHP 15—delicious and budget-friendly!

Lucban’s charm, combined with Tayabas’ rich history and culinary treasures, made for an unforgettable weekend trip in Quezon Province. Whether you’re visiting for the festivals, food, or historic landmarks, both towns offer something unique for every traveler. After our adventure, we made our way to nearby Majayjay, Laguna, to complete our journey back home.

If you’re planning to visit tourist spots in Quezon Province, don’t miss Tayabas and Lucban to savor the famous yema cake or climb up the Kamay ni Hesus hill. These towns promise an experience that’s as enriching as it is enjoyable.