The option of mountain biking, on top of the relaxing boat ride and touring the crumbling ramparts, makes the history-laden island of Corregidor (+6325253420 www.corregidorphilippines.com) a rewarding destination.

The bamboo organ at San Jose Church (Mon-Fri, 8am-12am, admission: P10), the only one of its kind in the world, is a half-hour jeepney ride away. Another matchless attraction is the Sarao Jeepney Factory (+6328281716, Mon-Sat, 9am-4pm, free), where they piece together Manila's trademark hybrid vehicles.

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