Father’s Day and Philippine Independence Day falling within the same month presented our homeschooling family with a unique opportunity for a special field trip. This year, we decided to visit Malolos, Bulacan—a place rich in history and significance to our nation’s freedom. Despite it being Father’s Day, my husband, who has a heart for service, eagerly took on the task of driving us to our destinations. This trip not only celebrated him, but also paid tribute to the brave fathers of our nation who fought for our independence.

We started the day by first greeting my husband. The boys gave their Dad their handmade Father’s Day cards. We had breakfast quickly and left for Bulacan.

Our adventure began with a sumptuous lunch at Dhel’s Grill and Restaurant. Nestled by the river, it offers a unique dining experience with nipa huts on stilts serving as cozy dining spaces. The rural setting was the perfect backdrop to a feast of native Filipino cuisine. We let my husband choose the food for our lunch since it’s his special day. We had crispy pata, spicy fried chicken and fish (salmon belly) sinigang. We also had tiramisu for dessert because my husband likes drinking coffee.

We all enjoyed the fresh air and eating in a nipa hut, while we savored the flavorful dishes that reminded us of the rich culinary heritage of our country. Since it was Father’s Day, diners can request songs to be sung and dedicated to the fathers with them. We requested and dedicated the songs Hero and You Raise Me Up to my husband. We took photos while waiting for our food to be served.

Initially, it was not our plan to eat in this resto. But the first resto that we went to only offered buffet lunch. It wasn’t practical for us with kids who do not eat a lot. We’re glad that we patiently searched for other alternatives despite our hunger. God led us to a much better option. We loved the food and ambiance! They also had big servings. We even had some left-overs that we brought home with us. We’re also happy that they accept online payments like GCash. It was very convenient for us because we didn’t get to withdraw enough cash before leaving home.

After eating our fill and having the energy for our field trip, we proceeded to our first historical stop which was Casa Real de Malolos, one of our a national shrines. It is also known as Museo ng Kasaysayang Pampulitika ng Pilipinas. This Spanish colonial building once served as the seat of the provincial government.

As we walked through its halls, we admired the antique furniture, historical artifacts, replicas of old and significant houses in the area and many photos from the past, imagining the decisions that shaped our nation’s early governance being made right where we stood.

There was a guide who shared some stories and trivia with us every now and then during our tour.

Casa Real is a living reminder of our rich heritage, making it a perfect starting point for our journey through history. There is no entrance fee to this museum. But they accept donations. They also sell some books.

Next, we ventured to the nearby iconic Barasoain Church and the Museum of 1899. Barasoain Church, often called the “Cradle of Democracy in the East,” is where the First Philippine Republic was established. This is where the first Philippine Congress was convened in 1898. It was also the venue where two Philippine Presidents (Emilio Aguinaldo and Joseph Estrada) were inaugurated. This church was also depicted or featured in various Philippine monetary bills.

There are also Masses in this church, but my husband decided that we will attend Sunday Mass that day at Malolos Cathedral. To check the scheduel of Masses in this church, click here.

The museum adjacent to the church enabled us to look at the events leading to our independence. We explored exhibits filled with photographs, documents, and dioramas that brought the struggles and victories of our ancestors to life. The children were particularly fascinated by the detailed dioramas depicting key moments in our fight for freedom.

Our field trip was capped with a Holy Mass at the Malolos Cathedral, also known as the Basilica Minore dela Nuestra Señora de Inmaculada Concepcion. On top of the tower, one will see the huge statue of the Virgin Mary.

The convent of this cathedral was used by General Emilio Aguinaldo as the presidential palace of the First Philippine Republic. In 1899, General Aguinaldo ordered General Antonio Luna to burn the church while they were fleeing the American army. This was a military strategy called scorched-earth policy.

We arrived at Malolos Cathedral with still enough time to rest and have some refreshments at the nearby store before the first afternoon Mass. Thus, we decided to have halo-halo and siopao for snacks.

It was essential in our field trip that day (being a Sunday) to attend Mass. Our family strives to be daily mass-goers. I was happy to discover (while planning for this field trip), that there were a number of Masses both in the morning and afternoon. You can find the schedule of Masses here.

The cathedral’s grand architecture provided a serene and inspiring environment for reflection and prayer. It was our first time to attend Mass in this church. Attending Mass together was a beautiful way to honor the day, expressing gratitude for our freedom and for the fathers in our lives who guide and protect us.

After Mass, we took time to explore the cathedral grounds and capture photos at the Kalayaan Tree. This symbolic site, where many historic proclamations were made, stands as a reminder of the resilience and bravery of the Filipino people.

Across the cathedral, the Malolos Municipal Hall offered another memorable backdrop, adding to the day’s memorable moments.

I really wanted us to explore more historical sturctures in Malolos. Although the churches and museums were close to each other, we didn’t have enough time anymore. My husband wanted us to go home before it gets dark for he is not familiar with the area. We were also tired from the long drive and the heat. I hope that next time, we can come back to Malolos and explore the other sites. I highly recommend that families stay overnight in Malolos if they want to have a Malolos Heritage Tour.

Make sure also that you bring extra clothes, your own water bottles and fans. There are a lot of eateries or restaurants around. But if you want to save money, you can bring your own snacks and just splurge on your main meals. But if you have the budget, check out the delicacies that Bulacan is known for.

As usual, we played Name That Tune led by our eldest son who was playing the guitar and the piano (he brought his small portable piano) during the ride home. This entertained us and enabled us to bond during the long ride from Bulacan to the south of Manila.

Throughout our trip, I couldn’t help but reflect on the parallels between the bravery of our national heroes and the everyday sacrifices of fathers like my husband. Just as our heroes fought for a better future for their families and country, my husband’s dedication to our family’s well-being is a constant source of strength, security and inspiration.

This field trip was more than just an educational outing—it was a celebration of heritage, courage, and fatherhood. Understanding the sacrifices made for our freedom instills a greater appreciation for our culture and history. It also underscores the importance of cherishing and honoring the fathers who continue to lead and protect us.

As we drove back home, tired but fulfilled, I looked at my husband with immense gratitude. His willingness to spend his special day enriching our children’s minds and hearts is a testament to his unwavering love and dedication. This Father’s Day was not only a tribute to him. It was also a homage to the countless fathers who have shaped our nation’s history and our own personal journeys.

My husband thanked me when we got back home for the field trip that I planned. He said that he enjoyed it and he was happy how we spent the day even though he got tired driving.

It was another successful field trip that enabled us to end the past school year with a bang.

Watch out for more photos from this trip on our YouTube channel soon!

How about you? How did you celebrate Father’s Day and Independence Day this month of June? Feel free to share in the comments.