Have you ever heard of Bustos, Bulacan?

Officially known as the Municipality of Bustos, it’s the smallest town in Bulacan, covering just about 70 square kilometers and home to around 80,000 folks. Barely an hour away from NCR by taking NLEX and it’s also near Clark City so you can expect a lot of booming businesses for the coming days due to Bulacan’s proximity to two mega cities and airports.

Bustos has an interesting backstory that goes way back to the Spanish colonial days. Believe it or not, it used to be part of Baliuag. One of the first things you notice about Bustos is how laid-back life feels. Lush rice fields surround you, the air is fresh, and everything moves at a much slower pace than in the city. It’s the kind of place where people smile and wave as they pass each other, and it seems like everyone knows everyone else.

If you visit, you’ve got to experience the Minasa Festival. It’s inspired by its local cookie referred as Minasa. It took place last January, and it was an absolute blast! The whole town comes alive with vibrant street dancing, food stalls brimming with local delicacies, and cultural performances that showcase the town’s rich heritage. This year, they even had Rico Blanco, the Filipino rock icon, performing! 

Bustos has an emerging new concept of businesses coming from many young entrepreneurs who are bringing in an al-fresco with a modern take on its aesthetics. You have to check out these spots:

[Photos taken at the Arthur’s Inasal, https://www.facebook.com/macarthurinasal]

Arthur’s Inasal: Started by Arthur Gallarin, a former OFW and hotelier, this place serves up some seriously delicious chicken inasal. It’s super affordable, and they have other traditional dishes like sisig too. Think backyard vibes with amazing food. You should find Arthur’s Inasal when you look for “A Taste of Home-Grown Goodness”

[Photos taken at the Kain Lokal: https://www.facebook.com/kainlokalPH, https://www.instagram.com/kainlokalph/]

The Kain Lokal: This spot is all about fun! They have this super cool jeepney kitchen counter where you can watch your food being prepared. And the best part? They offer unlimited hot brewed coffee, pares soup, and garlic java rice! It’s “Where Food Meets Fun”. Check out their Facebook page and it has very engaging posts coming from its owner

Hungry Chef: If you’re looking for budget-friendly eats, this place is it! They have huge portions and flavorful dishes that are super popular with students. Budget-friendly family favorites. The ambiance is very comfortable, perhaps this is because it’s handled by a very familiar and comforting owner who has been in the place for many decades.

[Chweck them out of Facebook – https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556938157507]

Bustos amid developments, indeed has a soul through its local artists. As you stroll through Bustos Heritage Park, you’ll encounter various sculptures made by Apo Balong that invite contemplation and appreciation. The park is designed to be an immersive experience where visitors can engage with nature and art, making it a perfect spot for families, tourists, and art enthusiasts alike. 

Overall, Bustos has a refreshing vibe – the people and leaders we met made us realize that progress is achieved when there is determination and a dream that beams from everyone in the place. A solid goal that is reflected not just by the Bustosenyos but their young and dynamic leaders who pave the way for a brighter future. Leaders with fresh ideas, clear and doable ambitions, and a vibrant approach to the changing times. 

So, next time you’re planning a trip, consider adding Bustos, Bulacan to your list, indeed something more exciting is coming up there!

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