Just a quick up update.

So I went to:

Manila: loved it. Had a really good time, went to the feast of the black nazarene and met tons of people, which was really wonderful. So many people speak English that it allowed me to really get involved, which was such a nice treat after China, where I barely got to talk to anyone!

Boracay: was great for a few days, but had too much of a resort-y buzz for me. It was all foreigners and I didn't talk to many locals. But the beaches were lovely and I had a great time swimming every day. Everything was grossly overpriced by Philippines standards, but still affordable.

Kalibo: went here for Ati-Atihan. Had a great time--everyone was dancing in the streets! Not sure if there is anything else worth going here for at other times of year.

Cebu: I didn't get much buzz off of Cebu. It was the only place where I went that I didn't feel very safe, I had a lot of verbal harassment walking down the street in the area that I was staying. Seems to be very few tourist attractions other than SM Mall. I checked out the church of Santo Nino and Magellan's cross and was done with Cebu.

Bohol: I took the ferry and did a day trip around Bohol which I loved. I should have skipped Cebu and spent the time in Bohol.

Overall I LOVED the Philippines. Everyone was so nice and welcoming--I had a really great time, it was one of my favorite places from my 4 months of travels. I would definitely go back, and next time explore more. I wish I could have gone to Palawan as well.