Santa Cruz, Provincial capital in Laguna, Philippines.
Santa Cruz is a municipality in Laguna province on the Philippines, stretching along the banks of the Santa Cruz River that flows into Laguna de Bay. The area comprises 26 administrative subdivisions across varying terrain and serves as a key administrative and trading hub for the eastern region.
The settlement separated from the neighboring municipality of Lumban in 1602, gaining its own church and administrative structure under Spanish colonial rule. This establishment marked the beginning of its development as an independent community in the region.
The Kesong Puti Festival celebrates traditional white cheese making from carabao milk, reflecting local dairy craftsmanship. Visitors can observe these production methods and taste cheeses made using generations-old techniques.
The municipality is the trading center for eastern Laguna province, located about 88 kilometers from Manila via the Calamba-Los Baños route. Travel is easiest during the dry season when roads and waterways are more passable for visitors.
The area features extensive inland transport networks across Laguna de Bay, used for regional fishing and trade activities since its founding. These waterways remain an important connection between communities today, supporting a traditional way of life for many residents.
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