I always book directly sa hotel kapag may trips kami. Like what Joey said, I also call or email the hotels for their local rates or promos. For me it is easier to talk to the hotel directly than with agencies. Lalo na may mga nababalita na mga travel agencies na nagscam.
Hindi ko pa natry magbook via travel agency, lagi direct booking sa hotels. I either call or email them asking for promos for my travel dates. Then kung sino ang pinakamura sa lahat ng napaginquire-an ko, yun ang ibubook ko.