The Philippine Eagle Foundation is a private, non-stock, non-profit organization dedicated to saving the endangered Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jefferyi) and its rainforest habitat. Organized in 1987, it had before that time been operating as a project for research, rehabilitation, and captive breeding.
The Philippine Eagle Foundation commits to promote the survival of the Philippine Eagle, the biodiversity, and the sustainable use of our forest resources for future generations.
The Philippine Eagle Foundation VAL Learning Village, Ruby St., Marfori Heights, Davao City 8000 Philippines
The Philippine Eagle Center
Malagos, Baguio District Davao City 8000 Philippines
Having a few days to spare last May, I decided to spend a quick weekender trip to the famous Cebu City. I am no stranger to Cebu, as I have been to this city two to three times with my previous employment. But as expected, business trips can never be considered a vacation. Hotels and transfers are well prepared already before we arrived. The trip I had last May was actually my first time to see Cebu on my own. And indeed, the famed queen city of the south gets lovelier on every visit.
As an issue for any plane riding backpacker, finding cheap airport transfer is a priority. I am aware that Cebu’s international airport is not very near the city (in fact, it is located on another island); As such, i prepared myself to ride a coded airport taxi, which would probably cost me 400 pesos.
CHEAP AIRPORT TRANSFER BY MYBUS : Fortunately, there is already a cheap bus transferring passengers to and from the airport, as operated by My Bus Transport. One way trip only costs 25 pesos, and is scheduled hourly from 7 am to 9 pm. The bus is stationed just outside the arrival hall, with tarps and a manned booth for easy assistance.
One way trip of MyBus is priced at 25 pesos. There is also an option to buy a transpo card for 200 pesos consumable, and has lots of freebies from SM like bowling and ice skating slots. cool!
MYBUS STOP AND PICK UP STATION: MyBus is stationed at the SM Cebu Compound, North Reclamation Area. The trip from the airport took a little more than an hour, as it was around 5 pm already. But conveniently, the bus stop is just across BAYFRONT HOTEL CEBU where I was booked.
EASY ACCOMMODATION IN CEBU: As one of the tourist hubs of the country, options for accommodation are everywhere. But as recommended by a friend, I chose to stay at BAYFRONT HOTEL CEBU for the following reasons:
1.) The hotel is relatively new, by just around 2 years in service.
2.) Easy Breezy Location. Super walking distance from SM Cebu and Radisson Bleu, plus the convenience of MyBus airport transfer is just across the hotel.
3.) Inexpensive. Private Rooms at around 2,500 (off peak) for two with buffet breakfast.
4.) Room Type options. Bayfront Hotel has affordable barkada rooms with double decks, Suite rooms (Condo set up) and special rooms dedicated for PWD.
5.) Contemporary interiors . Instagram worthy at every angle.
Bayfront Hotel Cebu’s Superior Twin Room*The Barkada Room*The Suite Room, Condo unit set up with living room and Clean Kitchen*The Breakfast Area*Fitness Gym*
(*Room and facility photos above are owned by Bayfront Hotel Cebu.)
me!
Booking with Bayfront Hotel Cebu is also an easy breezy deal. The Hotel has a reliable website http://web.bayfronthotel-cebu.com/
Bayfront Hotel Cebu | Kaohsiung Street, North Reclamation Area, Cebu City. Phone Number: +63–32–2306777
When visiting Davao, never ever leave our city without seeing the coral gardens and marine life of Samal and Talikod Island. And especially to first time Davao visitors, a day tour to our Coral Garden and Marine Park can smoothly be arranged for you by Tide and Tribe Travel and Tours.
The Coral Garden and Marine Park, around 45 minutes away from Davao City by boat, is located west of Talikud Island, and is dearly called “Linosutan” by local divers of Barangay Linosutan.
Divers are treated to a sight of hard and soft coral beds, tropical fish, garden eels, anemones of shrimps and the likes. For some thrill seekers, seeing banded sea snakes would be a highlight, but it is given of course that these marine lives are not supposed to be touched for conservation, as well as for safety.
In all honesty, I was hesitant at first to do diving. As all my friends know, I am not the best of the swimmers, and I never swim deep water without a floating vest. But Sir Darriel Quiogue of Tide and Tribe Travel and Tours, who is an avid diver himself, was good enough to talk me though it. All i needed was to be surrounded by experienced divers after all.
Fake smile. I was actually nervous to take the plunge! (Please don’t judge me. haha)
Although first timers do need to suck up some courage to begin with, intro diving does not really require a person to be super good at swimming. As arranged by Tide and Tribe, the intro diving is a “1 dive guide to 1 guest” policy; Each guest will be under capable hands of an assigned dive master. The intro dive can go 25 feet in depth. Each plunge would take around 20-30 minutes underwater.
Here are some of the snap shots taken by Tide and Tribe Travel and Tours. Indeed, diving first time is a surreal experience.
Me with Escape Manila, a fellow first timer. haha !An amazing experience of getting this close to the lush coral garden of Samal Island. This shot is at around 25 feet in depthHalf way through the diveOur fully equipped boat around Samal and Talikod Island
This amazing diving experience has been arranged by Tide and Tribe Travel and Tours, as part of the Two Day “Must-C” Davao package.
Apart from the two day package, the operator also offers a Three day package for broader Davao experience. They can also design special tours upon client’s requests. Get to know the operators by reaching through the following links below.
Here is something interesting to do on your Davao visit this summer. Tide and Tribe Travel and Tours has recently launched its creatively designed Davao“Must-C’s” Tour Package. The “Must-C’s” (Must See’s) is a brainchild of tour operators Darriel and Catherine Quiogue, which is essentially a bundle of Davao specialties and attractions that coincidentally start with the letter C — chocolate, cheese, coffee, clams and coral garden for example.
Apart from the catchy tour banner, what made “Must-C’s” tour distinct is that it does not conclude on mainstream stops and activities, to which any visitor could have expected. Rather, the tour introduces the city with focus on cuisine, culture, and conservation, the three things that define and distinguish the Davao experience; Interesting enough even for Davao locals.
I was fortunate to experience first hand what Tide and Tribe had to offer. The trip turned out smooth and hassle free with a bundle of activities carefully arranged to keep up the adventure cravings of the guests. Here are the highlights of my awesome weekend getaway, as part of the Two Day Davao “Must-C’s” Tour Package.
Day 1
The Tour started off with a hearty cheese-tasting session at Malagos Farmhouse, A local chocolate, wine and cheese producer, where visitors will hear from the artisan cheese-maker herself, Olive Puentespina, how she makes her cheeses and how best to enjoy them.
The Ricotta Cheese, one of the three kinds of cheese served by Malagos Farmhouse for the tour. Ricotta curds are creamy white in appearance, slightly sweet in taste, and contain less fat.
My Plate full of different kinds of cheeses , locally made in Davao by Olive PuentespinaChitchat with Malagos Farmhouse’s cheese makers during the cheese tasting Session, arranged by Tide and Tribe Travel and Tours
The tour hies off to the Philippine Eagle sanctuary in Calinan (some country side in Davao) to get up close—really close–and personal with the magnificent national bird, the Philippine Eagle, and other birds of the sanctuary, with a Keeper’s Talk.
A Portrait of an Adult Female Philippine Eagle ; Such a fierce beauty.The Brahminy Kites are among the exotic birds protected by the Philippine Eagle SanctuaryStriking a pose with the Majestic Philippine Eagle
After the visit to the conservation center, lunch of catfish (hito) and barbeque awaits in a countryside setting in one of the many hitoan restaurants that line up this stretch of the road. Catfish(hito) farming is also a lucrative and sustainable industry here in Davao.
Heavy Lunch with Darriel and Catherine Quiogue and other bloggers at a catfish (Hito) farm, not very far from the Philippine Eagle SanctuaryThe House Specialty, Deep Fried Catfish, a personal Fave.
Next up is a visit to Rosit Cacao Farm, where visitors will learn more about Davao’s growing reputation in the chocolate world from the owner himself, Mr. Grover Rosit, who has trained many a cacao farmer here and abroad. We top off this tour with an interactive experience at tablea-making and hot chocolate tasting.
The Process of Producing Pure Cocao (Cocoa), locally known as TableyaSampling the Native Hot Chocolate drink . Freshly grounded and brewed in the Rosit Cacao Farm
Day 1 ends with a privately hosted dinner of home-cooked, spicy Kagan food, prepared women of the Kagan tribe, who will also share their dance and music with you. Kagan is one of the eleven indigenous tribes of Davao. And to cool down the fiery heat of the Kagan dishes, we give you Davao’s signature fruits and a surprise dessert, capped with fragrant, freshly roasted and brewed Kagan-style coffee.
Sampling a traditional meal from the Kagan Tribe of Davao. The Tininuan is an Indigenous spicy chicken dish sauteed in shredded/roasted coconut flesh. On the side is a Kagikit, a mildly spiced shedded fish dish. The Yellow rice prepared in coconut milk and turmeric.
Day 2
Day 2 is beach day! The tour will take an exclusive boat ride to the Malipano islands where you will spend the morning snorkeling at the protected marine habitat of our ‘taklobos’ or giant clams and its smaller relatives, with the help of the official snorkeling guides of this eco-tourism project of the Davao del Norte State College, the AdeCor United Fisherfolk Organization and the local government. There are 3500++ number of living clams in this sanctuary, for conservation. The Clam sanctuary is limitedly open to the public, and the best way to visit is through an organised tour. More pictures and details of this on my next post =)
A closer look at the Clams. Photo taken by Darriel and Cathy QuiogueThe shadows on the water are actually living clams, around 12 to 18 inches in width. Some are even bigger, which can be found in deeper water. There are 3500++ number of living clams in this sanctuary,for conservation.The Must-C Team =)
Sumptuous BBQ and seafood lunch is served after the snorkling session at the Clam Sanctuary, Samal Island.
A Heavy BBQ lunch at the beach is served after the snorkling session at the Clam Sanctuary.Comfi boat to take you around the best snorkling and diving spots in Samal Island, as arranged by Tide and Tribe Travel and ToursA relaxing boat ride along the coast of Samal is provided by Tides and Tribe Travel and Tours. The boat has a comfort room, a Kayak and snorkelling sets to use.
The highlight of Day 2 on the afternoon when visitors get to experience Intro Scuba Diving, as part of the tour package. Scuba diving is forbidden at the Giant Clam Sanctuary but it is certainly a must-do at the shallow reefs of Samal islands. Visitors will be in the capable hands of dive masters who will guide you and carry you along on an intro dive. More of this diving experience on my near future posts.
The First Time DiverThe first time diver enjoying the Lush Coral Garden of Samal Island , under the good hands of Tide and Tribe Travel and ToursFirst time Scuba Divers. More of this diving experience on my near future posts.
All that activity will surely make one hungry. The tour concludes on a gastronomic high with an eat-all-you-can dinner at a crab and seafood buffet, which is Davao is also famous for. =)
A Sumptuous feast of Crab and Shrimp, served buffet style, concludes the “Must-C’s” of Davao Tour package.
A Sumptuous feast of Crab and Shrimp, served buffet style, concludes the “Must-C’s” of Davao Tour package.
This amazing experience has been creatively designed and arranged by Tide and Tribe Travel and Tours.
Apart from the two day package, the operator also offers a Three day package for broader Davao experience. They can also design special tours upon client’s requests. Get to know the operators by reaching through the following links below.
For Davaoeno’s , landing on Ilo-ilo City Airport would most likely be the easy, yet practical entry point to any of the provinces in Panay , and most particularly to Caticlan(Boracay Island). There are still no direct commercial flights from Mindanao to Caticlan and vice versa, at the moment, connecting flights from Davao through Manila then Caticlan (Boracay Island) would be too expensive.
Charming and rich, Ilo-ilo is not just a monotonous city for a short stop over . Boasting its affluent Ilonggo history, as well as its abundance with oysters, shellfish and other seafood, I say this city is also worthy of a leisurely visit for a day or two.
On my most recent visit to Boracay, I had a bonus chance to spend an overnight in Ilo-ilo before leaving for Negros the following day. Tired and time restraint, I opted to skip the usual historic tour. But I made sure to check on this city’s food scene, which should never be missed ! Here are some of the food trips I had around Ilo-ilo 🙂
First Stop, Lapaz Batchoy from the Original Branch of Deco’s at Lapaz Public Market,which has been serving this staple Ilonggo tummy warmer prior to WW2. ( 1936, as told to me by the staff) . This Super Special Batchoy (with everything on it ) costs around 80 Pesos. Deco’s is among the chains of batchoy restaurants in Ilo-ilo. Other chains have more branches , but I like Deco’s more for its taste.
Inside La Paz Market stands another Ilonggo staple , the Madge Coffee Shop serving Native Brewed Coffee. Don’t expect frappe on this old timer, as they only serve their original brew.Passed from one generation to the next, this coffee house still serves the original coffee concoction since 1951. A Cup of native brewed coffee costs 25 pesos. This is also worth a try =)
While having coffee, its also nice to sample some delectable kakanins native to the Ilonggo province.
Suman with Bukayo Topping . This is an ilonggo twist on the Pinoy staple sticky rice delicacy by adding sweetened coconut (buko) fillet . I never had such as this before back in Davao.Puto Gata, A Rice cake Delicacy. The maker used Coconut Milk instead of the usual milk. This is perfectly paired with Batchoy and Dinuguan ( pork blood stew )
The best part of my Ilo-ilo food trip was sampling their abundance on Oysters ! I dined at Samurai Restaurant, an affordable seafood and grill , very near to SM City. A Platter of Oyster , cooked in three ways ( Ginger-steamed , buttered , and Chili Garlic ). A Platter with 16 pcs only cost me 130 pesos ! Thats how cheap Oysters are in Ilo 2x.
Oyster Platter for only 130 pesos at Samurai RestaurantVegetables sauteed in Butter Garlic only costs 55 pesos . A Great Side dish.
I only had a few hours to roam around and sample Ilo-ilo’s fine tummy fillers , as such , the limited sharing. But definitely, Ilo-ilo is worth a re-visit. Even just for those delectable Steamed Oysters ! =)
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Transportation Ilo-ilo to Caticlan v.v.
Ilo-ilo to Caticlan (Boracay) and back is a smooth 6 hours by public “limited-stopped” bus. Ceres Bus line takes this route on vice versa, One departing bus every hour from 3 AM (first bus) to 6 PM ( last bus ) as of November 2014 , and costs around 350 Pesos per way , Air-conditioned .
Public Van transportation is also a usual option especially on night trips. But bus rides are recommended for safety .
Cheap Option to Stay in Ilo-ilo overnight
Fine Rock Hotel along Jalandoni St.Fine Rock Hotel Promo rates as of Nov. 2014 . Rooms are Ok . just right for its price. City Dorm , an0ther cheap option , just on the corner of Fine Rock Hotel . This one is probably the cheapest in the City. Dont expect much luxury
From Vigan, I headed further up north to Laoag and lazily roamed around the city and nearby towns for 2 days. Laoag is 2 hours away from Vigan, and around 9 to 10 hours away from Metro Manila , both by public bus. There are comfortable buses that travel by night from Manila to Laoag , as well as the other way around , which I think is fairly ideal to do for budget conscious travelers, because it saves you a night stay at the hotel. Farinas Bus and Partas Bus leaves pasay on a scheduled trip.
I will be uploading a separate detailed post on recommended Ilocos backpacking budget , but for now , here are some of the highlights and the must do’s, inspired by my recent visit to Ilocos Norte:
Visit Bangui Windmills in the Morning . The Windmill complex is an iconic landmark of Ilocos province’s progressive state . Bangui is around an hour bus from Laoag City .
Bangui Wind Farm is a wind farm in Bangui, Ilocos Norte. You probably saw this on several Philippine tourism Ads , such as the “Biyahe Tayo” of Regine Velasquez from few years back. With 20 units wind turbines of 70-metre high, Bangui windmills Asia’s largest wind farm today, making Bangui the capital of green energy in the Philippines
Head further up north and spend lazy afternoon at Pagudpud Beach . This is another hour away from Bangui by bus + tricycle.
Calm and Clear shores of PagudpudThe white sand shore of Pagudpud is comparably as wide as Boracay. Not as fine though , but still very beautiful in such as way that its calm, and fairly unconsumed by resorts and commerce.Fellow Backpackers I met while travelling Ilocos Norte. Shout out to Vincent and the guys. Hola ! =)
Cape Bojeador Lighthouse . Along the way back to Laoag from Pagudpud by bus, drop by this charming lighthouse up the hills of Burgos , overlooking the mighty South China Sea. A lot of Filipino movies have been shot in this enchanting location.
The Mighty waves of South China Sea, crushing though the time formed cliffs of the North.
Lazy around the grounds and gardens of the Majestic Paoay Church , Preferably late afternoon, or ’til sun down, if you wish; Paoay is just 30-45 minutes away from Laoag by public jeepney. A Unesco World Heritage Site, this is probably the most photogenic church I have ever visited. It is also where the Filipino/ Thai movie “Suddenly Its Magic” was shot .
From Paoay, it is also just one tricycle ride away to the Malacanang of the North, a Pride of the Marcos Regime .
Sample Ilocano and international inspired Dishes at Rufino’s Restaurant just beside Paoay Church
Lechon Baka slices in Pita pockets . Yummy ! This is only 85 pesos per plate of 4 . ( as of 2014, that is )Ilocano Pakbet at 95 pesos per meal . Food is fairly affordable in Ilocos , even at restaurant that are a bit fancy and with a great view =)They call it Poki Poki , an ilocano delicacy … which is a battered- deep tried talong (eggplant) Rufino’s however turned theirs into bite sized balls.
Roam Around Laoag City on Foot , and sample grilled Batac Longanisa at Dap ayan food stalls along Rizal Street.
Saint William’s Cathedral in Downtown LaoagIlocos Norte Provincial CapitolSweet Buco Roll, hot and fresh from the oven . This one is really yummy and has recently became a popular item for pasalubong , as per some locals. This Buco Roll Bakery is just at the front of Farinas Bus terminal, and is open 24 hoursSample some yummy Batac Longanisa ( Ilocos Norte’s own ) This Longganisa is a bit milder in taste an smell, compared to Pampanga’s and the usual other Filipino Longganisas.
Visit Ilocos Museum and Check out Food stalls and cafes at the compound of the Museum.
Food Market just beside Ilocos Museum.Johnny’s Pasta with generous seafood toppings , from Johnny Moon’s Cafe . which is as well at the compound of Ilocos MuseumJohnny Moon Cafe , serves Laoag’s contemporary twist on ilocano dishes. The name is keenly thought and derived from one of Philippines’ National Heroes, Juan Luna , who is also from the province of Ilocos NorteFish taco from taco del norte . A good light snack after visiting Ilocos Museum
Where I Stayed : Texicano Hotel along Rizal Street, just stone throws away from Farinas bus Terminal. Rooms start at 350 pesos , Ideal for backpackers. Will upload a separate article for suggested cost, stay tuned =)
Known for its Filipino old world charm, the City of Vigan has already become one of the most desired local tourist spot to visit here in the Philippines. A recognized Unesco World Heritage treasure, strolling around the old city’s cobblestone pavements and well preserved Spanish Era Architecture is such a nostalgic experience, giving visitors a feel of how days and nights were during the old days. In addition to that, Vigan is also the destination to enjoy authentic Ilocano cuisine , with restaurants and street side eateries serving Vigan longganisa, bagnet and empanada, to name a few specialties. In all honesty, Vigan is indeed a must visit for Filipinos; A “must experience”, at least once in our lives.
Vigan is a relatively small city around 8 hours away from Metro Manila by Bus. I stayed there for 2 days before heading to Laoag, which is around 2 hours further up North. With no particular and strict itinerary, I lazily roamed around the city by myself and spent late afternoon sipping coffee along Calle Crisologo. Travel is best spent when you really don’t have to rush time to see everything there is. A lazy walk on streets and local markets gives us travelers better chance to experience the vibe of the place more. =)
I will be uploading a separate post on recommended Ilocos backpacking budget , but for now , here are some of the highlights and the must do’s, inspired by my recent visit to Vigan:
Exploring the Famous Calle Crisologo – the center and the most well preserved part of Vigan’s Unesco World Heritage Protected Area
Calle Crisologo , ViganSample of Antique Displays along the road
Museum Visits and roaming around the rest of Vigan City Center on Foot. The city is relatively small and easy to navigate. However, the most interesting mode to see Vigan is on a Kalesa ( Horse Drawn Carriage ). The Kucheros are much willing to be a guide for P 150 per hour . Renting a bike is also a cute idea , any hotel can assist you on where to get one =)
The tower at the center Plaza Salcedo is somewhat historic , as this has been used to publicly execute criminals and rebels during the Spanish Era ; Gabriela Silang was among them. Today , this tower has become the centerpiece of the lively fountain park of the Plaza.Some interesting installments along the streets of ViganThis is what Tricycles / tuktuks look like in Vigan . Almost all of Vigan Tricycles were made to be artsy . =)The Unesco World Heritage MonumentA corner Cafe serving fried chicken since 1956. Chicken is delicious ! =)
Visit nearby town of Bantay to see the Old Church and Bell Tower. Bantay is just around 10 minutes tricycle ride from Calle Crisologo . I even managed to just walk from Bantay Church all the way back to Calle Crisologo for around 30 minutes. That was a leisurely late afternoon walk , and I got to cross the bridge on foot . =)
Centuries Old Bantay ChurchThe Bantay Bell Tower, which folks say, is slowly sinking down . This structure is relatively unrepaired for centuries now.A leisurely walk from Bantay Church to Vigan City CenterLighting of incense at Bantay Church as an offering to the departed loved ones.
Sample staple ilocano noodle specialties such as this Pancit Batil Patung. A mix of fine noodles topped with deep fried pork meat (Bagnet), vegetables, bean sprouts , chicharon and a sweet specialty sauce that has a mild but recognizable “patis” (Fish Sauce) taste in it . It also comes with a sunny side up on top. A nice garden restaurant just outside Bantay Church serves such good noodle dish for only 60 to 65 pesos.
Pancit Batil Patung for only 65 pesosThe Garden Restaurant serving pancit specialties, which is located just outside Bantay Church. This should not be missed.
Quest to find the best Vigan Empanada ( .. Or just my humble excuse to eat more empanada. haha ) Vigan Empanada is famous for its staple ilocano style filling of seasoned Vigan Longanisa (skinned) carrots, cabbage , and whole egg. I tried several empanadas and found the best one on an eatery in fron of Plaza Burgos, which was way better than the most publicized one along Calle Crisologo.
The best Empanada for me is found at an eatery fronting Plaza Burgos, prepared by Aling Peng. This one was more flavourful than other empanadas i tried .This is the Empanada at Irene’s along Calle Crisologo . Its just ” so-so ” , but the store location is good; As such, this one sells better .Another Sampling of Empanada just along the Park, this one is more meaty and it does not have an egg in it. The ones prepared by Aling Peng at Plaza Burgos is still better.Empanadas are fried fresh , basically everywhere in Vigan
Sample some Ilocano Pakbet, Sinanglaw ( Beef Innards in Clear soup ) and other local viands at the eateries along Plaza Burgos.
If I am not mistaken, Ilocano Pakbet is a bit oily, more of like stir fried but ma sarsa … unlike pakbet in Bisaya which is a bit saucy. Plus, Ilocano Pakbet always has crispy pork in it. =)Sinanglaw Beef Soup
Witness the Fountain Show at Plaza Salcedo every 7 pm in the evening.
Stroll around Calle Crisologo once more, and this time, in the evening . =)
Recommended Affordable Stay : Vigan Hotel , which is just behind Vigan Cathedral and the School . a few steps away from Calle Crisologo. A non air room costs only 400 pesos per night. This affordable option was recommended to me by Nik of Pinoyontheroad.com
Backpacking Laoag and the rest of Ilocos Norte is up next. Stay tuned =)
Christmas holidays just passed by us a few days ago , and I hope everybody enjoyed some rest and is now fully charged to start the year right and fresh !
To start up my 2014, I have promised myself to begin uploading posts dedicated to the places I have visited within our home country, the Philippines. For the moment, this installment of posts will be focusing on the beauty of the Philippines’ off beaten towns and islands; And theres no better way to explore this subject than to start with the provinces within Mindanao, with its beaches and shores that have not been abused much by tourist footprints.
The first installment will be dedicated to a place where I found the most enchanting seascape by far , which is in Bucas Grande Islands and Sohoton Cove National Park. This nature reserve is composed of scattered limestone islets and maze like clear lagoons located at the southern part of Siargao , near Surigao del Norte. The nearest town to this nature reserve is Socorro, which is around 45 minutes away by boat.
Three most note worthy things to do in the Sohoton Cove National Park:
1. Entering Sohoton Cove is an adventure in itself . To see the cove , the boat must enter through the only passage , which is a cave, that is only accessible during low tide. The Cave opening is wide enough that a small pump boat can fit. Given that, your group must also leave the cove before high tide.
Photo Credits : Mr. Ian Garcia of M Magazine.
The moment you pass through the cave is like entering a ancient world like in times of the dinosaurs. Sohoton cove is a maze like chain of clear blue lagoons walled by groups of islets and rock formations . The islets are covered in lush green and there are patches of pitcher plants. Within the cove, there are a number of caves to explore and perhaps do some diving. =)
2. Also within the far end of the Nature reserve is an area where thousands of stingless jelly fish dominate the water. It is said that the jelly fish had been castaway to this remote lagoon for hundreds of years. Having no predators to disturb them , they have evolved to lose their stings and venom. But, of course , safety should always be a priority, that is why it is better not to touch them if you want to be sure. =)
3. Cheap Seafood in the town of Socorro.
The trip we had was pre-arrranged from Davao City, thanks to our friend Ian Garcia who managed to tap his connections in Socorro.
To get to the National Park, probably the most convenient way is to fly/drive to Surigao City , and there will be loads of agencies offering chartered tours to the islands for less than 2,500.00 pesos (60 USD) per head.
Alternatively , you can just go directly to the port , as there are boats sailing daily to Socorro , which is around 2 hours travel time. From Socorro, your group may charter a small boat to tour the Islands for around 200.00 pesos ( 4 USD) per head ..
Bislig is a pretty little city east of Surigao del Sur , which is around 220 Km. from Davao City. Among the industries that the city can boast is fresh seafood. Though bislig is relatively small in size , the city has been sited on recent years as a travel destination for two note worthy creations of mother nature , which I was fortunate to visit a year ago.
The Hinatuan River
Photo Credits : Mr. Ian Garcia of M Magazine
Hinatuan River , 20 km. from Bislig, was once a mysterious edge of the town that locals believe to be enchanted. But on recent years, the river has fast became a tourist spot , that people flock to this place to experience its clear blue water and mysterious depth , still undocumented till this day. The river water is so clear that the fishes visibly swim around.
During my visit, I was not able to appreciate the river that much because it was a public holiday and trucks of locals were congesting much of the area. Some even brought karaoke , that greatly took over the solemnity of the place.
Nonetheless, I still recommend this spot as noteworthy , and perhaps a visit on an early weekday morning would be better, as the water shall most likely be calm and undisturbed. The beauty of this place is undeniable.
Tinuy-an Falls
This stunning body of water is known as the Niagara Falls of the Philippines. It is a three levelled waterfall around 100 meters wide , with the tallest level around the height of a 6 storey building . This falls is not much discussed on Philippine history books since it is located at a remote province. All the more that it made the place interesting. It is also known to locals that during rainy season, a rainbow usually appears on the fall’s atmosphere almost every morning.
Travelling to Bislig is no sweat, as Davao – Surigao Bus lines have routes to this province for around 350 pesos (8 USD) , 3-4 hours travel. Chartered Vans are available for day tours at round 5000 pesos ++ ( 1200 USD) per day , which sits 18 heads max.
Vans going to Mangagoy (Bislig City) are also available at Gaisano Mall, P300 + ( 8 USD)
Entrance Fees :
Enchanted River – P30- adult, P5- kids 4ft below.
Tinuy-An Falls – P50 – adult, FREE – children aging 7 and below.
Scheduling :
Enchanted River – open – 6 a.m., close -5 p.m.
Tinuy-an Falls – open whole day.
Facilities :
Enchanted River – there are tables and cottages available for rent within the area. ( P 50 – P 100 ) .
