Sometimes the sky belongs to me
And wraps me in infinity
Sometimes it turns the other way
And hides itself in clouds of gray

-Elizabeth Santos

After a devastating two days of bumming around, finally we’re off to test the waters of Siargao sans tsunami mishaps. Will I ever regret not getting a travel insurance in the future?

Sohoton Cove Slogan:
Here you will find peace: serenity of the mind, simplicity of the heart and tranquility of the soul

Our kind host at Island Dream Resort promised  a day of wicked adventure as he arranged our service boat. Being haunted with the previous day frenzy, I still have anxiety attack on braving the wild waves. If only we have a long stay travel insurance then it would relieved me of some stress.

Sailing on rough weather is not my cup of tea. Although the sky is clear, I know that somehow the 2 hours boat ride will encounter a rough turn. It was reassuring to know that our boatmen grew up in this small island and anything unusual they would know. So there, four people aboard and madness waiting to happen.

Did I mention, it was hubby’s birthday? The resort’s in-house restaurant serves good food as they perfectly put together our breakfast and lunch in a neat picnic basket. Sweet!

At 7 AM, we were bound to Bucas Grande Island for an early morning tour.

Contrary to what I was expecting, there were no violent waves harassing our idyllic journey. We lost count on the natural islets dotting this tropical  destination and whether to cross it off from the 7,107 islands in the Philippines.

A change in temperature is evident when we finally reached the entrance to the hidden Sohoton Cove. Simply stunning!

Soothing to the eyes, the lucid waters seemed colder and transformed into deep turquoise. Corals and fishes are almost visible to see. We felt lucky to have reached this tropical paradise.

Sohoton Cove is part of Bucas Grande Islands located in the town of Socorro. To get there, one can rent a boat from Surigao City or in the town of General Luna, Siargao Island.

We paid P930.00 for boat rental, tour guides (x3) and docking fees. When everything was settled, we transferred to a smaller boat.

The cave entrance and exit point to Sohoton Cove is half-submerged in water, thus it’s only accessible on low-tide. We have to wear hard hats and duck down to avoid being knocked off by the low ceiling.

It’s quite exciting to see the light at the end of the passage. It opens up into another stunning lagoon with more surreal landscapes.

First Stop: Hagukan Cave. The name is derived from the word haguk, a local term for snore. Our guide told us that during high tide when the waters splashed through the walls, it makes a snoring sound. Sounds creepy.

Oh No! Do we really have to go in there?

Growing up in the Philippines where nice beaches abound, it’s a shame that me and my other half don’t know how to swim. I know. I can float though, but I think that’s not even counted.

Our ever efficient and encouraging guides has ways to persuade us. Rather than missing this once in a lifetime experience, we gave in to this dare. No life jackets on. Hubby first.

To get inside the submerged cave we have to go underwater for about 2.5 meters stretch. It opens up to a small, dark cavern with a nice display of stalactites. There’s a piece of large rock inside to stand on while your guide points the light to the rock formations accenting the ceiling.

Second Stop: Magkukuob Cave

As if we have enough of a surprisingly extreme day, this one makes it to the highlight. Further to the entrance, our guide pointed out a wooden plank hanging about 16 feet above the water.

I think I have rather a long list of fears, heights and deep water included.

iJump. iFly. iDive.

Magkukuob Cave just like Hagukan has low opening. But this time, one can wade to get inside as there is enough space to stick out your head. Just watched out for sharp rocks.

The small cavern is adorned with rich stalactites and stalagmites. The temperature quickly dropped and seconds later, I’m already freezing.

We have to climb up to the exit, and there it is, the jump board inviting us to take a plunge on this natural wonder.

I haven’t dive in a pool, moreso an open water before. And our guide won’t let me use  a life jacket. I think I lost my soul there for a  moment. The water is more than 15 feet deep.

Reminder: If you don’t know how to swim or dive, trust your guide. they will find a way!

this lagoon is so inviting. i can see white sands beneath the sparkling blue sea

I wish they will allow visitors to visit Sohoton Cove in an extended period. We want to take in as much serenity of the place but the guides warn us about the danger on the cave entrance on high-tide. But they do this even when you come in early morning? Why hurry?

It only took us less than 2 hours to explore the place, then we’re off to the no-sting jellyfish sanctuary or also called Tojoman lagoon. Palau is well known for their jellyfish lake, well we have one for the books too!

Luck isn’t on our side as no brown stingless jellyfish were playing around, I reckon they evacuated from fear of tsunami too? Seen a white one instead.

Best to go March – May when you’re up to snorkel with stingless jellyfish.

just keep swimming.

We went back to the tourism office and switch boat to  proceed to our next stop: Pansukian or Naked Island.

Naked Island is a 200 meters stretch of sand bar, stripped off with trees or shelter.  The sparkling water and white sand beach makes you want to forget time.

finding solitude in Naked Island

she sells sea shells on the sea shore

We spent a good time cam whoring on this beautiful island. On the way back, heavy rain caught us in the middle of the sea, nevertheless were able to survive and reach the resort safely.

What else to see in Siargao? And the risk of being stranded in the island, find out on my next post!

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Our stressed out soul longed for visual thrills and weekend frenzy. You can tell our inner nature seeker selves just got happy from this befitting adventure.

Day 2 of Bulacan Ultimate Weekend Challenge

Our morning started out late. I guess the only one who made it to the peak at the crack of dawn was Rob who missed out our socials the previous night.

I got up at 7 and noticed that the other group was already preparing breakfast while most on my troupe were still dreaming. Bong and Rob decided to go down and fetch some water.

We all crammed up for Pork Adobo, Salted Egg with chopped tomatoes and Scrambled Egg with Mushroom for breakfast. To top it all, a warm coffee to start our day.

Someone’s missing and catching up some more zzz’s. Can you guess who?

After the delightful feast, we busy ourselves with cleaning up and preparing to break camp. Our Mt. Manalmon assault isn’t complete without a hike to the peak. We got crazy over group photos and jump shots taken with the amazing bird’s eye view of Bulacan province as backdrop.

We were more thrilled when Super Bong aka Guide Extremist, did jump and climb to the other rock summit.

As much as we want to stay longer for more photo session, we were running out of time. We did a last group photo and offered a prayer for safety before vacating the campsite. Time check: 11 AM.

Descending requires less effort. We made a few stop and rest. Everyone seemed excited with the next activity. We headed down to Madlum Training Center to drop our bags.

We while away the time by resting and getting ready for another challenge. Then, we’re off to the monkey bridge. The challenge seemed easy from the looks of those little kids jumping over and over again off those cable wires down to the deep river. You can’t see fear on their faces, yet they were full of excitement and happiness. On my second try, the nerve-racking feel won’t go away. I bet the rest were haunted by fear too. Then again, peer pressure was more powerful. It’s still worth another million try though, with much zest every time.

We then proceed to trek the steep trail up to Bayukbok Caves. The sizzling weather can’t take our spirits down and we’re ready to conquer our fears. Our spelunking was a test of endurance and brave heart. Climbing up a ladder, bouldering, striding from one cliff to another, and most of the time struggling, crawling and stretching out to fit ourselves through the chambers.

Bayukbok Caves showcase beautiful limestone formation dating hundred years. Awesome Stalactites and stalagmites at the Men’s Room aka Sensational Room kept Toni and the girls giddy.

Ada may have faced her greatest fear, but conquered it with much motivation from everyone. Bong did caught our attention when he jumped out of the cliff and back. It was a dangerous act that only our super guide can do.

Back at the training center, we had a super late lunch. Pork Sinigang and Fried Tilapia for Lunch ala Dinner.

We had a quick dip at the river before packing up for home.

Photo Credits:

Ferdie Teves
Jeneth Gile
Valerie Teves

For Contact Details of our Jeepney Service, you can email me or leave your message here.

Muchas Gracias to everyone!

We choose to go…not because it is easy, but because it is hard, because that goal will serve to measure and organize the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win.

John Fitzgerald Kennedy

Instead of spending a lazy weekend at home, we challenged ourselves for some fun, extreme and action packed outdoor adventure.

The destination: Mt. Manalmon in Sitio Madlum, Barangay Sibul, San Miguel, Bulacan

Participants: 15 (Jen, Rob, Flor, Precy, Mac, Rod, Pat, Tevan, Kathe, Dale, Ada, Toni, Malen & Moi) with our super guide Bong Stone.

Itinerary:

Jan 23, Saturday
0600 Assembly Time at Baliuag Transit bus bound for San Miguel Bulacan
0700 ETD San Miguel, Bulacan
0900 ETA San Miguel, Bulacan ( Palengke)
*** Last buying provisions (packed lunch)
0930 ETD San Miguel Palengke to Madlum
1000 ETA Jump Off
*** Registration | Briefing | Preparation
1100 Early Lunch
*** Briefing for Rappelling
1300 Rappelling
1500 Packs on back, start of Trek
1630 ETA Camp site, Rest, Pitch tent
1700 Peak Assault | Picture Taking
1800 Prepare Dinner
1900 Dinner
2000 Socials
2200 Lights out

Jan 24, Sunday
0500 Wake up Call | Peak Assault
0600 Prepare breakfast
0700 Breakfast
0800 Break camp
0830 Descent to cave | River Crossing
0930 Spelunking
1130 Back to Training Center | Prepare for lunch
1200 Lunch
1300 River (Tubing | Monkey Bridge | Swimming | Balsa Ride| Bouldering)
1800 ETD Manila

Some of us weren’t first timers in this ground and some are newbies whose eager to take the challenge.

It would be too cool if our itinerary were followed on schedule but circumstances get in the way and we were behind our timetable…  in short, merong late.

After two weeks of  planning, change of venue, event promotion and pre-climb meeting, our group was conceived. Precy who is single and ready to mingle will be leaving again soon for overseas work and a change of career. She was with Flor, her younger sister and a grade school teacher. MALEN (yes, in all caps) who lost contact with Mouhics after College, can’t wait to RAPPEL. She was with Toni, the giddy girl in the Men’s Room. Ada, the Manalmon-Madlum Survivor (except for the Monkey Bridge), Kathe, high energy happiness and Dale, the super blessed human being. Pat, the Spam and Imported goodies Man, who is on vacation till end of this month, Rod, the quiet first-timer. Mac, who can’t get over the hearts on our super guide Bong‘s eyes. Someone to watch out for is Rob, who took beautiful photos. Jen, who is better late than never. Ferdie, the mountain shet este the mountain chef and Me, whom you’ll never wish to take on a rappel challenge unless you’re willing to wait 30 minutes as I get myself ready.

All set, we took Baliuag Transit in Cubao going to Kamias, San Miguel, Bulacan at 9 AM. From there, we hopped in to our arranged jeepney to take us to the town market. We used our last minute chance to buy our packed lunch and ingredients for  dinner and breakfast.

We reached Madlum at almost 2 in the afternoon. The low water level at Madlum river let us crossed to the other side on foot.

Registered at Madlum Training Center, had a quick lunch and prepared ourselves for rappelling activity.

We watched how Bong, Mac & Pat set up the rappel venue. Ropes and System: check. The jump site is lower than what we’ve conquered on 2006. When everything was ready, Mac did the first rappel down, while Bong and Pat gave us an introduction to Rappelling.

The fearless girls followed through and all of us survived the challenged even with wobbly knees, cold feet and sweaty hands. When I thought I could push myself easily down the jump site thinking this is only half of what I conquered last time, it still took me minutes to make the first step off the wall. Feels like the first, eh?

After more than 2 hours, we’re off to the Training Center, packed and set ourselves for a night trek to Mt. Manalmon camp site.

The trek wasn’t rigid, we passed through the river and off to the wilderness.

I guess we’re all on the same stamina level, newbies and oldies alike. The lack of training and outdoor activities for so long made our ascent a little strenuous. Climbing together again after so many years brought along some good and funny memories along the way.

Ada got a sprained leg but still managed it to the camp site.

A different group ahead of us occupied half of the camp site while we settled at the lower half. Its like a war site later, everyone battling to pitch tent right away and rest.

After the sudden commotion, our chef, Ferdie, lead the cooking session for dinner. We had grilled liempo and tinola for dinner. We gathered around for the yummy feast.

At socials, everyone loosened up over the BaR vodka and Generoso brandy. Sharing something about ourselves and reminiscing old times are great starter for new friendship and bonding sessions.

We call it a night at around 2 in the morning.

Watch out for Bulacan Ultimate Weekend Challenge day 2: Spelunking at Bayukbok Caves & Crossing the Monkey Bridge.

Photo Credits:

Ferdinand Teves
Roberto Lagmay Bernardo
Valerie Teves

—————————————

Expenses (P700 each / estimated for 15 pax)

228 – per person, bus fare (Cubao – Bulacan vv)
1800 – Jeepney rental (Kamias to Madlum vv)
300 – food/guide fee/ registration/ miscellaneous

feels so good to be back in the mountains,

An invitation to one extreme weekend. Open to Everyone. Conquer your fears and join us in a fun-filled adventure  in scaling Manalmon – Madlum Caves in San Miguel, Bulacan.

Expect for a thrilling weekend and gain new friends. Some activities include Spelunking, Rappelling, Bouldering, Trekking, Camping, Crossing the Monkey Bridge, Water Rafting, Tubing and River crossing.

Click here for the event link.

Click here for Photos and previous adventure of Manalmon Weekend.

Climb Itinerary

Jan 23, 2010 | Saturday
0600 Assembly Time at Baliuag Transit bus bound for San Miguel Bulacan
0700 ETD San Miguel, Bulacan
0900 ETA San Miguel, Bulacan ( Palengke)
Last buying provisions (packed lunch)
0930 ETD San Miguel Palengke to Madlum
1000 ETA Jump Off
*Registration
*Briefing
*Preparation
1100 Early Lunch
*Rappelling 101
1300 Rappelling
1500 Packs on back, start of Trek
1630 ETA Camp site, Rest, Pitch tent
1700 Peak Assault / Picture Taking
1800 Prepare Dinner
1900 Dinner
2000 Socials
2200 Lights out

Jan 24, 2010 Sunday
0500 Wake up Call/ Peak Assault
0600 – Prepare breakfast
0700 – Breakfast
0800 – Break camp
0830 – Descent to cave / River Crossing
0930 – Spelunking
1130 – Back to Training Center / Prepare for lunch
1200 – Lunch
1300 – River (Tubing / Monkey Bridge /Swimming / Balsa Ride / Bouldering)
1800 – ETD Manila
Estimated Budget : 700
-including local fees, guide and fare.

Pre climb meeting
Jan 15, 2010 friday
630pm
Glorietta Makati Food Choices

_________________________________________________
Pre Climb Details

Fee : P 800
inclusive of local fees, guide fee, transpo (500), food (Day1-dinner), (Day 2 Lunch)

-packed lunch na tayo on day 1

Rappelling details
-bring your own gloves, you can buy this sa Ace hardware i believe its less than 50P

Must have :
- toiletries
- mosquito repellant
- flashlight/headlamp with extra batteries (for spelunking)
- no maongs please
- pack light
- waterproof your bag
- 1 pair of clothes going home
- 2 extra shirt and short, depends sa preference nyo sa damit,
- sleeping bag/blanket
- camera of course

caving /rappelling/trekking attire
- if medyo sensitive ang skin, wear tights tapos shorts, if sensitive sa araw, were long sleeves.
- swimming attire

Drop a message if you’re interested. See you up there =)

♥valerie {your haven hunter | let’s rock your weekend! }

In January 2006, we ventured into a weekend of extreme sports in San Miguel Bulacan.

From a laid back balsa (raft) ride to crossing the monkey bridge, spelunking at Madlum Cave to trekking to Mt. Manalmon, river-crossing, bouldering and rappelling down to around 50 feet towering rock. It was one heck of  a thrilling adventure.

Itinerary:

January 28,2006 ( Day 1)

0700 – Assembly Time  at Baliuag Transit bus bound for San Miguel Bulacan
0930 – ETD San Miguel, Bulacan
1130 – ETA San Miguel, Bulacan ( Palengke)
1330 – ETD San Miguel Palengke to Madlum
**Registration/Last Minute Check
1400 –Start of Trek to Bayukbok Cave
1430 – Spelunking
1630 – ETD to Madlum Training Center
1700 – Monkey Bridge/Freshen Up/ Prepare for ascent
1800 – Packs on back, start of trek to Mt. Manalmon
2000 – ETA Campsite, Rest, Pitch tent, prepare dinner
2100 – Dinner / Socials
2300  – Lights out

January 29,2006 (Day 2)

0700 – Wake up Call/ Prepare breakfast
0800 – Breakfast
0830 – Peak Assault/Picture Taking
0930 – Break Camp
1000 – Descend to Madlum Training Center
1230 – ETA Madlum Training Center / Prepare for lunch/ Rappelling 101
1330 – Lunch (optional  c/o Kambal)
1430 – Rappelling
1630 – Free time/Madlum River

Manalmon is an easy trek where two hours is more than enough to reach the peak. Our group (Montana Seri) collaborated with Mouhics mountaineers for an introductory rappelling activity.

Our original itinerary was spoiled when some attendees came late at our assembly point in Cubao. It was almost lunch time when we reached the town of San Miguel. We pass by the market to grab some lunch and some last minute provisions. Few minutes later, we rented a jeepney which brought us to Madlum Training Center.

Our raft ride crossing Madlum River was a refreshing start to our intense day.

At Madlum Traning Center, we registered and prepared for a spelunking adventure. Head count, 11 participants including our guide, Bong. We left our bags, with only a headlamp / flashlight on hand, bottled water and a dynamic soul.

The 30 minutes trek to Bayukbok Caves was easy with an established trail. It consisted of 8 interconnecting caves. What seemed to be easy on the start turned out to be an energy-sapping adventure. We frolic and had a good time though hopping from one chamber to another. We crawled unto the muddy cave, sweaty and disheveled. We were like kids who don’t care about getting cleaned up.

We learned about the different chambers that hold rock formations such as the music room where a tap on different rock spots emit different sounds, the men’s room, where a formation is made up interestingly for men’s haven and a lot more.

The cave looked creepy from the outside. We had to use tree vines to get down on the entrance. We even saw a little owl perched inside the dark portal.

A swing on a vine imitating the famous tarzan moves is a must to get out of the cave. We were back on trail a moment later to Madlum River. Instead of using the previous raft to get to the other side, we get to experience the Monkey Bridge. It is two cable wires stretched out on both sides, one used as handle/support while the other one is where we step foot on. This form of bridge is usually being used by locals especially if they are  chasing time.

To add spice to this exciting event, we have to do what the locals do. Cross over to the other side without  a harness on or even a life vest. Only one person at a time.You can tell I’m shaking while I take my few steps forward. I refused to look down and hold on for dear life instead. I thought somebody’s playing a joke and shaking off the wires but no one would dare do it. Finally, I reached the other end. Honestly, I do want to try it again ‘coz its crazy and fun!

We feast on light snacks and freshened up quickly as we prepared for a night trek to the campsite. It was dark and we even haven’t noticed that one wrong step will get us closer to a cliff.

We reached the campsite around 8 in the evening. Pitched tent and prepared our dinner. There are about two more groups settled near us.

As usual, dinner gets more appetizing when you’re tired and up there. I don’t know if I just got lucky but in every climb I joined in, I feel like there’s always a banquet to spoil us in everything yummy. From chocolates to liquors, to boodle fight, adobos and desserts.

It just gets better during socials, when everyone loosen up and mingle with each other. Whether we played games or share a little something about ourselves, every climb seemed to be different from the other. But the joy and experience are priceless things we could never get anywhere else.

Camping and going out of the city is something I do to revitalize my soul from the hectic schedule and polluted surroundings. Its a great place to meet diverse people and make friends with them.  A place  to relax, unwind and get energized. A place where we can lay on blankets all night and count the stars. A place to chill, laugh and be one with nature.

Some chose the hammock to sleep while we settled to our comfy tent.

On day 2 rise and shine

It was rise and shine at around 7 in the morning. We were late with witnessing daybreak as everyone was caught in a good night sleep. Those who slept outside on hammocks though, complained about mosquitoes.

We just gathered and prepared breakfast first. When all is set and done, we shared a delicious meal. We went on a peak assault afterwards, which is just two minutes away from our camp. Photo ops and savoring yet another moment up there in a gorgeous backdrop. The 360 degrees view of surrounding Bulacan area and nearby town is just some wonderful sight to see.

Back to campsite, we packed up and get ready to leave. As good climbers, we instill the value to others that whatever we bring up, will also be going down with us. Hence, we take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints and kill nothing but time.

On the way down, we passed through a different cave named San Miguel. Locals claimed they found their patron saint statue, San Miguel de Arkangel at this place years ago.

Further down the river was a strong current we have to cross. The boys helped out on setting up a rope to support us from raging rapids and strong current. We safely cross to the other side with the care and concern of our gentlemen.

Not too far, we get to experience bouldering on a massive rock formation. From up there, we roughly made an estimate of how high the rappel site is. Down under, the stillness of Madlum river was a picturesque sight.

We headed straight to the training center where we filled our hungry stomach for lunch. While at it, our guides, Bong, Rene and Pilo gave us a short course on Rappelling 101. The briefing covered about the equipments, safety, etc. They personally set up and tested the rappel system before they let us use it.

Carabs, ropes, harness, eight ring, belayer, all checked. Our TL, Janeth was the first to rappel. I on the other hand is watching on the sidelines, fighting a heart attack. You know things which involves heights is not my kind of game.

Janeth survived descending gracefully, so everyone lined up for our turn.

My dreaded time finally came when I was called to get the gears on. OMG! The first few steps off the cliff is the hardest part. I hold on for dear life with my hands gripping the rope like its my last time. I was slowly getting my footworks and balance coordinated to descend and hop off the wall. I thought I could do this and it seemed easy enough… NOT. Oh well, another dilemma came in when there was no wall at all to hop on. I need to let go of my tight grip from the rope and put my complete trust to Rene, my belayer. Seemed a nightmare because I don’t want to let go thinking that I’d fall flat into the ground in seconds. After much prodding, I took my hands off the ropes and closed my eyes.

Rene sticked to his promise to gently pull me down. I shut my eyes through the entire descent. Most of the participants enjoyed this activity. They even stretch their arms widely and feel the wind beneath them, the thought of flying down. Some more daring goes for an Aussie rappel, where they positioned themselves faced down. OMG!

After the adrenaline pumping action, we headed down to the river to cool down. A perfect end to our extreme weekend adventure was when the rain poured in. We were like kids soaking through the cold waters and playing under the rain. We whiled away the time sitting on the raft.

We packed and left after the sunset.

*photos from pilo, micko, rico & moi

Bohol is a paradise Island in Visayas Region, a Philippine destination famous for Chocolate Hills, Tarsiers, pristine beaches and more.

When Cebu Pacific published a seat sale to Tagbilaran in 2006, it was a chance we don’t want to missed. I scoured the net to research for places to see beyond the rustic charm of Bohol and came up with our customized itinerary.

Itinerary

24-Aug    Arrival to Tagbilaran
0430   Domestic Airport. Check In.
0620   ETD Mla to Tagbilaran   |  Terminal Fee: 200
0740   ETA Tagbilaran
0800   Tagbilaran Adventure
*** hire car/multicab for the tagbilaran trip
*** Explore Sandugo/Blood Compact, Baclayon Church, Largest snake in captivity
*** Chocolate Hills, Man-made forest
*** Lunch at Loboc River Cruise, Hanging Bridge
*** Dauis Church, Hinagdanan Cave
1700   Check in at  Bohol Diver Resort
*** Arrange for Whale & Dolphin Watching/Island hopping for next day

25-Aug    Whale Watching/Island Hopping/Snorkeling
0500    Balicasag/Pamilacan Island / Puntod Island

26-Aug    Hotel Check out
0600    Swimming in Alona Beach
0800    Breakfast
1100    Check-out from hotel
*** Hire tricycle to Tagbilaran
*** Drop by Bohol Bee Farm
1200    Check-in Tagbilaran
1400    Wander around Tagbilaran and Pasalubong Shopping

27-Aug    Fly back to Manila
0600    ETD  Tagbilaran  to Manila
0810    ETA Manila

Day 1 - Welcome to Tagbilaran City

Our first flight with Cebu Pacific turned out fun and on time. We were served with light snacks and were entertained with games. We arrived in Bohol at half past 6 in a sunny morning. Just outside Tagbilaran Airport were a line up of private and public transport offering a ride to the city.

We canvassed among the vehicle owners about their packages for city tour. We have a long list of places to see the whole day before settling in at Panglao beach at noon. They were friendly and earnest in entertaining our queries. We came in agreement with Mang Allan and we have the whole multicab all by ourselves. A private cab is almost of the same rate but we find it more exciting to tour the countryside with the little red shuttle.

Our first stop was Sandugo (Blood Compact) Shrine, a monument built to commemorate the first treaty made by Spanish explorer, Miguel Lopez De Legazpi and Datu Sikatuna to seal their friendship through tribal tradition.

We didn’t stay long, and headed forward to Baclayon Church, one of the oldest church in the Philippines. Next to it is a small museum which houses old artifacts and religious collections.

Just a few minutes away, between rough road and off to the woods, we were welcomed  with the biggest surprise of the day, Bohol’s largest snake in captivity at a mini-zoo in Alburquerque. The living python, Prony, weighs 300 kg and measures 23 feet. We were too late to witness its feeding time, where I heard a piglet was served lunch a la carte.

We don’t want to meddle with Prony’s siesta though,  so we just visited it’s friends, owls, eagles and more. The animal sanctuary houses other rescued and rehabilitated animals and different bird species.

Our hot day was just beginning, so we took off to see the hanging bridge and the famous tarsier. On the way, we reserved our lunch at Loboc River Cruise. We also made a stop at  a small store where the owner showed us his captive endangered tarsiers.   This smallest primate is endemic to the Philippines. In there, we were able to get up close and really close to these species. I know these tiny friends being nocturnal bordering to suicidal are really sensitive to camera flashes and human interaction. So when the owner put it on our shoulders for photo ops, we felt guilty.

Not far behind, we get to cross a hanging bridge made of woven bamboos, we didn’t get to the other side though, just halfway to indulge in the scenic view of loboc river.

We get on board the shuttle again and continued our journey to a long and winding road. We passed through the beautiful  Loboc – Bilar man-made forest. It’s a 2 km. stretch of asphalt road set in between towering mahogany trees. The temperature suddenly drops inside this rain forest.

Over the hilly town of Carmen in Bgy. Buenos Aires is where we found one of world’s famous tourist attraction and truly nature’s wonder, Chocolate Hills of Bohol. Named as such, because the 1,776 rolling hills covered with green grass turn brown during summer.

The view deck can be reached by foot through the long stairs up.  The Chocolate Hills complex provide a panoramic view of 50 square km. expanse of  the breathtaking chocolate kisses, errr… hills. There’s one for every sweet tooth.

With the temperature rising and a stomach screaming out for food, we didn’t stay long at the view deck. We’re back on the road to indulge in an authentic  buffet lunch feast.

We were just in time for the next floating restaurant to go on cruise. Later on, we were busy clamoring for buffet with other tourists on board. For P 250 per person, we get to enjoy fresh coconut juice, grilled sea foods, fried chicken and more. Nothing fancy though, but cruising on the still waters of Loboc river, satisfy one’s craving. Live music performance by native boholanos. Some added attractions are playing kids, swinging from tree branches, jumping and swimming through the sides of the restaurant’s raft.

Nearing the cruise end were a display of Busay’s cascading waterfalls. Some tourists can’t help but plunged into the deep green waters.

Going back on land, we marvel with the caged tarsiers for a moment before hitting the road again. We passed through a century-old balete tree, which at night, will probably give a creepy feel to any passer-by.

Nearby  we saw a blood compact monument. This is where the actual Sandugo was performed between Legazpi & Sikatuna.

Further ahead, we crossed the long  floating bridge that connects Bohol to Panglao Island. The bridge look as if it spreads out into the deep blue sea and unto some secret hideaway.

We dropped by Dauis Church and admire its  Spanish architecture. The intricate painting on the ceiling is just one of the amazing features of this old church. The other one is the miraculous well at the foot of the altar which is said to possess healing power. We noticed a short line of people waiting for their turn to hold at least a bottle of water from the mysterious well.We offered a short prayer of thanks before leaving the place.

The shortest and easiest spelunking I’ve  the chance to explore was at Hinagdanan Cave. A convenient stair was built going down the karst cave that lead to a mystical lagoon. Various formation of stalactites and stalagmites glisten to a glaring sunlight from the cave’s opening. Some dare to dip into the cold waters.

Our next stop was the octagonal structure, Panglao Watch Tower, one of the tallest of its kind in the country. The ground was transformed into a small park where the dilapidated tower embraces an ocean view. Our driver was supposed to arranged  for us a boat for the next day but we weren’t decided yet, so we only took the boatman’s number.

Prior to leaving Manila, we have arranged our accommodation at Bohol Diver’s Resort. Our superior room was splendid with a beach front view.  We were trapped for awhile when heavy rain started falling.

Just in time for sunset, we stroll along Alona Beach. some boatmen bid us their rate on whale watching / dolphin watching and island hopping for the next day. We decided for the best deal of course.

To summarize, we were both captivated with Bohol’s charm and an excellent display of visual thrills. It’s something we Filipinos can truly be proud of. The warmth of boholanos let us feel at home. Nice tropical weather plays perfectly for the beach lovers.

Follow me at our 2nd day adventure in Bohol: Dolphin Watching and Balicasag Island Tour!