Aliwagwag Falls, Tinuy-an Falls, and Enchanted River in Just One Day of Adventure!

April 16, 2015, 8:03 am

≫ Next: Schedule of Passenger /Ferry Boat from Lipata Port, Surigao City to San Ricardo or Liloan, Leyte

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My main target - Aliwagwag Falls, Cateel, Davao Oriental

Is it possible? 

I mean we are talking of two different provinces, namely: Davao Oriental and Surigao Del Sur. We are talking of kilometers of  bus, habal-habal, and tricycle ride!

Yes, I made it possible by using a habal-habal ride from 6:00 am up to 4:00 pm.

Cateel, Davao Oriental

I was billeted in Edar's Place in Cateel, Davao Oriental. I arrived at the hotel 10 pm from Davao City (using the Mati route of 8 hours!), slept past 11 pm  and woke up 5:30 am. Upon arrival in Cateel, I immediately hired a habal-habal driver named Edgardo Linaza (he has no cellphone) for my tour to Aliwagwag Falls.

I immediately took a bath and meal and we proceeded to Aliwagwag Falls. Normally, the rate for the 23 kilometer ride is P500 (round trip with waiting time of 2 hours). But since I promised that I will be taking only pictures and we will be staying only at the site for not more than 45 minutes, I was able to hire him only for P350.

We proceeded to the spot and it took us 45 minutes. The staff members were  still opening the compound when we got there. I immediately paid P50 for the entrance fee. 

Last time I was In Aliwagwag Falls was December 2014 and there was a typhoon when I had my first sight of the falls. 

I was accompanied by one of the staff members and we ascended to the hanging bridge. There are adventures available at the falls such as 680 meters zipline across the river (P225/pax) and 45 meter hanging bridge across the falls (P50/pax).

Rates 

P50 - Adult

P10 - children

Below 3 years old - exempt

Chairs and table rental

Long table - P75

Small table - P50

 How to Get There

First, you have to get a flight to Davao City. there are several airlines servicing the route such as Philippine Airlines (PAL)  or Cebu Pac (Cebu Pacific), cheapest flight is through Cebu Pacific or if the other airlines offer their promo fare. Travel time is 1 hour and 45 minutes. Air fare ranges from PhP5.000.00 to PhP8,000.00 (all-in). It is better to book 6 months in advance to get the lowest possible rate. 

There are other airports in Mindanao aside from Davao such as General Santos, Cotabato City, Surigao City, Cagayan De Oro and Butuan. But if you choose any of these airports, you have to labor the long road travel to Cateel. And so the best choice/option is to have the Davao flight. Davao offers several flights (8-10/day) from Manila. The other airports only offer 2-3 flights a day or sometimes none.

Second step, from Davao airport go the Ecoland Bus Terminal or the Gaisano Mall Terminal and take the bus either via Mati or Compostela Valley. Several bus lines service the route such as Mallen Express, Lyra Express, and Bachelor Express.

Davao via Mati using the the bus is 8 hours using the Bachelor Bus. Then, van ride in Mati to Cateel for another 3-4 hours..

Davao via Compostela Valley (ComVal) using the Mallen bus is 5-6 hours or 170 kilometers.

The Compostela Valley route is shorter but during rainy season it is not advisable to use this route because of land slides along the ComVal.

From Agusan to Surigao via Cuevas it is 250 kilometers.

Upon reaching the town of Cateel, the next step is to hire the best ride in town and that is using the habal-habal. The town also offers private vehicles in case you are traveling as a group. Barangay Aliwagwag is more or less 30 minutes from the town. Habal Habal rent is PhP300 (one-way) or PhP500 (round trip). From Papag Bridge to Aliwagwag Falls it is 23 kilometers and from the town it is 28 kilometers. From the town, travel time using the habal-habal is 25-30 minutes.

In case you want to know more information about the area, Travel Teller is the best resource person since he grew up in Cateel.

picture of Aliwagwag Falls last December 2014 during a typhoon

I did not bother to avail of the zipline but I finished the hanging bridge. I stayed only for 30 minutes and I went back to Edar's Place.

I packed my bag, paid the bills and bid goodbye to Mrs. Edar. 

Normally, the rate for habal-habal ride from Cateel to Mangagoy is P800. But the bus ride is only P120. But there is only one bus schedule everyday which is slated 5:00 am and I missed the bus. I was left with only one option, habal-habal ride. But I was given a discount for P400 but up to Lingib only (the nearest town to Mangagoy).

town of Boston

After 30 minutes, we reached the town of Boston. Another 50 minutes and we reached Lingib. We traveled more or less 55 kilometers from Cateel to Lingib. From Lingib, I hired another habal-habal for P100 to Mangagoy and endured another 21 kilometers of habal-habal ride!

Bislig, Surigao Del Sur

In Mangagoy past 12 noon, I hired another habal-habal ride for P1,000 (nromal rate is P1,200) for both the falls and the river. My driver/tour guide was named Helbert Santos (0948-238-3928). The fee is only P1,000 but the excess of P200 from the P1,200 is given to the driver of another habal-habal at the site of the falls.

So from Mangagoy, another 25 kilometer ride towards the falls or a 45 minute ride in habal-habal.

cottages are available at the site of the falls

Entrance fee is P50/pax.

The majestic Tinuy-an Falls!

How to Get There

From Butuan Bancasi Airport
From Langihan Terminal, ride a bus bound for Mangagoy (Bislig).


From Surigao Del Norte
Take a bus bound for Butuan and then take the bus bound for Mangagoy.

From Cateel, Davao Oriental

Take the Lyra Express or Mallen Bus to Mangagoy (once-a-day trip only at 5 am). Travel time is 2.5 hours and the fare is P120.00. In Mangagoy, you have to rent a habal-habal (single motorcyle) to Tinuy-an Falls. Travel time is 20-30 minutes from the town or 17-18 kilometers. The habal-habal can accommodate up to 3 passengers for a price of P100.00/pax or P500.00 round trip ride.

Should you opt to go to Enchanted River in Hinatuan, the price is P1,000.00 round trip back to Mangagoy, Bislig.

From Davao City

Take the bus going to Cateel either at Ecoland or Gaisano Mall Terminal. Better use the Ecoland Terminal. The fare is P300.00 for 200 kilometers and travel time is 7 hours. In Mangagoy, you have to rent a habal-habal (single motorcyle) to Tinuy-an Falls. Travel time is 20-30 minutes from the town or 17-18 kilometers. The habal-habal can accommodate up to 3 passengers for a price of P100.00/pax or P500.00 round trip ride.

Sidetrip to Awao Falls, Monkayo, Compostela Valley

From Bislig, it is 120 kilometers for the price of P135.00. Travel time is 2 hours and 45 minutes.

I stayed in Tinuy-an Falls for only 30 minutes. Thereafter, I went to my last destination and my grand finale for a very long and tiring day.

Hinatuan, Surigao Del Sur

I endured another habal-habal ride for 55 kilometers, more or less, just to go to my last destnation. Upon arrival, there were plenty of local tourists inside the site. I paid the entrance fee of P30.

Last time I was here was 2012, part of my first Mindanao tour. Even though it was a bit different since are so many structures inside, it was still a sight to behold!

How to get there

Book a flight to Davao, Surigao City or Butuan, then board a bus to Surigao Del Sur. Then, board another bus going to Mangagoy and alight at Hinatuan. Then, at the Hinatuan Bus Terminal, hire a habal-habal ride for P300. From the town, it will take you 25 minutes or 16 kilomters of bumpy ride!

I am lost for words to describe the Enchanted River!

Mr. Edgardo Linaza, my driver to Aliwagwag falls and to Lingib.

Mr. Helbert Santos (0948-238-3928), my driver in Tinuy-an Falls and Enchanted River.

With Ma'am Edar, owner of Edar's place.

Enjoy your adventure! =)

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Schedule of Passenger /Ferry Boat from Lipata Port, Surigao City to San Ricardo or Liloan, Leyte

April 17, 2015, 7:11 pm

≫ Next: Kalanggaman Island, Palompon, Leyte

≪ Previous: Aliwagwag Falls, Tinuy-an Falls, and Enchanted River in Just One Day of Adventure!

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A. Schedule of ferry boat from Lipata Port to San Ricardo

First trip - 2 am

Second trip - 6 am

Third trip - 10 am

Fourth trip - 2 pm

Last trip - 6 pm 

Boat trip is 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Fare is P140 only

B. Daily trips - Monday to Sunday

Liloan to Lipata 11:00 am

Liloan to Lipata 11:00 pm

Lipata to Liloan 5:00 am

Lipata to Liloan 5:00 pm

For booking, pls contact the following numbers:

0999-730-4928

0946-405-6970

0917-830-0280

0905-319-0376

Miss your scheduled boat trip?

There are pension houses situated beside the port. One of the them is XL Pension House (0918-351-0001)

Kalanggaman Island, Palompon, Leyte

April 17, 2015, 7:31 pm

≫ Next: Waterfalls Chasing in Cebu: Mantayupan Falls and Batad Batad Falls in One Day

≪ Previous: Schedule of Passenger /Ferry Boat from Lipata Port, Surigao City to San Ricardo or Liloan, Leyte

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from outoftownblog.com For reservation, please contact the Eco-Tourism Office of Palompon, Leyte. Landline - (053)-3382094 Cellphone - 0917-3037-269 / 0917-3037-267 It is a must that you should make the necessary reservation since there are only limited boats going to the island. Kalanggaman Island (Entrance/Conservation fee) International tourist - P500 (Overnight - P750) Non-Palompon Tourist - P150 (Overnight - P225) Non-Plaompon College Student - P40 (Overnight - P60) Non-Palompon High school student - P30 (Ovrenight - P45) Private pumpboat P3,000 - 15 capacity below P3,500 - 25 capacity below P4,000 -30 capacity below Cottage P250 /  P500 / P700 How to get there From Tacloban City Book a flight to Tacloban City. Board a van going to Palompon. Travel time is 2 hours and 30 minutes. Fare is P150. Go to the Eco-Tourism Office. Hire a boat to the island. Travel time is 1 hour. From Ormoc  Board a van to Palompon. Travel time is 1 hour and 30 minutes. Fare is P110.  Go to the Eco-Tourism Office. Hire a boat to the island. Travel time is 1 hour. Place to stay in Ormoc IA Lodge Contact No. - 561-0788 / 561-0088 Cell No. - 0922-850-0301 email add: reservations@ialodge.com Room rates Family Deluxe - P1,800 Standard Room Matrimonial - P1,000  Standard Room with view - P850 Standard Room no view - P800 Extra bed - P300

Waterfalls Chasing in Cebu: Mantayupan Falls and Batad Batad Falls in One Day

April 21, 2015, 2:15 am

≫ Next: Toledo to San Carlos and San Carlos to Toledo Ferry and Fast Craft Schedule

≪ Previous: Kalanggaman Island, Palompon, Leyte

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South Bus Terminal (aerial view)

April 21, 2015
Waterfalls Chasing in Cebu
Day 1: Mantayupan Falls and Batad Batad Falls 

The two waterfalls are situated in two different places in Cebu. But both of them are along the south bound route in Cebu. I have to visit at least 10 waterfalls in 5 days in Cebu and this day marked the start of my quest!

How to get there
Mantayupan Falls, Barili, Cebu

Board a flight to Cebu. Arriving in Cebu, go to South Bus Terminal in Cebu. There are different bus companies that you can choose from but Ceres has always been my choice. Board a Ceres bus going to Bato via Barili (there is another one Oslob via Barili but it is longer in route). Bus leaves every hour (4 am, 5 am, 6 am, 7 am onwards until 5 pm). Travel time is 1 hour and 45 minutes or 60 kilometers. Better go early in the morning to vaoid the traffic in Cebu City. Fare is around P80. Alight at Shamrock Bus Terminal (bus usually stops at 7-11 in Barili). Hire a habal-habal to the site for P30 (one-way) or P50 (round trip). Better hire the habal-habal for a round trip ride unless you intend to stay long in the falls. Travel time to the falls is 10 minutes or 4 kilometers. 

I boarded the 6 am bus going to Barili. Normally, the trip is good only for 1 hour and 30 minutes. But it took us 1 hour and 45 minutes. At Shamrock, you can hire so many habal-habal ride to the falls. 

After 10 minutes, we reached the falls and there was an entrance fee only of P20.

It took me only less than 2 minutes of walking and I reached the first falls. Mantayupan Falls is composed of two levels. The first level has 3 falls with the height of 14 meters. 

I crossed a bridge and it took me only less than 5 minutes from the first falls and I reached the second falls.

It was a Tuesday and there were only a few tourists in the area. The second falls is the tallest in Cebu at the height of 98 meters or 321 feet!

Mantayupan Falls

This falls reminded me of the falls in Don Salvador, Negros Occidental and the falls in Sagada, Mountain Province. The height and the feature were almost the same. I stayed only for less than an hour and I went back to the town of Barili and decided to go to Moalboal.

How to get there
MOALBOAL

From Cebu City
Board a flight to Cebu. Arriving in Cebu, go to South Bus Terminal in Cebu. There are different bus companies that you can choose from but Ceres has always been my choice. Board a Ceres bus going to Bato via Barili (there is another one, Oslob via Barili but it is longer in route). Bus leaves every hour (4 am, 5 am, 6 am, 7 am onwards until 5 pm). Travel time to Moalboal is 2.5 - 3 hours or 89 kilometers. Fare is P118 (aircon). Arriving in Moalboal, hire a habal-habal either to White Beach or Batad Batad Falls.

From Barili
Board a Ceres bus to Bato via Barili. Fare is P47. Travel time is more or less an hour or 28 kilometers. 

  
Upon my arrival at the town of Moalboal, I immediately noticed that there is a Gaisano Mall. I looked for a habal-habal ride but this time I have two spots to visit namley: the White Beach in Saavedra and Batad Batad falls.

After a series of negotiation, we were able to agree on the following:

P120 - White Beach (8 kilometers from the town)

P200 - Batad Batad Falls (8-10 kilometers from the town)

Off we went to White Beach (8 kilometeres from the town or 15-20 minute ride). I took pictures and I was reminded of my first adventure here in 2012.

Along the way, I told the driver that I need a place to stay for the night and I was brought to Panagsama Beach. The accommodations are cheaper and better in Panagsama Beach. I stayed in Susan Seaside. 

Room rates

Aircon - P1,000/day (1 pax only)
Aircon - P1,500 (good for 2 pax only)
Aircon - P2,000 (good for 3-4 pax)

Non-Aircon - P800

Rent of motor - 300 for 24 hours (gasoline excluded)

Contact number - 0920-282-0357
Look for Ms. Susan or Clarissa

I went inside my room and I immediately admired the view from my room.

After finding my accommodation, we went to Batad Batad Falls. The road at the start was cemented but along the way, it got worse to worst.

After 15 minutes, we arrived at the jump-off point. You will not miss it. It is the only place where there are lots of people. There is also a waiting shed.

The trek to the falls was good for 15 minutes and the view along the trek was superb! You will see mountains, landscapes and rice fields along the path. 

Finally, after getting lost twice (since my driver/guide did not know also the place), we arrived at the spot.

Batad Batad Falls 

We stayed only for 15 minutes and rested, then, went back to town since it was already 1 pm. We took our lunch, went to the town's plaza and then headed back to Panagsama Beach where I stayed.

My driver/tour guide was Cito (0930-902-7916).

Enjoy Barili and Moalboal! =)

Toledo to San Carlos and San Carlos to Toledo Ferry and Fast Craft Schedule

April 21, 2015, 3:30 am

≫ Next: Panaad Festival (Pa-naad)

≪ Previous: Waterfalls Chasing in Cebu: Mantayupan Falls and Batad Batad Falls in One Day

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Toledo is the gateway to Bacolod. While Bato, Santander is the gateway to Dumaguete. Travel from Cebu City to Toledo is 1 hour and 30 minutes. Travel by bus is available at the South Bus Terminal. Ceres bus is the premiere bus which departs every hour (5 am, 6 am, 7 am up to 5 pm). The other way of going is by van near the South Bus Terminal (Citi Link).

There is a Ceres bus in North Bus Terminal direct to Bacolod using the Don Salavador route.

Fast craft schedule Toledo to San Carlos (1 hour only)

1st - 7:30 am

2nd - 9:30 am

3rd - 11:30 am

4th - 3:30 pm

Full fee - P225

Student - P190

Senior - P180

Fast craft schedule (1 hour only)

San Carlos to Toledo

6:30 am

9:30 am

12:30 nn

2:30 pm

Lite Ferry Schedule ( 2 hours)

Toledo to San Carlos

7:30 am

10:00 am

1:00 pm

4:00 pm 

6:00 pm

Boat fee

Economy class - P180 (sitting non-aircon)

Standard class - P190 (lying non-aircon)

Tourist class - P200 (sitting aircon)

Lite Ferry Schedule (2 hours)

San Carlos to Toledo

5:00 am

7:30 am

10:00 am

1:00 pm

3:00 pm

Have a safe trip!

Panaad Festival (Pa-naad)

April 22, 2015, 1:35 am

≫ Next: The RUINS (at night)

≪ Previous: Toledo to San Carlos and San Carlos to Toledo Ferry and Fast Craft Schedule

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The province of Negros celebrate a lot of festivals but the one which unites and is participated by all the towns is called the Panaad Festival. It is a festival held annually during the month of April in Bacolod at the Panaad Park.

This year, by stroke of luck, I was able to witness the last day of the festival.

It is a festival of thanksgiving. It is participated by the 13 cities and 19 towns of the province. It is dubbed as the mother of all festivals in Negros.

The festival was first celebrated year 1993 and was transferred to the present location in 1997.

I roamed around the park and visited some of the different booths of each towns/cities.

It was a good thing that I dropped by at this festival!

But the number one festival in Negros is still Bacolod's Maskara Festival!

The RUINS (at night)

April 22, 2015, 1:45 am

≫ Next: Don Salvador Benedicto and La Vista Route, Negros Occidental

≪ Previous: Panaad Festival (Pa-naad)

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Pictures in the internet of the The Ruins in Talisay City, Negros Occidental is usually a day shoot. I've always wondered what The Ruins would look at night. And I satisfied my curiosity last April 2015.

The Ruins is what remained of the grand mansion of Don Mariano Lacson. The house was built after the death of his first wife, Maria Braga.

The grand mansion was put into fire on the early part of World War II so that it cannot be used as headquarters of the invading Japanese soldiers.

The fire burned the mansion’s roof and the 2-inch thick wooden floors but the foundations remained standing, thanks to its over-sized steelbars and the meticulous way of pouring the A-grade mixture of concrete.

According to historians, the mansion was burning for three days!

Nowadays, it is one of the best tourist spots in Negros!

When in Bacolod, try to visit The Ruins and possibly stay after sunset to see its grandeur!

Enjoy The Ruins! =)

Don Salvador Benedicto and La Vista Route, Negros Occidental

April 22, 2015, 2:03 am

≫ Next: Waterfalls Chasing: Malatan-og Falls, Don Salvador, Negros Occidental

≪ Previous: The RUINS (at night)

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from the internet

Your visit to Negros will not be complete unless you pass, witness, or travel along the Don Salvador and La Vista route in Negros Occidental.

I went to a friend in Silay City and I used the Don Salvador route going to Bacolod. Actually, there are 3 routes going to Bacolod, namely: Don Salvador, Canlaon and Escalante. The longest route is Canlaon. The best route is Don Salvador!

The Don Salvador route reminded me of Baguio and Sagada. The landscapes and mountains are breathtaking!

There are also rice terraces along the route and you will be amazed at your seat.

The best part of it is that it has the tallest falls in Negros and the trek to the falls is good for 30 - 45 minutes. The name of the falls is Malatan-og Falls.

You can also buy plants along the road as if you are in Baguio or Tagaytay.
Try to visit also the La Vista Highlands!

Enjoy the route!

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Waterfalls Chasing: Malatan-og Falls, Don Salvador, Negros Occidental

April 22, 2015, 2:45 am

≫ Next: Waterfalls Chasing in Negros: Mambukal Falls, Murcia, Negros Occidental

≪ Previous: Don Salvador Benedicto and La Vista Route, Negros Occidental

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Waterfalls chasing is an inevitable adventure that I have learned to embrace. love, and practice through the years of my travel in the Philippines. Formerly, spelunking kept me busy. But the danger and hardships caused by spelunking have turned me into waterfalls chasing.

The Malatan-og Falls was not part of my itinerary in Bacolod. But the size of the falls lured me into trekking it.

How to get there

From San Carlos City
Fare in the ordinary bus is P58. Travel time is more or less 1 hour and 20 minutes or 38 kilometers.

From Bacolod
Using an aircon bus, fare is P78. Travel time is 1 hour and 30 minutes.

From San Carlos (Sidetrip to Mambukal Falls)
Fare is P104 and travel time is 2 hours.

From Bacolod to Mambukal Falls
Fare in an ordinary bus is P26. Travel time is 20-30 minutes.

From the viewdeck, the trek to the falls is normally 30 minutes (fast-paced). There is no entrance fee or other fees.

You will pass rice terraces and make river crossings along the trek to the falls. Guide fee is P300 and I did not bother to hire one (which I will later on regret!). Along the trail, I passed by a SNAKE! I kept myself frozen for a minute and we were both staring at each other and finally, the snake swerved to the other direction. Whew! 

Patience is a virtue!! hahahaha

It pays to have a guide! =) 

Finally, after 30 minutes, I witnessed the sight of the falls. MAJESTIC!!

MALATAN-OG FALLS

This falls is the tallest in Negros and the area is still undeveloped. I hope this will not be developed!

I met some tourists who visited also the falls. 

After 45 minutes of staying and resting at the base of the falls, I decided to go back and head back to Cebu. Going back was the hardest part. I knew I was going to have difficulty ascending with my 12 kilo backpack at my back on a very steep and narrow path. Good thing I was able to find a guide and for P200, he was the one who carried my backpack.

Enjoy Negros! 

Waterfalls Chasing in Negros: Mambukal Falls, Murcia, Negros Occidental

April 22, 2015, 3:22 am

≫ Next: Extreme Waterfalls Chasing in Cebu: Kawasan Falls in Badian, Inambakan Falls, Bugnawan Falls , Campael Falls in Ginatilan, Dao Falls and Aguinid Falls in Samboan in One Day of Adventure!

≪ Previous: Waterfalls Chasing: Malatan-og Falls, Don Salvador, Negros Occidental

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This was part of the plan. But going to Malatan-og Falls was not. 

But both falls were definitely superb!!

April 2015

I was en route to Silay City to visit a very dear friend, mentor, and my former boss. (Mam Phlor). Part of the itinerary was to go to The Ruins and Mambukal Falls.

How to get there 

From San Carlos City (San Carlos is the gateway from Cebu) 

Board a flight to Cebu. From the airport, go to South Bus Terminal. Board the Ceres Bus going to Toledo. The bus leaves every hour and starts 5 am and ends 5 pm. Reaching Toledo, board the fast craft to San Carlos. Fare is P225. Travel time using the fast craft is 1 hour only. Schedule of the boat is 7:30 am. 9:30 am, 12:30 nn and 3:30 pm. 

Reaching San Carlos, board the bus going to Bacolod. Take the bus with the signage via Don Salvador. Travel time is 2 hours. Alight at the crossing in Mambukal. Board the mini-bus going to Mambukal (P15) or hire a habal-habl ride (P150). Travel time to the falls is 20 minutes.

From Bacolod City

Book a flight to Bacolod City. Go to Libertad in Bacolod City and board the mini-bus going to Mambukal. Fare is P30 but the travel time is 1 hour and 30 minutes.

I hired a habal-habal and off we went to the falls. 

Along the way, scenic spots can be admired!

Mambukal falls is composed of seven falls!

After nearly 20 minutes, we reached Mambukal Resort. The falls is located inside the resort.

Rates of almost everything are posted at the entrance.

This is the start of the trail. Entrance fee is P20. Guide fee depends on your discretion.

You can opt to choose the hanging bridge for P50.

After 20 minutes, we reached the base of the first falls.

Falls No. 1

Thereafter, we ascended towards the second falls.

Less than 2 minutes of ascending, we reached - Falls No. 2.

We further ascended and after 5 minutes, we reached - Falls No. 3.

top of Falls No. 5

Falls No. 4 was recently destroyed by the last typhoon that hit Negros. I was not able to shoot Falls No. 5, since the path was likewise destroyed. 

Falls No. 6

Falls Nos. 5 and 6 are very near each other.

I did not bother ascend to Falls No. 7 since it was only small and the trek is an other 30 minutes to it.

After I descended, I roamed around the resort and the best part of it was the LAGOON!

Going back, I was entertained by the scenic view of Mambukal, Murcia. 

Enjoy Negros! =)

Extreme Waterfalls Chasing in Cebu: Kawasan Falls in Badian, Inambakan Falls, Bugnawan Falls , Campael Falls in Ginatilan, Dao Falls and Aguinid Falls in Samboan in One Day of Adventure!

April 24, 2015, 7:54 am

≫ Next: Waterfalls Chasing in Cebu: Tumalog Falls, Oslob, Cebu

≪ Previous: Waterfalls Chasing in Negros: Mambukal Falls, Murcia, Negros Occidental

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Southern part of Cebu route

Day 2
Waterfalls Chasing in Southern Cebu
Kawasan Falls, Badian
Inambakan Falls, Bugnawan Falls, Campael Falls in Ginatilan
Dao Falls and Aguinuid Falls in Samboan

Summer, April 2015

A week before this adventure, I was in Mindanao and did waterfalls chasing in  Aliwagwag Falls (Cateel) and Tinuy-an Falls in Bislig, Surigao (with side trip in Enchanted River) in just one day! I thought I would never break that adventure but I was wrong!

How about seeing ten waterfalls in just one day in Cebu? That would be really extreme! =)
And I was able to do accomplish the feat! Yup, I did but almost got exhausted to the point that I do not want to travel anymore the following day.

Anyway, here's how I did it.

22 April 2015 / 05:00 am

Day One of my waterfalls chasing in Cebu, i was able to visit Mantayupan Falls in Barili and Batad Batad Falls in Moalboal. I spent the night in Susan Seaside in Moalboal (Contact number - 0920-282-0357 / Look for Ms. Susan or Clarissa).

I woke up 5 am, fixed myself and waited for my ride to Badian. 

After ten minutes of waiting, Cito (0930-902-7916), my habal-habal driver / tour guide arrived. We went to the town plaza and took my early breakfast. At exactly 6 am, we were already zooming our way to Badian.

How to get there

From  Cebu City

Board a bus (preferably, Ceres) bound to Bato via Barili. Travel time up to Badian is more or less 3 hours. 

From Moalboal

Option 1

Board a bus (preferably, Ceres) bound to Bato via Barili and alight at the jump-off point to Kawasan Falls (the landmark is a Catholic church). Fare is only P30 (aircon bus). Hire a habal-habal ride (P50) to the falls. You can trek it instead of hiring a habal-habal. Trek is good for 15 minutes only. 

Option 2

Hire a habal-habal ride to Badian. Fee is between P250-300. Travel time is 50 minutes. It is 12 kilometers from Moalboal to Badian town proper, then another 9.5 kilometers to Kawasan falls. 

Alight at the jump-off point, hire a habal-habal ride (P50) to the falls. You can trek it instead of hiring a habal-habal. Trek is good for 15 minutes only. 

I opted to trek it with my guide (Cito). The habal-habal ride at the jump-off point was offering their services for P50 but I decided not to hire another guide. Entrance fee is P40 and parking fee is P50. 

Kawasan Falls

Rates

Lodging - P900 / 1,200

Guide - no fix rate (depends on your kind discretion)

After staying for 30 minutes, we decided to head back to the jump-off point. I noticed that beside the jump-off point, there is a white beach! Cebu is really blessed for having so many white beaches.

Side trip - Lambug Beach

Situated 4 kilometers from the town of Badian or 16 kilometers from Moalboal. There is Grandeur Resort in case you want a resort or accommodation in the beach.

I boarded another bus to Ginatilan. Badian to Ginatilan is separated by 2 towns (Alegria and Malabuyoc). 

Originally, I was supposed to go also to Montaneza Falls Malabuyoc-Alegria. But I had to choose between Ginatilan-Samboan Falls and Malabuyoc-Alegria Falls. And I made the right choice!

How to get there

From Cebu City
Board a bus (preferably, Ceres) with the signboard Bato via Barili. Cebu City to Ginatilan is 135 kilometers. Alight at the town of Ginatilan and hire a habal-habal to the the falls. 

From Badian to Ginatilan
Board a bus going to Bato. Fare is P50 (aircon bus). Travel time more or less an hour. It is 31 kilometers from Badian. Arriving at the town of Ginatilan, hire a habal-habal to the falls. Round trip fare to the falls is P200. From the town it is just 3.9 kilometers. The fee may be excessive but you can ask the driver to show you or guide you to the falls.

After 10 minutes, we arrived at the jump-off point. There is an entrance fee only of P10. You can also hire a guide here for a nominal fee of P50. But I ask my driver to be may tour guide also. The name of my driver / tour guide is Alex Barag aka "Tootskie' Contact no - 0933-134-6985). I like his services and I gave him an additional P100 for the guide fee, entertainment and for taking my pictures.

We started the trek to the first falls and the trek was good only for 5 minutes.

Inambakan Falls

Then, we continued our trek to the second falls and the trek was good only for another 5 minutes.

Bugnawan Falls

Finally, we continued our trek for another 10 minutes and we reached the last falls.

Campael Falls

jump-off point to Dao Falls

I was given two choices, bus or habal-habal. I chose the latter for the next falls.

Ginatilan and Samboan are just separated by 8 kilometers. I talked to Tootskie (my guide) and arranged for another bargain. We agreed that for the amount of P400, he would bring me both to Dao Falls and Aguinuid Falls. It took us only 15 minutes from Ginatilan before we reached the jump-off point to Dao Falls. Entrance fee is P20. Guide fee is P100.

Hanging bridge to Dao Falls

Ordinarily, we have to trek from the jump-off point to the hanging bridge. But Tootskie was kind enough (or brave enough) to drive me up to the hanging bridge. He even guided me to the falls. Trek time was 25 minutes.

the scenery is majestic!

This trek is the best route so far and for the entire adventure. While Aguinuid offers the best falls, Dao offers the best trek and scenery. After 25 minutes, we reached the sight of the falls. This trek/trail is not for the weak hearts!

Dao Falls offers different kinds/shapes of falls. It is located in Barangay Suba in Ginatilan. This falls is my personal favorite.

Dao Falls

Good thing there were only a handful of people at the falls compared to the multitude of tourists in Aguinid Falls.

jump-off point to Aguinid Falls

After resting for 30 minutes, we went to out last destination. It was already 12 noon and I treated Tootskie for lunch. Then, he drove me to the jump-off point to Aguinid Falls. Travel time to Barangay Tangbo from Dao Falls is 10-15 minutes only. Then, I bid goodbye and expressed my gratitude to Tootskie.

Total fee paid to Tootskie

P300 - Inambakan Falls

P400 - Dao Falls and Aguinid Falls

P100 - for taking my pictures and carrying my bag in Dao Falls

Level Zero
AGUINID FALLS

In Aguinid Falls, I had hire another guide. Guide fee depends again on your kind discretion. I gave only P150. Entrance fee is P50. Trek time - 1 minute only from the registration area. There are plenty of guides available at the registration area.

Aguinid Falls is a cascading falls composed of 5 levels.

Level One

Trek time from Level Zero was 2 minutes only.

Level Two

You have to climb the falls itself and trek time was 5 minutes.

Level Three

Another 5 minutes and we reached level three.
The falls was not slippery since it is made of limestone.

Level Four

Another 5 minutes and you have the next level.

Level Five

Finally, another 5 minutes and the last level.
The hard part was descending. Personally, I do not like descending. 

After nearly 30 minutes, I was able to reach the registration  area. I bid another goodbye and waited for my ride to Oslob, Cebu. Good thing I was able to board a Cebu bound bus and I alighted at MB Sunrise View Resort (0908-586-9895 / 0923-297-1176). This is the best resort / spot to make your whale watching adventure in Oslob.

Mentally, I was pushing for another falls that day since I was 10 minutes away from it. But physically, I was already drained, fatigued and exhausted. I called it a day! I rested and recalled what happened that day.

Tumalog Falls

The following day, I went to another falls (Day 3, another blog).

Cito, my driver/tour guide in Moalboal and Barili. (Contact no. - 0930-902-7916)

Tootskie, my driver/tour guide in Ginatilan and Samboan. Contact no. 0933-134-6985

I simply LOVE 

WATERFALLS CHASING IN CEBU! =)

Waterfalls Chasing in Cebu: Tumalog Falls, Oslob, Cebu

April 24, 2015, 10:29 pm

≫ Next: Yang-In, Cagbalete Island, Mauban, Quezon, Philippines

≪ Previous: Extreme Waterfalls Chasing in Cebu: Kawasan Falls in Badian, Inambakan Falls, Bugnawan Falls , Campael Falls in Ginatilan, Dao Falls and Aguinid Falls in Samboan in One Day of Adventure!

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MB's Sunrise View Resort / 0906-586-9895 / 0923-297-1176

Day 3: Waterfalls Chasing in Cebu
April 23, 2015
Tan-awan, Oslob, Cebu

After visiting 10 waterfalls the previous day, I was exhausted and I did not want to travel anymore. I mean the itinerary was only for four falls but I got carried away and before I knew it, I was able to finish 10 falls in one day.

For Day 3's itinerary, there are 3 waterfalls lined up, namely: Tumalog Falls in Oslob, Kan Amno Falls in Boljoon, and Bugasok Falls in Argao.

I had the whole day to finish my itinerary but I felt lazy and just watched the tourists in Oslob do their whale watching adventure. And I ended up visiting only waterfalls for the day.

Boats are ready for whale watching

How to get there

From Cebu City
Option 1 (best option)

Board a flight to Cebu. Then, go to South Bus Terminal. Board a bus (preferably, Ceres) to Oslob. Fare is P155. Travel time is 3 - 3.5 hours or 124 kilometers. Alight at MB Sunrise View Resort. Hire a habal-habal for P140 to Tumalog Falls. Travel time is 10-15 minutes. Trek to the falls is 10 minutes only.

Option 2

Board a flight to Cebu. Then, go to South Bus Terminal. Board a bus (preferably, Ceres) with the signboard Bato via Barili. Fare is P191 (aircon) or P177 (non-aircon). Travel time is 4 - 4.5 hours or 147 kilometers. Alight at Bato Terminal and board another bus going to Oslob.  Fare in the bus is P30 (aircon) or P20 (non-aircon). Travel time is 15 minutes or 16 kilometers. Alight at MB Sunrise View Resort. Hire a habal-habal for P140 to Tumalog Falls. Travel time is 10-15 minutes or 6 kilometers. Trek to the falls is 10 minutes only.

From Dumaguete City

The other one is from Dumaguete City. From the city, ride a multicab bound to Sibulan port (fee is P11.00 only). Then, ride a fastcraft to Santander. The boat trip to Santander is 20 minutes only. Fare is P60.00. Reaching Santander port, ride a bus going to Cebu (the bus is just waiting at the port). The trip to Oslob is 20-25 minutes only. Fare is 60.00 aircon. Then alight at Barangay Tan-awan, Oslob, Cebu.

Sumlion Island

PLACE TO STAY

There are so many resorts/accommodations in Tan-awan. But I stayed at MB's Sunrise View Resort (one that has the yellow gate). Lodging fee is P800 for non-aircon (negotiable up to P500) and P1,500 for aircon (good for 3 pax). The other resorts are charging P1,500 - P2,000 for aircon.

Contact Nos. - 0906-586-9895 / 0923-297-1176

Sunrise Viewing

ACTIVITIES IN OSLOB
Whale watching is the number one activity

Local (Filipinos) -

      Viewing only at the boat - P300.00

      Swimming with the whale shark and snorkerling - P500.00 (life vest and gears   included) 

Foreigners -

      Viewing only at the boat - P500

      Swimming with the whale shark and snorkeling - P1,000.00

Island Hopping - depends on the number of persons (minimum P1,500 - 1-5 pax)

During the island hopping, you can do fish feeding, snorkeling and swimming.

Diving

Foreigners - P3,500

Local - P2,600

Tumalog Falls

Visit the historical places - P100 (Baluarte Old church, Museum etc.)

Sunrise Viewing (the best spot)

I hired a habal-habal to the falls for P140.

It took us only 10 minutes before we reached the jump-off point. I paid the entrance fee of P20. You have the option to hire another habal-habal for P50 only. But you can also opt to trek it for 10 minutes only.

After 10 minutes of descending, we reached the base of the falls.

Though it was my second time to see the falls (last time was 2012), I was still excited at the sight of the falls!

Tumalog Falls

From my waterfalls chasing in Cebu, my top 5 falls are Aguinid falls, Dao Falls, Tumalog falls, Mantayupan Falls and Inambakan Falls.

Tumalog falls is one of the tallest and majestic falls in Cebu!

Enjoy Cebu! =)

Yang-In, Cagbalete Island, Mauban, Quezon, Philippines

May 2, 2015, 1:11 am

≫ Next: Waterfalls Chasing in Mauban, Quezon

≪ Previous: Waterfalls Chasing in Cebu: Tumalog Falls, Oslob, Cebu

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private boat to Cagbalete Island

Day 2 in Mauban, Quezon

Thanks to RDML Travels (Contact persons: Randell Dy 0917 836 6506, 0998 995 7876, 0922 858 4337 and Mae Llamas, 0917 821 2796), we were able to have this island hopping tour.

Originally, we were supposed to go directly to Cagbalete Island but part of our tour is the island hopping tour to Butas Butas Beach and Yang-In.

Butas Butas

After nearly 1 hour of travel, we were able to reach one of the famed tourist spots in Mauban - Butas-Butas Beach.

How to get there

Mauban is 147 kilometers from Manila and 40 kilometers from Lucena City.

It is accessible by bus and other modes of transportation. 

Options 1 - Quezon City
Go to JAC Liner bus terminal at Kamias, Quezon City. The first bus leaves at 5 am. The afternoon bus leaves at 1 pm. Travel time is more or less 5 hours.

From Mauban, JAC Liner leaves at 4 am and 2 pm en route to Kamias Bus Terminal and 4:30 am to Buendia Terminal.


Option 2 - From Buendia, Pasay City 
Go to Buendia-LRT Taft station. There are several buses servicing the route to Lucena Grand Terminal such as JAM Liner, DLTB, and JAC Liner. As early as 4 am, they offer the trip to Lucena. Last trip going to Lucena is around 9 pm. Board a bus going to Lucena. Fare from Buendia to Lucena Grand Central Terminal is P209.50 (127 kilometers). Travel time is 4-5  hours from Buendia. 

Once you reach Lucena Grand Terminal, board the NCR Bus to Mauban. First trip is 4:30 am, then followed by 5:10 am and so on. Every 40 minutes, the NCR  bus leaves. Travel time is 1.5 hours and fare is P54. Last trip going to Mauban is 5:30 pm.  

Airconditioned  vans are also available at SM City Lucena and Metro Gaisano Lucena City Va Terminals from 10 am to 9 pm. Fare is P70. 

After seeing the Butas Butas Beach and Bisibis Falls, we went to our next spot - Yang-In. During high tide, Yang-In is the best spot to take a swim. On the other hand, on a low tide, it is the best place to take souvenir pictures and enjoy the sand ripples. 

I could not help myself, I enjoyed the waters of Yang-In. I do not normally swim on a tour but Yang-In's waters tempted me to enjoy its crystal-clear waters.

Heaven on Earth!

Day 3 

After watching the sunrise in Cagbalete Island, we went back to Yang-In and this time to see and enjoy the sand ripples! But this time our mode of transportation was the the floating bamboo raft (balsa). Again, this was part of the tour provided by RDML Travels. Good thing we were accommodated by RDML Travels!

The bamboo raft was tugged by a boat. You can enjoy your breakfast or lunch at the floating bamboo raft for a minimal fee.

We walked around Yang-In and enjoyed the scenery!

Sand Ripples!

Yang-In is the best spot to take souvenir pictures. A place for relaxation. An escape from the the stress and pressures of the work in the city.

Public Transportation to Cagbalete Island

There are only 2 schedules of the public boat transportation from Mauban to Cagbalete island – 10:00 am and 3:00 pm (from Cagbalete to Mauban – 7 am and 1 pm). 

Travel time is 45 minutes only and the fare is P50. It is better to arrive at the port early. During lean season, the boat leaves 10:30 but during peak season, it leaves 9:30 am.

However, that during the influx of tourists (most often during Saturdays, holidays and summer season), the coast guard allows passenger boats to sail in varying times.

Maximum capacity of the boat is 50 passengers only.

Again, try to go to the port early or else you might miss your ride to the island. In case you miss the 10 am ride, wait for the 3:30 ride or you can charter a boat for P1,000 to go to the island.

Leaving the port, you can look back at the town of Mauban and wonder at the scenery.

Environmental fee – P50 (payable at Brgy. Sadsaran Ticketing Office)

Terminal fee – P20

Chartered Boats / Tourist Boats
1-2 passengers - P1,000 (one-way) / 1,500 (round trip)

3 pax - P1,500 (one-way) / P2,000 ( round trip)
4-5 pax - P2,000 / P2,500
6 pax - P2,500 / P3,000
7-8 pax - P3,000 / P3,500
9-12 pax - 3,500 / P4,000
13-15 pax - P4,000 / P4,500
16-20 pax - P4,500 / P5,000

Tour around the island by boat is P1,000

Special Thanks to 

Mr. Mark Christian Apordo

My tour guide - Melvin T. De Los Santos (0999-905-8490)

and

RDML Travels

It is the first travel agency in Mauban, Quezon. It offers hassle-free and absolutely affordable customized tour packages. It provides the following services -

Mauban town guided tour

Private boat transfers to Cagbalete, Island, 

Room accommodation

Yang-in Island tour via Bamboo raft (Balsa) where you can savor your sumptuous feast, drink, party and relax while enjoying the view of the island 

Island tour via boat. (activity includes swimming, snorkeling, fish feeding, cliff diving)

Private shuttle Transfers From/To Manila or Lucena, City

Side-trip to Kamay ni Hesus in Lucban, Quezon

Soon to offer: Waterfalls chasing

Promotional Video: https://www.facebook.com/rdmltravels/videos/1602884273256884/?l=4830850612137853618

FB

https://www.facebook.com/rdmltravels

INSTAGRAM

@rdmltravels

Contact person:

Randell Dy - 0917 836 6506, 0998 995 7876, 0922 858 4337

Mae Llamas -  0917 821 2796

Greenview Beach Resort

Near island port, about 100 meters or a 5-minute walk to the resort

Budget-friendly resort

Common and private bathrooms

Beautiful sunset view

Island tour services

Room rates for as low as Php 325.00 per person/night based on Quad-sharing. Air-conditioned rooms also available.

FB

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greenview-Beach-Resort/366849580173011?sk=photos_stream

Contact person and number.:

MAE 0917 821 2796

Enjoy Mauban and Cagbalete Island 

throughRDML Travels!

Waterfalls Chasing in Mauban, Quezon

May 2, 2015, 2:27 am

≫ Next: Waterfalls Chasing in Cebu: Mangitngit Falls, Carmen, Cebu

≪ Previous: Yang-In, Cagbalete Island, Mauban, Quezon, Philippines

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barangay road leading to Barangay Macasin

Day 1 - Mauban, Quezon

After my 20-day tour in Mindanao and Visayas, I found myself  chasing waterfalls in Mauban, Quezon.  There was only a one-day gap. I had to attend the FEU graduation and the following day, I was again traveling!

How to get there

Mauban is 147 kilometers from Manila and 40 kilometers from Lucena City.

It is accessible by bus and other modes of transportation. 

Options 1 - Quezon City
Go to JAC Liner bus terminal at Kamias, Quezon City. The first bus leaves at 5 am. The afternoon bus leaves at 1 pm. Travel time is more or less 5 hours.

From Mauban, JAC Liner leaves at 4 am and 2 pm en route to Kamias Bus Terminal and 4:30 am to Buendia Terminal.


Option 2 - From Buendia, Pasay City 
Go to Buendia-LRT Taft station. There are several buses servicing the route to Lucena Grand Terminal such as JAM Liner, DLTB, and JAC Liner. As early as 4 am, they offer the trip to Lucena. Last trip going to Lucena is around 9 pm. Board a bus going to Lucena. Fare from Buendia to Lucena Grand Central Terminal is P209.50 (127 kilometers). Travel time is 4-5  hours from Buendia. 

Once you reach Lucena Grand Terminal, board the NCR Bus to Mauban. First trip is 4:30 am, then followed by 5:10 am and so on. Every 40 minutes, the NCR  bus leaves. Travel time is 1.5 hours and fare is P54. Last trip going to Mauban is 5:30 pm.  

Airconditioned  vans are also available at SM City Lucena and Metro Gaisano Lucena City Va Terminals from 10 am to 9 pm. Fare is P70. 

first hanging bridge

Thanks to Mark Christian Apordo, Rara, and Melvin De Los Santos - 0999-905-8490 (aka "Bok"), my tour guide for guiding me along the trail to my first falls.

the trail

From Fiesta Royale, I boarded a habal-habal to Barangay Macasin. It took us only less than 15 minutes and we reached the jump-off point. 

second hanging bridge

Before we started our trek, we ate a light breakfast and we started the trek.

Macasin River

We had to cross two hanging bridges! I was excited! The trail was challenging and entertaining. Rara led the way to the falls.

We even crossed acres of rice fields and rice paddies.

Entrance

Finally, after nearly 40 minutes, we reached the area.

Entrance fee - P10

DAHOYHOY FALLS

According to my guide, there are a total of 20 waterfalls in Mauban. To date, only four are ready or available for tourism purposes.

Bgry Balay Balay near Guardians headquarters

We spent only 30 minutes in Dahoyhoy Falls and afterwards, we went back and headed to our second falls.

Another habal-habal ride for 12 minutes and we reached the jump-off point to our second falls for the day in Barangay Balay Balay. 

Tito Bolan leading the trek

We hired another guide for the trail. The name of the guide is Tito Bolan (0910-222-3390). Guide fee depends on your kindest and most generous consideration. 

Mark and Bok enjoying the river crossing

This time we had to endure a lot of river crossing but it was still fun!

After 22 minutes of fast-paced walking and river crossing, we reached our destination -

HAGDAN-HAGDAN FALLS 

We started from the bottom of the falls and ascended to its peak.

Hagdan Hagdan in English means staircase.

According to Tito Bolan, trekkers and mountaineers normally spend the night at the falls.

The water is clear and refreshing. Enticing!

We spent another 30 minutes and went back to the jump-off point.

We rested at Mark's house and in the afternoon, 

I was given the Inland Tour (another blog) of Mauban.

Day 2

The following morning around 7 am, we (Mark, Bok and I) met the town's Municipal Hall. We boarded a tricycle en route to Quezon City. Trike fee is P40. Travel time is 10 minutes only.

First boat ride to Barangay Luya-Luya is 8 am.

 Fare in the boat is P7. Travel time is 10-12 minutes.

There is only one boat servicing the route and the interval is 20-25 minutes. 

After 12 minutes, we reached Barangay Luya-Luya.

Then, habal-habal ride to Barangay Alitap. Fare is P30. Travel time is 12-15 minutes.

You will definitely enjoy this ride! =)

Imagine, crossing small bridges and narrow roads!

After reaching the Alitap Barangay Hall, we hired a guide named Lidon (0910-556-2985). 

He is the head of security in the barangay.

After nearly 40 minutes of trekking, we reached our destination -

ALITAP FALLS

Alitap Falls is composed of of seven Falls!

Yup, 7 falls!

And this is just Falls Number 1. 

Due to time constraint, we were able to reach only Falls No.1.

Trekking time for the falls

1st falls - 35- 40 minutes

2nd falls - 15-20 minutes

3rd falls - 15-20 minutes

4th-7th falls require a lot of patience, determination and sweat!

AFTERNOON

Thanks to RDML Travels (Contact persons: Randell Dy 0917 836 6506, 0998 995 7876, 0922 858 4337 and Mae Llamas, 0917 821 2796), we were able to go to our last falls by boat.

After nearly 1 hour of travel, we were able to reach one of the famed tourist spots in Mauban - Butas-Butas Beach. Part of our side trip to Cagbalete Island.

Bisibis Falls

We caught only a glimpse of the falls. We should have docked the boat and trekked the falls, but we were excited to go to Cagbalete Island. I promised myself that there will definitely be a next time.

Four waterfalls down and sixteen more to explore in Mauban.

Waterfalls Chasing in Mauban

SIMPLY AMAZING!!

Special Thanks to 

Mr. Mark Christian Apordo

My tour guide - Melvin T. De Los Santos (0999-905-8490)

and

RDML Travels

It is the first travel agency in Mauban, Quezon. It offers hassle-free and absolutely affordable customized tour packages. It provides the following services -

Mauban town guided tour

Private boat transfers to Cagbalete, Island, 

Room accommodation

Yang-in Island tour via Bamboo raft (Balsa) where you can savor your sumptuous feast, drink, party and relax while enjoying the view of the island 

Island tour via boat. (activity includes swimming, snorkeling, fish feeding, cliff diving)

Private shuttle Transfers From/To Manila or Lucena, City

Side-trip to Kamay ni Hesus in Lucban, Quezon

Soon to offer: Waterfalls chasing

Promotional Video: https://www.facebook.com/rdmltravels/videos/1602884273256884/?l=4830850612137853618

FB

https://www.facebook.com/rdmltravels

INSTAGRAM

@rdmltravels

Contact person:

Randell Dy - 0917 836 6506, 0998 995 7876, 0922 858 4337

Mae Llamas -  0917 821 2796

Greenview Beach Resort

Near island port, about 100 meters or a 5-minute walk to the resort

Budget-friendly resort

Common and private bathrooms

Beautiful sunset view

Island tour services

Room rates for as low as Php 325.00 per person/night based on Quad-sharing. Air-conditioned rooms also available.

FB

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greenview-Beach-Resort/366849580173011?sk=photos_stream

Contact person and number.:

MAE 0917 821 2796

Enjoy Mauban and Cagbalete Island 

through RDML Travels!

Waterfalls Chasing in Cebu: Mangitngit Falls, Carmen, Cebu

May 2, 2015, 11:51 pm

≫ Next: Cagbalete Island and Dona Choleng Beach Resort, Mauban, Quezon, Philippines

≪ Previous: Waterfalls Chasing in Mauban, Quezon

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North Bus Terminal

How to get there

Board a flight to Cebu. Arriving in Cebu airport, get a taxi or any any ride to North  Bus Terminal. In the terminal, you can board any bus bound north. Travel time is 1 hour and 15 minutes to Carmen. It is 41 kilometers from the terminal and the fare in a non-aircon bus is only P50. You can also board a mini-bus directly going to Carmen. Alight at the marketplace of Carmen and hire a habal-habal ride to the falls. Travel time to the falls is 15 minutes and the fare is P80 (round trip). You will reach the jump-off point (a water factory) and then trek for 5 minutes only. 

road to the falls

Day 4 
Waterfalls Chasing in Cebu

I was so tired the day previous to this waterfalls chasing that I had to slept more than the usual just to recuperate my lost energy.

I had to choose between Gaas Falls in Balamban and Mangitngit Falls in Carmen. And after a careful research through the internet, I chose Mangitngit Falls for proximity and due to the fact that it was the only falls in the north (aside from the 2 falls in Camotes Island).

going left is to the spring, going right is to the falls

I hired a habal-habal ride to the falls. The name of the driver/guide is Israel (0926-241-7570). We agreed that the price of the round trip fare is P80.

After nearly 15 minutes, we arrived at a water factory and asked permission for entry.

At the jump-off point, we asked a boy to lead us to the falls. Trek to the falls was only for 5 minutes.

After 5 minutes, I was already in the river and taking pictures of the trail.

The river is the usual river that I see in my travel.

But the sight of the falls made the river a bit extraordinary. There was this rumor in town that the falls was already destroyed by a landslide. Good thing I did not listen to the rumor!

The elevated spot of the hill provided me a good spot to shoot my pictures.

I was tempted to swim . But I told myself maybe next time.

I stayed only for 20 minutes and afterwards, I left and went back to Cebu City.

But Israel told me that there is a spring called Urugay Spring and we decided to drop by.

Travel time to the spring was 12 minutes from the falls.

My driver/guide - Israel.

Enjoy Cebu!

---

Cagbalete Island and Dona Choleng Beach Resort, Mauban, Quezon, Philippines

May 3, 2015, 12:46 am

≫ Next: Inland Tour in Mauban, Quezon

≪ Previous: Waterfalls Chasing in Cebu: Mangitngit Falls, Carmen, Cebu

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boat ride to Cagbalete Island

As a blogger, I received invitations from different locations in the Philippines for a blog opportunity. I do not normally ask for anything in return for my blog. I travel around the Philippines because I want to explore the beauty of my country. 

But last April 2014, I received an invite from the owner of Dona Choleng in Cagbalete Island. I was delighted by the fact that I really wanted to go back to the island since my last trip in the island was good only for 3 hours, more or less.

Without hesitation, I accepted the offer and I promised that I will blog their resort in exchange for the invite and accommodation.

After one year, I was back in Cagbalete Island. 

But this time I was not alone! Mark Christian Apordo, Bok (my guide - 0999 905 8490) and Joy Que were with me to share the adventure in Cagbalete Island.

map of the island

How to get there

Mauban is 147 kilometers from Manila and 40 kilometers from Lucena City.

It is accessible by bus and other modes of transportation. 

Options 1 - Quezon City
Go to JAC Liner bus terminal at Kamias, Quezon City. The first bus leaves at 5 am. The afternoon bus leaves at 1 pm. Travel time is more or less 5 hours.

From Mauban, JAC Liner leaves at 4 am and 2 pm en route to Kamias Bus Terminal and 4:30 am to Buendia Terminal.


Option 2 - From Buendia, Pasay City 
Go to Buendia-LRT Taft station. There are several buses servicing the route to Lucena Grand Terminal such as JAM Liner, DLTB, and JAC Liner. As early as 4 am, they offer the trip to Lucena. Last trip going to Lucena is around 9 pm. Board a bus going to Lucena. Fare from Buendia to Lucena Grand Central Terminal is P209.50 (127 kilometers). Travel time is 4-5  hours from Buendia. 

Once you reach Lucena Grand Terminal, board the NCR Bus to Mauban. First trip is 4:30 am, then followed by 5:10 am and so on. Every 40 minutes, the NCR  bus leaves. Travel time is 1.5 hours and fare is P54. Last trip going to Mauban is 5:30 pm.  

Airconditioned  vans are also available at SM City Lucena and Metro Gaisano Lucena City Van Terminals from 10 am to 9 pm. Fare is P70. 

Arriving in Mauban, go to the Pantalan (port) at Barangay Sadsaran and board the boat to Cagbalete Island. Fare ride using the trike to the port is only P10.

You can also contribute to their economy by paying the Environmental fee at the Tourism office for only P50.

beachfront of Dona Choleng

There are only 2 schedules of the public boat transportation from Mauban to Cagbalete island – 10:00 am and 3:00 pm (from Cagbalete to Mauban – 7 am and 1 pm). 

Travel time is 45 minutes only and the fare is P50. It is better to arrive at the port early. During lean season, the boat leaves 10:30 but during peak season, it leaves 9:30 am.

However, that during the influx of tourists (most often during Saturdays, holidays and summer season), the coast guard allows passenger boats to sail in varying times.

Maximum capacity of the boat is 50 passengers only.

Again, try to go to the port early or else you might miss your ride to the island. In case you miss the 10 am ride, wait for the 3:30 ride or you can charter a boat for P1,000 to go to the island.

Leaving the port, you can look back at the town of Mauban and wonder at the scenery.

Environmental fee – P50 (payable at Brgy. Sadsaran Ticketing Office)

Terminal fee – P20

Chartered Boats / Tourist Boats
1-2 passengers - P1,000 (one-way) / 1,500 (round trip)

3 pax - P1,500 (one-way) / P2,000 ( round trip)
4-5 pax - P2,000 / P2,500
6 pax - P2,500 / P3,000
7-8 pax - P3,000 / P3,500
9-12 pax - 3,500 / P4,000
13-15 pax - P4,000 / P4,500
16-20 pax - P4,500 / P5,000

Tour around the island by boat is P1,000

But I did not use public transport that day.

Thanks to RDML Travels (Contact persons: Randell Dy 0917 836 6506, 0998 995 7876, 0922 858 4337 and Mae Llamas, 0917 821 2796), we were given our private transport to the island after an island hoping tour.

Dona Choleng Resort is the premiere resort, the best resort that provides the best accommodation in the island and I was about to experience that famed reputation. It is tagged as the Boracay of the Pacific!

Normally, the entrance of Dona Choleng is on the opposite side but since I was given private transport by RDML Travels, I landed or entered through the beachfront entrance.

website - www.donacholeng.com  / www.cagbaletedonacholeng.com

facebook - donacholengcampingresort.com

Location - Lamon Bay, Pacific Ocean, Quezon Province, Municipality of Mauban, Philippines

very courteous and hospitable staff

for booking, please call

Office: (042) 784-0789

Smart: 0910-882-3346

Smart: 0998-352-0544

Globe: 0926-654-9958

Globe: 0927-968-0690

Smart: 0920-155-1552

Sun: 0932-852-5489

Promo: P4.500 good for 16 pax

Tent rent - P500

Tent space - P250

Price of the rooms depends on the number of the pax

They offer the best accommodation in the island!

Not only is the accommodation the best but their recreational facilities are also the top of the line!

From the resort, you have to go back to the docking are and witness the sunset. 

Best spot to enjoy the sunset is in Greenview Beach Resort (see map).

If you are a nature lover, you will definitely enjoy, love, and be taken away by its sunset!

Sunrise at Dona Choleng beachfront

DAY 2

If Greenview Beach Resort offers the best sunset view, Dona Choleng offers the best sunrise view in the island!

Joy, Bok and Mark

After a very sumptuous dinner and a bit of drinking spree, we woke up early, took an early breakfast for our adventure slated on the day.

After watching the sunrise in Cagbalete Island, we went to Yang-In to see and enjoy the sand ripples! But this time our mode of transportation was the the floating bamboo raft (balsa). Again, this was part of the tour provided by RDML Travels. Good thing we were accommodated by RDML Travels!

We stayed in Yang-In for an hour and then went back to Dona Choleng. It was already low tide when we we arrived at the beachfront of Dona Choleng. 

We checked out and expressed our sincerest gratitude for the pleasant, warm and unforgettable stay in the resort. Truly, the best accommodation in the island.

Special Thanks to 

Mr. Mark Christian Apordo

My tour guide - Melvin T. De Los Santos (0999-905-8490)

Municipal Tourism Office (Tita Annie)
Tel. No. (042)-784-1205 / 713-0314 / 7130345
Mobile Number: 0922-383-8883 / 0917-571-1771
email: gat_uban1583@yahoo.com
www.tourmauban.com

and

RDML Travels

It is the first travel agency in Mauban, Quezon. It offers hassle-free and absolutely affordable customized tour packages. It provides the following services -

Mauban town guided tour

Private boat transfers to Cagbalete, Island, 

Room accommodation

Yang-in Island tour via Bamboo raft (Balsa) where you can savor your sumptuous feast, drink, party and relax while enjoying the view of the island 

Island tour via boat. (activity includes swimming, snorkeling, fish feeding, cliff diving)

Private shuttle Transfers From/To Manila or Lucena, City

Side-trip to Kamay ni Hesus in Lucban, Quezon

Soon to offer: Waterfalls chasing

Promotional Video: https://www.facebook.com/rdmltravels/videos/1602884273256884/?l=4830850612137853618

FB

https://www.facebook.com/rdmltravels

INSTAGRAM

@rdmltravels

Contact person:

Randell Dy - 0917 836 6506, 0998 995 7876, 0922 858 4337

Mae Llamas -  0917 821 2796

Enjoy Mauban and Cagbalete Island 

through RDML Travels!

Enjoy your stay at DONA CHOLENG!

Inland Tour in Mauban, Quezon

May 5, 2015, 1:14 am

≫ Next: Backpackers' Bicol Escapade 2015

≪ Previous: Cagbalete Island and Dona Choleng Beach Resort, Mauban, Quezon, Philippines

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Mauban Seawall or Baywalk

Mauban, Quezon, Philippines

The Municipality of Mauban is a first class municipality in the province of Quezon, Philippines. The town of Mauban is located at the mid-section eastern coast of the province of Quezon. It is surrounded by the towns of Real, Tayabas, Pagbilao, Atimonan, Sampaloc, Lucban and Cavinti. 

The number one tourist spot in Mauban is Cagbalete Island. But aside from the island, it offers 20 waterfalls, old heritage houses, historical parks, and structures and a rich history dating back from the Spanish era.

Activities in Mauban

Beach bumming, camping, swimming, snorkeling in Cagbalete Island

Nature tripping in the sand ripples in Yang-In during low tide and swimming during high tide

Waterfalls Chasing (20 falls)

Inland Tour

Island Hopping

How to get there

Mauban is 147 kilometers from Manila and 40 kilometers from Lucena City.

It is accessible by bus and other modes of transportation. 

Options 1 - Quezon City

Go to JAC Liner bus terminal at Kamias, Quezon City. The first bus leaves at 5 am. The afternoon bus leaves at 1 pm. Travel time is more or less 5 hours.

From Mauban, JAC Liner leaves at 4 am and 2 pm en route to Kamias Bus Terminal and 4:30 am to Buendia Terminal.

Option 2 - From Buendia, Pasay City 

Go to Buendia-LRT Taft station. There are several buses servicing the route to Lucena Grand Terminal such as JAM Liner, DLTB, and JAC Liner. As early as 4 am, they offer the trip to Lucena. Last trip going to Lucena is around 9 pm. Board a bus going to Lucena. Fare from Buendia to Lucena Grand Central Terminal is P209.50 (127 kilometers). Travel time is 4-5  hours from Buendia. 

Once you reach Lucena Grand Terminal, board the NCR Bus to Mauban. First trip is 4:30 am, then followed by 5:10 am and so on. Every 40 minutes, the NCR  bus leaves. Travel time is 1.5 hours and fare is P54. Last trip going to Mauban is 5:30 pm.  

Airconditioned  vans are also available at SM City Lucena and Metro Gaisano Lucena City Van Terminals from 10 am to 9 pm. Fare is P70. 

INLAND TOUR

I went to Mauban for two reasons, Cagbalete Island and waterfalls chasing!

I did not know that the town also provided for an inland tour and without hesitation, I availed of this tour and hired a guide named Melvin (aka Bok) - cellphone number 0999-905-8490.

Best time to have the tour is late in the afternoon so that it will not be hot and you can watch the sunset at Kugunan.

Around 4 pm, we started the tour and used Bok's motorcycle as our mode of transportation.

Statue of Gat Uban

Mauban seawall was our first destination. 

At the seawall, you can see the port, Gazebo, a park, the old church (which is already submerged in the water) and the statue of Gat Uban.

The seawall is called by the tourists as the "baywalk."

Museo ng Mauban

Then, we went to Museo ng Mauban. 

Created in June 24, 2004, Museo ng Mauban gives a glimpse of Mauban's historical background.

Rizal Hill Park or Calvario

Next stop was the park located in the middle of the town. The park was originally part of Sierra Madre mountain range. During Spanish times, it was used for religious purposes as part of the holy week festivities. After World War II, a monument of Dr. Jose Rizal was erected at the top of the hill. Entrance fee of P10.

You have to ascend the 50 steps before reaching the top of the park.

Rizal Hill Park

At the top of the park, Jose Rizal's monument was erected. One of the best places to watch the sunset in Mauban, relax and see the entire town.

You can see the top view of the town at the park.

Public Bath

Then, off we went to the next spot.- the Public Bath. The first structure was created in 1725. In 1810, a circular structure was created to encase the water flowing from the public bath. According to Bok, there are only public baths recorded in the world and the other one is in Thailand.     

Municipal Building

Home to the municipality's seat of government. The building also houses the two historical cannons which were gifts from the Spanish Government in 1798 to the people of Mauban for saving two of its friars from Moro captivity.

with Sarah, Tourism officer of Mauban

You can buy your souvenir from the the Product Development Center (PDC).

Old Houses

Mauban also boasts of many Spanish colonial structures which have survived the test of time.

Interior of Mauban Church

Along the way, we stopped at  Mauban Church. The first church of Mauban was built in 1647. 

Tita Annie (green polo shirt)

Along the tour, I met Tita Annie, Head of Tourism Office of Mauban. They were busy in their weaving craft, part of Mauban's rich history and culture.  She is trying to promote weaving as part of the tourism industry in Mauban.

Kugunan Hill

Around 5:30 pm, we went to Kugunan Hill for my sunset viewing.

Kugunan Hill

The trail to Kugunan Hill can be found at Iglesia ni Kristo and the trek is good for less than 10 minutes only.

At Kugunan Hill, you can see the entire town of Mauban.

After waiting for 20 minutes, the sunset unfolded.

Special Thanks to

Mark at Yang-In, Cagbalete Island

Mr. Mark Christian Apordo

Bok, my tour guide

My tour guide - Melvin T. De Los Santos (0999-905-8490)

and

RDML Travels

It is the first travel agency in Mauban, Quezon. It offers hassle-free and absolutely affordable customized tour packages. It provides the following services -

Mauban town guided tour

Private boat transfers to Cagbalete, Island, 

Room accommodation

Yang-in Island tour via Bamboo raft (Balsa) where you can savor your sumptuous feast, drink, party and relax while enjoying the view of the island 

Island tour via boat. (activity includes swimming, snorkeling, fish feeding, cliff diving)

Private shuttle Transfers From/To Manila or Lucena, City

Side-trip to Kamay ni Hesus in Lucban, Quezon

Soon to offer: Waterfalls chasing

Promotional Video: https://www.facebook.com/rdmltravels/videos/1602884273256884/?l=4830850612137853618

FB

https://www.facebook.com/rdmltravels

INSTAGRAM

@rdmltravels

Contact person:

Randell Dy - 0917 836 6506, 0998 995 7876, 0922 858 4337

Mae Llamas -  0917 821 2796

Greenview Beach Resort

Near island port, about 100 meters or a 5-minute walk to the resort

Budget-friendly resort

Common and private bathrooms

Beautiful sunset view

Island tour services

Room rates for as low as Php 325.00 per person/night based on Quad-sharing. Air-conditioned rooms also available.

FB

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Greenview-Beach-Resort/366849580173011?sk=photos_stream

Contact person and number.:

MAE 0917 821 2796

Enjoy Mauban and Cagbalete Island 

through RDML Travels!

Backpackers' Bicol Escapade 2015

May 14, 2015, 2:01 am

≫ Next: Kaybiang Tunnel Motorbike Tour

≪ Previous: Inland Tour in Mauban, Quezon

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Mahabang Buhangin, Calaguas Island

The plan was to go only to Calaguas. 

But because of typhoon Dodong, we had to change our plan. 

We are supposed to be 12 persons going to Calaguas.

But we ended up only four in our escapade.

Nothing will stop us but we had to wait.

And our patience was rewarded!

Day 0

The planning for the trip started 2 weeks earlier. Our group was excited that the next destination was Calaguas. We engage in this yearly travel during summer and if my memory serves me right, this was our 4th year of traveling as a group. Last year's destination was El Nido, Palawan. Since our destination was only Bicol, we got the numbers that we needed for the tour. 

Unfortunately, to make the story short, we ended up with only 4 persons. But we still decided to go to our destination. It was due to the fact that Typhoon Dodong was already in the Philippine area of responsibility.

How to get there (CALAGUAS)

A. From Buendia, Pasay, or Cubao ride a bus (preferably DLTB, or Superlines) going either to Daet or Naga City. Travel time is 8-9 hours depending on the traffic in San Pablo City and Sariaya. Fare is around P513.00 (ordinary aircon) or P650 (Executive class). You have two options were to alight. 

Terminal in Buendia is in LRT-Taft station.

Terminal in Pasay is near Winston Hotel or Sogo Hotel.

Terminal in Pasay is near Ali Mall or Farmer's.

The best terminal is in Pasay since both the DLTB buses in Buendia and Cubao pass through the Pasay Terminal.

Daily trips to Bicol (Pasay Terminal)

First trip - 9:00 am - Legazpi - Regular Aircon 

3:30 pm - Matnog / Bulan - Regular Aircon

6:00 pm - Naga / Lepazpi - Regular Aircon (P810)

7:00 pm - Tabaco - Regular Aircon

7:30 pm - Naga/Iriga/Nabua - Deluxe bus with CR (P1,100) 

8:00 om - Naga - Regular Aircon (P650)

8:30 pm - Legazpi - Deluxe bus with CR (P1,100)

Last trip - 9:00 pm - Legazpi - Regular Aircon

Daet trips

8:30 pm - Regular Aircon (P516)

9:30 pm Deluxe (P650)

During peak season, they have a 9:00 pm trip 

Where to alight?You have two options.

Option 1 - Daet - Take the van going to Paracale. The terminal of the van is in the Daet market near the church and the cost is P180.00. Travel time is approximately 1 hour (there is another port in Vinzons).

Option 2 - Alight at Talubatibo, Labo (crossing going to Paracale), hire a tricyle for P300 OR wait for the bus going to Paracale (every 30-40 minutes). Travel time is 30 minutes only.

If you are traveling alone, it's better to go to Daet and pay the P180 or wait for the bus.

But if you are traveling with your friends, it's better to hire the tricycle and divide the amount of fare with your friends. 

Some tourists hire a van from Manila directly to Paracale.

B. From Naga City (in case you opted using the plane) or in case you are coming from CamSur Watersports Complex (CWC), go to LCC Mall terminal for the van going to Daet. From Naga City to Daet is 2 hours and the fare is P180.00. First trip is 5 am and the last trip to Date is 8 pm. Then reaching Daet, take the van going to Paracale. Travel time to the port is 1 hour.

From Daet,  board the van going to Paracale. 

What port? There are two choices!

There are two ports going to Calaguas Island, namely the Paracale Port and the Vinzons Port. Travel time in Paracale port to Calaguas Island is 1.5 hours. Travel time from Vinzons to Calaguas Island is 2-3 hours.

Better choice is the Paracale Port.  But if you are traveling in a big group (i.e 10-20 pax), Vinzons port is the better choice.

Suppose you are traveling alone, the boat ride in the public transport boat (not the boat rent) in Vinzons is only P500.

Hire a boat going to Calaguas Island (the fee includes the island hopping).

PARACALE PORT Contact pax and nos. -
Mang Boy - 0908-546-0683
Sam - 0920-803-1510
Rizza - 0948-362-4616 / 0910684-3649

Small boat (1-3 pax) P1,200 - 1, 500
Big boat (5-10 pax) P2,500 - P3,000
Bigger boat (20-25 pax) - P5,000 - P6000

VINZONS PORT
Kagawad Biboy - 0947-533-6543 / 0999 585 6560

Smaller boats are available in Paracale.
Bigger boats are available in Vinzons.

Place to stay in Vinzons - Mac Resort (0919 400 2659)

ATV Ride in Albay

But instead of going to Calaguas, we agreed to go to Legazpi. The bus in Pasay left 10 pm and Nikko, Lester and Jen waited in DLTB Terminal in Turbina, Calamba for about an hour before the bus arrived. They boarded the DLTB bus and we arrived in Daet around 6 am. Upon arrival, we went to the van terminal, boarded the van and went to Naga. We traveled for almost 2 hours and the fare was P180. Reaching Naga, we took our breakfast and boarded another van going to Legazpi. Travel time from Naga to Legazpi was 1 hour 45 minutes but the fare was only P140.

Day 1

We alighted in Daraga, Albay. We had three choices for our accommodation, namely: Goldcrest, Rosewood and Avia Inn. We chose the latter. The prices of the room for the 3 hostels are almost the same. The cheapest rate for a single person is 300 (non-aircon) and P500 (aircon). But we rented an  aircon room good for  4 pax for P1,100 (with extra bed).

How to get there (LEGAZPI / ALBAY)

OPTION 1 - BY BUS
From Buendia, Pasay, or Cubao ride a bus (preferably DLTB or Superlines) going  to Legazpi. Travel time is 9-10 hours Fare is around P810.00 (ordinary aircon) or P1,100 (Deluxe). 

Daily DLTB trips to Legazpi (Pasay Terminal)

First trip - 9:00 am - Legazpi - Regular Aircon 

6:00 pm - Naga / Lepazpi - Regular Aircon (P810)

8:30 pm - Legazpi - Deluxe bus with CR (P1,100)

Last trip - 9:00 pm - Legazpi - Regular Aircon

OPTION 2 - BY PLANE
Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines have regular direct flights to Legazpi.


BUT It was raining! Signal number one was in Legazpi!

Nothing can stop us from having this tour! But we waited for the rain to subside.

We hired a tricycle for three destinations.

Mang Paul (0921 658 5434)

Cagsawa Ruins - P200

Hoyop-hoyopan Cave - P300

Lignon Hill - P50

There are two ways to go to Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave.

Option # 1 - Hire a tricycle for P600-700 and see the Hoyop-hoyopan and the Bat Cave.

Option # 2 - Ride a jeep to Camalig (P20.00) and then rent a tricycle to the cave (P250.00) 

While in Legazpi or Albay, try to visit the century-old churches. But due to lack of time, we were not able visit the churches.

Daraga Church

Due to bad weather and bad road conditions. The spelunking was canceled and we went to Cagsawa Ruins. Upon arrival, we hired the ATV Ride to Mt. Mayon.

Rates

3 hours (20 kilometers) - P1,800

1 hour ( 5 kilometers) - P700

We chose the Black Lava Tour of 3 hours. 

We were given quick instructions on how to handle the ATV and after 5 minutes, we found ourselves cruising towards Mt. Mayon. Everybody was excited!

The best part of the atv ride was the long, winding and heart-pumping river crossings!

There was Typhoon Dodong in the area but still decided to have fun! Along the route I was wondering if there would be a flash flood since we were crossing rivers. I just told myself that they (organizers) were in the better position to know.

  

 And out of nowhere, IT RAINED!

The trail was a bit slippery but it added the thrill to the ride!

Nikko catching up with trek

After 1 hour and 15 minutes, we reached the base and paid P50 for the environmental fee. We immediately trekked the top of the black lava.

Less than 10 minutes of trekking, we arrived at the helipad at the top of black lava.

We took our souvenir pictures and after 15 minutes, we decided to descend.

This ATV Ride is a must when you are in Albay!

After the ATV ride, we went to Cagsawa Ruins. The typhoon affected our view of Mt. Mayon. But we were still excited to see Mt. Mayon!

Under normal days, this how Mt. Mayon looks like from Cagsawa Ruins.

Nikko, Jen and Lester were all smiles at the Cagsawa Ruins.

We hired a trike ride to Legazpi for P150 to see the Lignon Hill. Entrance fee is P20 and the trek to the top was good for 15 minutes. 

We stayed only at the top for 5 minutes and we descended. We were able to find an eat-all-you-can resto in Legazpi for only P199. We went back to Daraga and called it a night.

Day 2

The following morning we woke up 3 am in order to catch up the 4 am bus ride back to Naga. This time the plan was to go to Caramoan and catch the 7 am trip.

How to get there (CARAMOAN)

From Manila, by bus

Take a bus in Buendia, Pasay or Cubao (preferably DLTB, near Superlines) going to Naga City, Bicol. Travel time is 9-10 hours. Once you are in Naga City, go to SM Naga City terminal of Sabang and board a van going to Sabang Port.

First trip of van is 4:00 am. Travel time to Sabang is 1.5 hours. Last trip is 7 pm. Fare is P100.00 only. Van will not depart unless they have the complete number of passengers. 

From Manila, by plane

Once you are in Naga City, go to SM Naga City terminal of Sabang and board a van going to Sabang Port.

From CamSur Watersports Complex (CWC) in Pili, take a habal-habal or tricycle ride to SM Naga City. Then, follow the procedure stated at SM Naga City. Fare is P100.00 and travel time is 10 minutes from CWC to SM Naga City.

Along the way, you will pass Tigaon, San Jose and then, Sabang. From Tigaon to Sabang port, travel time is 30 minutes.

There are two options on how to go to Caramoan.

Option 1 - SABANG PORT

At Sabang Port, first trip going to Caramoan is 5:30 am and the last trip going to Caramoan is around 1-2 pm.

Fare in the boat is P120.00 and travel time is 2 hours.

There is another port called the Nato Port. But this port is for Ro-Ro ships while Sabang is for pumpboats. Pumpboats are faster than Ro-Ro.

Last trip from Caramoan port to Sabang port is 1 pm.

After 2 hours, you will dock at the Caramoan Port. Hire either a habal-habal (1-2 pax only) or a tricycle (4-6 pax). Fare in the habal-habal is P150.00. While the tricycle fare is P300 for the trip itself.

OPTION 2 - BY LAND VIA RAYMOND BUS

Travel time is 4 hours and the fare is P300. The Raymon bus terminal is in Naga Bus Terminal near SM Naga.

NAGA TERMINAL

7 am - aircon - P300

1 pm  - aircon - P300

2 pm - ordinary - P250

1 and 1:30 pm - aircon - P300

CARAMOAN TERMINAL

5 am - aircon - P300

7 am - ordinary - P250

11 am - Cubao/Alabang - P250

12 noon - aircon - P300

Van terminal to Caramoan at the back of SM Naga near St. Joseph College

We missed the bus! 

We arrived in Naga 7:30 am and we had to change our plan.

We hired a trike ride to CWC (CamSur Watersports Complex) for P200. This time the plan was ti experience wake boarding! Wake boarding fee is P125 per hour, P50 for the gear and deposit of P500.

Lester's first attempt

 And they enjoyed the wake boarding for 2 hours.

They definitely enjoyed it! =)

Past 1 pm, we went back to Daet. Fare back from Naga to Daet was P180. After 1 hour and 30 minutes, we reached Daet. We were in dilemma on what port are we going to use for our Calaguas  adventure, Paracale or Vinzons?

We decided to go to Vinzons. From the Daet van terminal, we hired a trike ride to Vinzons. Travel time was 18 minutes and the fare was P150.

We immediately hired our ride. Normally, the public boat transport is P500/pax and the first trip is slated to leave 9 am. But we did not have the luxury of time to wait. We hired a big boat. 

Rates of the big boat

P5,500 - Calaguas

P1,000 - with island hopping

P6,500 - total 

( we were given a discount of P500)

VINZONS PORT

Kagawad Biboy - 0947-533-6543 / 0999 585 6560

Smaller boats are available in Paracale.

Bigger boats are available in Vinzons.

Place to stay in Vinzons - Mac Resort (0919 400 2659)

Tata Midoy (owner of Mac Resort), was kind enough to treat us for dinner and a couple of cold beers.

Previous to the drinking spree, we had to go to the marketplace and buy our food  for our trip to Calaguas.

Day 3 

The following morning, we woke up 4 am and past 5 am we were already on board the boat and cruising our way to Calaguas Island.

We were passing the Vinsons river and the sun was about to rise.

Along the route in Sabang, we witnessed the sunrise.

After 1 hour and 45 minutes, we reached Mahabang Buhangin. Normally, the travel time is 2-3 hours. Burt since we used a big boat, we arrived ahead of time. We took our breakfast aboard the boat.

Typhoon Dodong created a miracle. There was only 1 boat in the island. And there were no tourists in the island. We were the only tourists on the island. Calaguas was ours that day!

 

Calaguas has changed. Three years ago there were no huts, cottages, accommodations or even toilets in the island. Now, it is slowly changing for which I express my disapproval. Three years from now and Calaguas will no longer be the paradise island I once dreamed of. I hope the development of the island will cease and let the island stay as it was.

About three years ago, there was only one public toilet that was shared by the tourists. Now, you have a modern toilet complete with tissues ad flush bowls.

While Nikko, Lester and Jen were busy frolicking under the sun and enjoying the clear green waters of  Calaguas, I hired a boy to guide me to the hill.

After 20 minutes of ascending, I reached the top of the hill and was mesmerized by the aerial view of the island.

 

The locals call it "malaking bato" (big rock) ans that is the perfect place for your souvenir picture of the entire island.

After staying for 20 minutes, I decided to descend. The hill is also the best part to watch the sunset and the sunrise according to mu guide. I gave the boy P100.

Nikko and Lester decided to buy a lobster and they enjoyed their sumptuous lunch.

After lunch, we started our island hopping! 

First stop - Balagbag Malaki

Second stop - Balagbag Maliit

We docked at this island and took our souvenir pictures! This is the best island!

 You will love the scenic views and landscapes in this island.
Its crystal-clear waters will surely entice you to swim.

Third stop - Pangkawayan

Fourth stop - Kagtalisay

Fifth stop - Pinagkastilyuhan

 

This is the best spot for your snorkeling needs.

Thereafter, we went back to Vinzons.

You can take your shower in the island or in Vinzons.

We took our shower in Vinzons, fixed ourselves, ate halo-halo in town and boarded the bus back to Manila.

Our Bicol Escapade 2015!
Simply AMAZING!!!! =)


Major Expenses
P1,700 - round trip fare Manila - Daet
P1,700 - ATV Ride
P1,500 - sharing sa boat

ABOUT CALAGUAS

There are already accommodations.

Tent is the cheapest (P300)

Better to bring your own tent, hammock or sleeping bag.

Better to bring and cook your own food.

Bring your own water, drinks and supplies.

It has toilets.

Try Makalubo Island.

No signal in  the island.

Go to the other side of the island called - Tinago Island

Kaybiang Tunnel Motorbike Tour

May 19, 2015, 12:54 am

≫ Next: Waterfalls Chasing in Cebu, Philippines

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We were supposed to go to Mt. Pinatubo. But the the trip was cancelled.

So, I had to find an alternative and the option was to go to Kaybiang Tunnel.

Kaybiang Tunnel is the longest road tunnel in the Philippines which links Ternate, Cavite and Nasugbu, Batangas. A hole was blasted using technology in Mt. Palay-Palay.

This 300-meter tunnel is part of the new 6-kilometer Tourism Road in Cavite that cuts travel time from Manila to Nasugbu and Calatagan, Batangas from the usual 4 hours via Tagaytay to just a little over 1 hour.

The tunnel was conceptualized in 1994 but it was completed on July 2013. It took 4 years to be completed. 

scenic view of Taal Volcano along the Sungay route

So from Tanauan City, Alvin Mendoza and I, boarded our respective bikes past 6 am and drove towards Talisay and used the route popularly called "Sungay" route.

How to get there

From SLEX Toll Road 3/Sto. Tomas, Batangas via STAR Tollway in going to Lipa City, take Sambat exit and follow the national road to Talisay then go up Ligaya Drive, the zigzag road to Tagaytay (sometimes called Bitukang Manok).

It took us only 50 minutes and we reached Tagaytay City.

From Tagaytay City, we zoomed our way towards Nasugbu, Batangas. Our approximate speed was in between 80-90 kilometers per hour.

Entering Nasugbu, Batangas, we drove and passed several well-known resorts like Hamilo Coast. Munting Buhangin and Canyon Cove. After passing the town proper, we were traveling at the speed of 90-100 kilometers per hour of open space long roads.

The road towards Kaybiang Tunnel offered a very scenic view.

Unfortunately, I did not bring any DSLR and I had only my iphone. 

Finally, past nearly 2 hours of travel, we reached the Nasugbu entrance of the Kaybiang Tunnel.

They say it  is the longest subterranean tunnel in the Philippines.

The other side of the 300-meter tunnel. The Ternate entrance leading to Nasugbu, Batangas. As usual, the tunnel was filled with so many bikers.

We stayed only for less than 30 minutes, took our souvenir pictures and fled.

Using his Yamaha S16, Alvin led the way to the tunnel and back to Nasugbu.

Alvin strikes a pose in Burot Beach

We decided to head to Calatagan and use the Balayan-Lemery route going back to Tanauan City. In Calatagan, we stopped at Burot Beach.

We stayed only for 20 minutes and decided to head back to Tanauan City.

From Calatagan, we drove and passed the town of Balayan, Calaca, Lemery, Taal, Alitagtag, Sta. Teresita, Cuenca, Lipa City and finally, we reached our hometown - Tanauan City.

270 Kilometers

7 hours of motorbike ride

2 motorbikes

1 destination

Waterfalls Chasing in Cebu, Philippines

May 19, 2015, 2:18 am

≫ Next: Apo Reef and Pandan Island, Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro

≪ Previous: Kaybiang Tunnel Motorbike Tour

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Yes, I am into waterfalls chasing! 

And I've been doing it for the past ten years. 

Last April 2015, I was given the chance to have this feat in Cebu for four days. And this blog includes both the falls that I visited and the ones that I missed.

DAY 1

Mantayupan Falls and Batad-Batad Falls 

How to get there

Mantayupan Falls, Barili, Cebu

Board a flight to Cebu. Arriving in Cebu, go to South Bus Terminal in Cebu. There are different bus companies that you can choose from but Ceres has always been my choice. Board a Ceres bus going to Bato via Barili (there is another one Oslob via Barili but it is longer in route). Bus leaves every hour (4 am, 5 am, 6 am, 7 am onwards until 5 pm). Travel time is 1 hour and 45 minutes or 60 kilometers. Better go early in the morning to vaoid the traffic in Cebu City. Fare is around P80. Alight at Shamrock Bus Terminal (bus usually stops at 7-11 in Barili). Hire a habal-habal to the site for P30 (one-way) or P50 (round trip). Better hire the habal-habal for a round trip ride unless you intend to stay long in the falls. Travel time to the falls is 10 minutes or 4 kilometers. 

Mantayupan Falls

How to get there
Batad-Batad Falls

From Cebu City
Board a flight to Cebu. Arriving in Cebu, go to South Bus Terminal in Cebu. There are different bus companies that you can choose from but Ceres has always been my choice. Board a Ceres bus going to Bato via Barili (there is another one, Oslob via Barili but it is longer in route). Bus leaves every hour (4 am, 5 am, 6 am, 7 am onwards until 5 pm). Travel time to Moalboal is 2.5 - 3 hours or 89 kilometers. Fare is P118 (aircon). Arriving in Moalboal, hire a habal-habal to Batad Batad Falls.

From Barili
Board a Ceres bus to Bato via Barili. Fare is P47. Travel time is more or less an hour or 28 kilometers. 

Batad-Batad Falls

Day 2

Waterfalls Chasing in Southern Cebu

Kawasan Falls, Badian

Inambakan Falls, Bugnawan Falls, Campael Falls in Ginatilan

Dao Falls and Aguinuid Falls in Samboan

How to get there

Kawasan Falls

From  Cebu City

Board a bus (preferably, Ceres) bound to Bato via Barili. Travel time up to Badian is more or less 3 hours. 

From Moalboal

Option 1

Board a bus (preferably, Ceres) bound to Bato via Barili and alight at the jump-off point to Kawasan Falls (the landmark is a Catholic church). Fare is only P30 (aircon bus). Hire a habal-habal ride (P50) to the falls. You can trek it instead of hiring a habal-habal. Trek is good for 15 minutes only. 

Option 2

Hire a habal-habal ride to Badian. Fee is between P250-300. Travel time is 50 minutes. It is 12 kilometers from Moalboal to Badian town proper, then another 9.5 kilometers to Kawasan falls. 

Alight at the jump-off point, hire a habal-habal ride (P50) to the falls. You can trek it instead of hiring a habal-habal. Trek is good for 15 minutes only. 

Kawasan Falls

How to get there

Inambakan Falls

Bugnawan Falls

Campael Falls

From Cebu City
Board a bus (preferably, Ceres) with the signboard Bato via Barili. Cebu City to Ginatilan is 135 kilometers. Alight at the town of Ginatilan and hire a habal-habal to the the falls. 

From Badian to Ginatilan
Board a bus going to Bato. Fare is P50 (aircon bus). Travel time more or less an hour. It is 31 kilometers from Badian. Arriving at the town of Ginatilan, hire a habal-habal to the falls. Round trip fare to the falls is P200. From the town it is just 3.9 kilometers. The fee may be excessive but you can ask the driver to show you or guide you to the falls.

Inambakan Falls Bugnawan Falls

How to get there
Dao Falls

Board a bus (preferably, Ceres) with the signboard Bato via Barili. Cebu City to Samboan is 143 kilometers. Alight at the town of Samboan and hire a habal-habal to the the falls. 

How to get there
Aguinid Falls
Board a bus (preferably, Ceres) with the signboard Bato via Barili. Cebu City to Samboan is 143 kilometers. Alight at the town of Samboan in Barangay Tangbo. 

DAY 3
Tumalog Falls, Oslob, Cebu

How to get there

From Cebu City

Option 1 (best option)

Board a flight to Cebu. Then, go to South Bus Terminal. Board a bus (preferably, Ceres) to Oslob. Fare is P155. Travel time is 3 - 3.5 hours or 124 kilometers. Alight at MB Sunrise View Resort. Hire a habal-habal for P140 to Tumalog Falls. Travel time is 10-15 minutes. Trek to the falls is 10 minutes only.

Option 2

Board a flight to Cebu. Then, go to South Bus Terminal. Board a bus (preferably, Ceres) with the signboard Bato via Barili. Fare is P191 (aircon) or P177 (non-aircon). Travel time is 4 - 4.5 hours or 147 kilometers. Alight at Bato Terminal and board another bus going to Oslob.  Fare in the bus is P30 (aircon) or P20 (non-aircon). Travel time is 15 minutes or 16 kilometers. Alight at MB Sunrise View Resort. Hire a habal-habal for P140 to Tumalog Falls. Travel time is 10-15 minutes or 6 kilometers. Trek to the falls is 10 minutes only.

From Dumaguete City

The other one is from Dumaguete City. From the city, ride a multicab bound to Sibulan port (fee is P11.00 only). Then, ride a fastcraft to Santander. The boat trip to Santander is 20 minutes only. Fare is P60.00. Reaching Santander port, ride a bus going to Cebu (the bus is just waiting at the port). The trip to Oslob is 20-25 minutes only. Fare is 60.00 aircon. Then alight at Barangay Tan-awan, Oslob, Cebu.

DAY 4
Mangitngit Falls
Carmen, Cebu

How to get there

Board a flight to Cebu. Arriving in Cebu airport, get a taxi or any any ride to North  Bus Terminal. In the terminal, you can board any bus bound north. Travel time is 1 hour and 15 minutes to Carmen. It is 41 kilometers from the terminal and the fare in a non-aircon bus is only P50. You can also board a mini-bus directly going to Carmen. Alight at the marketplace of Carmen and hire a habal-habal ride to the falls. Travel time to the falls is 15 minutes and the fare is P80 (round trip). You will reach the jump-off point (a water factory) and then trek for 5 minutes only. 

The Other Falls of Cebu

from The Outdoor Guy Blog

Gaas Falls in Balamban

from www.everthingcebu.com

Montaneza Falls in Malabuyoc

from Living in Cebu Forums

Busay Falls and Panganuron Falls in Camotes

From Living in Cebu Forums

Kan Amno Falls in Boljoon

from www.tripaadvisir.com

Bugasok Falls in Argao

According to one blog that I read, there are a total of 41 falls in Cebu! And that means, I have visited only a quarter of the falls in Cebu. 

Enjoy your Waterfalls Chasing!