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This island has been on my list for a while now. It is an island that oozes with natural beauty and a colorful history to share. These two interests fused together was enough for my curiosity to get hold of me to finally take on the long trip to explore the beauty of Limasawa Island, Southern Leyte.  Welcome to my Limasawa Island of my 72nd province - Southern Leyte! Limasawa Island is an island municipality of Southern Leyte, the 72nd province of my #GOT82PH project. Located on the southern end of the province, most Filipinos would be able to easily recognize the island as it has been widely discussed in Philippine history. The island was believed to be the site of the first Catholic mass in the country and that paved the way for the country to become the only country in Asia that is pre-dominantly Christian. We will be going around the island in my next two blogs, by land and by sea, to check out the stories and the beauty that Limasawa has to offer. Welcome to Limasawa Signage The famous rockwall is the first to greet you as you arrive the Port of Limasawa. The welcome sign painted in white is already a tourism icon of the island. It gets pretty crowded throughout the day because Limasawa guests line up for that I-am-here shot with the popular sign. Quick tip, head up to the signage early in the morning for that shots without the tourist crowd.  The "Welcome to Limasawa" signage has become an iconic attraction on the island. The welcome sign lies along the main road of the island. The road was carved from the side of a hill, creating this dramatic rock wall. This spot also welcomes tourists with a panoramic view of the coast of the poblacion. Locals painted the sign to welcome guests visiting the island, not knowing that this small task would lead to this spot to becoming one of the icons of the island. Island Lagoon Resort and North Lighthouse The best way to explore Limasawa on land is by renting a motorcycle or by getting a trike tour. Organized by Limasawa JSKJ Motor Rental and Tricycle Tour, we first explored the island on board a tricycle for only Php350 per head (total of 4 pax). The tour brought us to the land attractions of the island. Our first stop for the day is the Island Lagoon Resort and the North Lighthouse.  The Island Lagoon Resort is a popular resort known for its cliffs and lagoons. Located along the northern end of Limasawa, the Island Lagoon Resort sits adjacent to the North Lighthouse. The trike ride is about 20 minutes from the poblacion and you would have to take a 15-minute walk to the resort entrance. You will catch a glimpse of the modern lighthouse along the way.
Be forewarned though that the way to the resort is along a very steep cemented stairs. The resort was built along the cliffside of the island facing mainland Southern Leyte. The resort can be accessed via the steep stairs (if you are doing a land tour) and along a small cove (if you are doing the island boat tour). We tried both during our Limasawa trip.  Enjoying the rugged coast and clear waters of the island's lagoon. The lagoon is a cluster of rock formations that form an enclosed beach area. The cliff side has crevices where concrete pathways, beach huts, and facilities were built for guests. The towering rock formations on other side create a natural boundary against the open sea creating a lagoon in the middle. There are crevices and openings that allow sea water to come in the lagoon. These rocks also serve as platforms where you can cliff jump during high tide. Little Batanes Little Batanes is a quick stop just a short distance away from the Cross of Magellan. Located atop one of the hills of Limasawa, it is a vantage point where you can see the waters that guard the island on both side - the Bohol Sea and Sogod Bay. You can catch a glimpse of Bohol, Surigao, and the other side of Southern Leyte on a clear day.
It probably got its monicker because the viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the east coast of the island. You can appreciate how its hills roll down to meet the waters of the Bohol Sea, similar to one of the popular view decks in Batanes. Honestly, “Little Batanes” can stand on its own, minus the comparison. It would be good if they can rename it to one that would reflect a more Limasawa-owned vibe. First Cross Monument The First Cross Monument is a historic site where Magellan planted the first cross in the Philippines in 1521. The wooden cross stands atop the hill, above the site where the first Catholic mass was held in the country. There are two ways to get to the cross. You can first start from the site of the first mass and walk up the concrete steps to the cross or you can start from the cross and move down to the base of the hill. We did the latter.  The First Cross Monument is said to be where Magellan mounted the Christian Cross. The cross, which I presume is a replica, is mounted on a pedestal on a circular platform. It surrounded by trees and, with the cool sea breeze blowing from the sea, make it a perfect spot to just relax and enjoy its vibe. A cemented stair-pathway connects the cross with anothwr historical site on the island. The pathway offers amazing views of the eastern coast of Limasawa. The Limasawa Shrine of the First Mass in the Philippines The cemented pathway lead down to the Limasawa Shrine of the First Mass in the Philippines. The park marks the spot where the first Catholic Mass was held. It is complete with manicured lawns leading to a small building where the NHI marker was installed to signify the historical significance of the area.  Taking in the historical significance of Limasawa Island. The main building bears a tableau of the first mass with Magellan, Father Valderrama, Rajah Colambu, and Raja Si-Agu in prayer. The walls are also lined with paintings of Magellan’s voyage to the Philippines, the first Catholic mass, and the mounting of the cross. A guide will also give you a brief on Limasawa island and the story of Pinoy hospitality that led to the first mass on March 31, 1521.
The park has benches where you can enjoy its rustic vibe. A wishing well sits adjacent to the structure where guests can flip a coin, make a wish, and ring the bell. The shrine is an attraction so expect the crowd especially during weekends. There are small snack shops at the entrance of the shrine where you can take a quick snack. Dakdak Beach Resort The island of Limasawa is a rugged island with rock formations and cliffs dominating its seascape. There are pockets of white sand spots but are limited. One of the spots is the Dakdak Beach Resort. It is one of the popular resorts on the island and has become an attraction in itself.  Dakdak Beach is a popular resort known for its white sand coast. Dakdak Beach Resort is one of developed and well-landscaped resorts in Limasawa. It sits on an area where the mountains meet the sea. Cottages, for overnight stays, and cabanas line its coastline. The shoreline of the resort is white sand with a mix of corals and shells. The coast is a bit rocky when you take a dip. There are two off-shore platforms that offer a panoramic view of ita beach area. It also serves as a platform where you can jump into its waters during high tide.
This beach spot is part of both the land and boat tours of the island. It has gained popularity due to its exposure on social media. It is safe to expect that there would be a bit of waiting time when getting into the resort since they manage the number of people inside the resort. The resort also has a restaurant that offers good food. But expect service to take time especially during peak hours. Bad-as Peak Bad-as Peak is the highest peak in the island of Limasawa. It offers a panoramic view of the poblacion and the southern tip of the island. It is a popular spot to end the day among travelers and locals because it offers the best view of Limasawa’s sunset. The adjacent peak of Totoy-Totoy is also an alternative sunset spot on the island.  Taking in the beautiful view of the island from Bad-as Peak. Unfortunately, we were not able to catch the sunset in Limasawa since cloud covers obscured the view. Our guide said that these cloud covers indicate that the habagat season is set to come in. We came in ahead of the crowd so we got to enjoy the unobstructed view of the coastline of Limasawa. Again, expect the crowds during the late afternoons since it is a popular spot in Limasawa. Limasawa Municipal Hall and Baywalk On the southern end of the island, you will find the modest Limasawa Municipal Hall. It serves as the center of governance and service of the island-municipality. Tucked within the compound is the Limasawa Quincentennial Historical Marker of Magellan’s voyage around the world. It indicates that Magellan stepped on the island during his voyage. The marker is a reminder of Limasawa’s historical significance in both Philippine and world history.  Enjoying the calm vibe of the Limasawa Baywalk. In front of the government center is the Limasawa Baywalk. It is a small strip by the beach that was developed as a a baywalk that gives you a beautiful view of the Triana coastline and the Bohol Sea. This is where you will also find Limasawa Island Marker. This spot is often overlooked by tourists so you get to enjoy the spot without the usual crowd. At the base of the marker are the footprint marks of outstanding locals of the island.
The spot is also a good spot to watch the sunset. There is a small beach strip adjacent to the area where you can enjoy the sea breeze while waiting for the sun to set. Its rugged coast emerge during low tide and locals go about their routine of finding shellfish in the area. I enjoyed the spot watching the sunset even with the cloud cover. I enjoyed the dramatic play of sunset colors on the rugged coast of Limasawa. Definitely, a perfect spot to end my Limasawa visit. POST TRAVEL NOTES Limasawa Island was a perfect birthday trip and introduction to my 72nd province in my #GOT82PH project. The island fuses history and natural beauty in one perfect travel adventure. It was laidback, rustic, and homey. I enjoyed how it slowed me down to enjoy the day go by. It made a huge impression on me that I must say that every Filipino needs to see… ang ganda ng Limasawa!  Lubog Tayo sa sususnod na ilot natin sa Limasawa. There are a thousand islands to discover in the Philippines. Every island has its own story and beauty to explore and enjoy. Some islands are easy to access with just a plane and/or boat ride away. Others islands make the travel to reach it an adventure in itself. Based on my experience, the latter gets you out of your comfort zone to enjoy a different kind of island adventure. Watch out for my #GOT72SouthernLeyte Limasawa Island travel video on my Youtube Travel Channel. Getting there: From Manila, you can take a flight to Tacloban and then take a van to Maasin. You can take a jeep to Padre Burgos Port and take a ferry to Limasawa Island. If you are coming from Cebu (like we did), you can take a Fastcraft to Maasin Port. Once in Maasin Port, walk to the main highway where you can take a jeep to Padre Burgos. You can then take a ferry to Limasawa from the Padre Burgos Port. Once in Limasawa, you can take a trike to your accommodation. PinkApple and Natalie’s Beach House offers basic accommodations in Limasawa Island. You can reach them through their Facebook page. For Limasawa land and boat tours or motorcycle rentals, you can get in touch with Limasawa JSKJ Motor and Tricycle Tour. Shoutout to my travel buddies - HULL & STERN Dry Bags for keeping my stuff safe and dry during my travels. Get 5% off on your Hull & Stern dry bag purchase on the Hull & Stern website when you use the code - marc7del.
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Click herA socmed video of a beach strip caught my attention and got my curiosity up enough for me to want to explore this town on the southern side of Cebu. The strip is not a white sand shoreline, like what most people look for, but the rustic vibe it evoked caught my attention. I had to experience it for myself so I went out to check kung bongga nga ba ang Sibonga!  The beach cove that pushed me to visit Sibonga! Just two hours away from the city of Cebu, Sibonga is a small and quaint municipality that is popular as a pilgrimage site Local stories share that the name Sibonga was derived from the name of betel nut palm trees that once grew abundant in the town. It was established as a separate town and parish in 1830. Beyond the faith, the town has pockets of attractions that give you a glimpse of its history and the laidback vibe of its community. Nuestra Señora del Pilar Church (Sibonga Church) At the heart of the town is the Nuestra Senora del Pilar Church, more popularly called as Sibonga Church. This Spanish-period church and its convent will catch your attention as you breeze through the town since it is right along the highway. The church was originally a visita under Carcar until its was declared an independent church in 1830. The church honors the Nuestra Señora del Pilar de Zaragoza as its patron saint.  Sibonga Church is one of the Spanish-period churches in the province. The present structure started construction in 1866, under the neo-gothic architecture. It was in 1898 that the stone church was finally completed. Interestingly the adjacent church convent stands older than the church, having been built in 1839. Built from coral stones, the church convent was designed by Bishop Maranon of Cebu. Both structures remain to be a strong remembrance of Spanish rule in Sibonga.
The church interior is simple and elegant. The altar is the centerpoint of the church where the image of the Nuestra Senora del Pilar was mounted. The coral stone and pillars of its nave are well-preserved and intact. Just like other churches in Visayas, the ceiling murals are a real beauty. These biblical ceiling paintings were done by Cebu artist, Raymundo Francia, and was completed in 1924. Sibonga Heritage Park The Sibonga Heritage Park is a wide open-space park located near the church. The space offers a chill out space for locals and guests who just want to relax and enjoy the day or the moment pass. The large and old trees along the plaza offer a quick relief from the heat with its shade and the cool sea breeze.
The plaza is complete with benches and canopies where you can just sit back and enjoy watching what is happening around the town. It is surrounded by structures that date back to the different time periods of Sibonga. It gives you a glimpse of the town’s colorful past. Sitting on a bench and just watching gave me a nostalgic feel of that old town vibe. Sibonga Municipal Hall and Plaza Just a stone throw away from the Sibonga Heritage Park is the Sibonga Municipal Plaza. In contrast to the former, the sprawling park is manicured with cemented pathways and manicured gardens. A monument of Dr. Jose Rizal stands as the centerpiece of the park. The park is best visited during the early mornings or late afternoon because it has less tree covers and offers very little shade cover during the day.
At the far end of the plaza stands the Sibonga Municipal Hall. The center of governance of the town was built in American-period architecture. In front of the building is a statue of the Late President Ramon Magsaysay with the inscription of being the “Champion of the Poor”. I guess President Magsaysay has a strong connection with the people of the Sibonga. Behind the Municipal Hall is the Sibonga Wharf that offers a panoramic view of the town and the Cebu Strait. Balai Ortiz and Heritage Cafe Just a few meters walk from the town center, I came across an ancestral house where the first floor was converted into a cafe - the Balai Heritage Cafe. It caught my attention because of its American-style architecture. Interestingly, one of the residents was one of the individuals who had a first-hand account of the death of Former President Ramon Magsaysay. This quaint home was the ancestral home of the Ortiz Family of Sibonga.  The Ortiz Ancestral House is now a museum and a cafe in Sibonga. The first floor of the house was converted into a cafe that offers meals and snacks. It also has common areas where guests can enjoy group and board games while waiting for their orders. The cafe is neatly designed to be homey with artworks displayed along its walls. I really enjoyed the crispy dinuguan that I ordered - a must try.
The second floor serves as the museum that displays the heirloom of the Ortiz Family. You get a glimpse of their simple life in Sibonga as you walk through the house. Antique objects and photographs owned by the family are on display around the house. There were also news clippings on the death of President Magsaysay were also mounted on the wall. As it turns out, Mr. Mario Ortiz, was one of the first responders to the crash site of the late president in Mount Manunggal. Monastery of the Holy Eucharist (Simala Shrine) At the center of the faith in Sibonga is the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, which also known as the Simala Shrine or the Our Lady of Lindogon Shrine. This pilgrimage church was built on 1998 by the Marian Monks of Eucharistic Adoration from Pampanga. What makes its stand out is its castle-like structure that was built along the hills of Sibonga. The construction of the church was part of the vision of Ingko Niyong Villamayor who believed that the hills of Lindogon would be holy once the image is enshrined in the area.  The Simala Shrine is both a pilgrimage and tourist attraction in Sibonga. What will strike you the most when you visit this pilgrimage church is how the monastery was built. It is massive and grand with its castle-like architectural design. The structure was built along the hills following the contours of the land it sits on. Towers jut out on the corners of its walkways. A manicured courtyard stands in the middle of its structure. Its main church stands in the background of its courtyard. The church is still undergoing construction with its expansion.
The main church has an elaborately designed nave that glows in gold. The altar has the Holy Eucharist as its centrepiece and above it is the image of the Our Lady of Lindogon that is believed to be miraculous. Many devotees line up just to touch the image and offer their petitions. Devotees of the Virgin Mary claim that the image provided healing to those who were afflicted with dengue outbreak in the area in 1998. The image is also believed to have shed tears in 4 different occasions. The monastery is a pilgrimage site so one needs to dress properly when entering the shrine. Old Simala Railway Station Tucked in a small corner of the Simala Elementary School is a small building that was once part of a railway system in Cebu. Yes… you heard it right that Cebu had a railway system that run from Argao, in the south, to Danao, up north. It had 14 stations that spanned 57 miles across the island. Unfortunately, the railway system fell victim to World War 2 bombings and only a few structures remain standing today.  The Old Train Station of Simala was re-used as a school facility of the Simala Elementary School. The small railway station in Sibonga is one of the few reminders of the train station. However, you won’t see any historical markers that would indicate the history of the said spot. It was repurposed by the school as a storage room, although, I have read that it was turned into a library. It would be nice though if the provincial and/or local government could put a marker that would highlight the historical value of the place. Aroma Beach Hidden behind the mangrove covers of Sibonga, Aroma Beach is a small beach cove that has been popular among locals for years. Its brown-colored sandy coast is a great way to enjoy a quick beach fix in Sibonga. The cove is just a few meters walk from the highway through a tree-lined rough road. This beach spot is a great way to watch how locals enjoy a lazy Sunday afternoon.  The beach cove that caught my curiosity to explore Sibonga. Aroma Beach is a public beach and a no-frills beach spot. As soon as you reach the cove, you will notice its tree-lined shore. There are no huts for rent so you get to find your own corner along the cove. If you have a hammock with you, you can prop it up between the trees. Locals bring their own mats or tents to set up. I came in with just my bag so I just found my spot under the cover of one of its trees.
Since it is a no-frills beach spot, expect to enjoy a chill lowkey experience. You can explore the mangrove covers on both ends of the cove or wade through its waters. There are no basic facilities in the area - no showers and no toilets. There are ruins of a house in the area that you can use to change clothes but that is just it. I just hope that the LGU can take the lead to secure and tidy-up Aroma Beach because its raw beauty gets spoiled with garbage left by beachgoers and broken bottles in the area. POST TRAVEL NOTES More than just a pilgrimage site, the town of Sibonga has pockets of interesting sites that give you a glimpse of its beauty and colorful past. Exploring the poblacion gave me the thrill on its history with its well-preserved structures, that date back to the different time periods of the country. Its no-frillls attractions and beach spots assures you that life is simple and you just need to pause and breathe in its beauty. Sibonga does teach you a lot about faith and life.  Our next stop is a destination made from legends and folklore. More often than not, a lot of travelers keep their eyes on the hot items on their tourism checklist. We are often excited checkout the more popular spots or the social media savvy ones. But if we take a pause to stop briefly and just explore more, you will be surprised to discover how colorful a destination that you just usually pass through. Try it… just explore one destination along the way. Check out my Sibonga travel video on my Youtube Travel Channel:
Getting there: There are daily flights to the Mactan-Cebu International Airport from major local and international airports. You can take a cab or a TNVS ride to the Cebu South Bus Terminal. Alternatively, you can take a bus to SM City Cebu then a jeepney ride to the Cebu South Bus Terminal. You can purchase a Ceres Bus ticket for Sibonga. Buses bound for Argao and Oslob pass through Sibonga. Just ask the driver to drop you off at the Poblacion. Shoutout to my travel buddies - HULL & STERN Dry Bags for keeping my stuff safe and “dry during my travels. Get 5% off on your Hull & Stern dry bag purchase on the Hull & Stern website when you use the code - marc7del.
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Marc del Rosario
I believe in education, entrepreneurship, and caring for the environment. 
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July 2026
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