marc7 travels |
It was a river snaking into the sea that made this Cebu destination part of my 2024 travel bucket list. A river that also embodies a community working together in creating community tourism project as an alternative income source for its locals. It is an eco-tourism spot that can also give you a beach break with its hidden coves. Welcome to the exciting and rustic town of Aloguinsan in Cebu. Our mini-bus rolled out of the Cebu South Bus at 5am. This was going to be an estimated 3-hour trip to Aloguinsan via Carcar. The rustic town of Aloguinsan was originally a barrio of the neighboring town of Pinamungajan and was created as a separate town in 1886 by a Spanish royal decree. The town may look rustic and tame but it has a strong history of fighting off invaders from the Moros during the Spanish-period to Japanese invaders in World War 2. Eto yung bayan na tahimik lang sa umpisa pero maraming kwento habang namamasyal ka dito (This is a town that starts off silent but you unearth its stories while exploring it). Its natural beauty blends in with its rich history that rolls from its hill to its waters. Aloguinsan Poblacion There was a slight drizzle when I arrived in Aloguinsan around 7.30am. I opted to check out the Aloguinsan Public Market for breakfast and also to kill time, with the hope of getting a clear weather before I start exploring the town. The poblacion is the center of the municipality where the center for commerce, governance, and religion. I really found the Aloguinsan Public Market uniquely charming. Conveniently located along the mouth of a clean river, it has a small fish port where sea produce is dropped off by fishermen directly to its vendors. It is the center of commerce of the town so it is the place where you can purchase fresh produce and the place where you can also enjoy a meal. Don’t expect fastfiod chains in town. Aloguinsan gave me that provincial town vibe that I really enjoyed because I don’t usually get to enjoy these moments in the city. Just like any Spanish-period town, the church is located close to the town center. It is situated atop one of the hills and has a sprawling church ground with a century tree as an attraction. Established in 1912, the church was dedicated to St. Raphael the Archangel. The present-day church structure was completed in 1939 that features the bell tower as its main facade. Its modern-designed interiors feature a gold-colored retablo with the Crucified Christ as its centerpiece. Government offices are also within striking distance within the poblacion. It signifies that most community activities happen in the poblacion. The municipal hall is located close to the seaside of the town where a huge open space is often used for activities and festivities. Baluarte Park The town of Aloguinsan is a Spanish-period town and its coastal location often subjects it to frequent Moro raids. A baluarte or watchtower was built on a hill that sits close to the shores of the sea. The tower helped in protecting the town from Moro raiders by giving them advance warning and an unfair advantage for a defensive stance. As per their local story, the baluarte put a stop to these raids. Only a few standing coral foundations serve as a reminder of the Spanish-period Baluarte. The LGU have taken the initial effort of creating a park with the ruins as its main feature. They have also chained off the ruins to prevent visitors from damaging what remains of the heritage structure. I could see that the structure may have been huge considering the locations of the few standing foundations. The baluarte gives one a panoramic view of the sea and the town. The park gives you a top view of the town. It also gives you a panoramic view of the surrounding shoreline of the poblacion. They have developed it with basic tourist facilities with picnic sheds and restrooms. Unfortunately, the park needs proper maintenance and attention. I also think that they should move that the ruins be recognized for its historical value considering that what remains of the old Spanish baluarte remains largely intact and void of any vandalism. Bojo River Cruise Bojo River is THE tourism icon of the town of Aloguinsan. The river, beyond its natural beauty, is a community-based sustainable eco-tourism project handled by the Bojo Aloguinsan Ecotourism Association (BAETAS) that provides river tours to its guests. This is not the usual tours where you just paddle out through the river to enjoy the serenity and the views. What makes it unique is that a local guide, from the community, gives you an educational brief of the importance of the Bojo River to the community. You don’t only get to enjoy the seascape and landscape but you also come home with new and inspiring insights. My Bojo River Cruise adventure started with a short orientation with Miss Jamaila Alvarado, Secretary of BAETAS. She gave us a brief that the project utilizes the locals with the upkeep of their “landing” area and the actual tour through the 1.4-kilometer river stretch. The project was pioneered by the LGU and the community and, with the help of Aboitiz and 700 private individuals, planted 20,000 seedlings to re-forest the river’s lost mangrove cover. Today, the river now hosts 24 kinds of mangrove species along the length of the river. My river guide, Kuya Gonsalo, paddled our wooden bangka through the still waters of Bojo River while giving me fast facts about the river. Mangrove trees lined the riverbanks and Kuya Gonsalo was introducing me to the different varieties of mangrove species. Bojo River is home to 24 mangrove species and these forest are essential to the community since these are breeding grounds of fish. Historically, the mangrove covers also served as a hideout of Filipinos and guerrilla fighters during World War 2. What makes Bojo River unique is that the river opens up to the sea. The estuary is located between two rock cliffs, like guards standing at the mouth of the river, exuding a dramatic landscape. A raft house was anchored close to the estuary for guests to relax on and have their pictures taken with the “opening” on the background. This is also the spot where guests are allowed to take a quick dip. We further ventured out to the sea where I was treated with amazing underwater views of living and vibrant coral reefs. You get to enjoy the mangrove covers by the river and the beauty of underwater life in one go. The river exudes a serene vibe as I took in the beauty and calmness of nature. It was also good that the river cruise was a community effort that did not only breathed new life to Bojo River but also provided an alternative livelihood to its community. Furthermore, it was also comforting that the locals who were once in the position of discovering and exploring what they have at their doorstep is now at the frontlines of promoting sustainable local tourism. The Bojo River Cruise is a MUST when you find yourself in Aloguinsan. Hermit’s Cove The view of the hills of Aloguinsan was relaxing as we rolled on to our next spot - Hermit’s Cove. The cove is a popular beach spot in Aloguinsan made popular by its aquamarine waters and cream-colored shorelines. Since it was a Sunday, I was already expecting a crowd but not the volume that I caught up with when I got there. Hermit’s Cove is located at the base of a cliff facing the Tanon Strait. A concrete pathway leads tourists down to the beach cove where there are available picnic hits and tables for rent. One can also find your own spot where you can lay down your mat or set-up your camping chair without extra charges. I found my corner under rock overhang close to the stairs/pathway of the cove. Just like other beach spots on this side of Cebu, the water is inviting with its aquamarine color. The sprawling cream-colored shoreline is perfect for any kind of activity - from making sand castles to playing a round of beach volley. You need to bring your own food and drinks in the area because there were only a few stores in the area. There are some locals that offer boating and beach activities. I quickly found my corner where I enjoyed a mid-afternoon beach chill under the shade of the rock overhangs. Bugarak Beach There was another beach spot in Aloguinsan that was also popular among locals and tourists but local politics have pushed its owners to close it down. It was the closure of Hidden Beach that paved the way for the adjacent beach spot, though not as beautiful, to get traction among locals. As they say, locals know where to go so I ended up taking on the challenge to explore Bugarak Beach. Bugarak Beach is unique because it fuses the mangroves of Bojo River and the cream-colored sands of Hermit’s Cove into one spot. The shoreline of this beach spot is a mix of rock formations and cream-colored sand. Just a few meters off-shore is where you will find the mangrove cover, giving swimmers that extra shade from the sun. The beachfront is narrow, with only enough space to set up a length of small beach tables or a tent. Guides at the entrance would offer tables that you can rent and, if you are there for just a visit, you can just find your own spot along the shoreline. The beach is a public beach so they do not charge any entrance. It can be challenging to get there as there are no directional signs or signages. Just go towards the direction of Tanon Strait. Except for the local crowd and their blaring music, the beach is a nice escape from the usual Sunday beach crowd. I just hope that the LGU can help in the upkeep of the Bugarak Beach. Nevertheless, I enjoyed my time exploring this hidden beach in Aloguinsan. POST TRAVEL NOTES Aloguinsan is your typical provincial town where it gives you that rustic, unassuming, and simple vibe but packs a punch when you start exploring its sights and sounds. Its main tourism draw, the Bojo River, is a great example of a community-led tourism project that is able to sustainably develop and promote a natural attraction that also benefits the members of its community. It would be nice to have this initiative be a cornerstone for the whole town to do the same for all its tourism spots creating a tourism ecosystem that could put Aloguinsan in the forefront of a town-based tourism initiative in the country. It is true that, when we involve the community in tourism and socio-economic projects that benefit them, the buy-in of the locals is stronger. Their involvement pushes to make the project their own that gives it a higher chance of success. If we want tourism to be a stronger player in Philippine economy, we do not need more tourist rest areas. What we need is to involve the community in key tourism projects, train the locals on how they can benefit from it, and let the community take it as their own. Check out my Aloguinsan Adventure on my Youtube here:
#MahalinNatinAngPilipinas Getting there: There are regular flights to Mactan-Cebu International Airport from various local and international airports. You can then take a cab to the Cebu Bus Terminal where you can take a bus to Aloguinsan. Land travel is 3 hours from the city. For the Bojo River Cruise, you can get in touch with the BAETAS President - Mr. Rudney Carcuevas through FB messenger or at (0923) 1419424. If you are a group of at least 6 persons, you can book a full river cruise experience at least two days ahead. They can also accommodate walk-ins, similar to my experience. For habal-habal arrangements around Aloguinsan, you can contact Kuya Arnel at (0966) 073 9013. ![]() Shoutout to my travel buddies - HULL & STERN Dry Bags for keeping my stuff safe and dry during my travels and MAGWAI for their alternative and eco-friendly products for my local travels. Get 5% off on your Hull & Stern dry bag purchase on the Hull & Stern website when you use the code - marc7del Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/hull.stern/ Facebook : https://web.facebook.com/hull.stern Get 10% off on your Magwai purchase on Lazada, Shopee, and Magwai website when you use my code: marc7del10 Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/magwaiph/ Facebook : https://web.facebook.com/MagwaiPH
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There is an island off the coast of Zambales that is undisputed to be one of the best places to enjoy a chill weekend with friends and colleagues. We got marooned on the island where we raised our flag, planned our defense and offense strategies, and fought our battles with burning pride. We did not have to deal with water cannons but we had to protect our territory with water guns. There was no territorial dispute but we had fun chilling out, ng walang pagdadalawang isip, on the island of Magalawa. Magalawa Island is a 56-hectare island just 5 minutes away, by motorized banca, from Palauig in mainland Zambales. It is a popular beach spot with its calm waters and white sand shorelines. The island is part of the Masinloc and Oyon Bay Protected Landscape and Seascape that was declared a protected area in August 1993 by Former President Fidel V. Ramos. The protected area has been found to be the home of rare mangroves species, thriving coral reefs, and a nesting area of marine turtles. Tourism activities on the island are regulated to preserve its natural beauty. Here are 5 things that you can do when you are on a weekend chill on the island of Magalawa: Camp Out There are two beach resorts on the island - Armada Resort and Ruiz Resort. Both resorts are located on the northeast side of the island but have strict guest restrictions when crossing its boundaries. Our group stayed at Armada and I was lucky to have slipped through, unknowingly, to also explore Ruiz Resort. The best way to enjoy a weekend stay in Magalawa is to camp out. Armada Resort has a number of accommodations to offer for guests, from aircon rooms to camping tents. We opted to get the treehouse and camp around it, giving us beach front access and a space where we conducted our team games and activities. There are basic facilities in the resort - restrooms, shower areas, and grilling areas. There’s also a store for last minute item that you need. In my case, I did set-up my hammock under the treehouse. I enjoyed a nice evening slumber with the sea breeze blowing in. It was relaxing to listen to nature’s evening sounds with an occasional laughter breaking out from campers enjoying the evening. Play and Let Loose We went to Magalawa Island for our annual team-building activity. We prepared a lot of activities that covered our first day. We had a huge open space for ourselves so we had fun working together and running around. We simply let loose and enjoyed the day. We got down and dirty with a dose of laughter. Bring your own badminton sets, beach volleyball, and/or boarding games. Armada Resort has a sprawling space that you can use for these games. You can also rent these out from the resort, including a kayak, so you can let loose and have fun while enjoying the island. They even have a hoop if you are up to play a round or two of basketball. Magalawa Island offers a very laidback vibe that you get to watch the whole day pass. Without the usual distractions, you really need to find ways on how to kill time. This is the best time to let loose, get physically active, get those muscles going, play around, and enjoy real dirt fun. Catch the sunrise Magalawa has one of the best views of the sunrise that I have seen so far. This caught most of us by surprise when we saw the morning sun glaring in red rising on the horizon. It was mesmerizing and it had everyone glued to their seats enjoying the early morning show. The Magalawa sunrise was a great day starter. It was calming and hopeful. It was a perfect backdrop for pictures but its beauty just captured our attention. I cannot help it that I dropped what I was doing just to admire its beauty. Everyone did. Explore Marooned on a 56-hectare island, there are a lot of nooks and crannies to explore. The south side of the island is more rugged and interesting to explore while the north side is the more touristy side. Nevertheless with a lot of time to burn, you will have fun exploring the shorelines of Magalawa. Trying to find a spot to catch the sunset, I was lucky enough to have crossed over to Ruiz Resort. I explored the adjacent resort where I also enjoyed its rustic ambiance. They also have a white sand beachfront but it felt more laidback. It was only when I went back to Armada that I found out that both resorts are “exclusive” to its guests. Armada Resort has a longer shoreline and has exclusive access to the island’s sandbar. From the sandbar, you get to see the 180-degree view of the Armada’s beachfront’s stretch and the length of the beach strip that stretch towards the island’s mangrove area. An old wooden fishing boat was converted into a bar is the main highlight of the sandbar. This was also a great spot to catch the colors of the sunset with the island in the foreground. I also took the time to explore the mangrove area on the south side of the island by following the island’s shoreline, beyond Armada’s port. A three-story DENR post was installed along the coast where it gives you a panoramic view of this side of the island and mainland Palauig. It was perfect spot to enjoy a few minutes of peace and quiet in the middle of nature. You would also see a sign that informs tourist to be mindful since the island also serves as a nesting area for marine turtles. I wonder when nesting season is on the island so I get to watch these sea creatures begin the cycle of life. At the end of the beach strip is the mangrove area of the island. It was great to see how these mangroves are kept in its pristine condition and how new buds are growing out of the waters. Mangroves are important natural infrastructures that protect the coastline and serves as breeding grounds for sea creatures. The place was very calm and peaceful that I found myself under a shade of trees to enjoy being surrounded by nature and enjoying the distant sound of waves crashing off the coast of Zambales. I was only able to explore one side of the island and there was still the other side to check out, the side that faces the South China Sea. I think there are trails that snake around the island but I think I would need a guide to navigate to the other side. Or I could try staying at Ruiz Resort next time so I can walk the beach strip on the other side. Beach Chill Magalawa Island is a perfect spot to chill out by the beach because it perfectly fuses the sun, sand, and sea. You can easily find your spot by the beach where you can lay down on your beach mat to enjoy the sun by the white sand shores. You can then head down its crystal clear waters to enjoy a quick dip to cool down. Magalawa is definitely one of those islands that has been under the radar for quite a while. You can enjoy the island whether you are going solo, going on a date, or going with family and friends. It gives you that “pantropiko” vibe where you can enjoy the beach by yourself and with friends. So read your favorite book or drink with friends. Let the island beach vibe get into you to enjoy the island. POST TRAVEL NOTES The island of Magalawa is just one of the many islands that dot the eastern coast of the country that is a perfect venue for beach gatherings or for solo travels. It gives you the rustic beach vibe that lets you consciously detach from the humdrum of your usual life just to give you that perfect relaxing weekend break. Makakahinga ka dito as you take in the beauty and calmness of the place and recharges you with nature’s bounty. Hindi ako magdadalawang isip na balikan ang Magalawa just to enjoy a day or two of that rustic beach vibe. Promoting local tourism has always been an advocacy that is close to my heart. This is the driving force why I create contents on social media to encourage more Filipinos to explore the Philippines more. I am happy that I am able to fuse my passion in growing people and discovering local destinations in one perfect venue. Like what I always say, we explore the Philippines one destination at a time, only this time with 45 other individuals. You can check out our Magalawa Island Youtube Travel Video here:
#MahalinNatinAngPilipinas Getting there: Our teambuilding activity was organized by FB: biyahisturista.phtravel . They have regular joiner weekend trips to Magalawa Island and they can also organize exclusive trips to the island. You can check out their FB page for your inquiries: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=byahisturista.phtravel
It was an old church that caught my attention to this destination in Northern Mindanao. An old church that has an architecture that is unique to this town and, probably, the only one in the country. It was just an hour or two away from Cagayan de Oro and a quick visit to my birthplace provided an opportunity for me to make a quick swing to the rustic town of Jasaan. Jasaan is a rustic town that lies along the coast of Macalajar Bay. Established in 1830, the first community and church was established at “Daanglungsod”, now Barangay Aplaya. It served as the center of evangelization that covered Sumilao, Libona, and Malitbog. The name of the town was believed to have been from the native word ‘ag-hasaa” which translates to “I am sharpening my bolo”. The story goes that a Spanish missionary asked a local the name of the place and the native, who was sharpening a bolo, replied ‘ag-hasaa” as the native thought that he was being asked what he was doing. The name “Hasaan” was later adopted and then later evolved to its present-name, Jasaan. Visitors often pass by this town on their way to Camiguin or Gingoog, with little knowledge that this town holds a national treasure and natural attractions that is worth checking out. Jasaan Town Center Just a short ride away from the highway, you will be impressed by the sprawling town center of Jasaan. It follows a typical Spanish-period pueblo where the church, market, and the government centers are situated adjacent to each other. The present town center was not the original settlement of Jasaan. The first settlement was established along the coast of the present-day Aplaya. The remains of “kota” or watchtower is said to be the only memory left from the original community. We were not able to locate the said “kota” during our visit. The sprawling town center was one of the biggest that I have seen on a municipal level. The municipal roads demarcates the property of the church and the government. Local government offices dot the plaza, with the huge community auditorium as the central park of the town. One structure that stands out at the town center is the Old Municipal Hall of Jasaan which probably dates back to the American period. It is still in use and now serves as the municipal office of the COMELEC. The town was built in the concept of the “bajo de las campanas” where houses were built within “hearing distance” of the church bell’s tolling. Its design was an example of the separation of the state and the church with the municipal roads serving as borders of the church’s property. The plaza is the center of community activities where locals, of different ages, converge to relax or work on their personal or school chores. Immaculate Conception Parish and Convent At the heart of the town is the Immaculate Conception Parish and Convent. The church stands as a reminder of the Spanish influence in the region, with the first church was built out of lime in 1830 at the original settlement site in present-day Aplaya. Jasaan became the base of the Jesuits for their evangelical missions in Bukidnon. It was in 1887 that the construction of the present-day church. The church was designed to mimic the San Ignacio Church in Intramuros. The Jasaan Parish Church stands unique with its Barn-style Baroque design. The church has a brick wall base and a wooden second level and belfry. The structure stands unique because of its architecture, the only kind that I have seen in the country so far. The church stands impressive by the town center, giving a rustic provincial vibe to Jasaan. I was in awe when I saw the church. It was like I was in a town in the wild west. I think the sprawling and dusty open space fronting the church gave it that “western-howdy” vibe. The wooden second floor of the church was really a sight to see because this was the most distinct feature of the church. The interior was as impressive as its exterior. Unlike other historical churches that exudes an atmosphere of a sanctuary with its thick walls, the Jasaan Parish Church was more homey with its wood and brick structure. It was relatively cooler inside since the wood structure allowed the breeze to flow through naturally into the structure. I particularly liked the weaved bamboo wood that lined the walls at the second level giving it that barnyard feel inside. The church has two significant features with its interior - the church altar and the wood crafts that line its ceilings. The 2-level gothic inspired retablo features 5 arched chambers and spirals that mimics a church’s facade. Each chamber features a saint with the Immaculate Conception as its main centerpiece. The ceilings mimics that of a weaved basket with its wood artwork. While other heritage churches paint their ceilings with biblical scenes, Jasaan Church highlights its local craftsmanship with a weaved basket design on its ceilings. I was able to access the choir loft and the belfry. The choir loft had an amazing view of the church from floor to ceiling. It gave me a full view of the beauty of the church’s interior. The belfry gave me a top view of the town center and its surrounding areas. The “weaved ceiling” design is still present at the belfry’s ceilings. The church has two belfries that originally had 4 bells. One of these bells was moved to the San Agustin Cathedral in Cagayan de Oro. The church convent sits adjacent to the church and serves as the church’s office. A small museum was opened that gives guests the historical and religious value of the church. Unfortunately, it was closed during the time of my visit. The church is part of Northern Mindanao’s National Cultural Treasure. Needless to say, the Immaculate Conception Parish Church and Convent stands as the main centerpiece of the Jasaan’s poblacion. Sagpulon Falls Deep within the hinterlands of Jasaan is a natural gem that has attracted locals and tourists to this town - the Sagpulon Falls. It is just one of the two popular natural attractions in Jasaan. The waterfalls can easily be accessed as the area has already been developed with its paved roads and resort facilities. You can easily drive or take a habal-habal from the highway to the entrance of the waterfall. The area was developed as a resort with complete amenities for those intending to visit for a day or those planning to camp for the night. Entrance fees are collected at the entrance, by the local LGU, for its upkeep. A hanging bridge welcomes you at the start of the short hike to the base of the falls. The trail was already developed making the hike easy and comfortable. Resort facilities like fresh water swimming pools and picnic huts, and large halls for big groups were installed on the opposite bank facing the waterfalls. This gives guest a rest/picnic area with a view of the cascade of the waterfalls. I quickly found my corner along the banks of the waterfalls that gave me the best view of the cascade. We went to Jasaan during the Philippines’ dry season so I was not able to capture the famed cascade of Sagpulon Falls. The waterfalls sits along a steep rock face of the mountain and its biggest draw was its 100-foot cascade onto a deep basin. There were smaller cascades to enjoy and the basin at the foot of the falls was gleaming with its green-colored waters. It was cold and inviting so I did take the time to cool down by dipping my feet into its cold waters. In no time, schools of small fish started nibbling on the dead skin cells of my feet. It was a relaxing treat while enjoying the serenity of the place and the sound of the cascading waters. Sagpulon Falls was nature’s treat for me on that day. I really enjoyed the calm and relaxing vibe of the place as I sat there admiring the falls with all my senses. I just hoped that the development was more planned more towards making it closer to nature. Although l admire the effort to develop the area, the hard structures installed did not really complement the natural vibe that Sagpulon Falls was giving off. POST TRAVEL NOTES Along the road destination can be exciting as long as we keep an open mind to new discoveries and adventures. Most people miss out on amazing destinations because they are so focused on the “usual” tourism spots. Giving off-beat destinations a second look can give your road trips a different recipe of fun and a new kind of adventure. It may not be the usual but it can be as exciting as the usual. Jasaan is one of those destinations that most people would regularly pass by without giving it a quick stop. Most people do not realize that this rustic town, “along the way”, has something to share. It may not be the usual tourism destination but its own tourism brand is something that one can appreciate even for a few hours during a road trip.A day in this rustic town is an exciting mix of history and nature that would make other people ask… kung “Jasaan ka na naman?” Watch out for the release of my Jasaan Youtube Travel Video soon. #MahalinNatinAngPilipinas Getting there: Cagayan de Oro is the jump-off point to Jasaan in Misamis Oriental. You can take a flight to Laguindingan Airport from any major airport of the Philippines. From the airport, you can take a van to the city and as the driver to drop you off at the Agora Market. You can take a bus to Gingoog or Balingasag and ask the driver to drop you off at the town of Jasaan. You can take a habal-habal to take you around town.
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Marc del Rosario
I believe in education, entrepreneurship, and caring for the environment. Archives
February 2025
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