Filipiniana research in Spain

While figuring out how can I put new entry on this blog, I found out that it was a year ago when I had visited Spain and had promised that I wanna continue to post about my travel experienced here. Accidentally, I found out this hanging story and lucky enough to grab this time for it to get published.

This time around, I wanna share to you one reason why we were in Spain-... we went there for several reasons but the most important purpose is on vital research materials we discovered in this very historic place for our Filipiniana.net project. We wanted continue our dreams to enrich its contents and remain free to all Philippine studies researchers and students.

While in Spain, we roam around the old streets of Barcelona, Madrid and even to its country side. We find time to make our stay valuable and memorable. If I have the luxury of time, this travel is worth several blog post since it has really a wide Philippine related stories to tackle. Anyway, what makes this travel so exciting is that our limited days of stay makes us do a thing such as seen in the movies like "National Treasure" and "Indiana Jones" :). We do our research Proxy-Connection: keep-alive
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d try to trace the location of an old bookstores, museums, old houses, old hotels, universities and national libraries just to find out materials for the digital library.

Someone might consider us crazy for doing these and to think that our national government has its agency to do this job. But don't worry, we are not doing this for a repetitive work that's why we called it as research. As a private entity inside a foundation, I think, we also have to help our government in doing some of its functions specially if it is also for the common benefit of its people. Since, we have the capacity and luxury of time to do it, why wait if the opportunity is already here for a reason. Government and private entity should work hand-in-hand to support the needs of its citizens and for a scholarly research, this is where Filipiniana.net take its lead.

Anyway, while our team is on its way to the FTFK Conference held in Barcelona , we have found ourselves at the gate of the Universitat Pompeau Fabra. It is considered as the best university in Catalan. We have finally met in person Ms. Gloria Cano, a known Spanish scholar who studied about Philippine history. Ms. Cano as far as our research is concerned is the only Spanish historian who had an intensive studies and research on Philippines studies. She made a new revelations about the 55-volume records written by American scholars, Blair and Robertson and because of that, her name now rings around the Philippine historian circle.

Gus, who is an avid fan of Retana and history buff finally finds his match in the study of Philippine history during the Spanish colonial period. Gus and Gloria are acquaintance by phone and only this very moment that they got a thorough discussions on their personal take in the field of Philippine studies. Ms. Cano presented her paper and discussed to us her latest findings on the role of James Leroy in shaping the written documents about the Philippines.

One of the best thing that excite us is her announcement that the university has acquired a rare book that we might be interested in. No one uses that book except her. She told us that this is the University's newest acquisition and she thinks it is very valuable in Philippine studies. She invited us to see it. This is the second time that this book has been opened for Filipinos. It was first seen by her newly found scholar friend and an institution in Philippine historian circle, Mr. Reynaldo Ileto.

We passed by the central library and proceeded to a specialized collections that only Ph.D candidates has access. She brought us into the old remnants of the Olympic building were it was converted into a research library. The library has 4 floors and was organized based on the field of studies.



So, we go up to that very secured area, where stairs are as narrow as what we can found in a bell tower. This area if for rare book collection and only a lone librarian was present. He showed us to the vault and Gloria brings out an old box that contains that old book that was securely wrapped in a cushion plastic. As we move to a more spacious room, she excitedly lift the 4-inch thick and very fragile looking book and a 1-inch thick record book. Upon seeing its title, we have concluded that really, this book has a lot of secrets that should be revealed in the future. It has a concrete dates and descriptions of what had transpired during the 17th centuries in terms of Real states ownership.

Gloria, indeed got a rare find and according to her, she was thankful that her boss got this in a old book sale and ask her if it is valuable enough for her studies. This book, if studied page by page can reveal more stories about that era in Philippine history. With those records, it would also tell how hacienderos during that time and some of familiar family names had acquired vast of land in our country.

While inside a library section and as Ms. Cano narrates about her priceless asset, I have found out that this library is really has a massive collection of books on Philippine studies. They also have the entire collection of Blair and Robertson, Islas Independencia de Filipinas and other stuffs that any Philippine historians or history buffs would salivate if they see these collections.


If we got enough time, we can have flip through each pages of the book but we are in a hurry for the opening of the Free Technology, Free Knowledge Conference in Fira de Barcelona. Besides, my Spanish is very limited and find it hard for my limited brain to digest. She now frequented Manila for ICOPHIL and featured one of her paper in our published book entitled " More Hispanic Than We Admit".

Who's Afraid to N1H1

The spread of the swine flu virus has not deterred foreign tourists from visiting the Philippines according to the Tourism Department, although an international airline group claims that the pandemic has already cut global travel by 1 percent.

Philippine tourism attache in the United States and Canada had reported that there's no cancellations of travel to the Philippines, although some had inquired on the thermal scanning and quarantine procedures to ensure the safety of the public.

Recently, an International Travel Fair was held in Cebu. It is one of the biggest travel events in the country, or other tourism events slated for the rest of the year. This just show that tourism in the country is still strong and continue to grow in the country despite world recession. Kudos to the leadership of Sec. Ace Durano for doing its best in pursuing opportunities to attract more visitors in the country.

So what are you waiting for, Tara na, Pasyal na! and discover Paradise Philippines.

After Survivor French now its Bulgaria's invasion of Caramoan

Last holy week, I have visited Caramoan peninsula and experienced and witnessed its unique beauty. The site has been famous when foreign TV series Survivor starts to shoot its international series and from then on, succeeding Survivor versions was being filmed.

At present, Ms. Myra Roces, Adventure Coordinator had announced that after Koh-Lanta (French Survivor series) and recently Survivor Israel, Bulgaria is now filming on the island.

So this means to say that the public has again to wait till September to be able to visit Gota Village, the official residence and location of Survivor TV series. Israel had finished their location shoot last April 29 and that the time when the first batch of Survivor Bulgaria crew and staff arrive on the site.

The shoot is estimated to last till September 2009 and Caramoan for sure would be on the international scene again.

"Survivor" originated in the U.S. but other countries have created their own versions of the popular show. Contestants compete in a variety of tough physical challenges until there is a sole winner.

Spending Summer at Palawan's Tourism Wonder

A glimpse of Coron from the hill going to Kayangan Lake

Summer is back. It won’t be complete if we won’t feel the intensity of the summer heat, the sweat on our skin, the group outings and most of all, the picturesque view of the beach or cool splash in the resorts. But this year, before you plunge, check out first the weather bulletin. This April, we might experience  a rainy summer with intermittent rain showers and gusty winds. Although we expect the southwest monsoon to intensify in the second half of May as it was seen early on this April.

So to all backpackers,be prepared. An erratic weather such as this will sometimes make you think twice if you will push thru or not to the place of your choice this summer.

AT THE AIRPORT
Despite of the weather condition, I didn’t make up my mind. On the day of our flight to Palawan, the rain began to pour. Our flight to Busuanga Airport was almost closed to being cancelled had not the rain stopped. Some of my colleagues’ scheduled flight was also affected due to zero visibility. Others hadn’t come to the airport yet because of traffic and rain in Manila.

I arrived 30 minutes ahead of the departure and almost failed to secure my terminal fee because I ran out of cash. My card didn't work with the ATMs at the airport. Luckily, I saw one of my closed officemates and borrowed PhP200 to pay for the terminal fee. 

To make the story short, we arrived at Busuanga (Francisco B. Reyes) Airport around 3:45pm for our tour in the country's tourism wonder—Coron, Palawan. Unlike in Manila, the day is sunny and bright. Palawan welcomes us with a view of greens and browns all around accompanying with fresh winds and animals grazing. We had a bird's eye view of the island and fine coastlines as we tour the place.

We were picked up by the Calamian Tour van and travelled 45 minutes (22.5 km) before we reach the town proper of Coron. Along the way is a lush vegetation and a huge portion of Yulo King Ranch which has 40,000 hectares. According to our very accommodating guide, Desiree, Yulo King Ranch has been in existence since 1970 and until today, it remains to become the largest cattle ranch in South East Asia  with more than 10,000 cattle. Some portion of the road going to the town are still under construction so expect it to progress in the next two years.

Coron Bay view from the top of Mt. Tapias

                               FIRST STOP

After we dropped our luggages at Darayongan Lodge (where we are billeted), our convoy vehicles brought us to Mt. Tapias or Tapyas (873 ft above sea level). Rain drops start again to fall like snow but still, we managed to take the 725 steps challenge to see the majestic Coron Bay. Mount Tapias is a short distance away from Darayongan Lodge which is along the National Highway. The trail is cemented and is dotted with multiple sheds for resting so it is not such an arduous climb. I would recommend that you begin your ascend at 4pm onwards so the sun would not beat down on you too much.This way, you'll also get to catch the sunset on the view deck which is an awesome sight.

Coron bay is a must see if you are in Coron. While Mt. Tapias gives you that 180 degrees view. Unfortunately, it's raining when we visited the place. I managed to take some snap shots as you can see at the left. Mt.Tapyas' gigantic 20 ft. crucifix serves as a lighthouse for fishermen out in the sea at night.

Coron is a small fishing village located southeast of the island of Busuanga,Palawan. If you are on top and overlooking the place, you can see the opposite island of Coron – which is the ancestral homeland of the Tagbanuas. It is part of the Calamian Group of Islands and located southwest of Mindoro Island, Philippines.

SECOND STOP

After that tiring steps, finally, our group was able to relax at the hot spring called Maquinit. This hot spring is famous in the area. It has a kiddie and two wadding pools for adults. It is believed to be discovered by foreigners who visited Coron during the early 70s. According to some folks who frequented the place, the spring has a healing power when you take a dip and it cures some body ailments and diseases. Some say that Japanese soldiers during World War II used the place as hideout and the water to heal their wounds.

Aside from the relaxing experience, the heat temperature of the spring can also boil eggs :) We had our dinner there. After some fun moments at the pool with my office mates, by 9pm, we were back on our lodge where various drinks to lull you abound.

Serene Banul Beach

THE ISLAND TOUR
This is the most exciting part of our tour.Thank God the weather is fine on that day. After we had our breakfast at 7 we were on the van to Coron port. The port is only 5 minutes ride. To walk is another option for it is one form of exercise. But the group chose the van anyway. What we wanted to see next is the hidden secrets of Coron, Palawan.

While we were traversing the Coron bay, I got plenty of information from our guide. Some of it are legendary stories that could create another post in this blog. But for the essential info, these are some. Coron is a local word which means "bowl" or tapayan in tagalog. It protects the main island from tropical depression and according to them, even if PAGASA raised the storm to signal no.3 in the island, they never will experience the devastating effect very much different from  Metro Manila.(you know what I mean, the flood, traffic) The island became their natural fortress that protects them from any natural calamities that may occur.

The entrance to infamous Twin Lagoon


THE HAVEN

We reached first the Twin Lagoon. It is an enclosed lagoon surrounded by the jagged limestone cliffs. Again, foreign marine adventurers discovered this hidden place. To be able to get inside, we have to swim or dive in the small opening to get inside the lagoon. Inside the lake is a deep body of water from side to side of the cliff. If you are snorkeling, go to the wall of the lagoon to see coral formations on the wall. Its sometimes eerie to snorkel as you go inside the deepest portion of the lagoon.

After a few snorkeling and diving, we proceeded to Skeleton Wreck. It is one of the shallowest (8-15ft) ship wreck sites found in Coron. You can visibly see the wreck from the surface of the water. The place is also rich in coral gardens with lots of fishes swimming by. Maluwayway, a white sand beach as it is called can be found here, with crude resting facilities where you can rest or take a break. 

The Blue Banul Beach

After an hour, we went to Banul Beach where our native-made lunch was ready. Banul has almost 100 meter stretched of white sands and rock formation that gently glides along the shoreline plus the hovering calachuchi plants can be a perfect foreground effect for a good photographic composition.

At 3pm, we decided to take another island visit....this time in Kayangan Lake (P200 entrance). It is an ancestral holy ground where Tagbanuas live. A few boats can be seen dock at the entrance and a steady stream of visitors were trekking up and down the rocky steps to the other side. This is a 233 steps trek to reach the hidden lake at the other side of the hill.

There is a small cave at the top of the hill, it is just on the way to Kayangan Lake. You might miss this if you take the path directly to the lake. This cave is used by the Tagbanuas as shelter during storms. It is not advisable to enter the cave specially if you have no guide. Just turn around and you will see the breathtaking 
ala postcard view of the mountain slopes in going to the entrance harbor of the lake. Probably the most photographed spot in Coron.

A must-activity in Kayangan Lake

It's a WOW feeling when you finally reach the lake. It is truly marvelous and amazing to see such kind of place. The water is so clear and so perfect for snorkeling. It was past noon and the sun was nearly setting soon to cover the  towering limestone cliffs. One should see the unique limestone and coral formation in the lake. I won't disagree on why Kayangan lake was honored in the Hall of Fame as the cleanest lake in the Philippines from 1997-1999.

And for our last dive, we went to Siete Pecados or Seven Peaks, it is the area near the entrance of the Coron bay where ships dock and pass to Coron. It was called Siete Pecados because of small rocks or islets which are scattered around the place, seven in all. It is being protected and promoted for diving and snorkeling for its astonishing coral formations and school of fishes.

Enjoy the white sand beach of Banul

Well, well, that ends our day. Rains started to pour again. At around 5pm, we decided to pack our things and proceeded back to our hotel.  
Coron has plenty to offer to many local and foreign tourists who wanted to visit it. We have conquered a few but there are lot more to discover.
If you plan to go to Palawan,include Coron in your list.

The pictures speak louder than words....but it's better if you find out yourself what I'm talking about. The beauty of nature that I'm searching for in the southern part of the archipelago... is finally found in Coron, unspoiled, serene and uncongested. Now, I am already dreaming of going back :)

Special thanks to Darayongan Lodge and Calamian Travel and Tours (Ms. Donna and Ms. Desiree)

See my Gallery at Flickr

A day adventure at Palawan's Last Frontier

After a sizzling lone adventure in Caramoan a few days ago, Pinoy Explorer is on the go again. This time around, with my office mates for our company outing. The Destination.... Coron.

Let me start by sharing my travel last year which I have missed to post because of some work I have to finish. Let me recall the days I have spent in this wonderful place of Mayor Hagedorn.

When I was in Puerto Princesa City, I attended a conference. Right after it, I decided to make my own extra trip to the places here I have never been explored yet. Oops, it is not part of my official visit here. On our way to the place, I met Mang Rudy, a tricycle driver who was also a boat operator. Btw, I decided to contact some participants from the conference to join me. So when we agreed, we headed off for a 1-day adventure to the Philippines' "Last Frontier" —Honda Bay.

As you know, Puerto Princesa City is also the home of the famous Subterranean River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which features a spectacular limestone karst with an 8.2 kilometer navigable underground river. (Please vote for they need your support). It would take you a two-hour drive from the city and even not sure if you can really go through the subterranean experience. Palarong Pambansa was being held when we got there so the place is crowded of locals and tourists alike. 

Anyway, to all backpackers who want to get an idea for a day adventure in Palawan, here's my itinerary: For a day adventure in Honda Bay, this would cost you around P4,500 for 3days and 2 nights accommodation of any hotel of your choice.

Going to Honda Bay

The bay is situated in Sta. Lourdes Tagbanua, Puerto Princesa City. It is about 12 kilometers east of Puerto Princesa City. Sta. Lourdes wharf is where pump boats can be rented to the island/s of your choice. Some islands require an entrance fee; others are privately owned. But to those interested for the private, you will be permitted to use them only with an authorization. Sta. Lourdes wharf is 25 minutes away by hired tricycle or jeepney. A pump boat ride from the wharf to the different islands is from 15 to 50 minutes.

The fastest way to reach Honda Bay is via Barrio Tagburos. Honda bay has dozens of islets with wonderful beaches and good sites for diving that lie along the bay. Boats to the islands can be rented in Tagburos.

    * From the city proper to Sta. Lourdes wharf is 25 minutes away (rent a tricycle if you are in a group (P150)

    * Boat for island hopping (1,200 for a group of 6)

Some islands are private which require you an entrance fee, but sometimes if you are in a small group, they offer it for free. Along Honda Bay, if you have plenty of time, you can reach the following islands; Bat Island, Lu-Ii Island, Cannon Island, Starfish Island, Meara Marina, Snake Island, Pandan Island and Senorita Island.

I found out that from these islands you can have plenty of activities  to do from snorkeling, scuba diving and even fishing especially at Snake Island. The water is crystal clear and you can actually feed a school of fishes  once you get near them. The island has the longest sand bar among other islands and its very romantic and have picturesque location. Now I know why it was chosen to be featured in one movie of Aga Muhlach and Claudine Barretto.

There’s no need to worry about the food here. For this island is abundant of eatable marine life and is being preserved for this purpose. We ordered a kilo of tilapia in the island for inihaw and sinigang and it was cooked for us in an hour and served with hot rice.

After we ate our delicious meal, we proceeded to Pandan.This island is also a good location for campers. The 20-hectare island is one of the most peaceful places you could go to in Palawan. You have to pay a minimal fee of P25 if you want to stay for hours. It has a long shoreline and nice rocky spots for snorkeling. If you have plenty of time you can explore the entire island on which you can see lots of Pandan plants (which is why it’s called by its name). If you are a tourist wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, this island is definitely a nice respite.

If you want to stay longer in the island, there are several huts and cottages that are available. The caretakers will be of help for whatever you need. Snorkeling is great around Pandan Island, and it is fun feeding the fish which swarm around you as you hold out a piece of bread.

We also reached Dos Palmas-a private island that became famous because of a kidnapping incident and death of a very popular young actor named Rico Yan. We are not allowed to dock but after persuasion with guards and its management, we are able to grab an instant island tour for P500. This island as seen in travel glossy is really expensive. It has a span of 20 hectares and fully equipped to provide plenty of opportunities for adventure, fun and relaxation.

It is surrounded by nature, yet embraced by the comforts of modern facilities and accommodating staff. The eastern part of the island has been designated as the Dos Palmas Eco Zone (DPEZ), where all environmental programs and facilities of the resort are situated.

Caption: Bay Cottages of Dos Palmas

For those who are interested to visit Dos Palmas, here are the packages:

Bay Cottages & Beach Villas (on a per person basis)

• ADULT PhP 2,500.00
• CHILD PhP 1,200.00

Package inclusions

• Scheduled round trip land and boat transfers (city-resort-city)
• Lunch
  
  Use of the following facilities and equipment:
• Children’s playground
• Ocean kayaks
• Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins)
• Courts and equipment (tennis, basketball, beach volleyball, beach badminton)
• Recreation center (darts, billiards, table tennis, videoke and mini-library)
• Resort bikes
• Speedboat transfers to nearby snorkeling and sites
• Complimentary coffee and/or hot tea throughout the day
• Welcome drink
• Service charge and applicable government tax at time of booking

PUBLISHED RATE (on a per person per night basis) Bay Cottage
Single PHP 14,500.00
Double PHP 12,000.00

Beach Villa
Single PHP 13,500.00
Twin PHP 11,000.00
Triple/Quad PHP 10,000.00
Child Rate PHP 3,000.00

Package Inclusions

• Accommodation in an air-conditioned cottage or villa
• Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) per night stay
• Scheduled round trip land and boat transfers (city-resort-city)
• Picnic lunch at nearby island (minimum 2 nights stay)
• One DISCOVER SCUBA DIVING per person per stay (for non-divers) inclusive of diving gear OR One FILIPINO MASSAGE/HILOT service from our Paranarian Island Spa (for a minimum of 2 nights stay)
• Complimentary use of the following facilities and equipment:

• - Swimming pool and Jacuzzi
• - Children’s playground
• - Ocean kayaks
• - Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins)
• - Courts and equipment (tennis, basketball, beach volleyball, beach badminton)
• - Recreation center (darts, billiards, table tennis, videoke and mini-library)
• - Resort bikes

• Speedboat transfers to nearby snorkeling and picnic sites
• Complimentary coffee and/or hot tea throughout the stay
• Welcome drink.
• Services of a guest officer and marine sports guide.
• Service charge and applicable government tax at time of booking
• Child rate is applicable to children 6-11 years old sharing room with 2 adults. Below 5 years old is free of charge..

Since, we can't accommodate ourselves for a night stay, I contented myself for a souvenir items and a shirt that can only be bought on this private island.

In my next post...Coron, Palawan

Caramoan: Backpacker's Adventure Part-3

I have discovered the untouched beauty of Caramoan during my second day of stay. Complete with my backpack and other arsenals, I roam around and explore its wonders. Truly, it has something to be proud of. It's about time to tell the whole world that Caramoan Peninsula has an extra ordinary group of islands that can be compared to Phi Phi Island of Thailand and Coron of Palawan.

Caption: View of the Peninsula at the top of Our Lady of Peace Grotto

I have seen the entire islands of Caramoan Bay from atop. At 700 feet above sea level Mt. Caglago's famous Marian image welcome's everyone with a stretch arms. My legs tremble as I trek the 530-steps Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Grotto (see my article here). It's a 90 degrees ascension with 4 landings in between. Tired and thirsty you may become but its a relaxing experience after you reach the peak. You will be treated with 180 degrees of view of the islands plus the cold air that refreshes you.


This becomes a pilgrimage site of Bicol and a must see place in Caramoan. You can reach Mt. Caglago by boat or by land. Kuya Inggoy, my guide brought me here with his Larga (motorbike). It took us 45 minutes to reach the place. We passed by several barrios, several wooden bridges and irrigation site. You can feel the simplicity of life in the barrios and houses are rarely seen in the highway...they are literally separated kilometers apart. Roads are rough and sticky when wet, so if you are planning to visit the place make sure, its summer.



Before lunch, we decided to step down the grotto and plan to visit Kulapnit cave. We walked at the middle of the fields to locate the house of the caretaker but unfortunately, kerosene lamp was out of gas. The Kulapnit cave is known to the locals because it has hundreds of bats hovering the place. The rock formation is unique and one should be ready to get wet. While inside the cave, you have to pass through a running water to reach some exciting part of the cave. The sun is so intense and it made me so thirsty. We saw a family passing by and they have walked kilometers away to bring their fresh harvest to the market. I thank Manang Asing, she manage to gave me a fresh buko as refreshment. People like them despite their simple and difficult life are kind and very hospitable to any tourist who visited their place.

After a while, we decided to have our island hopping. Kuya Inggoy brought me to Bikal port and got a small bangka (motorized boat). Since it's lunch time, we took time to take a rest in a small carenderia while enjoying our kinilaw na bangus for lunch. At 2 pm we started to move going to the island. I rented it for P1,000 and its just the three of us. The sky seems to cry that afternoon but still we go. I just secure my camera and covered it with plastic. After 30 minutes we reach Gota beach and its neighboring islands. We are greeted by the Explorer's rock which beauty is a large chunk of the allure. The islands of Caramoan, when approached by boat it rise from the sea like a fortress. Sheer cliffs tower overhead, then give way to beach-fronted jungle. Truy, It's a love at first sight.

Caption: Explorer's Rock along Gota Beach

Caption: Hunungan Beach

Gota is closed as of this writing and it is being used by Survivor Israel. But still, we manage to pass by for me to have my paparazzi's shots hehe. I even wanted to come ashore but some crews from afar signaled us saying "No". The place is a private resort and being managed by the Camarines Sur provincial government. It is so far the most developed island next to Hunongan beach. Major development will still push through but the sad part according to Kuya Inggoy, more people with ancestral domain will be displaced.

I content myself in a small Minalahus island facing Hunungan. The water is clear and sands are at par with that of Boracay. At the middle of the 50 meters shoreline is a rock formation that is perfectly sculptured by its water in many years. Just be careful if you plan to hop in, the rock has sharp edges in both corners.

We also sneak at the forbidden grounds of the location shoot of Survivor and manage to took some images. Its good that I have my 200mm lens that it can zoom up to the level that I desired. Service speed boats are seen from all directions and patrolling the area. From time to time there's a helicopter roaming the island presumed to be their way for an aerial shots. Gota is truly has breathtaking backdrop of green lush of forest and gorgeous mountain cove. As seen in my Google imagery, the location is just superb.

After a while, we proceeded to another island where the public can set foot. I've seen many tourist on the beach with their snorkeling gears. Matukad island is white long beach with a span of approximately 200 meters. A must visit and for campers and a perfect location for a wide view of the Caramoan group of islands.

Our next stop is the Lahus island. White sand resides in between the twin hilly rock formation. It has also a mini-cave if you want to go for an overnight stay. A good view of the surrounding islands and perfect to capture the sunrise and sunset. Catanduanes island is very visible from afar and I think you can reach it in a 5-hour boat ride. Jay Ruiz, an ABS-CBN reporter was also there and we shared our own views about Caramoan. He is also on a vacation and just like me, looking for a new place to discover.

Rain suddenly pour and we were stranded for a while. I have decided to take a dip in the warm water of Lahus. Sands are refined and I played along with school of fishes that can be easily seen from the crystal clear water. Unfortunately, I don't have my goggles with me and I can't took advantage of the unique coral reef formation is some part of the island.

Aside from this island, you can also visit neighboring islands like Lahuy, Pitogo, Sabitang Laya, Cotivas and Tinago. The waves are strong and we can't manage to visit the other islands. Beside's, my boat is too small that it can easily be rampage by the unruly waves. Tsk, tsk, It's an erratic summer but its part of the adventure :) We decided to go back and contend myself with sight seeing.

Overall, its been a wonderful experience going to Caramoan. Anyone can be closed to nature as possible with its pristine beaches, majestic caves and diverse marine wildlife. I have not completed the entire islands but hopefully I can go back to Manila with stories that can make others explore its wonders. President GMA during her visit and inauguration of the electricity project on the island was convinced that Caramoan would be the next destination for both local and foreign tourist. 

With this development, The Caramoan Islands is embodied in Republic Act 9445 declaring the islands of Lahuy, Covitas, Guinahuan, Luksuhin, Malibon and Masay located in the northern coast of the Caramoan town as national tourism zones.

Special thanks to Kuya Inggoy Clores, (0910-546-1219) my ever trusted tour guide cum driver who's service is beyond compare. Very kind and down to earth. Live a simple life and wants every tourist feel at home. He guided me in every details on my visit to Caramoan and give me pointers on some of the best places in Caramoan.

Visit my Gallery at Flickr for more exciting photos

Related: Caramoan: Backpacker's Adventure Part 1