Tuburan Mountain Resort

Tuburan Mountain View Resort is a popular resort located in Sitio San Roque, Brgy. Bolol Mala in the town of Tupi, South Cotabato.The resort has pools for swimming, a restaurant and cafe, zipline facility, small pond for recreational fishing activities and offers affordable room accommodations and cottages for overnight stay, and function halls for different types of occasions and events.

Tupi in South Cotabato is a very fertile land for different kinds of fruits and other agricultural produce. Large plantations of pineapple lay at the foot of Mt. Matutum, while papaya, banana, coconut, guyabano, avocado, and other fruits are also bountiful. Corn, asparagus, and sweet potatoes grow abundantly alongside the fruits. In fact, all along the sides of the highway are fruit stalls selling the fruits of the season. The bountiful vibe is carried onto this new resort nestled among plantations of fruits and a little less than 10 minutes from Crossing Rubber of Tupi—the Tuburan Mountain View Resort.

“Tuburan” in Cebuano means spring from which water gushes—that is why the resort’s swimming pool is fed by natural flowing spring water. A stream even flows between their pools and a river runs through the property. Even the resort’s pond is fed from the stream and is a source of fresh tilapia and hito. Resort goers can go fishing and have their catch cooked at the restaurant. With the abundance of water also come lush greens from ornamental plants and fruit-bearing trees. Flowers in different colors hang from vines or from shrubs and trees.

For those who are looking for a getaway from the concrete jungle, the resort is a green and relaxing break. But still, you can have an adventure by doing the zipline that traverses from the municipality of Tupi to the next city of Koronadal. You zip through bananas and other trees at a height of 60 feet and 200 to 300 meters long.

If you prefer a more laidback activity, take a dip in the cool water of the swimming pool and be refreshed. All around the pool are cottages that you can rent from Php 300-600 and if you want to stay overnight, there are big family air conditioned rooms starting at Php 2,500 to 4,500 which can accommodate from 15 to 30 people.

The resort’s restaurant is also a spring of delicious food from breakfast to lunch, refreshments, and on to dinner.Start with their homemade tapa or pork chop for breakfast. For lunch, have a feast of chop suey, sinigang na malasugue, pork barbeque, and tender, juicy, flavorful tuna belly.Or have a boodle bilao (PhP999 for 4-6 persons; PhP1200 for 6-8persons) lunch of grilled pork belly, pork bbq, chicken bbq, longganisa, squid, itlog na maalat and kamatis, and calamares. As if all these won’t make your mouth water, try their specialties—the Nilagpang na Hito which is grilled hito that is made into a mildly spicy soup and Chicken Binakol which is chicken cooked in buko juice and meat. For dinner, start with kinilaw na malasugue then on to garlic chicken, grilled tuna belly, pakbet, and pancit.

Whether you sing, swim, zipline, filling your tummy with their mouth watering food, and just plain communing with nature at the resort, it is going to be one laid back break at the Tuburan Mountain View Resort.

How to get there:

Tupi, South Cotabato can be reached from Manila by plane to General Santos City. At GenSan, take the bus or van to Tupi and have you dropped at Crossing Rubber. From the crossing, take the habal-habal or single motor bikes to the farm. (PhP20/head). Entrance for day tour is PhP50 for adults and PhP25 for kids.

For inquiries and reservations, contact Tuburan Mountain View Resort at 0943 596 3807 or visit their official page on Facebook – Tuburan Mountain View Resort.

Campuestohan Highland Resort 

Campuestohan Highland Resort is the perfect year-round getaway for you and your family.

3 Totally Insane Rides That Guests Should Try At Campuestohan

Sky Bicycle

Riding a bicycle while you’re suspended in midair, is no longer a thing that could only be done by circus people. You can do it too! At Campuestohan, you will have the chance to showcase your bike prowess by crossing a long distance, riding only a bicycle, but all would be done in several stories up in the air. Do you have the guts to do this? Of course, you can! Don’t worry about falling because a tightly secured harness is attached to you all throughout the ride.

Hamster Wheel

Ever wondered what Hollywood actors and actresses feel like whenever they do some stunts that resemble that of a hamster running inside a wheel? This is kind of exciting actually. The best part of it all is that you can do it too! You will have a once-in-a-lifetime experience of running inside the first-ever in the world hamster wheel at Campuestohan Highland Resort. With the right running shoes, or sneakers, it will be a cinch. Oh and by the way, was it mentioned that you would be running or perhaps, walking slowly, inside the wheel while it’s up several stories high?

Bungee Trampoline

If defying gravity is your thing, then the bungee trampoline is a must-try. This will take you up in the air with only one quick jump. After trying out this insane ride, you will not envy those little children at the mall anymore, who seem to be enjoying every jump. When it comes to safety, you don’t have anything to worry about because you’re harnessed properly and securely.

These three insane rides at Campuestohan will surely make your day. They will make you enjoy every bit of time that you spend at the resort.

Campuestohan is a family-oriented highland resort with a theme-park environment located at Talisay City, Negros Occidental.

The rates are affordable and the location is easily-accessible from Bacolod City, Iloilo or Airport. Making you have a great bonding with your family.

Campuestohan was awarded as one of the Top 6 Tourist Destinations in the Philippines.

HOW TO GET TO CAMPUESTOHAN

Campuestohan Van in Bacolod to resort van
Official Campuestohan Van front of iMart Caltex at Lopues East
  • Loading Area: iMart at Caltex, front of McDonald’s Lopues East
    • Departure Schedules 2019 via Official Campuestohan Shuttle or Giant Sarao Jeep
    • Private group charter

      CAMPUESTOHAN ENTRANCE FEE 2019 – P150/ PERSON OR USD 2.88

      The entrance fee gives you access or free use of swimming pool and children’s playground.

      CAMPUESTOHAN OUTDOOR ADVENTURE RIDES AND RATES 2019

      CAMPUESTOHAN ROOM RATES 2019

      For Overnight…

TEEPEE HUT (INDIAN STYLE)….. P5,000.00

tepee hut in campuestohan
Teepee Huts in Campuestohan
  • Free entrance fee and breakfast for 6 persons
  • Airconditioned
    • Room Rates are subject to change without prior notice
    • Room rates are INCLUSIVE OF 12% VAT
    • Check-in time is 2PM
    • Check out time is 12noon
    • Extra person is only at P300/night (exclusive of breakfast)
    • Extra person with extra bed @ P500 per night (exclusive of breakfast)
    • All rooms are with hot and cold shower
    • All log cabin rooms with 32″ LED T.V.

CAMPUESTOHAN HUTS AND COTTAGES

CAMPUESTOHAN: A RESORT THAT WON’T BREAK YOUR BANK! ENJOY YOUR TRIP AND HAVE A NICE DAY!

“KALANGGAMAN ISLAND”

Kalanggaman Island is shaped like a bird, reason why its name is derived from the local word “langgam” that means bird. This sandbar off the coast of Palompon, Leyte has gained popularity in recent years, but it has long been a local secret. Kalanggaman is hemmed in by palm-studded, cream sand and lapped by swirling, turquoise sea. It was already past summer when we visited, but this scruffy sandbar remained stunningly beautiful and blissfully devoid of luxury trappings. It’s a little crowded due to the holiday, but we still managed to snag a spot

Unknown to many tourists, Kalanggaman Island’s real gem is hidden underneath. This famous sandbar is actually a marine sanctuary oozing with gorgeous marine life and corals. In fact, it is a famous dive spots for divers coming from Malapascua Island, which is about 2 hours away by boat. If you don’t know how to dive, you can snorkel in the reef drop-off near its shore. Here’s my Kalanggaman Island Travel Guide with itinerary and budget to help you plan your trip.

KALANGGAMAN PRE-TRIP PLANNING

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT KALANGGAMAN ISLAND :

The best time to visit Kalanggaman Island is during the summer season, from March to May. You may also travel to Kalanggaman from November to February but try to avoid the months of June to October due to the rainy season and possible storms. Best to check the weather updates for your safety.

WHAT TO BRING IN KALANGGAMAN ISLAND:

Bring food and drinks. There’s no restaurant in the island, only 1 store.

Bring power bank as there is no electricity in Kalanggaman Island.

Bring coral-friendly sunblock and wear aqua shoes.

If you want to stay overnight, you can bring your tent or rent a tent forPHP 400/USD 7/EURO 6/SGD 10/MYR 30 per tent.

If you plan to snorkel, you can bring your snorkel gears or rent one from the boat operator or touts. Fee is PHP 100/USD 2/EURO 2/SGD 3/MYR 8 – PHP 150/USD 3/EURO 2/SGD 4/MYR 11.

HOW TO GET TO KALANGGAMAN

MANILA to KALANGGAMAN ISLAND


Tacloban to Kalanggaman Island

  1. From Manila, fly to Tacloban, Leyte. You can SEARCH CHEAP FLIGHTS HERE.
  2. In Tacloban, go to Duptours or Van Vans Terminal.

You can go there by tricycle if you are already in Tacloban.

But if you are coming from Tacloban Airport since it’s quite far from the city center, you can take a tricycle to the van terminal (Duptours or Van Vans) for roughly PHP 150/USD 3/EURO 2/SGD 4/MYR 11. Alternatively, you may also take a taxi for roughly PHP 300/USD 6/EURO 5/SGD 8/MYR 23. The cheapest way to Tacloban Airport is by multi-cab to downtown Tacloban.

3. At Duptours or Van Vans Terminal, ride a van to Palompon, Leyte. Fare is aboutPHP 154/USD 3/EURO 2/SGD 4/MYR 12. Travel time is 3.5 hours.

4. Get off at Palompon, Leyte.

5. Walk or ride a pedicab to the nearby Palompon Tourism Office located in the Freedom Park beside the Palompon Municipal Town Hall.

6. Register and hire a boat to Kalanggaman Island. Boat rental from Palompon to Kalanggaman Island:

  • PHP 3,000/USD 56/EURO 48/SGD 77/MYR 228 – good for 15 persons
  • PHP 3,500/USD 66/EURO 56/SGD 89/MYR 266 – good for 25 persons
  • PPHP 4,000/USD 75/EURO 64/SGD 102/MYR 304 – good for 30 persons

See other Kalanggaman Fees on the table below.

IMPORTANT: Last trip of vans from Palompon, Leyte is at 4:30 PM. So, if you want to stay overnight in Palompon or Tacloban, make sure you are already at the van terminal at least by 4:00 PM so you won’t miss the last trip.

CEBU to KALANGGAMAN ISLAND


Cebu City to Kalanggaman

1.From Cebu City, go to Pier 1 Cokaliong office and purchase a ticket to Palompon, Leyte.

2. Ride the ferry from Cebu City to Palompon, Leyte. Travel time is about 5.5 hours. Fare starts at PHP 310/USD 6/EURO 5/SGD 8/MYR 24.

3. At Palompon, Leyte, walk or take a pedicab to Palompon Eco-Tourism Office.

4. Register, rent boat and pay entrance fees.

5. Ride pump boat to Kalanggaman Island.

Total Fare (one-way): PHP 310/USD 6/EURO 5/SGD 8/MYR 24

Total travel time: Approximately 5.5 hours + 1 hour boat ride to Kalanggaman

THINGS TO DO IN KALANGGAMAN


SWIMMING – Do not swim near the sandbar. Ask your boatman about the safe area for swimming.

SNORKELING – Bring your own snorkeling gear or rent one form your boatman for about PHP 100- PHP 150

BANANA BOAT –PHP 500/USD 9/EURO 8/SGD 13/MYR 38 (good for 5 persons)

KAYAKING – PHP 150/USD 3/EURO 2/SGD 4/MYR 11 per hour

DIVING – Dive Guide PHP 800/USD 15/EURO 13/SGD 20/MYR 61

Dive Gears (International Tourists) : PHP 1000/USD 19/EURO 16/SGD 26/MYR 76

(Local Tourists): PHP 800/USD 15/EURO 13/SGD 20/MYR 61

Have a nice and safe trip! Enjoy!

Intosan Resort in Danao City

Summer has already concluded and rainy days are here again. But, would you agree that we still crave for days where we need to unwind, relax, breathe fresher air and take a dip on the pool?And yes, you read it right, pool, as in swimming pool. It’s time to ditch the the beach and dip in the pool to keep your cool!Lets settled in a peaceful place, one can have a taste of rural Philippines in a sophisticated surroundings. Intosan Resort and Waterpark is a Family fun village with hotel and restaurant. It is Located in Taboc, Danao City. A 40-minute drive from the heart of Cebu. Enjoy the day in the midst of natures bounty.So there’s a sneak peek of what’s in store for you and your family at INTOSAN RESORT – Hotel and Restaurant.If you happen on to have plans over the weekend, either the regular one or during longer weekends, do consider INTOSAN RESORT as one of your getaways. It is outside of Cebu City but still within a city (Danao) but with lesser hustle and bustle and fresher air is more available.The kids and the young at heart will definitely find happiness in the assortment of swimming pools at INTOSAN RESORT. It surely provides the ultimate outdoor water park experience!This is not a sponsored nor a paid advertisement. I am just eager to share a good place for the family to enjoy and to create wonderful memories at this resort.Intosan is a few kilometers from the main road. So, people who visit the resort are those who’ve tried it or those who know how to get there. But just follow the small signs along the way and you’ll get there in no time.The resort is awesome. It does not have a sound system and people are not allowed to play loud music. According to the woman who accommodated us, the regulars of Intosan are city-dwellers who want peace and quiet.The resort has very nice rooms with huge beds. They have many interconnected pools, awesome slides, and other cool stuff one can find in waterparks.So, there’s no free wifi available in this resort. If you check-in, in time of 1 pm, expectedly your time-out will be 1AM. So it’s has 24 hours limitation.The resort was designed for both children and the adult who really love to swim and to have fun with their family.In the children’s pool you can see many man made whales which children could enjoy. Sliding in the mouth of those whales and other big slides could give many exciting moments for you and your children. There’s also some sprinklers which parent and children could enjoy. The children pool is surrounded by a three feet deep pool which bigger children can swim.The adult swimming pool is a four feet deep pool, about twenty five meters in length and the width is almost about 10 meters. There is also a deeper pool designed for those who want greater adventure. There is a big slide for adults that is open according to schedule.There are as well spacious rooms that are built to accommodate visitors from different places.
Intosan Resort Room Rates
All rooms are air-conditioned, cable TV with private bathroom & good for 2 persons only.
Additional person PHP 120.00 / head.
Rooms: A,B,C,D & R ₱1,600.00
With hot water, refrigerator, double bed & 2 single bedsRooms: K,L,M,O & P ₱1,400.00
With refrigerator, double bed & 2 single bedsRooms: YUGO ₱1,400.00
With bath tub, double bed & 2 single bedsRooms: KAROMATA ₱1,300.00 With refrigerator & 4 single bedsRooms: BAGAL ₱1,300.00
With 8 single bedsRooms: LATIK ₱1,300.00
With 5 single bedsRooms: G & H ₱1,200.00
With double bed & 2 single bedsRooms: F & BINATIL ₱1,200.00
With 4 single bedsWater Park AreaRooms: MORENA, VERDE & ROSA ₱1,000.00
With 2 single bedsRooms: GRES & COTA ₱1,000.00
With 3 single bedsRooms: AZUL & AMARILLO ₱1,300.00
With 7 single bedsRooms: ENGKARGADO SUITE ₱1,400.00
With double bed, 6 single beds & bath tubKubo AreaRooms: BAGASO, BASI & BOCHAYO ₱1,000.00
With three single bedsRooms: CONSILVA ₱1,000.00
With four single bedsRooms: TIRA TIRA ₱1,000.00
With double bed & 2 single bedsRooms: HACIENDERO SUITE ₱3,000.00
With Refrigerator, 2 double beds, 8 single beds & 2 bathroomsInside The Water ParkRooms: AZUCARERA ₱3,500.00
With refrigerator, 4 ,double beds, veranda, 1 bathroomHouse Guests are exempted from paying entrance fee at water park, house guests are given free table at water park while waiting for their room and can use all amenities.Day Cottage – ₱560.00 (Good for 8 Persons,Screen,electric Fan,Two sofas and Table.Table for Day Use – ₱336.00 – Under big tent,Electric fan w/ 10 chairs.Bookings can be made in Cebu City via Jasmin Pension House in the Capital area (63 32) 253-3757/255-4559/254-2686 they take deposits as well.
Swimming Pool: YesFranchise or Chain: NoFree Breakfast: NoMain Currency: Php – Philippine PesoPrice Category: Budget – {Php999 or less}Travel, enjoy life and live in style, everyday!

Malapascua Island

This idyllic island off the north coast of Cebu is famous for its world-class diving, above all the chance to dive with thresher sharks, which are present year-round. But even if you’ve no interest in reefs and marine life, Malapascua makes a beautiful beach destination, the southern part of the island is fringed with gorgeous sandy bays and there’s an excellent choice of hotels and guesthouses. Malapascua is justifiably a very popular escape for travellers and Cebuanos.
Malapascua is a Philippine island situated in the Visayan Sea, 6.8 kilometres (4.2 mi) across a shallow strait from the northernmost tip of Cebu Island. Administratively, it is part of the peninsular barangay of Logon, Daanbantayan, Cebu. Malapascua is a small island, only about 2.5 by 1 kilometre (1.55 by 0.62 mi), and has eight hamlets.

Malapascua became famous fairly recently, only in the early 1990s as a dive destination. Prior to this, the island was known for its wide white sand beach, known as Bounty Beach; it has also become known for its beautiful coral gardens, coral walls and excellent local dive spots, as well as further-out sites including Gato Island, Monad Shoal, and Kemod Shoal. Monad Shoal is an underwater plateau where thresher sharks and manta rays can regularly be sighted.

Most of the islanders derive their livelihood from tourism, while some still rely on subsistence fishing and farming.

The best time to visit Malapascua is around December – June during the dry season so you can enjoy its beaches without having to worry much about an incoming rain or storm. The summer season (April – May) is usually crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. See graph above. Always check the weather updates before proceeding.

What to do in Malapascua Island:
1. Swimming and Beach Bumming
Malapascua although flanked by hotels, restaurants and bars has surprisingly retained its serenity. Lounge on the beach shores like most foreigners do. There are some secluded coves in the island that are ideal for swimming since they aren’t crowded by tourists.

2. Snorkeling and Island Hopping
If you want to go snorkeling, you can rent a boat for island hopping that includes snorkeling.

3. Malapascua Motorcycle Tour
You can go on a motorycle tour around Malapascua. Day tour is PHP 700 or PHP 200 per hour including the driver. Or you can rent the motorbike and drive on your own, same price. I won’t recommend driving the motorbike by yourself as you will get lost along the way, the road is tricky since you have to pass through small alleys in the village peppered with houses. You’ll just waste your time. Having a local driver helps, and saves you time. It’s the same price anyway. Tipping the driver is optional.

The tour includes a visit to the following beaches:

Lapus Lapus Beach – A typical cream sand beach in Malapascua.

Los Bamboos– This is where you can go cliff jumping in Malapascua. Our driver told us, they don’t really promote cliff jumping here as it can be dangerous. But you can jump at your own risk. The cottages here were destroyed by the typhoon. Entrance fee is PHP 25 per person. The view of the rock formations here and the neighboring beaches are beautiful.

The Lighthouse– There’s a white sentinel crowning the island of Malapascua, it’s a good spot for sunset watching.

Langub Beach– It has powdery white sand and azure water. Not crowded and not developed yet.

Bounty Beach –Not really a part of the motorcycle tour, but if you are arriving in Malapascua, this is the first beach that you will most likely see. Bounty Beach is the main beach in Malapascua fringed by hotels, dive shops and restaurants.

4. Malapascua Island Diving
Dive shops are scattered around the island. Malapascua is known for its thresher sharks.

5.Cliff Jumping
For adrenaline junkies, during your island hopping tour or motorcycle tour, you can go cliff jumping at Los Bamboos. Jump at your own risk. This is not really encouraged by the drivers and tour guides in Malapascua but it’s not prohibited either. This place has become a popular site for cliff jumping, just make sure someone is there to assist you (who knows how to swim), in case something happens.

6. Sunset and Sunrise Watching
Malapascua has one of the most beautiful sunsets and sunrises in the Philippines. Don’t miss it!

Where to Eat in Malapascua Island:
Food in Malapascua are quite expensive as most restaurants cater to foreign tourists, prepare around PHP 250 up for a decent meal, but you can still ask the locals for the nearest eateries.

Ging Ging’s Restaurant–The cheapest restaurant found in Malapascua. Main Dishes start at PHP 100.

Ocean Vida Restaurant– opens at 7:30 AM – 11:00 PM offers Asian and European food. Happy Hour at 4:00 PM -6:00 PM and 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM.

Magellan’s Bar and Restaurant– offers daily barbecue and seafood. Main dishes starts at PHP 295.

https://youtu.be/-WBxw5v-uE4

-Cherry May S. Santillan

Gr.12 Accountability

Carnaza Island

Carnaza Island is a 174 hectares (430 acres) turtle-shaped island located north of the mainland Cebu in the Philippines. The island is bordered on all sides by the Visayan Sea, and is part of Daanbantayan, Cebu.

Experience this undeniably gorgeous paradise in Northern Cebu, the Carnaza Island,

The island is described as turtle shaped if viewed from above and bordered by the vast blue Visayan Sea on all sides. Here on the jewel of the island of Daanbantayan you can have the luxury to discover the island’s many varied attractions.

The face of this island has been a mystery to many people even those who live in the municipality where it is situated. It’s distance and accessibility are among the factors why there’s not much tourism in the area. That’s why most people prefer Malapascua Island in their itineraries. And majority of its land area is privately owned by Cebu’s former Governor, Lito Osmeña.

Nevertheless, the island is perfect for backpackers and those who are on a budget. Expenses aren’t too high as compared in Malapascua. Visiting the island only requires you to pray for a perfect weather or else you’ll be compelled to postpone.

HOW TO GET THERE?
– From Cebu North Bus Terminal, you have to take a 4 hour bus ride or make it 3 hour with a V-hire (Van) to Baranggay Tapilon in Daanbantayan which would cost more or less P180-200. Bring school ID if you are a student to avail discount on the bus ride.

– Buses are available anytime. It is ideal to travel as early as 3 or 4am so that you’ll arrive possibly by 7 or 8am. Most boats going to the Carnaza island only travels from 9-11am, for safety reasons I would say. I have no idea if there are still available boats in the afternoon unless if you’ll rent for your own (2K more or less). And ready yourself to be greeted by turbulent waves once you’re in the middle of the sea.

Nonetheless, once you arrive in Tapilon, ask the locals to guide you to Tapilon port (*For clarification: Tapilon port is for Carnaza Island, Maya port is for Malapascua Island). Boat fare to Carnaza Island would cost P150. The island is estimated to be 2 to 3 hours away from the mainland depending on the size of the boat you’re riding as well as the weather.

WHERE TO STAY?
*There is only one resort on the island and that is the Carnaza Eco Park (owned by Osmeña) which is a bit far from the “Barrio”. It’s advisable to book earlier. You can also pitch a tent if you have one. Also, since locals are very accommodating and friendly, some offer their houses or rooms for travelers to stay and often costs 200Php/night.

-When we visited the island, we have nowhere else to stay. Everything was fully booked. We were not informed that they were celebrating their annual fiesta, till we arrived on the island. Thankfully after hours of searching, we found a place to stay at Carnaza Elementary School. We thank the kind hearted faculty and staff of the school for the warm welcome.

ACTIVITIES
There are loads of things that you can do on the island. The island does not only have white sand beaches and snorkeling spots but it’s also filled with caves worth to be explored, a swamp, a lake (sort of), a pristine forest, a twin beach and a runway. These places are just a hike or a “habal-habal” away (20Php/person). You can also do cliff jumping from a hill close to the “Barrio”.

REMINDERS: (according to the tourists)
*The island does not have a 24/7 power supply. Electricity is only available between 7am to 10pm. So you gotta have to bring a flashlight and of course a power bank. However, the island doesn’t go in complete darkness at night, there solar powered street lights. There are also a lot of houses that has their own generators and would have their electricity on.

*Food? There are no restaurants or “carinderias” within the island, bringing your own food supplies is very essential. There are a lot of fishermen who would sell their catch, just ask some locals where to buy them and it is very cheap! There are also loads of convenience stores or “sari-sari stores” on the island but expect for a much higher price compared to the mainland specially on cold drinks.

*There’s no adequate mobile signal within the island except if you will take a hike on top of its hills. But be informed that locals are not so aware of their proper waste disposal. I hope you get what I mean.

*If you plan to go back to the mainland, there’s only one trip going to Tapilon port at 8am. The last trip would be at 9am, still for P100.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ciGiY3XhJ-w

-Cherry May S. Santillan

Gr.12 Accountability

Camotes Island

The Philippines has 7,107 islands. It sure will not run out of islands, known or unexplored. And whether you are in Luzon, Visayas or Mindanao, the three major islands where those 7,107 islands are scattered, you will most likely wound up in an island, one way or the other. An example would be the Camotes Island located east of Cebu Island, north of Bohol Island and Southwest of Leyte Island. It is described as a group of islands, four major islands to be exact, is found in Camotes namely, Pacijan, Poro, Ponson and Tulang Island and is actually made up of four towns, namely, Poro, Tudela, Pilar and San Francisco – that form part of the province of Cebu. A paved road joins Pacijan and Poro Islands while Ponson Island is separated by the Camotes Sea and is found about 4 kilometers northeast from Poro Island. North of Pacijan Island is Tulang Island.

Camotes Island is defined by crystal clear pristine waters, sugary-white sand and spectacular sunset views, which for many years have been unexplored, remote and remained Cebu’s best kept secret. In recent years though, the local tourists have discovered the islands and to date has become a top tourist destination picked by foreign travelers due to the unique experience one will have when in Camotes Island.
HOW TO GET TO CAMOTES ISLAND
The fastest way to get to Camotes island is via Jomalia fastcraft from Mactan which only takes 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Alternatively, one may also drive 1.5 – 2 hours north from Cebu City to Danao Port (or take the North-bound bus) and take the ferry boat for another 2 hours going to the island.
One can choose to travel by public bus (take the north-bound Ceres bus from the North Bus terminal in Reclamation Area Cebu) or take a private transport.
Private vehicles may be parked overnight at the Danao pier for a fee of approximately PhP 300 per night.
For those who wish to take their vehicle to Camotes Island, you may arrange with the ticketing booth at the port upon arrival. Rate is approximately PhP 1,200 per vehicle per way.

Things to do in Camotes Islands:
Get ready for an activity-filled vacation at Camotes Islands! There are tons of things to do while here to completely enjoy your trip with your loved ones. Be sure to take on the challenge and make the most of your getaway.

You can try out the following while on the islands:
Snorkeling and Scuba diving Obviously, the best thing about being on an island is enjoying the crystal clear water. The marine life at the Camotes Island is rich and diverse so you will have a great time. Check the Flying Fish Resort for one of the best spots to snorkel.

Island Hopping. Don’t limit yourself to just one island. Join a tour or rent a boat to take you around to explore the different beaches in all islands nearby.

Explore Lake Danao Lake Danao, in the northern part of Pacijan Island, isone of the most exciting tourist spots in the Camotes. Here you can find endless activities to fill an entire day: swimming, zip lining, and kayaking. The entrance to Danao Lake Park cost around PHP 15.

Check out Buho Rock Buho Rock in Poro island is the place to go for some great vacations ‘selfies’. This beautiful coral rock formation used to be a resort but is now abandoned. Come for a half day of picnic and swimming and remember to bring comfortable shoes as you will have to brave some stairs to reach.

See the Busay Waterfalls Also in Poro island, near to Tudela, you will find the Busay Falls where you can take a refreshiong dip into the clear waters. This is a beautiful spot to include in your itinerary

Pay a visit to St. Joseph Parish and Sto. Nino Church of Poro If you want to make your visit a bit more cultural, don’t miss the churches in the islands to learn about their historical past.

Try spelunking at Timubo Cave, Bukilat Cave in Tudela, Guadalupe Cave, and Holy Crystal Cave There are plenty of caves worth exploring in the Camotes Islands if you are feeling adventurous. The entrance to the caves might cost around PHP 20. Don’t forget to bring appropriate shoes, fashlights or headlights.
Beach bumming in Mangodlong, Santiago Bay, Bakhaw, and other white sand beaches on the islands of Pacijan, Tulang, Poro, and Ponson Beaches are the main attractions of the islands and we will leave it up to you to choose your favourite. We hope you get a nice tan!

Play beach volleyball or frisbee Feeling bored of laying down and tanning? Most beaches in Camotes offer other sports activities and you will have plenty of sand space for a volleyball match. A summer to remember at Camotes Islands Plan your summer escapade now and take time to discover Camotes Islands. This piece of paradise will surely surprise you and leave you in awe. The charm and natural beauty of this striking destination will make you fall in love with it over and over again. Seize the moment and enjoy every minute you are here.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kI3Bq_Aics

-Cherry May S. Santillan

Gr.12 Accountability

Bantayan Island

A beautiful island lies northwest of Cebu, capturing your heart from the very first gaze. It’s the island of Bantayan! It is located across the Tanon Strait in the Visayan Sea. According to the 2010 census, it has an estimated population of 136,960.

The island was administratively divided into three municipalities: Bantayan–This is the largest of all three municipalities, covering the island’s central part. This island is considered to be a municipality of first income class. It is also the island’s most populous city. Madridejos–Located in the northern part of the island, this is a fourth income class municipality. This municipality’s old name is’ Lawis.’ Santa Fe – This municipality’s area covers Bantayan Island’s southeastern part. This municipality is considered to be the gateway to Bantayan and its islands because within the municipality there is the airport and the main ferry port.

Here are some of the fun things that you can do in the island:

Enjoy the white sand beaches! This sure will not be out of your list. The island is full of majestic beaches. Aside from the main island, Bantayan, there are numerous small islets surrounding the island that are worth your visit. Each has distinctive beauty to offer.
Bantayan Snorkeling – Since the island is jampacked with fascinating beaches, it sure has beautiful marine ecosystem that is perfect for snorkeling. The untouched waters of the islets hold amazing surprises for the visitors.
Bantayan Island Hopping – Because Bantayan is composed of many neighboring island and islets, there is no reason you don’t explore their beauty within.
Bantayan Hotels and Bantayan Resorts – Relax yourself in the emblem of beautiful resorts.These numerous resorts found in the island can each give a unique service that a guest will have a reason to keep coming back. Just pick up the resort of your choice that will suit your relaxation needs.
Bantayan Skydiving – A new adventure is up for grab in the island; it is the skydiving in Santa Fe. Despite the great risk, many are still so anxious to try the adventure especially those that thirst for adrenaline rush. It’s a must try, they say, as long as you have the courage and money to do it.
Bantayan Churches – The island has many historical places. Among those are their old-aged churches like the St. Peter and Paul Parish Church which was built in 1863. It is the seat of the very first parish in the Visayas and Mindanao which was founded on June 1580.
Bantayan Natures – In Bantayan, there are still a lot of places that you can go to where you can just sit down and appreciate the nature and God’s creation. At dawn, you will be fascinated by the beautiful sunrise by the seashore and also at twilight, the sunset is a perfect sight. You can as well have a romantic night while stargazing together with your loved one.

With regards to the food in Bantayan, a combination of cuisine is served on the island with a taste of restaurants serving Filipino, Thai, and Japanese to European menus. A massive selection of sea foods fresh from the day’s catch is very well dished up since most of the people of the island are fishermen that cast their nets on the abundant Visayan seas. One can even visit the wet market to see fishermen unpack their precious catch from the sea. Fresh live fish from groupers to blue marlin’s are just two of the many surprises. Shrimps, crabs and lobsters are displayed in large quantity in the market. After a full meal one can choose a selection of fresh fruit shakes with choices from mango to choco banana.

Here is a guide on how to get to Bantayan Island:
From the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, ride a taxi going to the Cebu North Bus Terminal. Fare for the taxi will be around P150.00-P200.00 and will take around 30 minutes or more depending on the traffic situation. (Tip: better travel during non-peak hours; the best time to travel is early morning because you can also catch an early bus ride going to Hagnaya) Board a bus going to Hagnaya. Buses leave every hour from 4:00 a.m. until evening. The bus ride going to Hagnaya will take approximately 4 hours so it is best if you travel early. The fare ranges from P150.00-P170.00 depending on the accommodation of your choice. Aircon buses are more expensive but are more convenient for a four-hour ride. From Hagnaya, ride a Ferry Boat going to Santa Fe in Bantayan Island. The boat ride will take around 75 minutes and the fare is approximately P170.00. That’s why travelling early is the best because the ferry boat going to Bantayan Island has a daily schedule. The boat’s schedule starts from 5:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. only. Going to Bantayan Island is a must included in your bucket list. Experience an adventure that no other island can give.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSDf1TewrCo

-Cherry May Santillan

Gr 12- Accountability

Olango Island

Not a lot of people are probably aware of this but Olango Island does not actually just refer to a single island but to 7 small islands namely Olango, Sulpa, Guilotongan, Nalusuan, Caohagan, Camungi and Pangan-an. Exploring Olango island’s vast flatlands As part of its topographical overview, it has adjacent and neighboring islets with have a total land area of approximately 10.3 square kilometers. Moreover, the said island group is under the lawful jurisdiction of the City of Lapu Lapu and Cordova municipalities, respectively. Hence, the fascinating and mysterious Island of Olango is a part of Cebu Province. Best of all, it is known for it’s well preserved wildlife sanctuary. – The Olango Wildlife Sanctuary. This place is a major tourist destination not just among local Cebuanos but also among foreign visitors visiting Cebu.
Along the vastness and splendid charismatic natural endowment of Olango, everyone can find the reef-flat lagoon which caressingly encapsulates the overpowering archipelago of Cebu. Having blessed with such one of a kind natural resource, the island of Olango is considered by historians of the Philippines as one of the most extensive reef areas in Central Visayas, Aside from its eye catching beaches, there is also a rocky shoreline, inshore flats, colorful sea grass beds, well-conserved mangrove forests, salt marsh grass and lots of other unique natural resources which make this tourist destination truly unforgettable and worth visiting. .
How to Get to Olango Island There are two ways to get to the main island of Olango. The most popular way, which is also what most residents use, is via the port beside Movenpick Resort (previously Hilton Hotel). To get to the port, simply ride a jeepney plying the Punta Engaño route and have yourself dropped off near the hotel. Another way would be from the Angasil Port found near what was formerly known as the Portofino Resort. Both rides take about 20 minutes and cost around Php15 per person, including the terminal fee.
Things to Do in Olango Island

The island of Olango is most popular for the 920-hectare Olango Island Wildlife Sanctuary. We suggest visiting the island during the winter months (November to February), when migratory birds from Northern China, Siberia and Japan make their stop. You can see about 97 species of birds around the island, 48 of which are migratory birds. If you are interested in the coastal ecosystem, you can also opt to visit any point in the island and explore its flatlands, offshore coral reefs and mangroves. The mangroves in Olango are among the most extensive in the entire province and you can join in the planting at the Payag sa Asinan Eco-Tourism Park. And, once you are already in the island, you might as well not want to miss out scuba diving.
The island has three major dive sitesnamely Mabini Point, Baring and Santa Rosa. These dive sites can offer different experiences:
Mabini Point is known for its strong and unpredictable currents; Baring as one of the deepest wall dives; and Santa Rosa for its sandy bottom which eventually leads to a 50-meter dive. If none of these water activities interest you, you can always opt to rent a bike (or bring your own) and cruise around the island at your own pace. Cool, huh?

Where to Stay in Olango Island There are numerous options for guests visiting the island. We suggest that you try anyone of these places, depending on your budget and preferences:

Talima Beach Villas and Dive Resort

This place provides a high level of comfort for all its guests and has amenities such as an infinity pool, wellness massages and other aesthetic services. Guests also get access to a 14-hectare fish sanctuary where they can snorkel around. Many visitors also frequent this place as they provide scuba diving opportunities around the neighborhood.
Isla Bonita Inn

For a no-frills accommodation, try visiting this simple hotel is great if you are simply looking for a place to sleep in, without it having a lot of fancy add-ons. Aircon rooms for double occupancy are pegged at Php800 per night. And, while you cannot enjoy cable TV at night, there is always the videoke to while away the time. Shalala Beach Rooms and Cottages If you are looking for a cheap accommodation and still enjoy a beachfront, try this one out. It’s pretty cheap at just Php1000 for a fan room of two — and you get all the mangrove, sand and sea that you want. If you explore around either on foot or on a kayak, you might just get to see the birds up close and in person.

Payag sa Asinan Eco-Tourism Park

If you are in for a one-of-a-kind experience, head out to this eco-tourism park found in the island. We were able to camp out in Payag sa Asinan (literally, the Hut in Asinan) and it only cost us Php80 for a family of three (toddlers are free of charge, of course). You can also do all sorts of activities including mangrove planting, canoeing/kayaking, fish feeding and more.

What to Eat in Olango Island

Most residents on the island live off from fishing so you will never run out of seafood to eat while you are here. We suggest feasting on saang or spider shells which cost as low as Php7 each. Many kinds of fish are also available here and we were able to buy a huge one at a bargain price of Php150 per kilo. Resort restaurants may cost a little bit more.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ms5qtyaMyd4

-Cherry May Santillan

12- Accountability