The largest study of its kind has unexpectedly concluded that smoking marijuana, even regularly and heavily, does not lead to lung cancer.

The new findings "were against our expectations," said Donald Tashkin of the University of California at Los Angeles, a pulmonologist who has studied marijuana for 30 years.

"We hypothesized that there would be a positive association between marijuana use and lung cancer, and that the association would be more positive with heavier use," he said. "What we found instead was no association at all, and even a suggestion of some protective effect."

Federal health and drug enforcement officials have widely used Tashkin's previous work on marijuana to make the case that the drug is dangerous. Tashkin said that while he still believes marijuana is potentially harmful, its cancer-causing effects appear to be of less concern than previously thought.

Earlier work established that marijuana does contain cancer-causing chemicals as potentially harmful as those in tobacco, he said. However, marijuana also contains the chemical THC, which he said may kill aging cells and keep them from becoming cancerous.

Tashkin's study, funded by the National Institutes of Health's National Institute on Drug Abuse, involved 1,200 people in Los Angeles who had lung, neck or head cancer and an additional 1,040 people without cancer matched by age, sex and neighborhood.

They were all asked about their lifetime use of marijuana, tobacco and alcohol. The heaviest marijuana smokers had lighted up more than 22,000 times, while moderately heavy usage was defined as smoking 11,000 to 22,000 marijuana cigarettes. Tashkin found that even the very heavy marijuana smokers showed no increased incidence of the three cancers studied.

"This is the largest case-control study ever done, and everyone had to fill out a very extensive questionnaire about marijuana use," he said. "Bias can creep into any research, but we controlled for as many confounding factors as we could, and so I believe these results have real meaning."

Tashkin's group at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA had hypothesized that marijuana would raise the risk of cancer on the basis of earlier small human studies, lab studies of animals, and the fact that marijuana users inhale more deeply and generally hold smoke in their lungs longer than tobacco smokers -- exposing them to the dangerous chemicals for a longer time. In addition, Tashkin said, previous studies found that marijuana tar has 50 percent higher concentrations of chemicals linked to cancer than tobacco cigarette tar.

While no association between marijuana smoking and cancer was found, the study findings, presented to the American Thoracic Society International Conference this week, did find a 20-fold increase in lung cancer among people who smoked two or more packs of cigarettes a day.

The study was limited to people younger than 60 because those older than that were generally not exposed to marijuana in their youth, when it is most often tried.

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GETTING TO Eastern SAMAR
 
Three airlines operate regularly from Manila to Tacloban City. PAL flies to Tacloban from Manila twice a daily. Buses ply the Manila-Maharlika-Highway route passing Eastern Visayas. Fast ferries and ships facilitate inter-island travel from Cebu, Manila, and other ports of call. Available types of land transportation are cars, vans, jeepneys, tricycles, and buses.

Calicoan island is readily accessible by land, sea and air. Chartered flights can land in Guiuan's airport, a 5 minute drive from Calicoan. The nearby regional capital of Tacloban is only two to three hours away. Several buses and vans on regular schedules shuttle passengers to Guiuan via a scenic two-lane coastal highway which runs past mountains, steep cliffs, distant rock islands and boat-filled bays. Tacloban is regularly serviced by scheduled flights from Manila. Alternatively, several bus companies have daily trips to Guiuan from Manila. Travel time is approximately twenty-one hours.

Calicoan Island is envisioned to become the surfing capital and a top tourist destination in Eastern Visayas.

BY AIR

    Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific both have scheduled flights from Manila to Tacloban City. The flight time is approximately 70 minutes and a single ticket should cost approximately P2,900 but lookout for frequent special promotional prices. You can continue your travels to Eastern Samar by Bus or Van.

 
BY LAND

     Eagle Star and SilverStar all operate aircon and/or ordinary buses from Manila to Borongan and Guiuan, whilst local companies operate buses and vans between Tacloban and Borongan, Guiuan & Ormoc (Western Leyte). Both van operators offer a door-to-door pickup and drop-off service. See below for contact details of the major bus and van operators.

Eagle Star and Silverstar journey details from Manila to Borongan & Guiuan. See the tables below for journey details, every bus takes passengers for both Borongan and Guiuan. The indicated price includes the ferry from Matnog (Sorsogon, Luzon) to Allen (Northern Samar). Eagle Star offer Students and Senior Citizens on production of valid ID, a 20% reduction on the quoted price. The journey time to Borongan is approx. 24 hrs, depending on the ferry connection, add another 3.5 hrs for arrival time in Guiuan.

BY SEA

Entry into Eastern Samar is via the island of Leyte. Several companies operate from Ormoc, Western Leyte. The most popular route is documented below but more detailed information can be obtained by visiting the Southern Leyte Provincial Site at:
http://www.southernleyte.com/tourism/quickfacts.htm

From Cebu City, Cebu:

Cebu Ferries (5 hrs), SuperCat (2 hrs) both operate daily services between Cebu City (Cebu Island) and Ormoc (Western Leyte). You can continue your travels to Eastern Samar by bus or van via Tacloban.

From Lilo-an, Southern Leyte:

Operators do run several ferries daily, between Surigao, Mindanao and Lilo-an, Southern Leyte. You can continue your travels to Eastern Samar by bus or van via Tacloban.

Eastern SAMAR HISTORY
   
The Province of Eastern Samar was created by Republic Act. No. 4221 approved by Congress on June 19, 1965. It divided the whole island of Samar into three independent provinces: Northern Samar, Western Samar (subsequently renamed Samar), and Eastern Samar. The eastern province was to be composed of 23 municipalities, with Borongan as the capital. The first set of officials were elected in 1967.

Eastern Samar played important roles in the country’s history. On March 16, 1521, Ferdinand Magellan first set foot on Philippine soil in the island of Homonhon, on his way to rediscover the Philippines for the western world.

An American garrison occupation troops was annihilated by the townspeople of Balangiga on September 28, 1901. Now known in history as the “Balangiga Massacre,” the accident triggered a wave of reprisals against the people of the whole island of Samar.

On October 17, 1944, rangers of the U.S. Army landed on the tiny island of Suluan Guiuan and had their first encounter of the Philippine territory three days before General Douglas MacArthur landed on the beaches of Leyte.

Earliest known chronicles reveal that further contact with western civilization, aside from the Magellan landing, occurred as early as 1596 when Jesuit missionaries worked their way from the western coast of the island of Samar and established mission centers in what is now the Eastern Samar territory. It is most probable that the populated existing settlements were created pueblos shortly after this time. The eastern part of the island was known as “ibabao” and distinct from Samar, which was the name of the western part. It was Magellan who named the place where he landed as Homonhon.

Guiuan is widely known for two significant events in history 423 years apart. In 1521, Ferdinand Magellan first set foot on Philippine soil in Homonhon on his way to discover the Philippines for the Western World. In 1944, the American Forces landed on the island of Suluan where they fought their first battle in the Philippine territory three days before Gen. Mac Arthur stormed the beaches of Leyte.

The name of the town originated from its geographical location. The first settlers named the town “Guibang” when they discovered a sharp break in the mountain range (Tenigbang – partly chiseled off) which screens the town from the Pacific Ocean in the East. Subsequently, settlers modified its name to Guiuan.

The occurrence of World War II shook the town and people moved to the mountains to find comfort. In June 28, 1943, several Japanese soldiers set foot on Guiuan soil. Not as fearful and brutal as they were thought of by the local populace, a cordial relation soon existed between the conquered and the conquerors. Evacuees came down from the mountains and resumed a normal urban life.

Except for a few killings of suspected traitors by both Japanese and guerillas, not a drop of blood was shed needlessly. This made Guiuan one of the few places in the islands where World War II did not leave so many tragic memories.

The first sign of liberation of the town came on November 27, 1944 when a US Navy submarine chaser steamed the harbor for reconnaissance duty. On December 1, 1944 a fleet of LCTs, Liberty ships and barges poured into the Guiuan Bay to unload machines that was to transform Guiuan into one of the biggest Naval Base in the Far East that time.

Many years after the American Liberation, Guiuan has slowly progressed from a sleepy town to a bustling municipality.

On November 10, 1978, Proclamation No. 1801 was issued declaring Guiuan, Eastern Samar as a Tourist Zone and Marine Reserve under the administration and control of the Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA).

SIGHTSEEING IN EASTERN SAMAR

Eastern Samar Is Famous For:
    Homonhon Island
The tiny island of Homonhon was where Ferdinand Magellan and his men first set foot on Philippine soil on March 16, 1521, on their way to conquer the country for the West. Viewing of the historic Magellan plaque/marker is available in the area, which is located southeast of Guiuan, 60 nautical miles from Tacloban City.
 
    Sohotan Cave
The large cave characterized by a natural rock formation was where the old folks used to hide during the Pulahan days. Land travel to Sohotan Cave takes about 5 to 10 minutes via the exotic jeepney or tricycle from Borongan town proper.
 
    Navy 3149 Base
The site had been the base of the American soldiers of WWII as well as the famed Enola Gay, the B-52 Bomber that dropped the first atomic bomb on August 7, 1945 in Hiroshima, Japan. Located in Ngolos, 23 km. from the town proper of Guiuan, Navy 3149 commands a view of the Pacific Ocean.
 
    Kantican Island / Pearl Island
Located in the town of Guiuan, the pearl culture farm is a haven of rich marine life such as lobsters, shells, fishes, abalones, and corals. Kantican Island is endowed with clear blue waters and an immaculately white coral beach, making it the perfect site for scuba diving, fishing, and swimming.
 
    Hamorawon Spring
Situated right at the heart of the town of Borongan, Hamorawon is a natural spring believed to be miraculous. Boronganon legend has it that whoever takes a bath in this cool spring, especially those who come from foreign lands, will surely return home with a Boronganon wife. Around the spring is a Spanish-built stone wall.
 
    Calbiga Whitewater River
Samar is one of the least developed islands in the country, and the Calbiga River runs through kilometers of rugged hills carpeted with dense jungle. Whitewater rafting and kayaking are available through the Leyte Park Hotel in Tacloban., Leyte, which has rafts, double kayaks and single kayaks available for hire.
The 18km navigable section of the river contains 70 rapids, with more than 100 drops ranging from 2m to 5m. Most of the run is grade 2 and 3, but some areas reach grade 4 in high water.

ADVENTURES IN EASTERN SAMAR

Things to Do and see in Eastern Samar...
    Historical
    Homonhon Island
Located southeast of Guiuan, 60 nautical miles from Tacloban City. Tiny island where Ferdinand Magellan and his men first set foot on Philippine soil on March 16, 1521; viewing of the historic Magellan plaque/marker.

    Suluan Island
Located in Guiuan, Eastern Samar. The first Filipinos who made contact with Magellan lived here; has sandy beaches.

    Tubabau Island
Located in Guiuan, Eastern Samar. Where the White Russians’ IRO (International Refugee Organization) stayed immediately after World War II.

    Navy 3149 Base
Located in Ngolos, 23 km. from the town proper of Guiuan, Eastern Samar. Base of the American soldiers of WWII; commands a view of the Pacific Ocean. Base of the “Enola Gay” (B-52 Bomber) which dropped the first atomic bomb on August 7, 1945 in Hiroshima, Japan.

    Guiuan World War II Operating Base
Located in Guiuan, Eastern Samar. It has a three-kilometer runaway that could service even jet-propelled planes; constructed by WWII US Navy in 1944. During the Liberation of the Philippines, it was the airstrip of war planes; good picnic area.

    Santiago Monument
Located in front of the Borongan Cathedral. Uprooted from where it has stood in its equestrian dignity for centuries.

    Religious
    Guiuan Church
The 16th-century Church of the Immaculate Conception is preserved intact, including its hand carved altars, doors and old santos.

    Man-Made
    Barawalte
Located in Borongan, Eastern Samar, along the seaside boulevard facing the east. A watchover during the Spanish regime to guard against the intruding Moros.

    Divinubo Lighthouse
Located in Divinubo Islands, which could be reached from Brgy. Lalawigan, Borongan. A beautiful lighthouse atop the mountain of Divinubo, which was constructed by the American engineers in 1906. It was originally a gas-operated facility but now it is electrically lighted and is enclosed in thick glass. It beams a bright light every 15 seconds. It serves to locate and guide the position of international and inter-island ships passing the treacherous Pacific Ocean.

    Festivals
    Homonhon Landing
(March 16; Homonhon, Eastern Samar). Reenactment of the discovery of the Philippines by Magellan.

    Padul-ong
(September 7; Borongan, Eastern Samar). Padul-ong relates how the lady of Nativity became the Patroness of Borongan.

    Balangiga Incident
(September 28; Balangiga, Eastern Samar). The 1901 Philippine-American encounter is commemorated through a pageant as a reminder of the Filipinos quest for freedom.

Natural
    Sulangan Beach
Located 24 km. from the town proper of Guiuan. Habitat of the world-famous “Golden Cowrie”; ideal site for deep fishing , scuba diving; multi-colored school of fishes is a common sight.

    Kantikan Island (Pearl Island)
Located in Guiuan, Eastern Samar. It is a pearl culture farm; haven of rich marine life such as lobsters, shells, fishes, abalones, corals; clear blue waters and immaculately white coral beach; perfect site for scuba diving, fishing, and swimming.

    Sapao Beach
Located 14 km. from Guiuan town proper. Beautiful beach with white sand and shells of various kinds and colors; view of the Pacific Ocean; ideal for swimming.

    Santa Monica Caves
Located in Borongan, Eastern Samar. Has a magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean; excellent place for fishing, scuba diving, surfing, swimming.

    Menasnge Park
Located in Maydolong, Eastern Samar. Magnificent natural rock formation made more beautiful by the Maydolong landscape aficionados.

    Church of the Immaculate
Located in Guiuan, Eastern Samar. A 16th century church with its entire structure still preserved, including old relics of “santos” and handcarved altars and doors.

    Guintagican Beach
Located in Barangay Santa Maria in the town of Borongan. A 2-kilometer long beautiful white beach ideal for surfing and swimming.

    Divinuvo Island
A 3-sq. kilometer island in Brgy. Lalawigan, Borongan. It has crystal-clear water, white beach, swaying palm trees, multi-colored fishes and corals beneath; best suited for scuba diving and swimming.

    Hamorawon Spring
Located at the heart of the town of Borongan. A natural spring said to be miraculous. Boronganon legend has it that whoever takes a bath in this cool spring, especially those who come from foreign lands, will surely go home with a Boronganon wife. Around the spring is a Spanish-built stone wall.

    San Julian Beach
Located 17 km. north of Borongan. Beautiful white beach with swaying palm trees. Just a few meters away from the beach lies a small lake with fresh water.

    Mercedes Beach
Located in Brgy. Bus-Bua, 2 km. north of Guiuan. A clean white beach considered as a tourist haven. It offers a lot of excitement as you go paddling through its crystal-clear blue waters.

    Canhugas Beach
Located in Hernani, Eastern Samar. This beach is legendary. It has a 200-meter foot bridge from the reef to the sea said to be built by a giant. There is also a rock formation that looks like man-made steps, and the waves slamming on it flow down through the steps resembling a waterfall.

    Lawa-an Islet
It is rather amusing that this small island with an area of 200 sq. meters has calm waters despite the fact that it is facing the Pacific Ocean. It also has beautiful beaches excellent for swimming.

    Binaloan Rapids
Located between Brgy. San Rafael and Brgy. Binaloan at Taft, Eastern Samar. Can be reached by public transport, 63 km. from Borongan. It is a beautiful rapids which is visible along the highway.

    Sangat of Ando
A 45-minute travel by motorboat from Borongan town proper. Features a large cave with cathedral-like interior filled with relics and rock formations.

    Ganap Cave
Located in Barangay Cagbonga which is about 13 km. northwest of Borongan townproper. With beautiful spring; stalactites and stalagmites of various colors and sizes.

    Locso-on Cave
Located in Barangay Locso-on, about 8.5 kilometers south of Borongan. A beautiful cave full of stories and legends. Old folks would swear that many strangers get lost in this cave when they go deep into the hinterlands of Suribao River.

    Sohotan Cave
Located about 5 to 10 minutes by jeepney or tricycle from Borongan town proper. A large cave with natural rock formation where old folks used to hide during the Pulahan days.

    Black Sand Beaches of Cabong
Located about 4 km. south of Borongan. A rich fishing ground and good place for swimming, skiing, snorkeling, and just plain lazing amidst palms trees and sunrise.

    Bihid Falls
Located between the municipalities of Calbiga and Borongan, Eastern Samar. A potential source of hydroelectric power.

    Springs of Borongan
The springs of Borongan are Capinian, Kalugtugan, Gaanap, Can-apong, Maybito, Sunog, Bito, Masacpasac.


   
SURFING

Samar has an idyllic tropical background for the surf adventurer. There are no real details in surf magazines as to where the surf areas are, and this is a place for the true surfer to explore. Many of the breaks on Eastern Samar have been surfed by but a few, real enthusiasts. Some have most likely never been surfed before.

However, with time and effort you could be well rewarded with one of many locations in this area of secret surfing paradise. You would be best advised to start your quest around Borongan and linger there, and then head off north, or south.

The season for the best waves is generally September through to March, with the bigger swells arriving later in that period.

Calicoan Island boasts of miles of white sand beaches. With powerful swells rolling in from the Pacific over the 10,000 meters Philippine Deep, Calicoan is a surfer's paradise. The season for the best waves is generally from October to March.

The people of Samar are extremely friendly. The scenery is a tropical delight, which when combined with some classic un-crowded surf makes this an ideal place to visit and explore.

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GETTING TO CAMARINES NORTE

By Land
The province is accessible by land through passenger transport services going to and from Metro Manila and neighboring provinces. Different transportation companies, such as Philtranco, Superlines, AMDG, and others, have air-conditioned buses plying the Daet-Manila-Daet and Daet-Naga-Legazpi-Daet routes.  

There are six bus lines that ply the Manila – Daet route and return. Daet is 350 kilometres from Manila and will take you approximately seven hours.

You cannot go to one centralized area for busses in Manila, each individual bus line has it’s own station.

One other option is to hire a mini-van. The advantages are you can stop whenever you feel like it and you will probably cut the time traveled down as well. It can work out very cost effective if you have a few of you going in the same direction
 
By Air
The province has one airport with a secondary classification located in Bagasbas, Daet. However, Philippine Airlines (PAL) has temporarily suspended its flights to Bagasbas Airport.

Flights from Manila take about 50 minutes to Daet. There are two weekly flights.

CAMARINES NORTE HISTORY
   
From 1573 to 1829, Camarines Sur and Camarines Norte formed only one political unit known as Ambos Camarines. They were separated in 1829 but reunited in 1854. They again separated; to be reunited again in 1893. This union continued until 1919. On March 3, 1919, Camarines Norte was finally segregated from Ambos Camarines by the Philippine Legislature in Act 2809.

When Camarines Norte was separated from Ambos Camarines in 1829, it was assigned the towns of Daet (capital), Talisay, Indan (now Vinzons), Labo, Paracale, Mambulao (now Jose Panganiban), Capalonga, Ragay, Lupi, and Sipocot. Seventeen years later, it lost Sipocot, Lupi, and Ragay to Camarines Sur in exchange for the town of Siruma.

Juan de Salcedo, dispatched by Legaspi to explore the island in 1571, influenced the existence of Camarines Norte. After subduing Taytay and Cainta, he marched further across Laguna and Tayabas. He visited the gold-laden towns of Mambulao and Paracale, obsessed by what he heard from natives of there existing gold mines in these towns.

When Francisco de Sande took over from Legaspi as Governor-General, Spanish influence started to be felt in the region. He established a permanent garrison in Naga to control the region and defend it from Chinese and Muslim pirates. Captain Pedro de Chavez was assigned to head this force.

There were already native settlements in the province when the Spaniards arrived. The flourishing towns of Mambulao and Paracale were two of them. Indan and Daet were the other settlements, besides Capalonga and others. But Paracale remained the most sought after, the most prosperous, because of its gold mines.

The towns were chiefly inhabited by Tagalogs; the rest were of Visayan strain. However, most of the immigrants were from Mauban, Quezon. The Spanish missionaries did not falter in their mission to christianize the natives.

By virtue of Act 2809 of March 3, 1919 Governor General F.B. Harisson separated Camarines Norte from Camarines Sur, later appointing Don Miguel R. Lukban as its first Governor. At present it has 12 towns: Basud, Capalonga, Daet, Jose Panganiban, Labo, Mercedes, Paracale, San Lorenzo Ruiz, San Vicente, Sta. Elena, Talisay, and Vinzons. Daet remained as its capital town.

SIGHTSEEING IN CAMARINES NORTE

Camarines Norte Is Famous For:
    Pineapple
The Camarines Norte Queen, pineapple is a fruit extensively cultivated in Camarines Norte. Of the top ten pinapple producing provinces, Camarines Norte ranked 4th in terms of area plated. The “Queen” variety is highly adopted to the soil and climatic condition of the province. It is grown largely as a coconut intercrop with an average planting density of 30,000.00 plants per hectare. Of the 98,000 hectares coconut areas of the province, 50% is available for pineapple production. In open areas, planting density is 35,000 per hectare.
The fruit has a tapering shape, deep eyes, yellow rind to deep yellow flesh color. It has a small core compared to other varieties and it has a crisp texture, rich flavor, and distinct sweetness.
 
    Coconut
The area devoted to coconut in the province in 1999 had been about 97,787.85 hectares. Total number of coconut trees is accounted to about 8,326,206 (7,303.362 bearing and 1,022,844 non-bearing) with an average production of 30 nuts per tree per year while coconut farmers totalled to 24,220.
 
    Fishing
Nine municipalities of the province consisting of about 84 coastal barangays are located along Lamon and San Miguel Bays and the Pacific Ocean, considered major fishing grounds in the country. Municipal fishing accounts for 7,516.5 metric tons of produce, about 10,698 fishermen, and about 10,254.25 MT. for 79 commercial fishing vessels registered. There are two major fishing ports located in Mercedes and Jose Panganiban and seven minor ports. Five cold storage facilities are operating in Mercedes, Jose Panganiban, Paracale, and Labo.
 
    First Rizal Monument
The first Philippine monument to the National Hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal, can be found in Daet. This historical landmark stands on the corner of Magallanes and Justo Lukban Streets, facing the Daet Municipal Hall. It is a three-tiered stone pylon with its square base supporting a triangle in two stages, the last one tapering off to a point. Built in 1898, the First Monument of Rizal in the Philippines is located across the Old Daet Municipal Hall. Its foundation, it is believed, is made of mortars and boulders from the demolished Old Spanish Jail in Daet where many patriots died, making it historically and culturally significant.
 
    Provincial Capitol
Camarines Norte has one of the most beautiful Provincial Capitols in the entire country. Reconstructed from 1986 -1995, it provides a permanent seat for the Provincial Government. It has 12 big front columns or posts representing the 12 municipalities of the province.
 
    Bagasbas Beach
The most popular beach resort in the province is in Barangay Bagasbas, Daet. You reach it after a five-minute ride on any type of motor vehicle from Daet poblacion. The beach has a long and wide expanse of fine gray sand. During clear but windy days, the big waves that roll in from the Pacific Ocean make it a paradise for surfing beginners and afficionados. It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
 
    Mercedes Group of Islands
The islands can be reached in an about 30 to 45 minute motorboat ride from Mercedes town proper. The major attractions in these islands are its clean white beaches, corrals, underwater sceneries, rock formations, and fish sanctuary. Additional come-ons are scenic landscapes and seascapes, the attractive lighthouse in Canimog island, unexplored Canton cave, and the different types of seashells and tropical fishes that abound. The place is good for island hopping, swimming, bird watching, boating, snorkeling, trekking, scuba diving, golf in Apuao Grande Resort, jet skiing, spear fishing, and other related activities.
 
    Mangcamagong Beach
This is a clean gray beach facing San Miguel Bay with clear water suitable for swimming and outings. Its scenic and peaceful ambience provides excursionists and tourists a nice place for relaxation. Cottages, restrooms, roadside eateries, and sheds are available to tourists at reasonable prices. Here, you can broil capiz shells – a delicacy.
 
    Mampurog River
This river is wide with clear and deep cold water, a nice place to wade in and explore. It is a very popular choice for swimming, excursions, and picnics during summer.
Palay. Rice areas in the province are composed of 6,412.38 hectares of irrigated farms and 3,162 hectares of rain-fed land. The major rice growing areas are Daet, Talisay, Vinzons, Labo, and Basud. In 2000, the province harvested 53,644.12 metric tons of rice grains in two croppings.

ADVENTURES IN CAMARINES NORTE

Things to Do and see in Camarines Norte:
    Historical
    Town of Vinzons
The town of Indan was renamed Vinzons in honor of Wenceslao Q. Vinzons, a hero during the Japanese War. His residence has been converted into a shrine and public library containing his memorabilia.

    Jose Panganiban’s Monument
Located right in front of the Municipal Hall of Jose Panganiban, it is where the remains of the martyr have been interred.

    Laniton Park
It is the site of the first guerilla encounters against the Japanese Imperial Army. It is located in Basud, some 15 to 20 minutes from Daet.


    Religious
    Black Nazarene
The Capalonga Fiesta in honor of the Black Nazarene draws devotees from all over the country. The image is said to be miraculous and its feast is particularly celebrated by Chinese businessmen from all over the country, who pay annual homage and ask for long life and good fortune.

    Senakulo
The observance of the lenten season is also done through a Senakulo, a re-enactment of the Passion of Jesus Christ every Good Friday in the municipality of Paracale.

    Huli White
Fluvial procession in Vinzons in honor of Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia in Daet, which takes place a week after the Peñafrancia celebration in Naga City, Camarines Sur.

    Vinzons Catholic Church
One of the oldest churches in the Philippines; located at Vinzons town proper, which celebrated its 400th year anniversary in 1981.


    Man-Made
    Bitukang Manok
The DPWH rest house in the Bicol Natural Park. Located about 21 km. from Daet; 35 minutes by bus or jeepney; features winding road, lush vegetation; ideal for camping and picknicking.


    Festivals
    Pineapple Festival (June 15-22)
It showcases the famous and sweetest queen pineapple of the “Formosa” variety abundantly growing in the different municipalities of the province. It also highlights the unique and interesting features of the place and its people.

    Foundation Day of Camarines Norte (April 15)
A week-long celebration of the foundation anniversary of the province. Highlighted by a commemorative mass, civic military parade, agro-industrial fair, exhibits, sports festivals.

    Vinzons Day (September 28)
Commemorative of the birth anniversary of hero Wenceslao “Bintao” Q. Vinzons, Sr., native of Vinzons (formerly Indan). Highlights consist of a commemorative mass and program, lecture-forum on the life of the hero, DBC/LYRE competition, parade.

    Pabirik Festival (January 26 – February 2)
A festival showcasing the rich mining industry in the town of Paracale. The festival is a presentation of its distinct culture and people’s way of life through street presentation, exhibits, and competitions. It also puts into focus their town fiesta on February 2.

    Palong Festival (May 10-13)
Highlighted by streetdancing and agro-industrial fair which expresses the local folks’ gratitude for their town’s name’s etymology, and signifies the abundant presence of roosters available in the locality. Held also in celebration of the Black Nazarene’s Feast Day on May 13 at the town of Capalonga.

    Sea Foods Festival (October 24)
A celebration featuring the distinct variety of fish available in the town of Basud. The presentation includes food fair, exhibits, and sea-related competitions such as bancathon and fishing.

    Busig-On Festival (September 8)
A festival based on the epic of Busig-On of Labo town, which exemplifies heroism and Bikolano values. The festival features the town’s distinct historical values and sentiments through talent and skills competitions featuring the town’s places of interest.

    Animal Festival (October 4)
A celebration of the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, considered to be the patron of livestock raisers, which highlights the local history and culture. The festivity includes street dancing, beauty search, and skills competitions.

    Kadagatan Festival (August 18)
A festival conducted in the town of Mercedes featuring various dishes from the bounty of the sea. Highlights are presentation of boat racing, street dancing in colorful attire, beauty search, exhibits and other competitions.

    Boyoboy Festival (November 8)
A week-long celebration aimed to promote agricultural products, especially the Queen pineapple and tourism as a whole. “Boyoboy,” which literally means ”pagkaborogkos” in the vernacular, depicts the unique post harvest activity locally practiced by the people. Highlights are the industrial fair, beauty tilt, cultural presentation, investment program, and different sports events. San Lorenzo Ruiz is the origin and home of the Queen pineapple which has made Camarines Norte famous.


    Economic
    Mercedes Fishing Village/Community
Quaint for its original way of bidding fish catch by whisper; virtually the hub of the fishing industry of the province; interesting to sociologists, social scientists, sociology buffs because of quaint customs related with the fishing industry; also features fluvial procession during its town fiesta every June 13 called “Caracol”; at the height of the fishing season, its bay fills with fishing vessels.


    Natural
    Mananap Falls
Located in San Vicente, roughly 18 kilometers west of the capital. To reach it, one has to hike uphill for two kilometers but the deep cool waters of the falls are worth the climb.

    Imee-Irene Twin Falls
Located in Sta. Elena, it is still virtually unexplored because of its great distance from Daet.

    Colasi Falls
Located in Colasi Mercedes, it is an aesthetic falls in the midst of the forest which could be reached through hiking. The falls has an approximate height of 70 ft. offering a good place for swimmers and nature lovers because of its flashing blue cool water. It can be reached in about one hour by jeepney from Daet to Baronage Colasi plus a 3-hour hike from Colasi to the falls.

    Lanot Beach
Fascinating for its spring; 30 km. south of Daet. Barangay Lanot of Mercedes can be reached by banca or motorboat through Barangay Hinipaan, 15 km. from Daet.

    Pag-asa Beach
Located 46 km. northwest of Daet and 3 km. from Jose Panganiban. Popular among swimmers, picknickers, and promenaders.

    Itok Falls
Located about 79 km. northwest of Daet, 4 km. west of Capalonga. Fresh and lush foliage and vegetation make it more romantic; its scenic vista soothes tired souls and heavy hearts.

    Canton Cave
It can be reached in 45 minutes by motorboat from Mercedes town; inviting to the adventurous; exploring it is timed with the tide’s ebb and flow.

    San Jose Beach
Wide beach with fine sand; a 15-minute ride from Daet and Talisay; ideal for picnics and swimming.

    Pulang Daga Beach
It can be reached in two hours by bus from Daet and Paracale; frequented by picknickers and swimmers; made a setting for a film; clean white sands and swimming-safe cove; with cottages for rent.

    Mampurog River
A 15 minute ride by jeepney, southwest of Daet along the San Lorenzo Ruiz-Daet road; ideal for bathers, swimmers, picknickers and campers.

    Apuao Grande Island Resort
It can be reached in 15 to 30 minutes by motorboat from Mercedes; complete with hotel/cottages, swimming pool, restaurant and bar, and a golf course; caters mostly to foreign tourists.

    Bulalakao Beach
Crystal clear water and white sandy shores; located at Luklukan Sur, about 9 km. from Jose Panganiban town proper; inviting to swimmers and picknickers.

    Calalanay Island Beach
Located in Calaguas Island, Vinzons.

    Bagasbas Beach
The most popular beach in the province can be found 5 km. from downtown Daet or about 10 minutes by land. A wide white sand beach, it is ideal for swimming, beachcombing, and summer outings and picnics. And of course surfing is easiest break to get to.


SURFING

Daet is in the province of Camarines Norte, which can be found to the south of Manila and is the capital. Camarines Norte is the most northern province of Bicol Region.

You will find the province in the southern part of Luzon. It shares borders to the south and west with Camarines Sur and Quezon provinces, to the east is San Miguel Bay and to the north is the mighty Pacific Ocean.

Daet surfing is extremely popular as it is relatively close to Manila, so you tend to get a lot of surfers based in Manila coming down on weekends.

Some of the best Daet surfing spots include

Bagasbas Beach
Being the easiest break to get to makes Bagasbas Beach, the surf spot of choice for most surfers visiting the area. The surf here breaks left and right on a sand bar, it is ideal for beginners and experienced surfers alike.

San Jose
This is another beach break, with nice left and right handers. A bit further out than Bagasbas Beach, but after traveling 350 kilometres on a bus to get here, another nine odd kilometers beyond Bagasbas Beach is know big deal.

The River Mouth
This break is at Mercedes, if you are nice and early, what surfer isn’t, check out the fish market which is open from 06:00am to 8:00am. It is nice reef break but be prepared for a lengthy paddle, your best bet is to hire a banca.

Tong’s Point
A lot of effort is required to get to Tong’s. Tong’s is a shore break north of Bagasbas Beach.

GETTING TO SIARGAO

By Air
Asia Spirit flies every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from Cebu City to Surigao and vice versa.

Sea Air flies every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday from Cebu City to Siargao Island and vice versa.

Philippine Airlines flies daily from Manila to Butuan city, from where a 2 ½ hour bus ride should take you to Surigao City.    

By Land
Buses from Pasay City have trips going to Surigao City several times a week via Lipata Ferry Terminal.

Daily trips from Surigao City and Davao City via Butuan City are available regularly.   
 
By Sea
Passenger boats direct from Manila and Cebu City are available. Then Cebu City to Surigao City.

map: http://surigaoislands.com/images/surigaomap.gif
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SURIGAO Del NORTE HISTORY
   
Old folks still like to recount how some Visayan fishermen, forced by strong currents in what is now Surigao Strait, sought refuge in one of the hunts somewhere in the province. The locals or Mamanwas thought the fishermen wanted to take the hut by force or “agaw.” This term was given the prefix “suri” thus “suri-agaw” was formed. In time, it was shortened to Surigao.

Still another version recounts that, before the Spaniards came, the original inhabitants were the Mamanwas and Manobos. The Visayans then came and settled on the island with the natives. One of the natives was Saliagao, who lived by the mouth of the river. From his name came “Surigao.”

No matter how Surigao got its name, it is a fact that Surigao del Sur, being a marvel in terms of natural resources

SIGHTSEEING IN SIARGAO, SURIGAO Del NORTE

Surigao Del Norte is famous for:
    Mancono Forests
The unique “mancono” (ironwood) forests of Dinagat Island remain to be one of the watershed’s most productive resources.
 
    Metallic & Non-Metallic Deposits
The province is endowed with an abundance of natural resources, especially metallic and non-metallic deposits. Metallic reserves registered a total of 347,845,684 metric tons of nickeleferous laterite ore, gold, chromite, lode ore, and laterite ore. Non-metallic reserves registered a total of 376,718,867 metric tons of limestone, silica deposits, guano, rock phosphate, sand, and gravel. Nonoc Island has one of the world’s largest deposits of nickel while Dinagat Island has major reserves of chromate.
 
    Excellent Fishing Area
The province’s seawaters, covering 12,540 square miles, are abundant with different species of fish. Game fishing and spear-fishing enthusiasts will enjoy the bountiful seas along the tuna route. Over 23 different species are caught the whole year round. Marlin, tuna, lapu-lapu, molluscs, crabs, even squids, stingrays, and octopuses can be bought fresh and cheap from the fish vendors and fisherfolk.
 
    Mangrove Forests
Mangrove is the major theme in the coastal areas of the province. The saltwater-loving trees form interminable marine forests covering an area of 17,473 hectares along the coasts of the mainland and the islands of Siargao and Dinagat.
 
    Marine Ecosystems
The province boasts a variety of marine ecosystems such as lush seagrass beds and coral reefs, which are relatively healthy and intact, supporting a rich diversity of marine flora and fauna.
 
    Mamanwa Tribe
The province is home to one of the country’s ethnic tribes, the Mamanwas. Surigao City’s Bonok-bonok Festival depicts the merrymaking of these native folks and their gratitude to their pagan gods for a bountiful harvest and good health. 
 
    Other Water Activities
For adventurous divers, the coasts of the province offer interesting dive sites while the islands of Sagisi and Corregidor are excellent for snorkeling activities.
 
    Caving
The province has a number of caves and tunnels in its islands. Some, like the Suhoton Cove at Bucas Grande Island, are half-submerged in water most of the time and could be accessed only during low tides. A guano cave is situated in a mountain at Libjo, within which is a lagoon that remains unexplored. Steep climbs are expected on the way to the cave.
 
    Siargao Sea Kayaking
While there are few rental craft on the island, Siargao has superb sea kayaking opportunities – on the east side, facing the Philippine Trench, the deep blue sea runs straight up against a perfect tropical coast, offering unparalleled wave-running. On the other side of the island, one of the country’s largest expanses of virgin mangrove swamp provides an entirely different kind of exploration. This centuries-old ecosystem is a rich breeding ground for marine life, including the salt-water crocodile, and is an adventure no kayaker will want to miss.

ADVENTURES IN SURIGAO Del NORTE

Things to Do and see in Surigao Del Norte

    Man-Made
    Mini-Dam Park (San Jose)
A cluster of seven dams of graduated elevations carved out of cliffs with stones perfectly laid and fitted by human hands. It is a whole mountain side transformed into a man-made structure exquisitely landscaped with a variety of plants and trees.

    Surigaonon Heritage Mini-Museum (Surigao City)
A collection of ancient archaeological diggings like burial coffin jars and antique Chinese kitchen wares are showcased in the mini-museum. Some of these artifacts were unearthed in Panhatungan, Placer.

    Maharlika Training Center (Lipata, Surigao City)
One of the best convention and training centres in the city, offering the best accommodation and facilities. It provides a magnificent view of the Surigao Strait and some of the islands in the city.

    Natural
    General Luna Beach
A 27-kilometer stretch of bewitching sugar-fine white beaches, stunningly sapphire seas, and natural coral barriers that keep the inlet waters placid make this area a perfect destination for surfers and sun worshippers.

    Del Carmen Swamps
A sanctuary of the large species of salt water crocodiles. One can take a closer look into the tall marine jungle of mangroves and other endemic swamp creatures. A boat ride along the narrow passageway is a thrilling experience.

    Magpupungko Rock Formation (Pilar)
Surrounded by limestone and granite sculptures facing the Pacific Ocean, its pockmarked limestone floor reveals pools of assorted shapes and sizes resembling basins, barrels, tubs, and ponds during low tide.

    Lake Bababu (Basilisa)
A mountain lake nestled in vast walls of granite. A steep descent to the lake adds thrill to avid adventurers and offers fine views to numerous small caves in great abandon.

    Biyabid Waterfalls (Sison)
Cool mountain water cascades in this magnificent multi-tiered waterfalls amid a lush vegetation.

    Alingkakajaw Island (Claver)
With no rock formations like its neighboring islets, it stands out like a green and white jewel on a pristine blue sea. This little gem is located just off mainland Mindanao.

    Festivals
    Siargao International Human Body Boarding Challenge. (October 7-20; General Luna, Siargao Island)
A new water sports event in the country participated by top international body boarders. This is a world series event organized by the International Bodyboarders Association.

    Battle of Surigao Strait (October 25)
The greatest naval battle in Philippine history between the allied forces and the Japanese Imperial Army was staged in Surigao Strait during World War II. The commemoration of this event stretches from Surigao City to Loreto where the American troops landed on that significant day in 1944.

    PBMA National Conference (May)
A month-long conference and pilgrimage of members of the Philippine Benevolent Missionaries Association to the seat of their organization in the municipality of San Jose. Fairs, exhibits, and various competitions are usually held during this annual gathering.

    Lawigan Festival (May 15; Loreto)

    Carrera Habagat (June 8-12; Siargao Island)
The toughest four-day adventure race and the biggest in the Philippines. It involves trekking and trail running, kayaking, mountain biking, swimming, rappelling, orienting, land navigation, and special skills.
       
GENERAL LUNA is just a small town at the edge of the world. It is safe, clean and friendly, the laid-back kind of place where you could stop by for two or three days and not want to leave for a year. It is undeveloped and unspoiled, and that's the charm of it.
 

BOAT TRIPS. Not to be missed is a full-day boat trip to Sohoton Lagoon. A magical place, overhung by jungle cliffs where you can swim into caves with bats, strange fishes, stalactites and rock oysters, weird corals, pitcher plants, cycads, and wild orchids. Take a flashing and go during mid-day when the tide is low. The only entrance to the lagoon is a natural cave tunnel, hanging with stalactites and with strong currents. The cost is around 500 pesos per person, but it is well worth it. Around GL, you should pop across the lagoon to Guyam, the perfect palm-fringed islet, Dako and its white sand beach, coral reefs and friendly villagers. Or visit Pansukian (Naked Island) a white sand with spit with corals all around. A day tirp to all three should cost around 600 pesos. If you are feeling brave or foolhardy, try rocky, jungled Hanoyoy, and see if all the talk about buried treasures and wak-waks (forest spirits) are really true.
 

SOLO TRIP. You could rent a motorcycle in GL, for about 600 pesos/day, and get around the island yourself. There are few road signs, so take a compass. Otherwise, you could get around by the regular jeepneys, but they tend to arrive and depart at strange times.
 

DIVING AND SNORKELING. There's plenty to see (fish, corals, sea snakes,etc. ) but no big sharks snorkeling on the reefs aorund Guyan and Daku (you c anjust drift with the current along the drop-off). Around Pansukian, the coral reefs are great, (even better at night time ) and you can explore reefs in front of Tuason Point (but please, not under the break itself), and in La Janosa and Mamon. A huge underwater cave with four to five separate entrances was recently discovered under the first rock islands i front of Tuason, and the Blue Cathedral just off Caridad, north of Pilar. Underwater visibility and topography are outstanding
 

FISHING. The sailfish and blue marlin seaon - when the big fish (sailfish up to 40 kg. marlin up to 200 kg) cruise the deep water only a mile or two out of GL - really hums form March to early May. But you could fish for coral trout, large sappers and other reef fish anytime, or get a local fisherman to take you out to the Payao, a floating fish attractor about five miles beyond Guyam, and troll for bolis (skipjack) or barilis (yellow fin tuna). You can catch tanguigue (spanish mackerel), huge Pacific tuna, and morang (dolphinfish). In the lagoon, you can get bayo (Long Toms) - they're fun tocatch but a little too bony to eat

SAILING. GL lagoon must be one of the safest, easiet, and most pleasurable places to sail anywhere in the world. See if you can persuade Pirate Pete or Visayan Andrew to take you for a fast sail and a few beers around the lagoon. You could try renting a paddle barota (15 minutes to Guyam if you ever get the hang of it.)

SWIMMING. Well, perhaps swimming in GL at low tide isn't the greatest, but try it at high tide or at down or dusk, when the water is freshest, or at night when the moon is out and the water is phosphorescent. You can get to Guyam in abouty half-an-hour if you are fit. Dako has the nearest very good beach for swimming at any tide. The swimming at Mamon is like being a virgin olive in a very dry martini.

CAVING. There is a huge cave at Consuelo, with stalactites, stalagmites rock crystals, piles of bat guano, a million bats, and even a huge python, but you'll have to be fit to get there. There's another at Malinao, on the way Union.

JUNGLES. Siargao is one of the few islands in the Philippines where tarsiers (small lemurs or bush babies, extinct almost anywhere else) are still common. See monitor lizards six feet long, hornbills, parrots, yellow and black lorikeets, kingfishers, and other birds nobody yet knows the names of.

MOUNTAINS BIKING. Ask the PUB for a mountain bike rental, and try some cross-country biking. There is an International Mountain Bike Competition held in March every year, but to tell the truth, it's more like surfing than biking at that time of year, in the wet season.

SITTING AROUND. Probably the most popular active sport in GL, it's remarkable relaxing, restorative, and healthful. Watch the fishermen at dawn, the clouds and the waves in the day, or the moon at the night. It's up to you if you jsut sit and think, or just sit.

SHOPPING. At Maridyl's, on the main street, you can get general supplies, fruits, vegetables, snack, etc. Rosita's probably has the best medicines. Marcha's stocks hardware, bamboo hats, stationery,and all sorts. There are many sari-sari stores scattered through the town, which sell odds and sods, fresh fruits in season, tuba (coconut wine), etc. and there are bakeries opposite the church and beside Rosita's which do hamburger rolls and fresh sweet breads.

FOOD, DRINK, NIGHTLIFE. At Maridyl's or Lalay's in the main street, you can get cheap beer, Filipino food, and take in the street scene or another action video.. Ruth has great chicken and pork barbercue, just between the two. Out at Cloud 9, you could try San Miguel's beach bar and restaurant, or 5 Lyns cafe in Catangnan,. The Green Room or Jungle Reef and maybe Venerias Karaoke/Disco. In the evening, after nine, try the Melvinbo Disco, for sweaty group-bopping, or Seven-Eleven Karaoke/Restaurant . The restaurant isn't up to much, but the singers are great and you could even try a song yourself, in town. They are a bit primitive but good fun. Opposite Seven Eleven is El Nino Loco, a bit of an up-market bar.

GETTING TO KNOW PEOPLE. GL people ar very friendly and hospitable, if sometimes a little shy. smile and you'll get a radiant smile back. The girls are very beautiful and very charming, but well-behaved. There is no hooker scene in GL, an nobody wants one. Fishermen often picnic by the beach or on Guyam, and may invite you for shot of Tanduay rhum, Kulafu medicinal wine, tuba or pa-oroi (strong nipa wine). Beware, they are more intoxicating than they semm. Try kinilaw, fresh fish steeped in vinegar, lemon juice, ginger, and onions - refreshing and delicious. They might offer you, dog stew, which is worthy trying (once), litson (roast pig) or kambing (roast goat), worth trying anytime. Get a lad to climb a tree for fresh butong, coconut juice straight from the nut. Try halo-halo, a great refresher with ice, condensed milk, fruit, and all sorts of other stuff. Poot-poot, featured as a delicious dish in all the guide books, is actually a tiny fish, salted, rotted down, and fermented, exlusive to GL, and in great demand throughout the Philippines, but perhaps not quite to your taste.


    SURFING
Siargao Island is reputed as the Surfing Capital of the Philippines. It hosts international surfing events yearly. Its waves combine the best quality features of the top-rated waves of Hawaii’s fabled “pipeline” and the top-billed waves of Indonesia. Its huge, powerful rollers have been ranked among the top five breaks in the world, including the “Cloud Nine” which is considered one of the world’s top surfing waves.

SURFING HISTORY
        
Surfing started in Siargao Island sometime in June 1980. Two young men were in search of a perfect wave. They surfed in that area now known as the "Jacking Horse", near what is now "Cloud 9". Word spread around in the surfing world that there is a secret place in Siargao Island which has a good surf. Intermittently, surfers came and among them was a man who introduced himself as " Max Walker". He surfed the area in what is now "Cloud Nine". He seemed to be a troubled man and this was proven when he died fasting right in the area. "Max Walker" turned out to be the legendary man who founded several surfing camps in southeast Asia, like, Nias and G-Land in Indonesia, his name is John Michael Boyum.

Then in 1992 the world famous surfing photographer John Callahan together with legendary people in the surfing world like, Kevin Davidson, Hogn Slater and Taylor Knox took pictures riding the big surf in " Cloud Nine". Said pictures landed in the surfing magazines in all languages all over the world and - the ball started rolling.

Cloud Nine became so famous that the trickle of surfers became a mass of surfers coming from all corners of the glove. So, in 1995 the local government of General Luna, together with some of the expatriates from Australia organized the first surfing competition dubbed as the "Siargao Surfing Classic"; with the local government shouldering almost all expenses, including the prizes. The event was fairly successful and caught the attention of the world, paving the way for the first "Siargao Surfing Cup in 1996. This year and the years thereafter, the Siargao Surfing Cup will become a regular event in the Island of Siargao and this will surely project the island to the center stage of world surfing and tourism.

SURFING IN GENERAL LUNA, SIARGAO ISLAND

Surigao del Norte is a mosaic island in the northeastern tip of Mindanao. A province that has managed to preserve its natural marvel through the years.
On the eastern side of the province is Siargao Island, a tropical jewel that hosts one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and home of wave surfing, the latest sport and tourist attraction to take the country by storm. 

       Siargao is a tear-drop shaped island situated 800 kilometers southeast of Manila. It has a land mass of approximately 437 kilometers. The east coast is relatively straight with one deep inlet-Port Pilar with a coastline marked by a succession of reefs, small points and white sandy beaches. There are similar neighboring islands and islets with similar landforms. The reefs and points are excellent for picking up any swell that comes along turning into clean, fast waves.

       The best known surfing break now with a world reputation of being in the top Surfing Waves in the world, is nick-named "Cloud Nine". But there are literally scores of breaks down this coast, and everytime a surfing expedition is mounted in the area, more new breaks are being discovered.

SURFING BREAKS

Siargao is the biggest island in the group east of Surigao. Dapa is the main town where boats come from Surigao. Tourists usually ead to the smaller town of General Luna on the south-east coast. Between Dapa and General Luna is Union, a village with lovely beaches, small bay and outlying islands. It is at the western end bay and is connected to Dapa by and 8 km road.

Siargao is a haven away from the hassle and bustle of the city. The islands are lined with miles of white sands, clear waters and fringed with palm trees. It is also offers enchanting caves, magnificent rock formations, mountain lakes and vast tract of mangroves.

It is said that Siargao was disclosed as a destination by foreign surfers and scuba divers. It is an exotic paradise which captures the vivid colors of nature in all its grandeur . all islets are suitable for swimming, snorkeling , scuba diving , sailing, game fishing and sub bathing.

Climate

March to June are the best months for island hopping, beach combing, spelunking while August to October are best for surfing and other waters sports activities.

Surfing Surigao

Siargao boasts of surf waves comparable in power and quality to the waves of Hawaii. The unspoiled tear drop island called Siargao is the Shangri-La of adventures and nature lovers. It is the Surfing Capital of the Philippines and is now one of the world’s great frontiers for surf exploration.


PACIFICO (Burgos) – Long, slow breaking perfection high or low tide handles up to 10ft., 400m waves. A fine dish for those who don’t like their waves too hot.

CARIDAD (Pilar) – Short, fast left with a super-shallow end bowl. You can only surf it when the tide is high.

NEIL’S SPOT (Pilar) – A well-shaped right hand break at the base of a small island near the town of Pilar. Protected from big swell and northeast winds so the waves are usually 40% smaller than the outer reef breaks like Cloud 9. A good alternative when the outer swells are huge and scary.

PILAR – This is a series of lefts in-front of the town’s wharf, but it needs huge swell on the reef before it starts working.

AT GENERAL LUNA ISLAND ROCK ISLAND – Another excellent right hand break. The swell wraps around the base of a small rock island about 1.5 kms offshore. It hallows and bowls over into a superb high speed sections that will sometimes deliver 200m rides. Excellent high performance wave that can hold swells up to a double overhead and at its best at 2 or 3 meters.

CLOUD NINE – A worlds class right hand break that offers machine-like barreling perfection. It works on any swell when there’s southwest winds but works at its best from 2 to 3m. the wave is big, thisk peak that rises abruptly, hallows out and breaks heavily in just 2m of water.

PANSIQUION REEF – Open ocean right hand break just 20 minutes by banca south of General Luna. This reef needs a swell of 2m or more and is not as intense as most waves in the area.

LA JANOSA ISLAND – There are some fun lefts in front of La Janosa barrio and some power left on the east coast.

ANTOKON ISLAND – A perfect left wraps 180 around tiny Antokon island. Large swells is needed before it breaks cleanly. There is also a right hand break opposite Antokon Island.

DACO – Nias style right hander only, woth checking if swell is too big everywhere else.

GETTING TO Virac CATANDUANES

Catanduanes can be reached by air, sea, and land travel from Manila, the country’s international gateway.

Air travel from Manila to Catanduanes is one hour and 15 minutes with domestic route serviced by Asian Spirit with direct flights daily.

By land and water, take the bus in Cubao or Pasay terminals and jump off at Tabaco Port. Ride either MV Eugenia, Star Ferry, or MV Regina Shipping Lines. Travel time is 3 to 3 ½ hours for MV Eugenia or Star Ferry, which dock at Virac Seaport. MV Regina takes only 2 ½ hours to reach San Andres Seaport. To get to the capital town of Virac, passenger jeepneys are available at the seaport for a minimal fare of Php15.00. Tricycles are also available for rent at about Php100.

Recently, Regina Shipping Lines introduced its bus services to passengers going to Manila for a fare of only Php430.00, inclusive of the fare in the ferry.

TAWTRASCO offers its roll-on-roll-off service to its couch passengers in the ferry. Bus station is in front of Ali Mall, Cubao.

CATANDUANES HISTORY
   
The PROVINCE OF CATANDUANES, (opposite the Bicol Region), is bounded by the Maqueda Channel on the west, the Pacific Ocean on the north and east, and the Lagonoy Gulf and Cabugao Bay on the south.

The Island, with a land area of 1,511.5 square kilometers and a population of 215,356 in 2000, is composed of 11 towns, with Virac as the capital. Its fertile soil was made richer by the volcanic ashes form the distant Mayon Volcano.

Catanduanes is frequently visited by storms. However, the vessel that visits its ports are provided with safe anchorage by the bays and coves of Kalapalan, Giogmoto, Soboc, and Cabugao.

The important industries of the province are fishing, and cattle rising. In Pandan, "buri" hats and mats, roof shingles, and alcohol are manufactured for local consumption.

The province, formerly known as "Catanduan," "Catandognan," and finally, "Catanduanes," derived its name from the "tando" trees which then abound in the Island.

In 1573, Juan de Saceldo explored Catanduanes. Later, on January 6, 1576, Fr. Diego de Herrera with nine Augustinians sailed from Acapulco to the Philippines aboard the galleon, "Espiritu Santo."

Although it was reported that the galleon was shipwrecked near the coast of Catanduanes in April 1576, the others claimed that the disaster was caused by bad weather and all the crewmembers perished. Some said that the survivors were either killed by natives or made servants of a certain "Datu" of the island.

Catanduanes was once a part of Ibalon, now Albay. The ecclesiastical mission in the province was controlled by Nueva Caceres. However, in 1582, it was allotted to four "encomenderos.

In 1663, Fr. Francisco Colin, SJ. described the inhabitants as noted shipbuilders, without using nails or futtock timbers.

In 1755, the Muslims overran the island, defeated the "alcalde mayor," and pillaged and burned the towns including important ecclesiastical and municipal records.

During the Philippine Revolution, the Spaniards left Catanduanes on a motorboat named Josefa on September 18, 1898, before the arrival of the first Philippine revolutionary troops under Major Estanislao Legazpi.

When the Philippine-American war broke out, Brigadier General William A. Kobbe occupied Virac on January 24, 1900.

The island was governed by Japanese Imperial Forces after they occupied Legazpi in 1941. After the liberation of Bicol region in 1945, including Catanduanes, the United States Armed Forces maintained a military base in Panay island.

On September 26, 1945, Commonwealth Act. No.687 I Catanduanes (a subprovince of Albay) became a separate and independent province. Under Republic Act No.159, dated June 26, 1947, the former municipality of Caramoan was recreated out of the Municipality of Pandan; under R.A. No.491 , dated June 12, 1950, the Municipality of Bagamanoc was also created.

In the town of Bato, Msgr. Teotimo Pacis, Bishop of Legazpi, declared the Holy Cross of Batalay as a Diocesan Shrine on April 1, 1973. The cross was said to be the place by Geronimo Galves at the burial site of Fr. Herrera in 1576.

SIGHTSEEING IN CATANDUANES

Catanduanes Is Famous For:
    Puraran
A promising surfing spot in the town of Baras. It is the home of the world-renowned “Majestic” waves with its breathtaking long-barrel-type surf. Offshore waves are in their greatest shape during the months of August to September.
 
    Pinukpok
The indigenous abaca fiber, commonly called “pinukpok,” produced and woven by locals of Baras, Catanduanes, has now found its niche in the local and international fashion industry. This indigenous fabric has shown its versatility in the globally appealing designs and creations of famous fashion designer Dita Sandico-Ong.
 
    Batong Paluay
The locals relate that the image of the mystical face of Our Lady of Sorrows has been found in a flooded stream near the barangay of Batong Paluay. The image was etched on a piece of stone that has progressively increased in size. At present, one can view the image with bare eyes, unlike before, when one has to use a magnifying lens. Its repository has already been replaced three times to accommodate the increasing size of the miraculous Mother Mary.
 
    Bato Church
This magnificently situated edifice greets everyone upon entrance to the town of Bato. It is the only remaining structure of its kind in the entire island. Despite the tests of time, wars, and ravages of natural calamities, it was able to retain its old glory of massive structure of mortar and coral stones. It took 53 years, from 1830 to 1883, to build this Church under six different parish administrators.

ADVENTURES IN CATANDUANES

Things to Do and see in Catanduanes...
    Historical
    Luyang Cave
Feel the cool, damp air as you go inside this mute witness and tomb to the massacred natives who fled from the Moro pirates during the 17th century. The natives sought refuge inside Luyang but the marauders traced them. The Moros uprooted sili (red pepper) plants teeming near the cave, added dried leaves, stuffed them in the cave entrance, and set the cave afire, suffocating the hapless natives. To appease their troubled souls, a mini-grotto and altar were built inside. In memory of this massacre, a “Requiem Mass” is said every April 28 of the year.

The adventurer could revel in the sight of the corridors of majestic and colossal stalactite and stalagmite pillars and rock formations. Plus hanging from the ceilings and walls of the cave are countless bats who reign the whole length of the cave.

    JAPANESE TUNNEL
This is the former radar site of the Japanese Imperial Navy during World War II


    Religious
    Bato Church
This magnificently situated edifice greets everyone upon entrance to the town of Bato. It is the only remaining structure of its kind in the entire island. Despite the tests of time, wars, and ravages of natural calamities, it was able to retain its old glory of massive structure of mortar and coral stones. It took 53 years, from 1830 to 1883, to build this Church under six different parish administrators.

    Batalay Shrine
The site of the first cross in Catanduanes, believed to have been constructed over the grave of the shipwrecked Fr. Diego de Herrera of the Augustinian order in 1576, who died in the barangay of Batalay. A well believed to have water with healing powers can be found in this shrine. From the town proper of Bato, it would take only 15 minutes to reach this place.

    Batong Paluay
The locals relate that the image of the mystical face of Our Lady of Sorrows has been found in a flooded stream near the barangay of Batong Paluay. The image was etched on a piece of stone that has progressively increased in size. At present, one can view the image with bare eyes, unlike before, when one has to use a magnifying lens. Its repository has already been replaced three times to accommodate the increasing size of the miraculous Mother Mary.

    Virac Cathedral
The Church of the Immaculate Conception is situated at the hearth of the capital town of Virac where one can marvel at the stained glass windows.


    Natural
    Puraran (Baras)
The surfing area also boasts of a magnificent view of mountains and coves. Photo enthusiasts could get a perfect view of the sunrise in this area. For holiday seekers, this is a place for total relaxation, communing with nature, and simply, rejuvenation and serenity.

    Twin Rocks
Splash in waters of incredible clarity beneath which lie sanctuaries of rich and colorful marine life. Its underwater coral formations offer an added adventure for spear fishing and snorkeling. Scuba diving, either as a fun-filled introduction or a recreational dive, is a very promising activity in this resort.

    Amenia Beach
Reeling with the textures of sun, sea, and sand, one can easily lose oneself and be drifted away while leisurely walking along the stretch of its powdery-white sands and dabbling in its undeniably tamed waters. The entire stretch of the shoreline beckons visitors to take a dip in its pristine waters and wave-combed sands. The well-manicured landscape by itself is so inviting for a relaxed, laid-back retreat. Ideal for family and office outings.

    Kosta Alcantara
Its shoreline is covered with fine white sand and its pristine azure waters never fail to lure visitors to take a dip. It faces the mainland Bicol where one could take a full view of the breath-taking Mayon Volcano. Accommodations are truly classy and elegant.

    Emmalyn Paradise Resort
It boasts of luxurious and world-class air-conditioned cottages, an orchidarium, and a spring-fed swimming pool. Its complete line of scuba diving equipment makes it stand out from the rest of the resorts. Luxuriate in the comforts of truly high-end accommodation facilities.

    Balite Beach
The whole stretch of Balite and Mamangal continues to beguile visitors with its unspoiled beauty – an asset which the locals within the area are guarding zealously. The sprawling beach is covered with cool and shady trees and blessed with fine white sands, both in the shorelines and in the swimming area. Provides an alternative area for recreation, fun, relaxation, and picnics.

    Bosdak Beach Resort
Bask in the glow of deep blue waters stretching like an expanse of warm silk that kisses the velvety sky. Complete with amenities like a swimming pool, restaurant and bar, and hostel accommodations.

    Solong Falls
Secluded and relatively unexplored, the waterfalls beckon trekkers for a refreshing dip. Located along lush vegetation that grow under the damp mist of the clouds, creating forests with peaceful and ethereal beauty. It has several cascading waters flowing into natural pools. Cottages are available for picnic goers and adventurers at a minimal entrance fee.

    Maribina Falls
Gushing with breath-taking rapids of crystal-clear waters, the cascading falls are located amid rustic surroundings and lush-green vegetation.

    Festivals
    Kalbaryo
A re-enactment of the Passion of Christ, staged in all parishes during season of Lent or the Holy Week.

    Kagharong
A depiction of the rejection by the Jews of Joseph and Mary in their search for a place to stay in anticipation of the delivery of Jesus on the eve of the Nativity. It is held every year during the Yuletide Season.

    Padadyaw sa Tinampo
A people’s celebration through streetdancing and merriment to the beat of music on major streets, highlighted by choreographed theatrics. Held every 24th of October to coincide with the province’s foundation anniversary celebration.

    Catandungan Festival
Celebration of the province’s founding anniversary, and a tribute to its founder, to continuously remind the people of Catanduanes of the province’s independence from the province of Albay. Main features: street dance – Pantomina, beauty pageant, agro-trade fair, sports events, guided tours, photo exhibits, and more. Held every 24th of October in Virac, Catanduanes.

    Dinahit Festival
Celebration commemorating the first migrants to the island province of Catanduanes using the “dinahit “ sea craft. The celebration is being done through dinahit racing (Layag) with different racing categories and styles. It is usually participated in by fishermen from the town of Pandan or from the other municipalities of the province. Held every July 30- 31 at Pandan, Catanduanes.

    Surfing Competition
A week-long invitational surfing competition featuring local and foreign surfing enthusiasts is part of an amateur surfing circuit held every October at Puraran, a promising surfing spot in the town of Baras.


SURFING

For surfers, though, Catanduanes is simply home to a break called Majestics- everything else fades into insignificance. The eastern coast of the island faces straight on to the depths of the Pacific and picks up swells that have traveled hundreds of uninterrupted kilometers to finally crash on the shores of Catanduanes. The island lies directly in the path of the Pacific typhoons, many of which make their first landfall here. It's not for nothing that Catanduanes has earned the nickname: "Land of the Howling Winds".
Majestics breaks on to an offshore reef 200m from the beach on Puraran Bay. The break is known to be fickle and will not always be there, but when it's working, it kicks off one of the fastest, most hollow, right-hand barrels in the world. This is no beginner's wave, especially when it's above 6ft, and the water drains right off the sharp reefs in front of the wave. Sooner or later, you are going to end up on the reef, so protective gear is in order.

Majestick was featured in Surfer Magazine in June 1988 as a exotic surf point in the Far East. Then, it is a famous please in the world, but we can't get few information's. Now, I introduce here again more details. Majestic is located at Puraran Beach.

The beach has white sand and shallow lagoon. The best surf point is A. Powerful right tube breaking on the lagoon gives you a 100m ride from the peak. Take care for the strong current. Point B is also good, but some rocks are behind. You should check the tide condition before getting out. It is the best season in autumn and winter until December. Many typhoons go east side of the island.

There are many surf point around this island. Lucky Point, wave size is bigger than Puraran is near from here. You need to charter a boat to get there. Also you can see a lot of points from the mountain pass of Puraran. It is easy to find a new point, I recommend you to charter a boat and look around.

For more info, tour and guide of Catanduanes, contact: Ms. Agnes Sales - greenroomvirac.multiply.com

GETTING TO AURORA

The province can be accessed from Manila via two routes, the Canili-Pantabangan road and the Baler-Bongabon Road. The former leads into the town of Maria Aurora. Some portions of the road are very steep. The latter route leads to the town of San Luis and ends in Baler. This route is more commonly used. The use of public transportation is recommended for traveling to Baler. Driving a personal vehicle to Baler may be difficult, given the long drive through rough, narrow and zigzagging mountain roads. Through the joint efforts of Senator Edgardo Angara and Governor Bella Angara-Castillo, the Baler-Bongaban Road has been largely paved with cement. This cuts travel time by almost two hours, making it a more comfortable trip for private vehicle travelers. Sport utility vehicles are highly recommended.From time to time, the Baler-Bongabon road is inaccessible due to landslides and typhoons.Travelers are advised to contact locals, local government offices or public transportation companies which have routes to/from Aurora for information on which route is ideal to use at any given time.

Land Transportation

Manila to Baler
From Manila, enter the North Expressway at Balintawak and exit at Sta. Rita Bulacan. From there, follow the highway leading to Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija. It is advisable to stop for a snack here in preparation for a rough journey. From Cabanatuan City Proper, follow signs leading to Bongabon until you come to a fork, where you see a sign "to Baler" headed right. Turn right and you will reach the foot of the Baler-Bongabon highway which eventually runs right into Aurora National Memorial Park. Beware of wild zigzagging roads, fast trucks and landslides during rainy season. Use this opportunity to view the lush virgin forests of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range. After approximately 150 kilometers, you will see the Aurora Welcome Arch. Proceed until you reach the town of San Luis. Stay on the highway until you see the sign going to Baler, and you will be in its town proper within minutes.

Genesis Transport Bus provides the only direct route to Baler from Metro Manila. One way fare costs PhP341. Its terminal is located along EDSA in Pasay City. You may call +63 (2) 551-0842 or +63 (2) 853-3115 for inquiries.

There are Pantranco North buses that go on daily trips from Manila to Cabanatuan, and sometimes also goes through to Baler. Take a bus marked Aparri, Ilagan, San Jose or Tuguegarao. The trip takes about two and a half hours. Travelers from the north will have to change buses at Cabanatuan.

Alternatively, take a Baliwag Transit bus from the terminal at Cubao, Quezon City, which goes to Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija. From there, go to the Sierra Madre Transit or Pantranco terminals and take a bus heading for Baler. The last bus leaves at 3:00 p.m. Jeepney rides are also available. On the return trip, take the Genesis Sierra Madre and Pantranco buses from Baler Poblacion.

Manila to Dingalan
Take a bus from Manila to Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija. Once there, find the terminal for the Dingalan-bound buses and take a Danilo Express bus bound for Dingalan. A jeepney is also an option. On the return trip to Manila, take the Danilo Express. There are only two bus trips to and from Dingalan in a day, once in the morning and once in the afternoon.

Sea Transportation

To get around Aurora by sea, passenger boats depart from Duungan, located in a river leading to Baler Bay and Baler Poblacion. The boats are docked along the banks, just adjacent to a bridge connecting the Poblacion and Barangay Sabang. Trips to Dipaculao, Dinalungan, Casiguran and Dilasag are available.

Trips to the south of Baler are possible only by renting bancas. Such boat rides are only available when the seas are fairly calm, to avoid endangering travelers.

No commercial passenger boats are available in Dingalan. Renting a boat is necessary to reach other coastal areas.

Air Transportation

SEAIR has 8:00 AM flights from Manila to Baler every Friday and Monday. SEAIR then flies back from Baler to Manila at 9:30 AM.

SEAir planes will actually land on an airfield in San Luis, which is currently maintained and manned by the Philippine Army. It can accommodate light chartered aircraft such as Cessnas, Fokkers, Islanders, Sunrisers and other light planes and helicopters. A flight from Manila takes about 45 minutes. The airfield is only about 20 minutes away by land to Baler.


SIGHTSEEING IN AURORA

HISTORICAL SIGHTS

Aurora is a province blessed with an abundance of tourist attractions. It has its share of historical sights such as the home and resthouse of former Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon. The province also has a beautiful Catholic church and several historical markers. Its natural attractions include picturesque waterfalls, lush greenery on mountainsides, and panoramic beaches. Surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, mountain climbing and trekking are only some of the activities a tourist can enjoy in Aurora.

Doña Aurora Memorial Shrine

to follow

Aurora Quezon Marker

Location: Poblacion, Baler

Getting There: From the bus station at the Baler market, take a tricycle and ask to be taken to the site.

Travel Time: 3-5 minutes

Not far from the Lt. Gilmore Marker and the Baler Catholic Church is the historic marker built in honor of Doña Aurora Aragon Quezon, the wife of Commonwealth President Manuel L. Quezon. Aurora Quezon was known for her untiring efforts in social welfare, especially for the benefit of the people of Aurora province. Like her husband, she was born in the town of Baler. She died in an ambush on the mountain roads of Nueva Ecija leading to the province that now bears her name.

Baler Catholic Church

Location: Poblacion, Baler

Getting There: From the bus station at the Baler market, take a tricycle and ask to be taken to the church.

Travel Time: 3-5 minutes

The structure is an old church with a simple facade. Here, the last Spanish garrison of four officers and 50 men was besieged by Filipino insurgents from June 27, 1898 to July 2, 1899. This was the last pocket of resistance of the Spanish Armed Forces to surrender to American troops. This is also where the La Campana de Baler, an ancient bell, was used and later stored as a relic.

Lt. Commander James Gilmore Marker

Location: Poblacion, Baler

Getting There: From the bus station at the Baler market, take a tricycle and ask to be taken to the site.

Travelling Time: 3-5 minutes

From the left wall of the Baler Catholic Church stands a simple marker for Lt. Commander James Gilmore, who commanded the U.S. gunboat Yorktown and was captured with all his men when he came to Baler, Aurora in April 1899 to relieve the Spanish soldiers besieged in the church of Baler.

Quezon House

Location: Barangay Cemento, Baler

Getting There:The best means to go there is by private vehicle as there is no regular public transport going to Barangay Cemento from the Baler town proper. It is also possible to take a tricycle from Baler to Barangay Sabang and take a 45-minute walk to Barangay Cemento, but one would have to wade through the river that cuts between the two barangays.

Travel Time: Approximately an hour's drive

Once the vacation home of President Manuel L. Quezon, the house is a short walk from Cemento Beach. Today, only the foundation and a cement staircase remain; the house was destroyed by a typhoon.

Quezon Memorial Park

Location: Poblacion, Baler

Getting There: From the bus station at the Baler market, one can walk to the site.

Travel Time: 3-5 minutes

This quiet park of trees and lawns was developed in honor and in memory of the late president Manuel L. Quezon. A marker fenced by concrete and set on a circular cement platform serves as a landmark of Baler, the birthplace of Quezon.

CULTURAL & RELIGIOUS EVENTS & SIGHTS

Moro-Moro Zarsuela

Location: Baler

Presented on February 19 (Aurora Day) in Baler, Aurora, the "Zarsuela" is an interplay of drama and dance. Taking three days to complete (although it could be shortened to a day), the "Zarsuela" performed here is composed of several acts that revolve around the main theme of Moro-Moro or Moslem-Christian conflict. The "Zarsuela" presents slightly different variations for the Moro-Moro theme year after year. The roles of princes and princesses, warriors and laymen for both the Christian and Moslem sides are performed in dance, while a narrator accompanies the pantomime act. What makes this particular performance more dramatic is that real knives and bolos are used. Often in the heat of the presentation, miscalculations result in knife and bolo gashes. Both actors and actresses participate in this particularly sensitive and dangerous sword-play. Only beautiful, graceful ladies and handsome men are chosen and trained for the theater. Indeed, this is a cultural theater that demands talent, beauty, skills and courage from the actors, and highly skilled and experienced trainers are needed to create this unique style of "Zarsuela".

Santo Entierro

Location: Baler

A glass coffin encasing a statue of Jesus Christ is displayed in a makeshift wooden chapel in Baler. The name of the sculptor is lost; however, locals claim that this icon possesses miraculous powers and grants miracles to those who believe. During Holy Week albularyos (spiritual doctors) and amulet holders flock to this revered statue to insert their anting-anting (amulets) into the niches of the coffin. After Good Friday, they retrieve their respective amulets now "recharged with power." It is also said that the amulets in the niches are visible only to their owners.

Ermita Hill

Location: Casiguran

Located in the Poblacion of Casiguran town, Ermita Hill provides an enchanting view of the entire Poblacion, the dark blue coast of Casiguran Bay and the barrios nearby. Aside from its magnificent landscape, Ermita Hill is known as a sacred haven for religious activities by devotees of the Miraculous Mother Mary, of whom a life-size statue is situated in a grotto on top of the hill. Under the Spanish rule, a Watchtower was built to guard the town against possible attackers. Governor Bella Angara-Castillo (then a Congresswoman) appropriated funding for the prevention of erosion of the hillside and its beautification.

NATURE AREAS & BEACHES

Ampere Beach

Location: Ampere, Dipaculao

Getting There: From Baler town proper, take a tricycle going to Sabang Beach. From there, hire a motorized banca and ask to be taken to the site.

Travel Time: One hour

This beach is covered with smooth rocks of various sizes and darker color. This beach is an area called Bunga Point or Ampere Point, where local residents flock to Okotan Cave, a time-honored locale for forecasting the weather. The Pacific waves, upon hitting the shoreline cave, produce an explosion, the intensity of which, according to local lore, determines the intensity of the incoming weather.

Aniao Islets

Location: Off the coast of Barangay Zabali, Baler

Getting There: Take a tricycle from Baler town proper to the river outlet south of Sabang Beach. From there, hire a motorized banca which can take you to the area.

Travel Time: Five minutes by tricycle and 20 minutes by boat

Two small but imposing islands lie south of the islet of Dimadimalangat. These islets jut straight from the sea like bullets, with shrubs, small trees and other greenery growing on top surfaces. Kingfishers, gulls and hawks use these islets as lookout points for fish. Towering waves relentlessly pound the base of the formations, challenging even the most intrepid of rock climbers.

Balete Park & Millennium Tree

Location: Maria Aurora

This park contains a 600-year-old balete tree that was designated the official "Millennium Tree" of The Philippines. It is the largest tree of its kind in Asia, and it would take 60 grown men, holding one another at arm's length, to encircle its gigantic trunk.

Due to its age, the tree's thick roots have grown above ground, such that caves have formed under various sections of the trunk. This unique tree has generated national media attention and is now the most visited tourist spot in Aurora.

Banju Springs

Location: Barangay Real, San Luis

Getting There:Take a private vehicle or hire a jeep from Baler town proper to Barangay Real in San Luis. Another kilometer-and-a-half walk on a rough road passing through a rice field will take you to this site.

Travel Time: Approximately an hour's drive

Natural terraced steps overflowing with spring water best describe the Banyu Springs. A mass of ferns surrounds the springs, which stretch up to a hundred meters toward the source of the spring, hidden amidst shrubbery. Because a cement quarry located under the spring flow was exposed and weathered due to the constant flow of water, the cement settled into a terraced formation.

Borlongan Beach

Location: Barangay Borlongan, Dipaculao

Getting There: From Baler town proper, take a tricycle going to Sabang Beach. From there, hire a motorized banca that can take you to the site.

Travel Time: About two hours

Borlongan Beach, like Ampere Beach, is covered for several kilometers with gray pebbles and smooth, fist-size stones. This makes Borlongan beachfront different from most other beaches.

Casiguran Sound

Location: Casiguran

Getting There: Hire a motorized banca from Baler town proper and head north.


Travel Time: Approximately 5.5 hours

Casiguran Sound is a bay nearly enclosed by the Casiguran landmass and the cape of San Ildefonso. Only a kilometer-wide inlet serves to connect the sound to the sea. Its very location provides protection from the typhoons that seasonally ravage most of the province. Casiguran Sound is also unaffected by the monsoon winds that blow from October through February, making it an ideal spot for windsurfing, should facilities be available. For the time being, bring your own windsurfing equipment.

The area has its share of white beaches and numerous places for relaxation. Many foreigners have taken advantage of the natural placidity, having built vacation homes along the coast.

Cemento Beach & Reef

Location: Barangay Cemento, Baler

Getting There: Take a tricycle from Baler town proper to the river outlet south of Sabang Beach. From there, you can either hire a motorized banca for a 10-minute ride to the reef, or take a 40-minute walk.

White sand, seashells, and crushed corals carpet the stretch of Cemento Beach. From October to February, waves tower up to 14 feet high, making for excellent and challenging surfing, as experts from Europe, Japan and Australia can attest. The area is recommended for expert or professional surfers as the waves break at the reef and are of the right-hand break type. The surfer is advised to wear wetsuits for protection.

The area is also suitable for snorkeling and wall diving during the calm season from April to June. Finally, Cemento Beach is a popular haven for lobsters and other marine species.

Cunayan Falls

Location: Barangay Pimentel, San Luis

Getting There: Hire a jeep or take a private vehicle from Baler town proper to Barangay Real in San Luis, where a short walk from the end of the road near the river will take you to the falls.

Travel Time: Two hours

Barely a hundred meters away from a dirt road passable to most vehicles, Cunayan Falls is one of the more accessible falls of Aurora. The falls strongly sprays from a cliff where greenery and even some flowers grow, creating a great contrast against the white and light gray gravel sand area washed out by intermittent floods. The falls flow into a crystal clear stream tinged only by the blue reflection of the sky and its mild temperature makes it ideal for baths. The gravel bank of the stream is a sandy area suitable for picnics.

Dibut Bay

Location: Off Barangay Dibut, San Luis

Getting There: From Baler, hire a motorized banca and ask to be taken to the area.

The wide Dibut Bay coast affords numerous sights-island formations, peninsulas, short stretches of beaches, and imposing cliffs. One formation, appropriately named "Birhen" (meaning "virgin"), resembles the Virgin Mary praying amidst the waves. Since Dibut Bay is not a favored spot for the fishing industry, tourists may catch a glimpse of the magnificent Hammerhead shark and Mako shark. For diving enthusiasts, moreover, Dibut Bay is the perfect place to test out your latest flip.

Dicasalarin Bay

Location: Dicasalarin, San Luis

Getting There: Take a tricycle from Baler town proper to the river outlet south of Sabang Beach. From there, hire a motorized banca which can take you to the area.

Travel Time: Five minutes by tricycle and approximately 45 minutes by boat.

With beaches, hills, a peninsula, a Grotto of the Blessed Virgin, coves, caves, a cave-pool and reefs; Dicasalarin Bay; while small in area, offers hours of recreation and relaxation for the entire family.

Digisit Beach

Location: Barangay Zabali, Baler

Getting There: Take a tricycle from Baler town proper to the river outlet south of Sabang Beach. From there, hire a motorized banca which can take you to the area.

Travel Time: Five minutes by tricycle and 30 minutes by boat.

From the islands collectively known as Lukso-Lukso, one can hike to the white coral beach of Barangay Zabali. Digisit Beach stretches to about a kilometer in length. The upper landward shore is mostly sand, while the water shores are barricades of corals forming a protective reef that prevents strong waves of the Pacific from smashing onto the shore. The area is good for diving and, during calmer months, snorkeling.

Dilasag Coast

Location: Dilasag

Dilasag, a municipality at the northernmost area of Aurora, offers a coast with kilometer upon kilometer of white sand beach alternating occasionally with forests, hills, and cliffs. Its undeveloped features and natural attractions offer tourists the sensation of discovering something new and unspoiled. Inaccessible to most transportation, Dilasag Coast is a true getaway.

Dimadimalangat Islet

Location: Off the coast of Barangay Cemento, Baler

Getting There: Take a tricycle from Baler town proper to the river outlet south of Sabang Beach. From there, hire a motorized banca which can take you to the area.

Travel Time: Five minutes by tricycle and 15 minutes by boat.

This rock formation is actually a small island just a few meters away from the reef shore of Barangay Cemento and serves as a point identifying the southernmost tip of Baler Bay. During low tide, this islet becomes a peninsula, of sorts, where one could walk and wade from the reef shore to this natural rock formation. Around this island are reefs for the more daring divers.


ADVENTURES IN AURORA

SNORKELING & SCUBA
Snorkeling

Aurora has an abundance of shallow coral reefs, where a snorkeler can enjoy the myriad forms of coral and undersea life. The beauties of the reef that stretch throughout the lengthy coastline are still waiting to be discovered.

Snorkeling Spots

In Baler alone, there at least five good snorkeling spots, although some may have been damaged due to illegal dynamite fishing.

Snorkeling points are abundant in the southern portion of Baler. These reef areas are in the vicinity of the Aniao Islets, Cemento Beach, Digisit Beach, Dimadimalangat Islet, and the Lukso-Lukso Islets.

One of the more attractive areas to snorkel is in Dicasalarin Bay, which is 45 minutes by boat south of Sabang Beach, Baler. The flanking reef shores to the right and left of the bay remain untouched by dynamite fishing. Various multi-colored corals and undersea life are scattered along the shore reef wall, which is concave, due to the pounding of the waves.

The MIA Surf & Sport Resort offers tours to these snorkeling sites, and also rents out snorkeling gear such as flippers, wetsuits and vests. It is nevertheless advisable to bring your own equipment.

Snorkeling is best during the period from March until June, when the waves are smallest.

Scuba Diving

Aurora has many prime spots waiting to be discovered by an adventurous scuba diver along the reefs and coral-lined shores. The main snag to the sport is the lack of scuba diving equipment and air compressor units for oxygen tank refilling.

But if you care to bring your own equipment, you may find scuba diving in Aurora to be a most rewarding experience... and you may be among the first divers to explore the untouched reefs in the deeper reaches of the province's coast.

Dive Spots

Experienced scuba divers can generally discover fine diving points on their own, since the most pristine spots are those that remain largely undiscovered. One can also try asking the locals about the best dive areas. Among the diving spots they recommend are:

Off-shore, Borlongan Beach. Two miles off-shore from the beach, a mushroom-shaped coral reef runs more than 150 feet to the bottom.

Baler.The adjacent areas of the Aniao Islets, Cemento Beach, Dimadimalangat Islet, and the Lukso-Lukso Islets are dotted with numerous coral reefs and formations.

Dicasalarin. Discasalarin is full of marvelous coral formations as yet unsullied by dynamite fishers and the general grime of modern civilization.

Also investigate the coral reef off-shore of Casiguran and Dilasag, where many potential diving spots still lie barely explored. The deep waters of Dibut Bay are also home to many species of marine life.

The MIA Surf & Sport Resort can provide a guided tour to the various diving spots in Aurora.

Diving Seasons

The best months for diving are from March to May, when the waves are at their calmest. This is the best time for diving in waters far off coast.

Avoid the stormy season from June to October, when raging typhoons hit the area. From October to February, the waves are quite strong, so a sturdy diving boat is essential.

MOUNTAIN CLIMBING & NATURE TREKKING

Aurora is a prime spot for mountain climbing and nature trekking activities, with its large forest reserve areas, its vast lowlands and foothills, and the presence of the Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges.

The variety of terrain coupled with the abundance of clear streams, waterfalls and vegetation can make for a trekking experience as unique and challenging as one can plan. Trekkers are advised, however, to consult local officials in the municipalities to ensure that the area is safe beforehand.

Trek Areas

The municipality of San Luis offers some of the finest spots for nature trekkers. In its mountainous areas, one can track the trails to Cunayan Falls, Ditumabo Falls, Banju Springs and other splendors. San Luis also has numerous kitchenettes and food stalls where trekkers can buy provisions before a trip.

Dingalan is a place of many varied attractions for trekkers, including the Dingalan Bay View Site, Lamao Caves and the Rocks of Dingalan.

Dipaculao and Dinalungan also have many fine trekking spots, though mountaineers have not yet explored and marked out the areas for good trails. Casiguran and Dilasag also have their share of mountaineering attractions.

Seasons

The best time for mountaineering in Aurora is during the summer months from April to June. It is best to avoid mountaineering activities during the wet season from June to October, when strong typhoons typically buffet the province.

Getting Around

Most transportation accommodations are concentrated in Baler. These places can serve as jump-off points within the vicinity of Baler and the nearby municipalities of San Luis, Dipaculao and Dinalungan.

You can possibly also make an extended trek up to Dingalan, Poblacion. Here, buses and a few jeepneys go daily to Bongabon, Nueva Ecija, while other means of transportation are available going to Cabanatuan City.

Casiguran and Dilasag can be trekked to from Baler, or reached faster by boat.

To travel to nearby areas, you may take a tricycle in Baler, Dingalan, Casiguran and Maria Aurora. Fares start from Php3.00.

SURFING

Aurora is a paradise for surfers, with its long coastline exposed to the Pacific Ocean. The sport was made famous in the Province by the classic film Apocalypse Now. The scene in which U.S. soldiers are surfing was filmed here, and the production crew left behind surfboards for the locals to use. The locals of Baler claim that the surf is sometimes so huge that they could hear it all the way from the provincial capitol building, some 1.5 km away from the coast.

Surfing Areas

There are numerous surfing points in Aurora, but the municipality of Baler offers most of the more accessible surfing areas with good accommodations.

Baler is also home to the country's largest Filipino surfing community, numbering about 50, although there are only some 20 surfboards in the entire town. The local surfers are always friendly and hospitable to visiting surfers, and it pays to learn from their experience with the waves in the area.

Here's a run-down of great places to surf around Baler:

Sabang Beach

Glassy right and left waves in the early mornings. Fun waves-not usually big, except during typhoons. A good site for beginning and novice surfers. The MIA Surf & Sports Resort, located by the beach, offers surfing lessons and rents out surfing, windsurfing and snorkeling equipment. They also offer tours to the best surfing, snorkeling and diving areas. More info...

Cemento Beach

To the south of an old cement pier is a reef break just off a large rock. The area produces excellent quality right breakwaves over sharp reefs. It is one of the spots most frequented by Australian, European and Japanese surfers in Aurora. The sight is recommended mainly for experienced or professional surfers. Surfers are advised to wear wetsuits. Cemento Beach is usually the site of the finals for the Annual Aurora Surfing Cup. Spectators have to traverse a swamp to reach two huge rocks that provide a splendid view of surfing action. More info...

Charlie's Point

Famous for being the setting for the surfing scenes in Francis Ford Coppola's film, Apocalypse Now, Charlie's Point is known for medium-quality right and left breakwaves on sand/gravel bottom. The waves are best from December to January. The place is within walking distance from Baler town proper, north of Sabang Beach.

Lindy's Point

Further North of Sabang Beach, Lindy's Point is a newly discovered surfing spot. The place is within 15-minute walking distance from Bay's Inn.

The tall waves were "artificially" created when local government engineers opened the mouth of Baler Bay to the town river to prevent floods during the rainy seasons. The clashing waters coming from the river and the Pacific form strong, sharp breakwaves that provide an exhilarating high among experienced surfers.

Surfing Season

Surfing waves are present all year round, but the best waves come in from October to February.

The typhoon season coincides with the wet season from mid-June to November, although there are occasional typhoons in December. The area of Aurora is visited by typhoons at least 3 or 4 times a year. The typhoons blow in from the Pacific brought by the South-West Monsoon, through the South China Sea.

From October to March, the North-East Monsoon blows down from China. This is the best surf season. The hot months of May through early June bring a relatively calm sea breeze. During this time, the waves are small and are ideal for snorkeling, windsurfing and diving.

Aurora Surfing Cup

The Aurora Surfing Cup is an annual surfing competition held in Baler. The Cup was first held in September 1997. It is a three-day competition with several different events and an open-to-all surfing clinic.

There is a registration fee for the Cup (previously pegged at PhP 350 or approx. US$ 7), which includes welcome and closing dinners, a beach party, an official event t-shirt, and the chance to win extra prizes in raffles and games usually sponsored by

Governor Bella Angara-Castillo. Various gifts are also given away by the commercial sponsors.

Competitions

The Cup has four event divisions: Open Surfing Division, Youth Division, Grommet Division and Bodyboard Division. Competitors in the Open Surfing Division are seeded according to the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) format. The events take place on the beaches of Sabang and Cemento.

The format of competition is as follows: In each division, the participants are divided into heats for the qualification rounds. Each heat is given 20 minutes to ride ten waves, the best three out of ten scored. Two points are taken off one's score for every wave taken over the maximum of ten. The top two scorers of each heat go to the quarterfinal round. The same format of competition is used in all subsequent rounds.

After the finals, an Awards Night Dinner, normally sponsored by Governor Bella Angara-Castillo at her residence, is held where the winners are announced. One champion and three runners-up are awarded in each division. Only trophies are given out; there is no prize money. However, winners may receive special prizes such as surfboards from sponsors. The awards dinner is followed by a night of dancing, parlor contests, and celebrating.

Free Surfing Clinic

One of the Cup's biggest attractions is its free surfing clinic, open to anyone interested in learning the basics of the sport. Local Baler surfers conduct the clinic and even lend out their equipment for use by the participants. Lessons include bodyboarding and stand-up surfing.