Eleven (11) islands and 1 great trip in Zamboanga City

I

Forget Sta Cruz Island, forget the news on terrorism, there is 1 great destination awaiting visitors in Zamboanga City.

I'm bound for tawi tawi but connecting flight from Zamboanga will have to be the next day.

I've attempted to go to 11 islands on the second trip, 3 days  right after the recent MNLF war, but i had to listen to reports that it is very risky. Rumor has it that it is through here that some MNlF rebels have taken entry.

7am was my arrival in zamboanga, and as usual, I went straight tothe market to get breakfast. To my surprise, the lady in the muslim carinderia greeted me with "antagal mo nang di pumasyal". I was at "WOW! They remember me." I returned her warm greeting with "penge nman ng masarap na wadjit" (though they did not have it available then an offered me putlimundi instead).

I took the chance to ask them too how to go to 11 islands. They've given me the directions along with some caution.

On my way to the bus station, i asked a bystander (whom I thought as an officer)  In the police compound next to the market if there is an alternative transpo to brgy libugan; i was told there's none but only te Rural bus; And, again, I was told this place used to be the camp for Rebels.

Having been to the most daring destinations in ARMM, i thought it was normal. So, I left acting as if I will not push thru but truth is, I went to the bus station.

Upon reaching brgy panubigan, luckily, there were these kids who got off a van and are bound to the community. We walked the long 3.5kms uphill and downhill for 45mins.

The kids house is halfway through and aske one of them to escort me to any barangay official.

Konsehal wasn't around at that time as a relative have died; I was received by his wife, and since they have a store, I asked for coffee.

Talking among the locals while having my coffee, I was told that there is a army detachment in the community. Just a little while later, i bid thanks and left for the detachment. 

As an SOP, i was asked to identify myself, and my purpose. Gladly, unlike that experience in Vitali/Merloquet, I was well received by these officers. In fact, since it was almost noontime, they said to rest for a while, have lunch, and sail after. More than that, i even took a 2 hour nap from their hammocks after feeling drowsy from filling my stomach.

I woke up about 2pm, and inasmuch as I'd like to sleep further, I had to get up or miss the island hop.

I walked on each of the houses til I was pointed to chief tanod Abdal. He was so accomodating, that he cut his nap just to take me to where I'd like to go.

The 11 islands park will give you the 100 islands/caramoan feel. Rock formations, lush forest, and white sand beaches.

We also got to this island that is but a shallow black block of rock where waves are eating up our "katig"-less boat.

After going round this table like island, sir abdel saw a fishin boat on the farther side. He said we'll ask for some fish catch and made te approach ;-)

We docked by 'bisaya' island. Rumor has it that there used to be a bisaya settler in this island. Being the only bisaya in this dominantly muslim community, his settlement has been referred to his. I went snorkling too on its thick coral reef (and water was even shallow at this part).

We were supposed to be on our way back to the community but Sir abdel insisted that we visit the fish cage. I was well received by the owner and his staff (his brethren) and were very excited to show me to the cages of fishes and lobsters. Lobsters of probably a kilo a piece or more, and there's more than hundreds of them of this size in just a cage.. What a dream dinner.

It was getting late and I asked that we get back. I washed up fromthe freeflowing hose around, and after, asked that I leave for I want to pass by konsehal again to say thanks. Sir abdel escorted me to Konsehal. After meeting konsehal, he flagged a motorcycle who'd drop me to where I can catch the bus ( and the motorcycle didn't leave until I got a van). 

Now who said it's not safe?

How to go to 11 islands?

From Zamboanga City, take the Pagadian/Dipolog bound buses and asked to be dropped in Brgy Panubigan. Fare is 65 pesos (aircon). 

From brgy Panubigan, either walk the 3.5kms or wait for motor habals that will get you to the community. Fare is P10 pax.

Upon reaching community, ask fr chief tanod Abdel. As courtesy, ask to be brought too to Konsehal and the detachment.



For other destinations you can include in this trip to zamboanga, see how I found a new home in Merloquet Falls

Looking to travelling to this destination? Talk to me and we'll let's talk about your accomodation, transpo, and tour options

I

Forget Sta Cruz Island, forget the news on terrorism, there is 1 great destination awaiting visitors in Zamboanga City.

I'm bound for tawi tawi but connecting flight from Zamboanga will have to be the next day.

I've attempted to go to 11 islands on the second trip, 3 days  right after the recent MNLF war, but i had to listen to reports that it is very risky. Rumor has it that it is through here that some MNlF rebels have taken entry.

7am was my arrival in zamboanga, and as usual, I went straight tothe market to get breakfast. To my surprise, the lady in the muslim carinderia greeted me with "antagal mo nang di pumasyal". I was at "WOW! They remember me." I returned her warm greeting with "penge nman ng masarap na wadjit" (though they did not have it available then an offered me putlimundi instead).

I took the chance to ask them too how to go to 11 islands. They've given me the directions along with some caution.

On my way to the bus station, i asked a bystander (whom I thought as an officer)  In the police compound next to the market if there is an alternative transpo to brgy libugan; i was told there's none but only te Rural bus; And, again, I was told this place used to be the camp for Rebels.

Having been to the most daring destinations in ARMM, i thought it was normal. So, I left acting as if I will not push thru but truth is, I went to the bus station.

Upon reaching brgy panubigan, luckily, there were these kids who got off a van and are bound to the community. We walked the long 3.5kms uphill and downhill for 45mins.

The kids house is halfway through and aske one of them to escort me to any barangay official.

Konsehal wasn't around at that time as a relative have died; I was received by his wife, and since they have a store, I asked for coffee.

Talking among the locals while having my coffee, I was told that there is a army detachment in the community. Just a little while later, i bid thanks and left for the detachment. 

As an SOP, i was asked to identify myself, and my purpose. Gladly, unlike that experience in Vitali/Merloquet, I was well received by these officers. In fact, since it was almost noontime, they said to rest for a while, have lunch, and sail after. More than that, i even took a 2 hour nap from their hammocks after feeling drowsy from filling my stomach.

I woke up about 2pm, and inasmuch as I'd like to sleep further, I had to get up or miss the island hop.

I walked on each of the houses til I was pointed to chief tanod Abdal. He was so accomodating, that he cut his nap just to take me to where I'd like to go.

The 11 islands park will give you the 100 islands/caramoan feel. Rock formations, lush forest, and white sand beaches.

We also got to this island that is but a shallow black block of rock where waves are eating up our "katig"-less boat.

After going round this table like island, sir abdel saw a fishin boat on the farther side. He said we'll ask for some fish catch and made te approach ;-)

We docked by 'bisaya' island. Rumor has it that there used to be a bisaya settler in this island. Being the only bisaya in this dominantly muslim community, his settlement has been referred to his. I went snorkling too on its thick coral reef (and water was even shallow at this part).

We were supposed to be on our way back to the community but Sir abdel insisted that we visit the fish cage. I was well received by the owner and his staff (his brethren) and were very excited to show me to the cages of fishes and lobsters. Lobsters of probably a kilo a piece or more, and there's more than hundreds of them of this size in just a cage.. What a dream dinner.

It was getting late and I asked that we get back. I washed up fromthe freeflowing hose around, and after, asked that I leave for I want to pass by konsehal again to say thanks. Sir abdel escorted me to Konsehal. After meeting konsehal, he flagged a motorcycle who'd drop me to where I can catch the bus ( and the motorcycle didn't leave until I got a van). 

Now who said it's not safe?

How to go to 11 islands?

From Zamboanga City, take the Pagadian/Dipolog bound buses and asked to be dropped in Brgy Panubigan. Fare is 65 pesos (aircon). 

From brgy Panubigan, either walk the 3.5kms or wait for motor habals that will get you to the community. Fare is P10 pax.

Upon reaching community, ask fr chief tanod Abdel. As courtesy, ask to be brought too to Konsehal and the detachment.



For other destinations you can include in this trip to zamboanga, see how I found a new home in Merloquet Falls

Looking to travelling to this destination? Talk to me and we'll let's talk about your accomodation, transpo, and tour options

Read More »

Agutayan Island and Driving a boat

As i always say when asked why I travel.. I say to experience something new. Sometimes, the highlight of a trip is not really the fine white sand, the greens and landscape, marine life, nor the tall magnificiebt falls; sometimes its the experience; like the odds in getting to the destination, especially the transportation, or even the people and their way of living, or perhaps, the challenge of getting to places most people will be scared off.

In the van, on the way to camiguin, I was seeing this white sandbar on the left side, off the coast of Jasaan. I told myself I'm going back for it. 

Then, for this next 5day trip to CDO, i put it first in my itinerary (along with Sugpalon falls also in Jasaan).

Upon arrival in CDO, i headedstraight to Jasaan. I have asked the driver to drop me right where I can scout a boat for Agutayan. I was dropped in Liyang Resort.

I knew I will be on tourist rate If i were to get the boat from te resort, so i walked past it. I stopped by a sari sari store, asked for coffee, and sat on another cottage next to it; A man seated and I began the talk. Later, he offered to help me find a boat.

We walked about 500meters further away from the resort. Unfortunately, his friend was asking 500 pesos which I think is still expensive. I had the gut feeling i'd get 300 pesos. I just said I'd check out the resort first if tey may have gesta bound for the island that I can share costs with.

I walked back towards the resort and tried my luck indedd but there's none. They were asking for P1500 or P1200 if I were to go alone. Of course, I left;

A little asking from the people around and they pointed me next to the church. They said Thats were I might get a small boat.

A flock of youngsters were playing coin toss games under a tamarind tree. I excused and aske where I can possibly get a boat. 2 boys from the flock stood up and escorted me to the parked boats. Later, they asked if I'm ready to pay 500. I said i had thesame offer and did not refuse for nothing. They dropped to 400, asked 300 til we close at 350! Done deal! They pulled the fuel, and filled the engine.

The water was so calm though not so clear. I was told there was a heavy rain the night before, and when this happens, it saturates the water.

Just about 15 minutes and we were in the island! A lot of logs lay loose on te ground, and im not sure how they got there or ehat their use is. Took some pictures of the sand, and ten asked if I can snorkle on the clams. We aske permission from the island caretakers, and they eacorted us. The water was too stirred up to have a clear view of the clams (to think that the water was too shallow; waist level only). I also had the idea that there will be thick corals when they mention marine sanctuary in their signages, but if not for the clams, there doesn't seem to be anything in there. I went back to the boat instead and thanked the caretakers an prepared to leave for mainland.

I asked the boys if they can let me drive the boat, and they were happy to let me. Learnig to drive a boat is one of the short term goals in travelling actually; i always want to know how to run these transport systems i tend to use in travelling; in the untoward event that the driver is unable to, I will be able to do it myself.

Its fairly easy. You pull that nylon rope to adjust the speed. Theres a rubber knob that holds the nylon rope so driver dot have to be holding it at a pressure during the trip.

Meantime, you pull frward the bamboo to steer the boat to the right, and pull backwards to steer to the left (or the other way around ;-) lolz).

 I also have that plan of buying a small boat, later, and roaming around the archipelago through my self driven boat. I'm done with learning to drive motorbikes and tricycles, now done with boat, next is that 'skylab' habal habal.

How to go to Agutayan Island:

Make your way to agora Terminal. In agora terminal, look for the jeeps bound for Jasaan. Ask to be dropped in Liyang Resort. Fare is P25.

In case you need to contact my boatman (or boatboy for that matter) call jay Ar (0926) 330 9092.

As i always say when asked why I travel.. I say to experience something new. Sometimes, the highlight of a trip is not really the fine white sand, the greens and landscape, marine life, nor the tall magnificiebt falls; sometimes its the experience; like the odds in getting to the destination, especially the transportation, or even the people and their way of living, or perhaps, the challenge of getting to places most people will be scared off.

In the van, on the way to camiguin, I was seeing this white sandbar on the left side, off the coast of Jasaan. I told myself I'm going back for it. 

Then, for this next 5day trip to CDO, i put it first in my itinerary (along with Sugpalon falls also in Jasaan).

Upon arrival in CDO, i headedstraight to Jasaan. I have asked the driver to drop me right where I can scout a boat for Agutayan. I was dropped in Liyang Resort.

I knew I will be on tourist rate If i were to get the boat from te resort, so i walked past it. I stopped by a sari sari store, asked for coffee, and sat on another cottage next to it; A man seated and I began the talk. Later, he offered to help me find a boat.

We walked about 500meters further away from the resort. Unfortunately, his friend was asking 500 pesos which I think is still expensive. I had the gut feeling i'd get 300 pesos. I just said I'd check out the resort first if tey may have gesta bound for the island that I can share costs with.

I walked back towards the resort and tried my luck indedd but there's none. They were asking for P1500 or P1200 if I were to go alone. Of course, I left;

A little asking from the people around and they pointed me next to the church. They said Thats were I might get a small boat.

A flock of youngsters were playing coin toss games under a tamarind tree. I excused and aske where I can possibly get a boat. 2 boys from the flock stood up and escorted me to the parked boats. Later, they asked if I'm ready to pay 500. I said i had thesame offer and did not refuse for nothing. They dropped to 400, asked 300 til we close at 350! Done deal! They pulled the fuel, and filled the engine.

The water was so calm though not so clear. I was told there was a heavy rain the night before, and when this happens, it saturates the water.

Just about 15 minutes and we were in the island! A lot of logs lay loose on te ground, and im not sure how they got there or ehat their use is. Took some pictures of the sand, and ten asked if I can snorkle on the clams. We aske permission from the island caretakers, and they eacorted us. The water was too stirred up to have a clear view of the clams (to think that the water was too shallow; waist level only). I also had the idea that there will be thick corals when they mention marine sanctuary in their signages, but if not for the clams, there doesn't seem to be anything in there. I went back to the boat instead and thanked the caretakers an prepared to leave for mainland.

I asked the boys if they can let me drive the boat, and they were happy to let me. Learnig to drive a boat is one of the short term goals in travelling actually; i always want to know how to run these transport systems i tend to use in travelling; in the untoward event that the driver is unable to, I will be able to do it myself.

Its fairly easy. You pull that nylon rope to adjust the speed. Theres a rubber knob that holds the nylon rope so driver dot have to be holding it at a pressure during the trip.

Meantime, you pull frward the bamboo to steer the boat to the right, and pull backwards to steer to the left (or the other way around ;-) lolz).

 I also have that plan of buying a small boat, later, and roaming around the archipelago through my self driven boat. I'm done with learning to drive motorbikes and tricycles, now done with boat, next is that 'skylab' habal habal.

How to go to Agutayan Island:

Make your way to agora Terminal. In agora terminal, look for the jeeps bound for Jasaan. Ask to be dropped in Liyang Resort. Fare is P25.

In case you need to contact my boatman (or boatboy for that matter) call jay Ar (0926) 330 9092.

Read More »

Hotel Ramon Cagayan De Oro

Arrived in Cagayan past 12 midnight and was looking for a lodge/inn with 12hoyrs option. I normally stay at Vines, but it's not practical to pay the full rate and will have to check out in 9-10 hours.

I also need to withdraw and the closest BPI i could remember is that in Divisoria.

Meantime, since I was already in the vicinity, I asked around for the rates on the nearby lodges. This Hotel Ramon had a P300/12 hours for single aircon room. The other good thing is they dont do 2pm check in and 12nn check out. They count on 24 hours.

Room is good, but, now, for the take, water run out sometimes. And, it can be colored brown! A big dont stay here for this accomodation.



Post about Vines Pensione House in CDeO here
see here for where we ate in Cagayan De Oro
and here's for how to commute from laguindingan airport to city proper
Then, here's my post on our White Water Rafting Activity


Travelling Philippines? Follow @CheapBedsPH on Instagram for geotagged backpacker accomodation below PHP400 (US$9) for easier searches.

Arrived in Cagayan past 12 midnight and was looking for a lodge/inn with 12hoyrs option. I normally stay at Vines, but it's not practical to pay the full rate and will have to check out in 9-10 hours.

I also need to withdraw and the closest BPI i could remember is that in Divisoria.

Meantime, since I was already in the vicinity, I asked around for the rates on the nearby lodges. This Hotel Ramon had a P300/12 hours for single aircon room. The other good thing is they dont do 2pm check in and 12nn check out. They count on 24 hours.

Room is good, but, now, for the take, water run out sometimes. And, it can be colored brown! A big dont stay here for this accomodation.



Post about Vines Pensione House in CDeO here
see here for where we ate in Cagayan De Oro
and here's for how to commute from laguindingan airport to city proper
Then, here's my post on our White Water Rafting Activity


Travelling Philippines? Follow @CheapBedsPH on Instagram for geotagged backpacker accomodation below PHP400 (US$9) for easier searches.

Read More »

Where I ate in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon

My last meal for the day has been that brunch in the JRJ Chicken in Cagayan De Oro city; A stop over at CEDAR in Impalutao, Impasugong, Bukidnon ( and the unexpected muddy 700m trek to the falls) left my knees shaking.

Asking the locals for where to eat steered me to this the locals still refer to as Mendez (ARL resto & jazz bar).

I asked the waiter for their specialty and told me it's the chicken barbeque. But, chicken barbeque has been more staple than rice in this northern mindanao trip (though I wont refuse it if it were Family Fried Chicken of Zamboanga ;-) ). Then, I asked for an alternative; was pointed the sizzlers; ended up ordering sizzling squid.

The squid was served in a super salty and lavisly peppered gravy sauce which made me hope its chicken instead and have less regret of what I'd be paying. Would've been better in the regular oyster/worcestershire sauce. Below is the menu.. And I don't recommend this squid.

Try the kwek kweks, balut, and tempura stalls in the Plaza :-). Just fronting Plaza View Tourist Inn

See here for where I stayed in Malaybalay City

My last meal for the day has been that brunch in the JRJ Chicken in Cagayan De Oro city; A stop over at CEDAR in Impalutao, Impasugong, Bukidnon ( and the unexpected muddy 700m trek to the falls) left my knees shaking.

Asking the locals for where to eat steered me to this the locals still refer to as Mendez (ARL resto & jazz bar).

I asked the waiter for their specialty and told me it's the chicken barbeque. But, chicken barbeque has been more staple than rice in this northern mindanao trip (though I wont refuse it if it were Family Fried Chicken of Zamboanga ;-) ). Then, I asked for an alternative; was pointed the sizzlers; ended up ordering sizzling squid.

The squid was served in a super salty and lavisly peppered gravy sauce which made me hope its chicken instead and have less regret of what I'd be paying. Would've been better in the regular oyster/worcestershire sauce. Below is the menu.. And I don't recommend this squid.

Try the kwek kweks, balut, and tempura stalls in the Plaza :-). Just fronting Plaza View Tourist Inn

See here for where I stayed in Malaybalay City

Read More »

How to Commute from Laguindingan Airport to (Cagayan de Oro) City

So you're a backpacker and just arrived in the country's newest P200-terminal fee domestic airport. But, this airport is nowhere in the boundaries of Cagayan de Oro (But is tagged as its airport). Now, How do you go to the city?

Upon arrival, you will be approached by a lot, to a point of irritation, by those offering the P199 van service to Agora Terminal.

If you're travelling in groups, minimum 3, it will save you to go via the metered taxi (P40 flag) to Agora Terminal. You will see 1 guy on the far left of the many rental/shuttle booths holding this sign. Cost shall be between 400-500 only.

If you're travelling alone, you can consider a motorbike (habal) for P30 (initially offered at P50 an then you'll do some bargain) to the hi way. It's some 6kms away. From the hi-way, there are jeeps to City (Bulua Terminal) for P30.

If you must go to Agora Terminal (Eastbound destinations such as Butuan, Surigao, etc), you can take a jeep from Bulua Terminal (westbound such as Iligan, Ozamis, etc) to Agora fr P10.

Meantime, If you're headed to Iligan, from the hi-way there are Super Five buses (more comfortable than Rural buses for just P10 difference) for P135. You may also want to consider their (Super Five) shuttles from the airport for P50/pax (P185 total to Iligan).

Still not sure where to stay in CDeO? I Posted photos here and here of where I stayed.

Then, here's my post on our White Water Rafting Activity

see here for where we ate in Cagayan De Oro

So you're a backpacker and just arrived in the country's newest P200-terminal fee domestic airport. But, this airport is nowhere in the boundaries of Cagayan de Oro (But is tagged as its airport). Now, How do you go to the city?

Upon arrival, you will be approached by a lot, to a point of irritation, by those offering the P199 van service to Agora Terminal.

If you're travelling in groups, minimum 3, it will save you to go via the metered taxi (P40 flag) to Agora Terminal. You will see 1 guy on the far left of the many rental/shuttle booths holding this sign. Cost shall be between 400-500 only.

If you're travelling alone, you can consider a motorbike (habal) for P30 (initially offered at P50 an then you'll do some bargain) to the hi way. It's some 6kms away. From the hi-way, there are jeeps to City (Bulua Terminal) for P30.

If you must go to Agora Terminal (Eastbound destinations such as Butuan, Surigao, etc), you can take a jeep from Bulua Terminal (westbound such as Iligan, Ozamis, etc) to Agora fr P10.

Meantime, If you're headed to Iligan, from the hi-way there are Super Five buses (more comfortable than Rural buses for just P10 difference) for P135. You may also want to consider their (Super Five) shuttles from the airport for P50/pax (P185 total to Iligan).

Still not sure where to stay in CDeO? I Posted photos here and here of where I stayed.

Then, here's my post on our White Water Rafting Activity

see here for where we ate in Cagayan De Oro

Read More »