Balangay Shrine, More Details You Need to Know

In Butuan City, Agusan del Norte | The Filipino word Baranggay came from the word: Balangay or Balanghai, which is a watercraft used by the ancient people in the Philippines for transportation and for barter and trade. If I am not mistaken, it was discussed when I was in the fifth grade, in HEKASI. I am happy that today, it’s time to see the actual relics of Balangay, discovered in Butuan. Since the guard did not allow me to use my DSLR or even my digital camera, the photos below were captured using my mobile camera:

Agusan del Norte Itinerary, Backpacking in Mindanao

Butuan City is the capital of Agusan del Norte and it is highly urbanized with large establishments; with that in mind, backpacking in this city is easy because all the historical sites are located just within the vicinity, accessible using the local public utility vehicles such as jeepneys and tricycles. During our visit to Butuan, at the intersection of Narra Road (where Jollibee, McDonalds and KFC are located), we chartered a tricycle to visit two museums in the city.

International Doll House (Museum), Surigao

The International Doll House was mentioned by John, our guide. Somehow familiar because we already saw it on TV. John encouraged us to visit this this amazing place by giving us details of what are displayed inside. According to him, there are dolls with gold on the head, there’s a toy motorcycle with a value of 2.5 million pesos and many more. So we thought, it's worth to visit. 

Libuacan Cold Spring, a perfect summer destination

Libuacan is a river system with cold, crystalline water that flows freely and is surrounded by relaxing greens. Since the area is surrounded by trees, the ambience is really cool and relaxing; everything seems to be fresh. It was our second option because the famous Enchanted River was closed due to renovations, but that's fine; there will always be a perfect time for us. 

MANLAWI SANDBAR, Caramoan - 2023 Travel Guide

Manlawi Sandbar is one of the “must visit” in Caramoan group of islands. This sandbar has an amazing shape, sometimes forming a heart, that captures most of the eyes of the tourists worldwide. However, visiting Manlawi sandbar is very crucial because it disappears during high-tide. Our bangkero knows the accurate time (12NN), so we experienced its beauty for thirty minutes.

MINALAHOS ISLAND, Caramoan

Minalahos Island is a small islet in Caramoan group of islands. It has a limited space for visitors due to its undersized shore line but the shape and rock formations are stunningly gorgeous. The plants and hanging on the rocks also added a beautiful landscape. If you’re fond of rock scrambling, I highly suggest to bring outdoor sandals for the sharp edges of the boulders.

Sabitang Laya Island, one of the gems of Caramoan

The island of Sabitang Laya is one of the Caramoan Group of Islands in Camarines Sur. It is almost the same as the other islets, with crystal clear waters and amazing rock formations, but the only difference is that it has a longer stretch of fine white sand. Aside from that, there’s a wide and long stretch of trees and grass by the shoreline. Of course, the wind is cool and fresh.

Lahos Island and its stunning landscape

The Lahos island is one of the prominent islets of the Caramoan Group of Islands because of its amazing rock formation, fine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. From the top view, it appears like two boulders on the water linked by the white sand. Don't mind the dried seaweed because we visited this stunning island after or while Typhoon Marce was still inside the Philippine Area of Responsibility, so the water wasn't calm, but we owned the island during our visit.

Matukad Island - the Milkfish in the Lagoon

Matukad Island is special among the other islands of the Caramoan group of islets because it is guarded by a majestic creature. It also has a long stretch of fine white sand, crystalline water, and greenery, and the wind is delicate, cool, and fresh. Instead of renting an air-conditioned room at Brgy. Paniman, we camped by the beach and stayed here for about twelve hours, enjoying its goodness.

Tanay Adventure Camp, a Day Full of Activities

If you're looking for a remarkable activity, Tanay Adventure Camp is a perfect place you can visit, just two to three hours from Manila. In 2014, I was invited to join the TAC Attack, an annual anniversary celebration held at the camp. And this year, they have added a lot of activities such as the ultra-marathon and outdoor cook fest. Since we had a problem with our schedules, we opted to travel by 7 in the evening and arrive at the camp around midnight. Upon arrival, we met and greeted a few people at the event, feeling superstars kami eeh, then set up our camp and had our dinner. By 2 AM, we proceeded to the Maharlika Hall and witnessed the start of the 1st Conquer Ultramarathon.