THE NEWLY REHABILITATED BURNHAM PARK ATTRACTS MORE TOURISTS THAN BEFORE

Location: Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines

Address: Legarda-Burnham-Kisad, Baguio, 2600 Benguet

Note: This is a part of my solo January 1-3, 2016 Baguio trip where it includes the following: Camp John Hay, University of the Cordilleras, Baguio Museum, University of the Philippines Baguio Campus, Tam-awan Village, Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto, The Mansion, Mines View Park, Baguio Botanical Garden, Wright Park, Dominical Hill and Retreat House, Our Lady of Atonement (Baguio Cathedral) and Philippine Military Academy (PMA).

The Scenic Man-Made Burnham Lake

Enjoying boating in the Burnham Lake

I have been to Baguio City several times since 1988 but this place never failed to continuously mesmerize me to keep coming back. Tagging it as the "Summer Capital of the Philippines" is an understatement for it remains to be a vacation hub all year round. There are so many reasons why one must visit this charming city. Lovers, newly weds, seminars and tourists as well love it to unwind and feel its cool climate.

The serene Burnham Lake at night with the SM City Baguio at the far background

One of the attractions of Baguio is the Burnham Park. This lush park is centered around a man-made lake located at the heart of the city. It was named after the city's planner, Daniel Burnham. The park is a favorite place of local residents and visitors alike. There are different facilities for recreation and relaxation that are available in the park. You can row a boat, have a picnic, attend an outdoor concert, watch a football game, go biking, or just take a leisurely stroll around the park.

A very lush park

Wearing the Igorot costume while at Burnham Lake

The following are the facilities of the Burnham Park:

1. Burnham Lake

The park features a man-made lake situated at the center where tourists can enjoy boating with rented boats.

2. Children Playground

Government of Baguio City and SM Prime Holdings Inc. signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on the improvement and rehabilitation of the Children’s Playground inside Burnham Park.

3. Skating Rink

At the southern end of Burnham Park, A public rink was constructed where skate rentals are available.

4. Rose Garden

One of the developments that clearly enhanced and improved the park is the major development of the Rose Garden. A bust of Daniel Burnham was erected inside the Rose Garden.

5. Orchidarium

At its center lies an orchid house and different kinds of orchids and other flowers.

6. Igorot Garden

It is very popular with the locals who like playing Chess. The Garden is dominated by a Statue of the 5 main Igorot Tribes the Ibalois, Bontocs, Kalingas, Ifugaos and the Kankanaeys.

7. Melvin Jones Grandstand

It has become host to a number of events, most notably the visit of the late Pope John Paul II in the 80s.

8. Baguio Athletic Bowl

It is planned to be rehabilitated including the installation of tartan tracks in the oval, the concreting and rehabilitation of its canals to include changing the roofing and posts in the view deck.

9. Picnic Grove

10. Japanese Peace Tower

11. Pine Trees of the World

12. Sunshine Park

The following pictures showcase how picturesque and interesting Burnham Lake is:

Boats for rental for a maximum of 7 pax at P150 per hour

Another boat rental operator

Burnham Lake with the SM City Baguio on the background

Burnham Lake taken in a different angle

Boating as a means for family and friends bonding

The Melvin Jones Grand Stand and the Athletic Bowl

This part of the Burnham Park accommodates sports competitions, functions and ceremonies. It is quite accessible and a few blocks to the Session Road where most of the activities occur.

The Stage of the Melvin Jones Grand Stand

Aerial view of the Athletic Bowl and the Melvin Jones Grand Stand

The spacious and well-maintained Athletic Bowl

The Rose Garden

In this recent visit of Baguio City, I learned that Rose Garden is just a part of the entire Burnham Park and one of its attractions is its dancing and light fountain. It provides more concrete benches with an architectural design authentic to the culture of its people.

Tourists flocking around the refreshing fountain

The fountain with the Veniz Hotel at the background

Arched-case concrete benches for lovers and the like

Its design looks like intended for lovers lane

The ramp connecting the Burnham Lake to the Rose Garden

Roaming around the garden with my cousin, Nilda Ayong Cois, who is already a resident of Baguio City, I can't barely see rose flowering plants where the garden was named.

The Fountain Show

This is something new at Rose Garden where visitors will be amazed by its fountain show using LED lights and it is consist of three fountains, namely: (According to 8 Mountain Movers)

1. The Veterans Fountain, anticipated to please the senior citizens, features a flower layout with one nozzle in the middle and six nozzles in the perimeter.

2. The Reflection Fountain, located at the center, has 10 nozzles in one alignment. The water and lighting move in a staccato motion, cutting in, jumping out, and continuously flowing all in a choreography that leaves audiences in awe.

3. Finally, the Youth Fountain is where we shall take the kids. Lauded as the most splendid among the three, the Youth Fountain has the most number of nozzles and lights. Also, come summer days, children can safely frolic in the fountain with the nozzles concealed under surface making it safe for little feet to not trip over.

The Picnic Grove

Part of the park is the place where families and friends can bond together where they can even pitch tents to have the feel of being in the woods as this part is densely grown with pine trees to make give more shade to picnic goers. This is just adjacent to the biking and skating rink.

A place for family picnic and outdoor activities

The Igorot Garden

The main entrance to Igorot Garden along Harrison Road corner Shanum Street

The imposing monument in the heart of the garden

The elder locals hangout for chats and debates

The Sunshine Park

I never thought that Sunshine Park is a part of the Burnham Park. I like most this park since you can see a lot of fragrant flowers which can only grown in a cool climate. And mind you, it is in this place where educational cultural shows are regularly showcased for the tourists delight.

Main entrance to the park

The park's ornamental landscape and character

The park's events stage

The Biking Lanes and Skating Rink

Burnham Park is not only for adults and lovers but kids can also enjoy biking and skating. Bike rental operators abounds the biking lane at an affordable rate. Policemen are strategically posted at some selected points to look for the safety of the riding kids and the roads which were used as biking lanes are closed for all types of vehicles.

Highly safe lanes for enthusiastic bikers

Kid bikers in their unguarded moments

The bike-for-rental operators

Restaurants and Refreshment Establishments

Tourists and the like need not go to far other points of Baguio City to feed their hungry stomachs after enjoying varied activities in the park. Restaurants abound within the area of the park just next to the lake. Grilled and barbecue stations are many from the side of the Igorot Garden in a very affordable meal packages.

The first restaurant I dined-in in Baguio City

I still remember the first time I visited Baguio City in June 1987 when my benefactor for college scholarship, the late Reverend Mother Maria Sousa, RVM, gave me the opportunity to spend a week vacation in Baguio. Part of her treat was dining-in in the above pictured restaurant.

Barbecue centers just across the lake

HOW TO GO TO BAGUIO CITY

By Public Transport

There are a few bus companies with Manila-Baguio route for at least 26 times trips in a day where Victory Liner is one where as of this writing the fare rate is P445 one-way. You may find this link useful for your on-line booking reservation. The number of trips in a day may increase during peak seasons. This land travel has a duration of 5-6 hours most particularly in a night travel. Nowadays, this travel time has been decreased due to accessibility given by the SCTEX and the new highway opened.

By Private Vehicle

Note: This advisory has been adapted from Out of Town Blog which reduces the travel time from 4 to 5 hours.

1. Drive through NLEX.
2. Take Exit 85 right into SCTEX.
3. Transfer to the right lane and drive to Baguio via Tarlac.
4. Take the Tarlac exit and follow the road signs that will take you to MacArthur Highway.
5. Once you’re on MacArthur Highway, drive straight to Tarlac and Pangasinan until you reach Rosario, La Union.
6. From the Rosario junction, you can turn right into famous Kennon Road. This is the most popular and scenic route up Baguio City.
7. If you prefer the wider lanes of Marcos Highway, drive further into Rosario and turn right towards the new entrance.

BAGUIO CITY ACCOMMODATION

Accommodation in Baguio varies from transient houses, house-for-rent, dorms, inns and hotels ranging from budget to luxury ones. This link can be useful in your search for comfortable accommodation.

Teachers can rent in Teachers Camp for as low as P120 a day if they have a government issued Identification Cards. It is a must to reserve for accommodation during peak season

MONDEJARES PUERTES BEACH RESORT AND SEASIDE LODGE: A HIDDEN GEM RESORT

Location: Barangay Saljag, Calbayog City, Samar, Philippines

The luxurious beach resort of Mondejares Puertes

This luxurious beach resort has its advantage of its good location with a not-so-crowded place nestled along a prestine beach coast richly shaded with tropical coconut trees in Barangay Saljag, Calbayog City which is just 35 minutes from Calbayog City proper. It caters for a family accommodation, a traveler on a budget or a romantic couple wanting a romantic getaway. Guests here has the option to enjoy a swim on its pool or on its beach front. Its location is more than two kilometers away from Pan Philippine Highway and from there, one needs a private transport. But there is a public transport from Calbayog City which passes from that point of the highway. I suppose, from that point, there might be tricycle for hire to get inside this resort.

The landmark going to Mondejares

In the picture above, it shows that the left road is heading to Barangay Tomaligues while the road to the right side is heading towards Mondejares Beach resort which is around 150 meters further.

The inviting pools and its slides

The beach have two acquatic activities such as swimming in pool and sea, and boating using kayak and speedboat where the guest will really enjoy. There are also other services offer; the cottages where the guest put there things while enjoying the beach, the canteen and function hall which is good for different occasion like birthdays, seminars and etc. It has also tower in the center of the resort,it's about 3 stories high where you can see the view of the resort from above. There is plenty of space and a karaoke, for the people who like such things. There are rooms to be rented for those who'd like to stay overnight or for more days. The type of rooms to be rented are single, double, private and luxury room.

From atop a tower accommodation adjacent to the pool

Obviously, the architectural design of its buildings are magical and bizarre. Its towers are like that of the castles of the Renaissance period. Its location gives access to its adjacent beach front where guests can have the option to do kayaking, jetski and purely a leisurely beach swim.

If you want to just visit this beach resort for a picnic or just visit for the day to enjoy the aquatic activities such as swimming and boating you can. The owners of this seaside lodge are beautiful people and they make everybody feel welcome. Cottages cabanas are available for rent at 200 peso per day kayaks are available for rent at 150 peso per hour. There is also a speed boat for hire at 2000 peso per hour. This is a great place for a birthday celebration or any other special occasion such as a wedding. The function hall is available for hire at only 2500 peso free table and chairs. The restaurant is able to cater for any function but you have to make arrangement with the owner of the establishment with sufficient time for him to make sure all needs are catered for.

The Administration Building

For those guests who opt to stay overnight, they can have the following choices:

(1) SINGLE ROOM for PHP 1,300.00 - Fully air-conditioned with cable TV, comfort room, good for two persons. The rooms are very clean and well-kept with splendid new modern furniture. This include deluxe amenities like cable TV, On-demand movies (surcharge), Wireless high-speed Internet access (surcharge), In-room safe box, Room service, Wake-up service, Work desk & chair, Multi-line phone with voice mail, Hair dryer and Cosmetic mirror. This room is good for the guest who had plan to stay overnight in the hotel and looking for affordable room. While renting this room for overnight and more nights you will enjoy the stay and facilities of the resort. It's give you comfort like you are in your own home, so, book now via online or phone.

(2) DOUBLE ROOM for PHP 1,600.00 - Fully air-conditioned with cable TV, comfort room, good for four persons. The double room contains cable TV, On-demand movies (surcharge), In-room safe box, Work desk & chair, Hair dryer and Cosmetic mirror and you will enjoy the Wireless high-speed Internet access (surcharge), Room service, Wake-up service, and Multi-line phone with voice mail. This room is good for four person or a family who plan to stay in the beach overnight.

(3) PRIVATE ROOM for PHP 3,000.00 - Two beds, fully air-conditioned, with cable TV, comfort room, sala & kitchen, dining table, for family. It has On-demand movies (surcharge), In-room safe box, Work desk & chair, Hair dryer, Cosmetic mirror, sala and kitchen and a dining table for a family. And the same time you will enjoy the Wireless high-speed Internet access (surcharge), Room service, Wake-up service, and Multi-line phone with voice mail.

(4) LUXURY 1 ROOM for PHP 3,000.00 - Two beds, fully air-conditioned, with cable TV, CR, sala & kitchen, dining table, & refrigerator. It has on-demand movies (surcharge), In-room safe box, Work desk & chair, Hair dryer, Cosmetic mirror, sala and kitchen, refrigerator and a dining table. This is very affordable and the same time you will enjoy the great services in the beach. All things needed are already in the room.

The cottages along the beach front

CONTACT INFORMATION

Reservations: (632) 512-0365, (632)512-5485, (632) 514-6494

Reservation Fax: +639065553493 OR +639277185695

General Contacts
Calbayog City,
Samar, Philippines

Main Number: (632) 512-0365
Toll Free: (632) 512-5485
Mobile: +639158250089 OR +639277185695

The main gate of the resort

If you are in Calbayog, you can also visit the following:

Capul Island, San Antonio Island, Dalutan Island, Sambawan Island, The Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Shrine, Ciriaco Hotel, Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral, Other Calbayog tours, San Juanico Bridge, MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park, Limasawa Island, Bangon Water Falls, Tarangban Waterfalls, Dakdak Beach Resort, San Rafael Farm (Babatngon, Leyte), Kalanggaman Island, Biri Rock Formations, Tabokno Water Falls and Pink Beach of San Vicente Island

HOW TO GO THERE

You might find this link useful if you opt to travel by bus to Calbayog City

Please note that when you travel by bus, you have to pass through the Pan-Philippine Highway along Bicol Peninsula heading for Matnog Port of Sorsogon province, the tip of Luzon Island. Then, a ferry boat of 1 hour and 30 minutes will take you either to San Isidro or Allen ports, both part of Northern Samar and the bus drive will take you for another 1 hour and 30 minutes heading to Calbayog City. If there are no delays most particular in the ferry boat travel, it will only take 17 hours from Manila to Calbayog City but be prepared for additional money for your meals during bus stops for meals averages to P150 not to include the drinking water. The cost of the ferry fare is already included in the bus fare. However, the terminal fee in Matnog and Northern Samar is shouldered by the passenger.

Or you may also opt to travel by plane where Calbayog has its airport and this link maybe of great help to you.

OTHER CONCERNS:

To avoid costly food during bus stops, take with you food and drinking water. In addition, it is also very cold in the bus as you are boarding an airconditioned one. Thus, take with you a thick jacket.

It is also advisable to take with you additional cash for the crossing in Matnog to Northern Samar sometimes get delays and so you need to spend additional cost for your meals.

It is also cheaper to travel in group as expenses can be shared. Chartered vans are available in Calbayog City and you can even maximize your travel itinerary on a Samar-Leyte-Biliran trips where I tried it in a group of 10 for 8 days and we only spent approximately P14,000 which we opted to take a bus travel from Manila to Calbayog City and going back to Manila we took our route via Cebu City by plane coming from Maasin City of Southern Leyte.

Do not worry, if you spend this amount. There are a lot of places where you can visit in Calbayog but that will entail additional cost. Good luck and enjoy.

A 20-MINUTE TREK IS WORTH TO VISIT THIS MAJESTIC WATER FALLS

Location: Barangay Cagbayang, Oquendo District, Calbayog City, Samar, Philippines

The enchanting Tabokno Water Falls

Tabokno is a 50-minute drive from Calbayog City proper to Barangay Cagbayang, one of the 46 barangays of Oquendo District of Calbayog. The whole of Calbayog is divided into three districts. Calbayog District alone is consist of 84 barangays and the third district which is Tinambacan District has 27 barangays. The three districts has a total of 157 barangays.

The end of the 50-minute drive from Calbayog City

Since, I was only with my nephew and we were only two, we decided to board a green center car from Calbayog City to Barangay Cagbayang with a fare of P30 per pax. If you opt to have a cutting trip, whether it is far or near, you will be charged with P25 per head. Center car in Calbayog parlance, is a single motor, housed at the center and carrying 10 passengers. Two passengers on both sides of the driver and 8 from the rear part of the vehicle.

The bridge leading to the villages near the water falls

Actually, the landmark where we were suppose to lift was a bridge, but the driver forgot it, so we were dropped to Cagbayang Elementary School which is a few meters away the bridge. I think, maybe 10 meters.

The irrigation canal - part of the 4-kilometer 55-minute trek

The day we visited this spot was December 30, 2015 and it was Wednesday. It was not a weekend and nobody was around to go to Tabukno Waterfalls. I have asked around for a guide but there was no guide. Good that my nephew has once visited this place and so he knew the place. The first trail after the bridge was muddy since rain has just stopped that moment. Then, after that was the almost endless irrigation canal where you have to balance walking over it.

Rice fields as a common sight along the trek

Refreshing green fields are just part of our trek. By this time, fields were just plowed for planting rice. It is understood that by this time, they have just started to plant rice. The irrigation canals are filled with water distributing water to nearby rice fields.

The locals using the irrigation canals as a convenient trail

Surprisingly, there were some locals where we met or trekked fast ahead of us carrying sack of coconut shell for sale in the barangay poblacion which will be burned for charcoal. I even saw small kids also carrying with them a sack of coconut shell where the sack was even longer than them. Amazing!!! They are already working as young as they are!

Alternative trail other than the irrigation canal

Maybe only 10% of the trail was a muddy track as an alternative of the irrigation canal. I actually find it difficult to walk over the irrigation canal since some of its walls are filled with mud from the local who passed thru it barefooted carrying with their feet substantial amount of sticky mud and leaving it along the irrigation tracks.

Wider irrigation canal is a good trail

My nephew find it convenient to walk inside the wider irrigation canal but since I was wearing a trekking shoes, I opted not to wade along the shallow water of the irrigation canal. Thus, I even find it difficult since I have to expand my legs to step on both sides of the canal and walk like an Egyptian.

The landmark which tells that one is halfway to the falls

My nephew told me that when you happen to see the house of the picture above, you are halfway to the waterfalls. With this, I trekked fast unmindful of muddy trail or slippery irrigation canal.

The dam - a landmark that tells you that you are almost near your destination

Crossing the dam made me feel better as I my nephew told me that the falls is barely 5 minutes which was true enough and my heart jumped with joy as I hear the cascading sound of the water falls.

Overlooking the waterfalls a few meters away

It was feeling of relief and excitement as the clearing of trees slowly and dramatically showcased the stunning and marvelous sight of Tabonok Waterfalls. It was more than a prize of my 55-minute trek.

My most coveted prize - the splendorous beauty of Tabokno Waterfalls

The water was inviting then and I wasted no time to plunge in the cool basin of the waterfalls. It was only me and my nephew who enjoyed the sublime beauty of the water falls.

If you are in Calbayog, you can also visit the following:

Capul Island, San Antonio Island, Dalutan Island, Sambawan Island, The Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Shrine, Ciriaco Hotel, Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral, Other Calbayog tours, San Juanico Bridge, MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park, Limasawa Island, Bangon Water Falls, Tarangban Waterfalls, Dakdak Beach Resort, San Rafael Farm (Babatngon, Leyte), Kalanggaman Island, Biri Rock Formations and Pink Beach of San Vicente Island

As to the budget, it can be broken down as follows:

SN	Particulars	Amount
1.	Round trip bus fare from Pasay City to Calbayog City (P1,200 one-way)	2,400
2.	Round trip center car transport from Calbayog City to Barangay Cagbayang (P30 one-way)	60
3.	Affordable and decent accommodation in Calbayog City in 3 Gems Pensione overnight (good for two) with an address in JPR Subdivision, Barangay Obrero with landline at (055) 2094055	550
4.	Average costs of meal in Calbayog (Jollibee, Chowking and other fastfood) for three meals for an average of P100 per meal	300
5.	Average cost of meals during bus stops at least two not to include the bottled water of P30 for 500ML	300
6.	Matnog terminal fee	30
7.	Northern Samar Port terminal fee (Either Allen or San Isidro)	25
8.	Comfort room usage fee during bus stops for P5 (3 stops)	15
	TOTAL	P3,680

There are a number of hotels in Calbayog City ranging from the luxury hotel of Ciriaco to budget accommodation but for a backpack traveler like me, I prefer 3 Gems Pensione House.

HOW TO GO THERE

You might find this link useful if you opt to travel by bus to Calbayog City

Please note that when you travel by bus, you have to pass through the Pan-Philippine Highway along Bicol Peninsula heading for Matnog Port of Sorsogon province, the tip of Luzon Island. Then, a ferry boat of 1 hour and 30 minutes will take you either to San Isidro or Allen ports, both part of Northern Samar and the bus drive will take you for another 1 hour and 30 minutes heading to Calbayog City. If there are no delays most particular in the ferry boat travel, it will only take 17 hours from Manila to Calbayog City but be prepared for additional money for your meals during bus stops for meals averages to P150 not to include the drinking water. The cost of the ferry fare is already included in the bus fare. However, the terminal fee in Matnog and Northern Samar is shouldered by the passenger.

Or you may also opt to travel by plane where Calbayog has its airport and this link maybe of great help to you.

OTHER CONCERNS:

To avoid costly food during bus stops, take with you food and drinking water. In addition, it is also very cold in the bus as you are boarding an airconditioned one. Thus, take with you a thick jacket.

It is also advisable to take with you additional cash for the crossing in Matnog to Northern Samar sometimes get delays and so you need to spend additional cost for your meals.

It is also cheaper to travel in group as expenses can be shared. Chartered vans are available in Calbayog City and you can even maximize your travel itinerary on a Samar-Leyte-Biliran trips where I tried it in a group of 10 for 8 days and we only spent approximately P14,000 which we opted to take a bus travel from Manila to Calbayog City and going back to Manila we took our route via Cebu City by plane coming from Maasin City of Southern Leyte.

Do not worry, if you spend this amount. There are a lot of places where you can visit in Calbayog but that will entail additional cost. Good luck and enjoy.

DON'T LET OTHERS SEE FIRST THIS FASCINATING WATER FALLS; BE THE FIRST!

Location: Barangay Tinaplacan, Calbayog City, Samar, Philippines

The majestic Tarangban Waterfalls

I was in great awe when the whole of majestic Tarangban Falls unfolded to my highly fascinated eyes. It was like big dream that after looking in some blogs, the real beauty of the falls was already right in front of me. It was considering that this is just 21.2 kilometers from my birthplace of Barangay Malajog, Tinambacan District, Calbayog City. My group was suppose to visit this spot as part of our May 1-8, 2015 Samar-Leyte-Biliran-Cebu Trip but our guide was not able to locate this place. It was a great disappointment to me then. And on this day of December 29, 2015, Tarangban Falls was made a reality to me.

A few meters approaching Tarangban Falls

In my previous post of Bangon Falls, I narrated that we skipped Bangon and just proceed with a 21-minute trek trailing a forested area with a gradual assault. I personally did not find it difficult since the trail was friendly. Out of this 21 minutes trek, the first 11 minutes was under the shade of trees but then after that we eventually went down to the river and trek along big boulders of rocks. It was sunny then and balancing over the rocks was just easy.

Tarangban on its entire splendor

Going to this spot needs a 10-minute habal-habal ride (single motorcycle) which costs P300 for a minimum of two passengers and the guide costs P200. But there can be one guide for a maximum of six people. I was alone then with my driver and guide. A guide is required for all visitors.

Tarangban on its entire splendor

For some other information, you may read the Bangon Falls post as they share the same information.

Enjoying the cool cascading falls

One has to be cautious of the slippery rocks around. By the time, I visited this spot, the cascading water falls was not that much. But it is just good enough so that I can move freely. The water holes are not that deep.

Sideview of the water falls from an elevation of 25 meters

Climbing up for an elevation of 25 meters on the other side will give you a rewarding scenery which looks differently when taken on its front side.

Wanting to stay long after enjoying a bath

If you are in Calbayog, you can also visit the following:

Capul Island, San Antonio Island, Dalutan Island, Sambawan Island, The Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Shrine, Ciriaco Hotel, Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral, Other Calbayog tours, San Juanico Bridge, MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park, Limasawa Island, Bangon Water Falls, Tabokno Waterfalls, Dakdak Beach Resort, San Rafael Farm (Babatngon, Leyte), Kalanggaman Island, Biri Rock Formations and Pink Beach of San Vicente Island

As to the budget, it can be broken down as follows:

SN	Particulars	Amount
1.	Round trip bus fare from Pasay City to Calbayog City (P1,200 one-way)	2,400
2.	Round trip public utility transport from Calbayog to Barangay Tinaplacan (P40 one-way)	80
3.	Guide fee for a maximum of 6 pax	200
4.	Share in double passenger habal-habal ride	300
5.	Affordable and decent accommodation in Calbayog City in 3 Gems Pensione overnight (good for two) with an address in JPR Subdivision, Barangay Obrero with landline at (055) 2094055	550
6.	Average costs of meal in Calbayog (Jollibee, Chowking and other fastfood) for three meals for an average of P100 per meal	300
7.	Average cost of meals during bus stops at least two not to include the bottled water of P30 for 500ML	300
8.	Matnog terminal fee	30
9.	Northern Samar Port terminal fee (Either Allen or San Isidro)	25
10.	Comfort room usage fee during bus stops for P5 (3 stops)	15
	TOTAL	P4,200

There are a number of hotels in Calbayog City ranging from the luxury hotel of Ciriaco to budget accommodation but for a backpack traveler like me, I prefer 3 Gems Pensione House.

CONTACT PERSON

Dia Torrijas 09175662564

HOW TO GO THERE

You might find this link useful if you opt to travel by bus to Calbayog City

Please note that when you travel by bus, you have to pass through the Pan-Philippine Highway along Bicol Peninsula heading for Matnog Port of Sorsogon province, the tip of Luzon Island. Then, a ferry boat of 1 hour and 30 minutes will take you either to San Isidro or Allen ports, both part of Northern Samar and the bus drive will take you for another 1 hour and 30 minutes heading to Calbayog City. If there are no delays most particular in the ferry boat travel, it will only take 17 hours from Manila to Calbayog City but be prepared for additional money for your meals during bus stops for meals averages to P150 not to include the drinking water. The cost of the ferry fare is already included in the bus fare. However, the terminal fee in Matnog and Northern Samar is shouldered by the passenger.

Or you may also opt to travel by plane where Calbayog has its airport and this link maybe of great help to you.

OTHER CONCERNS:

To avoid costly food during bus stops, take with you food and drinking water. In addition, it is also very cold in the bus as you are boarding an airconditioned one. Thus, take with you a thick jacket.

It is also advisable to take with you additional cash for the crossing in Matnog to Northern Samar sometimes get delays and so you need to spend additional cost for your meals.

It is also cheaper to travel in group as expenses can be shared. Chartered vans are available in Calbayog City and you can even maximize your travel itinerary on a Samar-Leyte-Biliran trips where I tried it in a group of 10 for 8 days and we only spent approximately P14,000 which we opted to take a bus travel from Manila to Calbayog City and going back to Manila we took our route via Cebu City by plane coming from Maasin City of Southern Leyte.

Do not worry, if you spend this amount. There are a lot of places where you can visit in Calbayog but that will entail additional cost. Good luck and enjoy.

THE JUMPING BOARD LEADING TO TARANGBAN WATER FALLS

Location: Barangay Tinaplacan, Calbayog City, Samar, Philippines

The three-tiered Bangon Waterfalls

Bangon Water Falls is a scenic 3-tiered waterfall with a combined height of 60 meters located in Barangay Tinaplacan, Calbayog City. It is just one of the 20 water falls in the area. This is the reason, why Calbayog has been tagged as the “City of Waterfalls”. Barangay Tinaplacan is just one of the 157 barangays of Calbayog.

I was enjoying a cool dip in the second upper falls of Bangon

Going to Bangon Falls is a double treat as one can have the option to enjoy both Bangon and Tarangban Falls. The latter is an upstream trek of 21 minutes. But my team of three consisting of the Habal-habal driver, Baltazar Salomon and my guide, Julio Garbo, opted to trek first to Tarangban Falls before we settled at Bangon Falls. The habal-habal ride is just approximately 10 minutes starting when you drop in Barangay Tinaplacan along Maharlika Highway or Pan Philippine Highway. The habal-habal drive cuts through an uncemented road nestled in scenic mountain slopes of coconut trees.

The best pool basin on the falls second layer

One can reach Bangon thru a habal-habal (single motorcycle) which costs P300 for a minimum of two passengers and the guide costs P200. But there can be one guide for a maximum of six people. I was alone then with my driver and guide.

Putting back my clothes for the sake of photography

From the point where the habal-habal parked, one may trek upstream for around 10 minutes. One has to trek against a running stream cascading downstream coming from the falls. Solid and massive rocks where you step on might be slippery and you have to look closely on it to avoid slipping down.

End of the habal-habal drive where 10-minute trek starts

When I visited this waterfalls on December 29, 2015, I came from my hometown in Barangay Malajog which is closer compared to Calbayog City and I boarded a public utility jeepney for a fare of P30 and it took 54 minutes for the road travel to reach Brgy. Tinaplacan. But if you are coming from Calbayog City, it is 45.2 kilometers with a P40 fare in a public utility transport. Barangay Malajog is just another one of the 157 barangays of Calbayog.

Entry point of the 10-minute trekking trail leading to the water falls

As per my diary, when I took a small public utility jeep coming from Barangay Malajog to Barangay Tinaplacan, it took me 54 minutes with just a distance of 21.2 kilometers for a fare of P30. But when I took an airconditioned bus coming from Calbayog City passing Barangay Tinaplacan for a distance of 45.2 kilometers, it only took 45 minutes.

Part of the 10-minute drive along uncemented road leading to the jump-off point of the waterfalls

If you are in Calbayog, you can also visit the following:

Capul Island, San Antonio Island, Dalutan Island, Sambawan Island, The Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Shrine, Ciriaco Hotel, Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral, Other Calbayog tours, San Juanico Bridge, MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park, Limasawa Island, Tarangban Water Falls, Tabokno Waterfalls, Dakdak Beach Resort, San Rafael Farm (Babatngon, Leyte), Kalanggaman Island, Biri Rock Formations, and Pink Beach of San Vicente Island

As to the budget, it can be broken down as follows:

SN	Particulars	Amount
1.	Round trip bus fare from Pasay City to Calbayog City (P1,200 one-way)	2,400
2.	Round trip public utility transport from Calbayog to Barangay Tinaplacan (P40 one-way)	80
3.	Guide fee for a maximum of 6 pax	200
4.	Share in double passenger habal-habal ride	300
5.	Affordable and decent accommodation in Calbayog City in 3 Gems Pensione overnight (good for two) with an address in JPR Subdivision, Barangay Obrero with landline at (055) 2094055	550
6.	Average costs of meal in Calbayog (Jollibee, Chowking and other fastfood) for three meals for an average of P100 per meal	300
7.	Average cost of meals during bus stops at least two not to include the bottled water of P30 for 500ML	300
8.	Matnog terminal fee	30
9.	Northern Samar Port terminal fee (Either Allen or San Isidro)	25
10.	Comfort room usage fee during bus stops for P5 (3 stops)	15
	TOTAL	P4,200

There are a number of hotels in Calbayog City ranging from the luxury hotel of Ciriaco to budget accommodation but for a backpack traveler like me, I prefer 3 Gems Pensione House.

HOW TO GO THERE

You might find this link useful if you opt to travel by bus to Calbayog City

Please note that when you travel by bus, you have to pass through the Pan-Philippine Highway along Bicol Peninsula heading for Matnog Port of Sorsogon province, the tip of Luzon Island. Then, a ferry boat of 1 hour and 30 minutes will take you either to San Isidro or Allen ports, both part of Northern Samar and the bus drive will take you for another 1 hour and 30 minutes heading to Calbayog City. If there are no delays most particular in the ferry boat travel, it will only take 17 hours from Manila to Calbayog City but be prepared for additional money for your meals during bus stops for meals averages to P150 not to include the drinking water. The cost of the ferry fare is already included in the bus fare. However, the terminal fee in Matnog and Northern Samar is shouldered by the passenger.

Or you may also opt to travel by plane where Calbayog has its airport and this link maybe of great help to you.

OTHER CONCERNS:

To avoid costly food during bus stops, take with you food and drinking water. In addition, it is also very cold in the bus as you are boarding an airconditioned one. Thus, take with you a thick jacket.

It is also advisable to take with you additional cash for the crossing in Matnog to Northern Samar sometimes you get delays and so you need to spend additional cost for your meals.

It is also cheaper to travel in group as expenses can be shared. Chartered vans are available in Calbayog City and you can even maximize your travel itinerary on a Samar-Leyte-Biliran trips where I tried it in a group of 10 for 8 days and we only spent approximately P14,000 which we opted to take a bus travel from Manila to Calbayog City and going back to Manila we took our route via Cebu City by plane coming from Maasin City of Southern Leyte.

Do not worry, if you spend this amount. There are a lot of places where you can visit in Calbayog but that will entail additional cost. Good luck and enjoy.

WONDER HOW ELECTRICITY IS BEING GENERATED AMBUKLAO DAM MIGHT ANSWER YOUR CURIOSITY

Location: Barangay Ambuklao, Bokod, Benguet, Philippines

Aerial view of Agno River taken while boarding topload on a jeepney

One of the perks of heading to Mount Pulag is to see the majestic Ambuklao Dam and its tributaries. It was during my third climb in Mount Pulag that I requested from our tour operator to drive us to the spillway of the dam. After all, Mr. Kenneth C. Taguilaso, has been our Pulag tour operator for two times already. The spillway is not along the national road and tourists can only go there through private transport. Though driving northward is ascending and so from atop, the dam can be seen like in a bird’s eye view.

Photo taken standing at the edge of the dam's spillway

Not only that, to see the beauty of Benguet where the jeepney drive starts from Baguio City to Ambangeg, I also requested that we are given the chance to board on the jeepney through its topload where everything along the road are visible to my camera to capture every moment. And these pictures in this post are just the proof.

The spillway bridge as captured from a high elevation while boarding a jeep

Ambuklao Dam can be accessed through its entry point in Sitio Ambangol, Brgy. Ambuklao of the Municipality of Bokod of the province of Benguet – known to be a part of a hydroelectric facility. It is another tourist gem of the Philippines. Its main source is coming from Agno River originating from Mount Data where it was built primarily for purposes of hydroelectric power generation. At the same time, its construction was also for the purpose of flood control and irrigation wayback late 1940s.

The dry northern edge of Agno River

As quoted from Wikipedia reference, this dam has a maximum water storage capacity of 327,170,000 cubic metres (265,240 acre•ft), the facility, which is located 36 km (22 mi) from Baguio city, can produce up to 105 megawatts of electricity to Luzon grid.

The national road and Agno River are almost parallel with each other

Under the privatization program of the Philippine government, the management and operation of the dam has been awarded to SN Aboitiz Power – Benguet, Inc. (SNAP-Benguet) on November 28, 2007 through a public bidding along with its neighboring power plant facility Binga. SNAP-Benguet is a joint venture between SN Power of Norway, and Aboitiz Power.

The scenic national road and the bridge leading to Ambuklao Dam

SNAP-Benguet began a massive rehabilitation project that restored Ambuklao to operating status and increased its capacity from 75 MW to 105 MW. The project required the construction of a new intake, headrace and penstock, elevation of tailrace tunnel outlet, de-silting of tailrace tunnel and replacement of electro-mechanical components. In June 2011, Unit 3 became the first turbine unit to go on-line, followed by the other two units. Ambuklao was formally inaugurated in October 2011.

Just one of the rewarding sceneries showcased near Ambuklao Dam

Ambuklao is designed as a peaking plant and is capable of delivering energy and providing ancillary services needed to maintain the grid.

Its health and safety system is internationally certified under the standards of the Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series (OHSAS) 18001:2007.

Another breathtaking aerial view of Ambuklao dam reservoir

If you opt to stay inside your moving service vehicle, these pictures won't be captured by you. You can take as many pictures as you can while enjoying a topload ride on a jeepney - the usual chartered transport vehicle coming from Baguio City to Ambangeg where Mount Pulag's jump-off point starts.

Water rafts floating at Ambuklao's water reservoir

Don't you know that Ambuklao dam is also the water source of Metropolitan Manila? I am just wondering why some water rafts are floating on it. Could this be a part of the local tourism project? I am not aware of this.

The spillway bridge taken from atop the national road

While approaching the Spillway bridge from its entry point in Sitio Ambangol

Driving to the spillway is just so breathtaking as the whole view slowly unfolds to your naked eyes showcasing the aquamarine color of the dam's water reservoir accentuated with the rich blue skies.

Obviously a hydroelectric facility in form

Driving along the spillway bridge is a view to behold. Its tranquility transcends to you as an observer of the place. The vast expanse of the sight of water sends a feeling of being refreshed.

A marvelous man-made structure yet so natural

There is no doubt, if only this facility is opened in a full-scale for tourism, many will visit this facility and would even frequent their visit to feel a different soothing feeling when you are there.

A perfect place for photography

Tourists can enjoy moments while in this facility. Photographers both the amateur and professional can enjoy capturing pictures from all its angles. There is enough space where guests can enjoy and to their selfie photos.

HOW TO GO THERE

If you want "to do it yourself" visit to this place, this link will be of great help to you.