Come Again, Camiguin!

The Camiguin training was not supposed to be mine. But then, with a crazy work schedule like ours, you can never be sure if your schedule would be changed in a blink of an eye. Anyway, I was still thankful that I got to see the famous island and all the roadblocks we had to go through just to reach the island was definitely worth it.

Camiguin is an island province in the Northern Coast of Mindanao. To reach the island you can opt to go by plane via Cebu Pacific or ride a barge in Balingoan Port, Misamis Oriental. In my opinion and with Cebu Pacific's record of delayed and cancelled flights, I would suggest flying to Cagayan de Oro, travelling to Balingoan by land and riding a barge in the port. Saves a lot of time. Believe me. Anyway, the barge ride only takes about an hour. 

The island is famous for many tourist spots; one of which is the White Island. White Island is an uninhabited white sandbar that vanishes whenever the tide is high. As there is no trees or shelter of any kind, it would be best to go early in the morning or late afternoon when the heat from the sun is bearable. The small island can be reached by riding a small outrigger boat that can fit 4-5 persons.  

Across the white island is the old Mt. Vulcan and Mt. Hibok-Hibok. According to history, much of Camiguin was formed through volcanic eruptions. In the 1800s, it was said that Mt. Vulcan submerged the old town of Catarman and left the ruins of a church and its bell tower as a reminder of its eruption. Although Mt. Vulcan is now dormant, Mt. Hibok-Hibok is still considered as an active volcano and has not erupted since the 1950s.

Another reminder of the Mt. Vulcan eruption is the Sunken Cemetery. The white cross one sees in the middle of the sea was built to commemorate those who were buried in the community cemetery. As I am at times weird, I asked our regional counterpart if they allow diving or snorkeling activities in the area just so you can see the remains of the old cemetery. With an incredulous look, he told me that they don't allow it anymore plus I wouldn't be able see any remains of the once cemetery. Actually, I highly doubt it's not allowed but maybe he was scared of our safety so he said what he said. Anyway. one can go to the cross by renting a boat.

The last stop for the tour was the Katibawasan Falls. The 250 feet Falls is a lovely stream of cool waters that falls down on a green rock pool surrounded by a rich flora. The water was definitely cold but at the time we were there, police officers were clearing the pool because trunks of trees fell down from the top of the mountain. Plus, it started to rain very hard.

Camiguin isn't for everybody. If you're someone who requires luxury during your vacations or you're not a nature person, I wouldn't recommend a long stay in the island. Most resorts have all the basic amenities but it isn't the same as the amenities you'll find in resorts in big provinces like Cebu or Davao. However, if you're this person who doesn't mind carrying your bags and luggages from the reception to your room, you'll definitely survive. 

One last thing, if you're planning to go the island, don't forget to try Ardent Hot Spring. The 40°C water is heaven to your aching back and legs.