The province is subdivided into 13 municipalities and a one newly-declared city. The place is abundant with natural resources that are mainly consists of agricultural lands, marsh lands and vast forests. Until now, it serves as the main agro-processing center and a perfect tourist destination for those nature lovers who love mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, springs, and waterfalls.

If you want to know more about Agusan del Sur, you can simply use this article as your guide. This will help you understand the different cultures, discover tourist destinations and other information about the province.

The Place, Its Land Area and Population

Agusan del Sur is said to be the home of ethnics and is indulged with various cultures. The province is dominated by five group of peoples who were early settlers and these are the Mamanwa, Bagobo, Aeta, Manobo and Higaonon.

It primarily consists of 896,550 hectares of flourishing forests that gives best supply of oxygen. Its four big municipalities such as Loreto, La Paz, Esperanza and San Luis occupy 60% of land area, while the rest includes Bunawan, Prosperidad, Rosario, San Francisco, Sta. Josefa, Sibagat, Talacogon, Trento, Veruela and Bayugan City get the remaining 40% of the province.

Disposable and alienable land represents 24% of the total land area while 76% are forestlands. Moreover, the commercial and settlement areas already occupy several forestlands.

In addition, the Agusan River also flows unreservedly. It is the reason why it is called as Agusan. The word “Agusan” came from the term “agasan”, it simply means “where the water flows”.

When it comes to the cultural history, it is mainly influenced through Madjapahit Empire. This can be outlined through various discoveries including the pure gold old icon of a certain woman called Golden Tara. At present, the province has total inhabitants of 559,294 and with annual growth rate of 1.79%.

Economy

With regards to the economy of the province, workers in Agusan del Sur usually engaged in forestry and agriculture. One of its main agricultural crops is the fruits, rice and corn. Similar to other provinces, rice occupies the biggest cultivated area having 243.85 kilometers in irrigated rice land. On the other hand, the area dependent on rainfall has 163.73 kilometers. As estimated, the production of rice covers 1,072,456 people and it therefore means that totally oversupplied against the total population in the province.

In addition, one of its abundant crops is banana. They also produced banana chips and engaged in various investments. Rubber and abaca productions are also common commodities that are suitable due to its climatic condition and have marketing potentials.

The province also has the biggest plantations of palm oils in the Philippines. It covers over 11,800 hectares and both private and government sectors take part to the improvement of its plantations. They have some reforestation projects to sustain the demands for match splints and veneer. They also set up several factories for the production of palm oil. Above all, they process various indigenous materials and transform it into handicrafts; gold into stunning jewelries; and crops and fruits into several food items. In addition, the province also offers several agro-industrial products that can truly help in achieving the growth of the economy.

Highlights of the Province

Agusan del Sur also covers attractive waterfalls that are widely preferred by the tourists and these are the following:

Gibong River – It is an opening to the Binaba Falls that also provide as the water irrigation to several rice fields. River banks are rich of untouched vegetation as you make the journey the flowing river.

Credit: prosperidad.gov.ph

Bega Falls – According to the legend, this falls is known as the refuge for stunning mystical women. It also covers with abundant and bright forest breeze. It also considered as the hidden treasure. Because of its calm surroundings and pristine waters, you will completely feel its essence and beauty to uplift your tired spirit. Bega Falls was a haven of nature and mountain trekkers because of its jungle paradise in a one clad of Mother Nature. Adventurers started walking into the river channel meeting 18 falls, wild fauna and flora, thick forest and wild birds before embracing Bega Falls, the three-tiered falls.

Credit: prosperidad.gov.ph

Binaba Falls – It is one of the most attractive waterfalls in Agusan del Sur. It is located at the middle of the jungle with fresh waters coming from the natural springs. Right now, it is being developed to appear like a suitable swimming pool. Through this, peoples from the nearby towns started flocking and enjoy the clear cold water emitting from the deep of the earth flowing onto a rock of limestone.

Credit: prosperidad.gov.ph

Tugonan Falls – The word “tugon” means promise and located at Barangay San Lorenzo. It covers innate wonder that captivates the preference of the tourists. It mainly described as the bliss of nature with various orchids, ornamental and towering plants.

Credit: prosperidad.gov.ph

In addition, the Agusan Marsh is also one of the highlights of Agusan del Sur. It is one of the most significant ecological wetlands and finest eco-tourism destinations in the Philippines. The Agusan Marsh is the largest in the Philippines found at the center of the Agusan Basin in Mindanao. During summer season, numerous migratory birds came from Russia, China and Japan are coming to escape the chilly winter winds in northern hemisphere. Overall, there are 200 distinct species of migratory birds and wild animals species every year, making it a transient point for visiting species living from the other side of the globe.

Credit: Bob Tan

Agusan Marsh is a throng of nature lovers because of the presence of wide vast of water envelope with wild fauna and flora living in a natural habitat. Living in a modern world will compensate the beauty of nature when visiting Agusan Marsh like living in a world where Adam and Eve resides.

Cultural Heritage in Agusan del Sur

Aside from these, festivals are also one of its tourist’s attractions. The Naligayan is a local term which means most loved or chosen one. The Naligayan Festival is performed to celebrate the anniversary of the province. It is an annual celebration that started since 1993. During the festival, people participate to several competitions. The typical examples of these are the motor cross racing, air soft tournaments, and off-road races.

Aside from Naligayan Festival, Agusan del Sur also celebrates Kaamulan Festival. It is being commemorate every first Sunday of January. During the festivals, the residents dance to portray their tribal life. In addition, they also celebrate the Santikan Festival yearly in the municipality of Trento. It also includes numerous friendly competitions and other activities.

Other Tourist Spots

Agusan del Sur not an ordinary province because of its fascinating destinations and tourists spots. Aside from the famous festivals and other places, the province is also best for mountain trekking. Mount Diwata is one of the well-known mountains that add pleasures to all the people who plan to visit the province. Mount Diwata also offers not only cold and hot springs but also perfect sceneries.

The discovery of ‘Lolong’ the largest crocodile in the world which was officially announced by a team of crocodile expert from National Geographic Channel in the town of Bunawan became the hotspot tourist destinations. Lolong was discovered on September 3, 2011 in Agusan Marsh on the part of Bunawan town forcing town mayor to build Bunawan Eco-Park and Research Center to accommodate increasing visiting local and international tourists.

Everyone who desires to travel in this province feels great pleasure and satisfactions. Additionally, the province also covers 34 water falls excluding 34 lakes, 4 springs, 14 caves and various cascades and lagoons. As you can see, there are several spots and tourist destinations you can visit. You can easily reach the place through understanding its geographical and historical background.

With the presence of the tourists spots and other destinations, people prefer to visit this place. Unlike other destinations, Agusan del Sur provides excellent ambiance and sceneries that truly marks to all the day-tripper. In fact, because of its amazing nature destinations, the province can acquired great income and truly enhances their economy.

Agusan del Sur can be easily reach from Butuan City as the center of Caraga.

If you want to see paradise even if you are here on earth, Amontay Beach Resort will make you experience how it feels to be in heaven through their one-of-a-kind amenities and captivating views, making it one of the top Caraga tourist spots that is being visited by local and foreign visitors over and over again.

A first class beach resort with first class hotel amenities, Amontay Beach Resort is situated in Nasipit, a coastal town in Agusan del Norte. This beach resort has given Caraga a great impact and the residents and tourists even dub the place as something that is “almost paradise.”

Shaded soothingly by several coconut trees that stand proudly on their roots, the place gives its visitors a kind of tranquility that you can rarely find in other beach resorts around the area.

The moment you enter the resort, you will be warmly welcomed with amenities that suit five star hotels. Their rows of one storey bungalows have never failed to captivate the eyes of many tourists and locals alike.

And if you think that the beach in Amontay Beach Resort is just like other beaches you can find here in Caraga, well, you are wrong because the scenery from this beach resort cannot be surpassed by others, making it unique and beautiful all in its own way. Amontay Beach Resort will make you feel like you are not in Agusan del Norte, Caraga Region but in Indonesia, thanks to its one land of cottages inspired by Bali which are all made from indigenous materials. All these cottages are made big enough so you can comfortably doze off without any worries of falling to the ground.

You can also enjoy the vast expanse of the clear blue skies as it meets the deep blue waters of the sea in the distance calling the eyes of adventurers to witness how Mother Nature keep the lovely place in time.

In the morning, nothing will surely beat the scenic view of the sunrise to greet you upon waking up in this amazing place of Amontay Beach Resort. If the sun gets too hot in the morning, there is no need for you to worry because the talisay trees in the resort will give you the freshness and shade that you need.

Delight in the cool wind that blows and embraces your body and feel the waves smash on your feet pleasantly while you walk down the shoreline. Going westward crossing a small river, you will meet rock formations and amaze in the far end that trees live in the water.

And when the sun starts to settle on its place in the afternoon, you will definitely enjoy lounging in the chairs as you watch the shoreline being basked in the orange glow of the setting sun. Turning the place into panoramic view for lovers who want to settle for another world of fun and pleasure.

Truly, Amontay Beach Resort is something that will let you experience a lot of amazing things that you have never thought possible to exist right here on earth. From the exceptional and breathtaking views to the first class amenities and facilities offered, it will surely not be a big surprise if someday, the place will not just be known as one of Caraga tourist spots but also one of the must-see and must-visit places of the world.

The other provinces of Caraga are Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, and Surigao del Norte

Location and History

You can find Dinagat Islands at the Region XIII or also called as Caraga Region of the Philippines. San Jose is the capital name of the province and is considered as the center of the local affairs in the place. It has other six municipalities which includes Dinagat, Loreto, Cagdianao, Libjo also known as Albor, Basilisa also known as Rizal, and Tubajon.

Credit: wikipedia.org

Dinagat Islands to its west is the famed location called Surigao Strait where historic battle takes place between Japanese Imperial Army against American and Filipino troops that claimed almost half million lives in World War II. In the east face the Pacific Ocean in which the location of immeasurable Philippine Deep.

Way back before, this island was a part of Surigao Del Norte’s first district. But during the year 2006, precisely on December 2 of that year, the island has become a province. This is because of the approval of the Republic Act No. 9355.

But on the month of February in 2010, there is declaration from the Philippine Supreme Court that Dinagat Islands Province is null and void. This is due to the inability of the place to come up with the population requirements as well as land area standards. Since then, the island returned as part of the Surigao Del Norte Province. But on the same year, specifically on March 30, 2011, there is reversion of the ruling of the Supreme Court and the place is successfully declared as a new legitimate province.

The Mystical Islands

Credit: Dept. of Tourism Caraga

Once you are already on the island, do not forget to take a firsthand look at the majestic and breathtaking view of the Dinagat Islands sunset. The view will surely make you gasp in awe due to excitement and elating scenery in the sky. They say that people who do not fear to go to this place will certainly understand the legend behind this naturally architectural place. Moreover, those individuals who have pure hearts will only be the ones who will see the real meaning of the Dinagat Islands mystery.

Aside from the wonders and majestic looks of Dinagat Islands sunset, this mysterious place still has lots to offer to you. As you go along with your travelling, your attention will be captivated by the enchanting views of Lalaking Bukid in Basilisa. This is among the islands in this place that will surely amaze you by its one of a kind looks and its majestic aura. Aside from that, your attention will also be captured by the Babaeng Bukid in Tubajon.

Credit: Dept. of Tourism Caraga

As you will continue your tour in the place, you will surely be captivated by the view of the Islander’s Castle. You can get an access of this one of a kind view by means of boat. Once you are far and you are looking at the island, you will definitely think that there is a real castle established in the place. And as you get nearer the Islander Castle, you will feel only extreme amazement.

Other Wonders in Dinagat Islands

Credit: Dept. of Tourism Caraga

Aside from the natural sceneries you can encounter in this place, the PBMA President’s House is also one of the catchy landmarks in the place. The walls of this house are designed with matching animals. The carving of the designs portrays a group of animals parading to the house.

Credit: Dept. of Tourism Caraga

Additionally, Dinagat Islands are also known for its resorts, caves and beaches. This is like Boracay 2.0 where you can find fine white sand beaches. Examples of the popular other tourist spots here are Cab-ilan Gamay Beach in Dinagat, Cab-ilan Beach, Ben Paz Mountain Resort and Oasis Islet Resort in Libjo, Quano Blue Lagoon and Quano Cave, Talisay Beach in Tubajon, Hinabyan and Leandro’s Beach Resort in Cagdianao, Legaspi Water Falls, Sayaw Beach, Tagberayan Beach, Puerto Prinsesa Beach & Hagakhak Cave in Basilisa, Bitaog Beach, Lake Bababu and many more.

Credit: Dept. of Tourism Caraga

No doubt that Dinagat Islands is a very mystical place. Till now, there are lots of mysteries that are yet to be unveiled. If you want to be the first one to unveil such mysteries, a tour in the place will be your key to know the answers to such mysteries of Dinagat Islands. This is how Caraga Region became an amazing place to visits.

All About Caraga

Caraga is a region of the Philippines on the northeastern part of Mindanao, an island. Caraga has beautiful weather which is classified under a type 2 climate. In the Philippines they have four specific types of climates (1 through 4). A type 2 climate means that there is no specified dry season with a lot of rain ranging from November to January. It is a beautiful region with many things for you and your family to look forward to!

Caraga Tourist Spots

There are an abundance of tourist attractions that you can check out during your vacation in Caraga. There is surfing, trekking, mountain-biking, island hopping, scuba diving, visiting the beaches, spelunking, bird watching, and many events and festivals.

1. Surfing

If you are interested in surfing you can travel a small distance to Siargao. Siargao is the surfing capital of the Philippines and so you can expect for the tide to be amazing. The surf combines the best waves of Hawaii and it also has the best waves of Indonesia all in one. The surf off of the coast of Siargao has the famed “Cloud Nine” which is one of the world’s top surfing waves.

2. Trekking

There are two main mountains that are the best for trekking or mountain climbing. There is Mt. Mas-ai and Mt. Hilong-Hilong. These mountains provide the best views imaginable and picturesque landscapes that are absolutely breathtaking. You can see all of the lakes and even take photographs of them for your scrapbook at home. Never regret witnessing those panoramic views of amazing Butuan Bay while in the distance the volcanic appearance of Camiguin Island. These are just 2 of the established trekking paths but there are thousands of paths that have been untouched by tourists.

3. Mountain-Biking

There are amazing biking trails around the city of Butuan and Surigao. There are easy hills for the less advanced bikers and intense hills for those with more skill. They have an extremely futile biking industry and it is one of the most popular activities for both residents of the island and tourists.

4. Island Hopping

Island hopping is a popular activity no matter where you go for your vacation. You basically go from island to island to see new landscapes and some more breathtaking views. You can take a chartered boat to new locations and you can see the beautiful coral reefs and the majestic squids and blue marlin fish.

5. Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is another popular tourist attraction. Take your family out on a nice day and journey deep into the ocean to see all of the gorgeous underwater sea life. You can scuba dive off of the coasts of Surigao if you are in for more of an adventure.

6. Spelunking

If you decide to go spelunking you can see the limestone karst bedrock within Surigao and Agusan. They also feature dozens of caves but you generally won’t see recreational cavers there. You can go on adventurous cave expeditions and see all of the limestone, stalactites, columns, and carved stalagmites.

7. Events and Festivals

There are plenty of events and festivals that you can be a part of within Caraga. All of the festivals give an eye opening insight into the culture of the Philippines. There are always festivals, regardless of the time of year some of them include: Bonok-Bonok Maradjao Karadjao, and Balangay. If you’re interested in some more surfing you can watch surfers from all over the world compete in Siargao to test their skills during the annual surfing competition.

Caraga is a beautiful and wonderful place to travel if you are interested in a family friendly environment. With their white sand beaches and their crystal clear blue water, you will be overwhelmed as soon as you step off of the plane. Compared to other travel destinations, Caraga is the creme de la creme so do your research today and book that well needed vacation!

The government agencies in the locality, like Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the eco-tourism in the region, have already recognized the 127 Caraga tourist spots and are now working to attract more foreign and local tourists to experience this wonderful paradise on Earth.

Caraga is made up of several provinces including Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur, Agusan del Norte and Agusan del Sur, the newly created province of Dinagat Islands, with cities such as Butuan, Bislig, and Surigao. Last February, the Supreme Court approved the creation of another three new cities of Caraga Region, Cabadbaran, Bayugan and Tandag. Butuan which became the capital of Caraga Region houses history as one of Caraga tourist spot destinations.

Every year, there are surfing tournaments conducted in General Luna town of Surigao del Norte’s Siargao Island called Cloud 9. All tilts are meant for both foreigners and locals. Here, competitors and visitors are equally enjoying the playful waves and winds from the astonishing sea advantageous for the sport. Well, this is without mentioning the unspoiled and spectacular beaches and homelike tourist inns that only Caraga can offer.

Tourists are also being lured by Agusan Marsh wildlife haven with 19,196.588 hectares which stretch the rich shores of six municipalities in total. The country’s marsh lands used to suffer a dismal state because of depressing human spoilage. But the improved efforts of private entities and the government have led to full rejuvenation of several areas of marsh wildlife and made them into one of Caraga tourist spots.

Marsh lands can be regarded as important for keeping the marine life, particularly the thriving, propagating and endangered. The marine life only thrives in the natural habitats like the areas of the marsh wildlife. Agusan Marsh wildlife teems with marine life of the tropic that are not seen in other areas in the world.

First on the list of the wonders in the southern part of Caraga is Bucas Grande’s well acclaimed Sohoton Cove. This is in Socorro town of Surigao del Norte. There is also Catadman’s interesting rock formation that is naturally sculptured, known as Punta Calabera. Another of the Caraga tourist spots is Zaragoza’s rock formation that is definitely a wonder of nature and Bitaugan’s magic whirlpool, both of which are found in the city of Surigao.

Other Caraga Region’s tourist spots can be seen in northern and southern parts of Surigao and Agusan yet most of these are still awaiting discovery, harnessing as well as promotion. All of these natural wonders in Caraga are being protected and conserved by units of the local government as well as businessmen.

Mindanao is one haven in Philippines of various astonishing yet curiously natural picturesque sceneries, and most of these can never be surpassed by other spots of the world. Caraga is among the many regions that vividly illustrate this outright tourism fact as the Caraga Region combines challenge, beauty and mystery into one complete package.

Tandag which was declared recently as one component city of Surigao del Sur was lucky enough to become a city which hounded some questionable eligibility from Supreme Court decisions. Until last February the decision was final with other new cities of Caraga Region, Bayugan City and Cabadbaran City.

I have to take the advantage because Tandag is much closer to Cagwait White Beach which will take half hour of travel compare to my origin place Butuan City which has almost three hours.

I have been dreaming Cagwait White Beach known as Boracay of Caraga. In my first post I was just a passerby witnessing a billboard for Kaliguan Festival for a quick moment of time then gone, then go back to my birthplace Butuan City, the center of Caraga Region.

The windy morning greeted me as I move out from the door looking some chair at the center of the cafeteria I live. The morning was just quiet and no one else in sight making a move, not anything from the lighted streets leveled before my eyes.

Looking passed the street constructed in a mountain top while I am sitting at the rooftop of a three-story building. A unique parallel position between me and the street is enough like a closer world in the outside.

Sitting the chair in a quiet and still atmosphere, giving me some cool reminiscent after doing my job yesterday from those professional head teachers who want to learn more of computer programs. Some of them find it hard to communicate since they are getting old and hate the technical word of computer language. They spar the mouse in their hand like holding tight causing tired muscles clicking left and pressing hard. And maybe hearing the word mouse is not a joke because they believe it is a pest running in the corner of the house or ruining the crops in the backyards.

The cold wind started drifting my skin layer as I opened the glass in a table top to get a sachet of coffee. If someone witness something strange going at the top then it might kill me since a thief mission started before dawn. But they believe visitor started pulling up everything for his own mission.

Zipping a cup of coffee to fight against the cold wind is just a moment to get energize early morning before moving to bus terminal en route to Cagwait White Beach.

Bus Terminal to Cagwait White Beach

Leaving the building I find my way of hundred stairs in climbing up to the street of Tandag. Walking through a terminal bus in a near distance never mind the dawn started to emerge in a cool and quiet morning. Meeting few structures along the streets with few people moving till up myself in terminal. Seems Tandag was just a baby hungry for development as the state of city hood begin for years.

Sitting in a rural bus was just typical setting where few passengers coming from different locations in going to some rural areas of the province. I notice young man carrying 30 brand new laptops sealed in package to be distributed in remote areas the farthest from Tandag with no fear of apprehension from would-be robbers along the way when sky still dark. When asked where to deliver he answered to Tagbina.

Deal business in a far-flung town that is surpassing seven more towns I guess before reaching Tagbina. Business is part of struggle from day to day when strangers coming in and out in the bus. He talks anyone he meet in the bus and telling them could be the cheapest laptops you can acquire if you have me but keeping an eye to his valuable assets.

This young man is set to become an entrepreneur for life if anything goes alright in his travel for the rest of his life.

Technology has gone so far that started in the Western World, and now the demands of thirty laptops went through in no time in the remote rural town of the province. Peoples seems addicted to the technology and they can acquire easily through cash on delivery or installment process.

The price of laptops nowadays goes in a downward trend since oversupply and competitive market becomes apparent, added measure was the invasion of mobile computing world like the rise of smartphones and tablets.

This young man promised everyone of having the advantage, and business became his recipe in life. I almost forgot where I have to go then someone shouting for Cagwait, till that moment I consumed 30 minutes or more, when I move out from the bus I am already in the center town of Cagwait.

Embracing Boracay Of Caraga

Along the highway, there was an adjacent road in going to Cagwait White Beach Resort and you have to wait for single motor called ‘habal habal’ in local community to carry you to the beach. Since still 6 in the morning, wrap up myself alone do the walking for hundreds of meters till I drop in a distance and my forehead badly sweating.

I think I have a bad estimate when someone told me you can reach Cagwait White Beach Resort by walking. I guess it was just kilometers away.

Single motor or ‘habal-habal’ at last came to the rescue and drop me at the entrance of Cagwait White Beach. Of course, seeing a vast land of white sands was an exciting tone and lifting the spirit for those first timers wants to make historic visit in the ‘Unseen Paradise’. The white line curving in a distance paints a warm impression. Sunrise began spreading its rays that merge in the ocean and sands putting glowing effects in Mother Nature.

Skies were clear and the weather was perfect for just visitor and incoming visitors of the day. Exploring the scene of natures it is captivating to say what others telling when witness a horseshoe shape paradise resort facing the Pacific Ocean with clear blue water mixed of blinking crystal when rays started to elope with water that bounces the large waves in the shorelines.

High tide started to diminish as large waves contains the white sand beach like sometimes an angry mob in a friendly gestures. The sounds of the bouncing waves sometimes like a bomb, but if someone asked me how it did to my ears they are sweet like a gong of music spreading healthy tone inside the auditory nerve. They played like magic as the bluish clear water mixed in fine white sand leveled each other fighting in the shoreline.

I walked a straight line tried to investigate how Cagwait White Beach became famous in the minds of the local. I have not seen anyone in the beachline except on the base of the curve in the far where three peoples never end their revelry embracing the white sand beach for life. In this moment I owned the beach alone drifting in a quiet pristine paradise.

This place became Boracay of Caraga but in an opposite rivalry since Boracay already a populous shorelines bumping each other shoulders either foreign or local tourists along the way. But here in Cagwait White Beach is like walking in a no man’s land, at least I met two fishermen along the way busy untangling the net with their few catches.

It seems walking alone with my bare feet as I used to be, touching in the wilderness the cotton like sands which formed my feet across for miles. I have never felt exhausted and drained. Energy is continuing and soul is alive when heart engaging the distance of the sands. When looking back of what I accomplished I can’t believe of what I have done. Those falling sweats in the skin started influencing the healthy lifestyle in the sea.

At the end portion of the beach find my way of small rocks littered the sea. Sitting in one of the rocks find a resting place while looking back the baseline of the horseshoe shape paradise which becoming far away in the naked eyes. The white lines draw back the coastlines witnessing one end to the other end.

The waves of the sea started splashing my feet, my mind striking back how many miles it takes in reaching the opposite end of the white curve. The paradise is too long to explore and losing the time embracing the whole beach.

I was impressed when mountains and coconut trees forming alliance of Mother Natures behind a pristine white beaches. But if you know how mountains behave when it has its own threatening formations like when giant crocodile submerge in the sea waiting for a victim in a moments of fun and adventures. In a tropical place like Caraga, mountains and landscapes forming like wild animals added attraction before the eyes.

Digging More of Cagwait White Beach

Cagwait White Beach Resort became known before as Waikiki Beach in the Philippines when famous American pilot Charles Lindbergh witness the horseshoe formation while on plane likened in his hometown resort in Hawaii islands.

The discovery was just an accident when the purpose of coming in Caraga Region is for the wildlife campaign when the land in Cagwait mountainous area under concessions of logging industry turns out a sanctuary of Philippine eagles. Since then history became the tagline when Cagwait White Beach having a twin resort located in Hawaii Islands.

Peoples from different location of Caraga and Philippines started flocking to witness the celebrations of Kaliguan Festivals every June 24th of the year. Tribal dance takes pride wearing colourful ethnic dress in the middle of the celebrations with the beauties entrance vying for Perlas ng Kaliguan.

Kaliguan Festival started in 1996 that brought the tagline of Cagwait White Beach as the ‘Unseen Paradise’ but not anymore as far as neighboring towns of Surigao del Sur and the entire Caraga Region. In addition of road project completion from Butuan City in going to Tandag City, Cagwait White Beach pose a perfect conditions when escape from urban life.

Believing what you have seen the wonder of natures what to do is capture the sights and sounds that is lacking before the young years of life.

The beach of Naked Island of General Luna was luscious white when someone witness the powdery white sands surrounded the clear blue water from the ocean. How will a drifter imagined drifting in an island that was white and less colors combined, added treasures were group of migrating birds from the sky landed the soft sand Naked Island of General Luna.

The paradise seems to offer human kindness when landed your feet in a cotton-like character forms a sweet tingling when walking. This is just one quality of naked coral island that is too small to abuse and explore but interesting. Your priceless destination dictates the human nature that opportunity is rare as you discovered the beauty of nature.

The Naked Island of General Luna shows that she is not alone in the middle of the sea. The neighboring group of tempting islands like the lush green land with white coastlines in a distance calling it Dako Island. Sensing another paradise closer was a cute neat white line with coconut trees called Guyam Island. In the distance was another adventure calling for Corregidor Island. Standing the Naked Island of General Luna seems you have everything before the curious naked eye.

In front witness the mainland attraction in the town of General Luna is a long stretch of white sand beach going to the surfing capital of the Philippines called Cloud 9.

This is how Mother Nature takes place Caraga as favorite haven to all creatures in the world. Living from the edge of the world away from modern civilization untouched and untamed by human conduct.

Credit: Department of Tourism Caraga

The luxury hotel was somewhat embracing in a God-made steep mountain blending like a natural thing facing the historic ocean breeze which we call it the never fading revelations the Battle of Surigao Strait. For the sake of history, the battle claimed hundreds of thousands of lives between the American and Filipino soldiers against from advancing Japanese Imperial Army in World War II.

Well, somewhat google my minds when I entered history. I learned few from history books that it hit my mind and heart again when getting back and starts digging the past. I live in Butuan City with its colourful history. The name Caraga was discovered in an old map with a name ‘provincia de caraga’ when Magellan and his men started discovering the islands taking the first route in the Philippines which is now called Surigao Strait.

History became the important aspect in life since I was a kid because of learning it from school. I will never forget how my teachers reveal to us that they are teaching the wrong history when the First Mass in the Philippines was held in Limasawa of Leyte. The recovered materials, facts and evidences of the past prove Butuan as the real throne to history not mentioning the famed Balangay Boats existed in 320 AD. The claim of First Mass gives value and meaning to the present cultural heritage where earliest colonizers tend to associates with early inhabitants.

Set Me Up for Surigao City

During the day, preparation getting much occupied since training will starts next week for the introduction of new system. Preparation is not easy after all because aside from monetary activities preparation was done in the state of physical and mental well-being. But that is not an excellent thing to do when I attended training due to exhaustion and loss of energy. Training will be focused somewhat about system enhancement, still engrossed with computer world that I love to vacate. The hands still hearing the tone of the keys in the keyboard while polluting rays hit a razor sharp in my eyes in front.

I have been thinking I will be leaving Butuan City to Cagayan de Oro next week where the old system we are using will be totally disbanded from our unit. Well, thinking of Cagayan de Oro City freshly remembered the struggle against the raging water of Cagayan de Oro Water Rafting, and able to surpassed the 14 rapids that blow-up my spirit.

But wait! Another activity for Surigao City taking place this afternoon till tomorrow in what we call personal enhancement. Doing this for good but for the sake of command responsibility, I will be jumping right away and witness another world of Caraga Destinations unfolds in the distance.

Travels in a place that I have never been were lots of surprises. But I got easily tired when jumping to a faraway place because of what they called ‘travel sickness’. My own line of defenses are the used of antacids to splice up the stomach from growing acidity. When into travel the main thing should do is to prepare two tablets in one swallowed and will never forget the doses wherever I should go.

Seven peoples in a vehicle that placed me at the back seat is a bit comfortable that put me to sleep in time. Actually, we are heading to Surigao City with 70 peoples more or less, others are using rented bus with a note ‘Special Trip’ in front. We are group of peoples from one agency to commemorate anniversary celebrations heading to Almont Beach Resort.

Almont Beach Resort Dazzling Location

After hearing one of my group mates that we are about to enter the gates of Almont Beach Resort, I was a little bit relief after two hours traveling from Butuan. Passing different locations in going the street of Lipata, Surigao City, overlooking seas and mountains were staggering beauty. Luckily I was able to stretch my legs for hours trap in a running vehicle, and walk quietly forward stepping up small stairs in near distance that turns out a spacious ground overlooking the ocean, islands, mountains, and Surigao City downtown areas.

After exploring the whole scene I came to my own point of view later that I am standing the top of a luxury hotel. I thought that standing in an area visible to the main entrance and the hotel is nowhere to found. But all these things became unique because after we park our vehicle, stepping out into the ground, and in the near concrete floors is already astounding revelation in welcoming visitors at the rooftop, and nature gazing began when the world exist under your feet.

This was the real scene before my eyes. Looking beyond those mountains when sunset started to evade, the deep blue sea was calm and still. Flat in never ending lines extended to small islands and big islands across for hundred nautical miles. As far as your eye can reach the glowing scene against the creation of God, your nerve started to loosen and fix the red eye from straining and began to sparkle. All your effort and discomfort for two hours in the road at the starting line and reaching Almont Beach Resort are gone like magic. This we call the unexplained wealth behind the scenes.

When Mother Natures started to embrace, and surrounded anywhere, here started feel the longevity in life. Between time and space as you started exploring things youthful energy began to surface. I remember as a kid will never miss a single day watching sunset at the terrace or rush to the river banks at dusk. The healing process of nature cannot be taken away after days of grind and drain.

I notice small island in the middle with white line, I presumed a white sand beach. It is much closer compare to other islands, later learned it was Basul Island. Asking someone in the desk center how to get there but I get nothing, instead advise me to jump to downtown Surigao City where availability for boat renting located in the seaport. Looking the heart of Surigao City was too distant before my naked eye where I stand.

Renting a boat can be easily done since lots of operators are eager to devote their life in the sea for a living, jumping from one island to another for the sake of others who are exploring the beauty of Surigao City. If manage to start hopping from Almont Beach Resort shoreline we can dock Basul Island less in time compare much in the heart of Surigao City. Anyway, this was an impractical solution of my visit since I am dreaming for impossibility, and I am not here for Basul Island.

I started investigating as I walked down the stairs that turns out reversal. I have usually done getting the entrance at the ground floor when checking in but not in Almont Beach Resort. Stepping down reaching the third floor first, and find way to the ground floor. In the third floor take a snap look closer much the scenic view of jaded pools surrounded with trees in the forest. Getting closer, thinking there was a continuing effort seeing man-made pools and God-made ocean blending in one angular direction. That was excellently done before the curious naked eye.

In the ground floor walking directly to the shoreline, I became aware of man-made structures embraced with trees and flowers in front of large blue waters. Giving back the natures when surroundings dominated by green environment. Basically, man cannot live without plant and trees which is forming a building block in the ecosystem. Without it where we can get oxygen in the air, and our eyes dying to see such a beautiful world of purely natural. Not the scenic digital world in your flat screen can ease the pain in your eyes. Simply go out to the real world and start the healing process.

The shoreline putting me in static mood and attached myself for hours with lots of corals scattered in a not so purely white sand beach. I remember my attachment to the coral infested beach in Agusan del Norte, the Bolihon Beach Resort. But here a different tone of experiences became endemic and opportunistic. The waters were so calm and clear in both distances that stones can be seen beneath the water level and swimming fishes passes by even the sky started getting dark. Two of my group mates were tempted to do some fishing with their ready-made bait which I believe all set before making a trip to Almont Beach Resort.

The Morning After

After taking part in office activities that ended up almost nine in the evening, I have to refrain from any extension group taking revelry that end myself in bed. Sleeping in a luxury hotel somewhat has a feeling of guilt because you live like king in a glamorous place while my wife and kids lives in an ordinary home that is mostly the average Filipino living conditions.

Hotel first class amenities were at par when entered a third floor in a floor-carpeted entrance door up to the exit door that trapped my way in a terrace to witness the saga of large bodies of water and occupying islands. Standing in the terrace like in the top of a mountain with yourself snapping the whole world below.

The terrace was a continuing length across the whole third floor and you can walk across from end to end if you wish to jump a wooded border in every room to meet every one in the rooms we are all occupying. The terrace became the partying venue for a chance in a lifetime escape that everyone wants a dramatic entry into the deep of the night.

The room is spacious that eight persons accommodated in a neat white walls that put me in a slumber of sleep for having lost the energy and preparing forward for the next travel in Cagayan de Oro City. But through the process of sleeping I thought of having dreams when noises of laughter echoes into the room for long hours but gain my consciousness later that revelry is continuing till the morning comes.

At 5:30 in the morning I have to get up because catching a sunrise in the middle of vast ocean forms a graphic image in my mind. Open up the door immediately into the terrace when my eyes still drooping from sleep. Grabbing Mother Nature was at stake after you wake up. Bearing the speed of time before opportunities gone witnessing every single seconds when sunrise entry in the womb of Mother Nature.

The entry into the terrace was dramatic because the saga of my group mates continues. One of them approaches immediately while calling my name when I came out from the door in the terrace. He walks like catching his step apparently with a bottle of beer in his right hand and face me with a loud voice in a welcome tone singing the Caraga Hymn.

A move that wake my eyes from drowsy state and started energizing the whole scene when a tough lawyer started singing and the whole boys follow soon singing Caraga Hymn. I open my mouth with them in dedication until the last line spreading angel voices that bounces in a sleepy ocean.

“Welcome to our beloved Caraga
Historic name of Region thirteen
God’s boundless love and blessings
Are all bestowed without restrain

Verdant valleys and tow’ring trees
Deepest Ocean and shining seas…”

The music and lyrics of the song completely mesmerized myself as I sing and started shooting the keyword ‘shining seas’ in the middle of the hymn. I made a quick stop temporarily. The moment started when the sunrise entry into the ocean begins.

Wow! Sunrise was sweet and dominating. The shining seas emerge like gold when the rays of sun started shooting Mother Nature. Never mind the background misty mountains between islands and mainland in the distance facing Almont Beach Resort. The center of attraction goes to the beautiful rising sun. Waiting from time to time that moves forward rising from slumber of sleep to sail in a new day of life.

Clouds forming in the distance added shows the art of nature like the duck wanted to swim in the ocean gold. The image of the duck creates controversy behind an early sun started showing creativity that lure deep one’s imagination. Later as time continues ticking another world open up in seconds witnessing them without winking the eyes of the beholder. Sun’s rays continue to bloom before clouds, mountains, and ocean while shifting another pace of time in dramatic mood. Spreading rays colored clouds turning the whole scene in a magical world. I thought living not in a planet that I normally lives or simply living the land before time.

Almont Beach Resort Bidding Goodbye

There are places on earth that you must see before you die. In Caraga Region I have accomplished something going such amazing places in a priceless adventure. Expect myself before I die landing my two feet in Almont Beach Resort putting a mark in my Caraga Travel and the rest of Caraga Destinations.

Someone is telling me that living our life once in a while in a luxurious ways like the one in a luxury hotel in Caraga such a blessed one. Luxury hotel thrive with natures is an excellent man-made facilities. I made some effort going around the vicinity like touching the mountains where Almont Beach Resort resides then down the shoreline. The last moments I have done it abuse time and space exploring Mother Nature along the way before it ends. No one can stop and arrest you of what you did.

Forgetting exposure too much of sun’s heat and put me in healthy sweats. Be brave enough going around and meeting some friends since plants and old trees shields you against the solar flare effect since green environment dominates Almont Beach Resort. Added tone was the sea breezes give extra much life to the lungs from the clogging urban life. Take the deep breath for seconds and go back to Butuan City with much pure blood and strength.

I have done enough before leaving Almont Beach Resort. I am fortunate because I live in Caraga.

I did not expect the plan will push through since it is a Father’s Day celebrations. The world knows the importance of fatherhood especially when a family depends on a father handling them. When a family lost him it is something will makes family incomplete. A father used to be the pillar of the house, without the pillar it can be easily manage to fall down as the saying goes.

So much for little children to take care, and sometimes you lost your time having the pleasure of life. You have to take life differently, and as a father of two little daughters fatherhood should be taken lightly when it comes to illnesses and financial status. As one friend says we should be strong for our children to live. If you have taken it seriously, fatherhood makes you unhappy and has no meaning. At the end makes you a sick creature. The only way is to get away from it. Free from the bondage of fatherhood. At least for a while. And jump to Bolihon Beach Resort feels the healing process of natures.

I did not expect coming to Bolihon Beach Resort in the town of Carmen, province of Agusan del Norte alone with my wife. No children at all. Celebrating Father’s Day celebrations without them is as easy as 1-2-3. Nothing can disturb your Caraga travel when visiting best beach resorts. But my wife says celebration is not complete without them. She missed them.

Heading To Bolihon Beach Resort

We got up early morning and heading with my wife in a bus terminal which is closer to our residence. We prepared the medicine kit probably the used of antacids to helps us fight the chilling effects of travelling like vomiting. Going to Bolihon Beach Resort was almost two hours ride from Butuan City. From the town proper in Carmen, we proceeded riding single motor or better known as in the local ‘habal-habal’ for one kilometer distance from the highway in going to Bolihon Beach Resort.

I remember my college days twenty years ago, I have been beach hopping in Carmen together with my classmates. We went as far as going to the north along the coastlines until we reach Kahayagan. When passing different beach resorts, we spotted the content of the sands because it was infested with small fragments of white corals scattered in the beach, almost covered the beach.

The beach turns into a white line as you look in the distance like the white sand beach in the different beaches of General Luna. Carmen coast lines amazed me how it became corals infested beach line. Deposited corals wash up in shorelines maybe for a thousand years to build that has become Carmen the trademark for corals world. Carmen beach is one of the top diving sites in Caraga Region because of beautiful reef underneath the seas. This makes a unique representation of most beaches in Carmen different from other beaches in Caraga Region.

Bolihon Beach Resort And The Corals

My first step in getting inside of Bolihon Beach Resort was to find a cottage. And we rested there for a while. The cottage we rented worth 100 pesos and it’s wide for the two of us. The travel was somewhat exhausted, and when I saw the beach and the sea breeze, its magic! Totally cools you off and don’t underestimate the natures surrounds while in front of the blue sea, kissing horizon and mountains against from the tirade of stress travel.

I notice the corals infested sands, and they are white cute stone-alike that come into different shapes and sizes invading the shoreline. Walking along the beach, scattered anywhere added milking white the whole beach scene. I could not stop myself to investigate. Going into the streamline how they have come and pulling one by one straight into my finger. I remember them collected and mixed into the floor in the aquarium of my parent’s home where colourful fishes joined them in a natural ecosystem.

If you ask how they came and how old each one. I’m guessing that they simply washed out to shore through time as environment change by force or through erosion process or maybe a large quake that devastated the earth that drawn tsunami to the world. If that’s the case, these groups of corals are thousand years of age. They came in this place before Magellan discovered Butuan and the Philippines.

I am lucky enough touching them in my bare hands. If I have time collecting them one by one it’s an entertaining thing to do. But that could be an immoral thing to do. Touching them and putting them in a place where they came from. You have done what nature should suppose to do. Corals live in the sea, and they are there putting harmony in the sands and the sea.

Little Bay of Caraga

Bolihon Beach Resort was a hidden beach actually. We have climbed the mountain and turned right we go down to a still ongoing constructed muddy road dissecting the mountain to give way for beachgoers. Without this road, the path to Bolihon Beach Resort could be difficult to reach. But someone has the spirit to find real treasure in life you have to move on and see how God created masterfully in His hand the art of nature by crossing the hardships and difficulties. Imagine the mountain at top and below the white curve line seeing the little bay of Caraga. If you witness the giant bays like Butuan and Bislig, well you can picture the cute little curve in a distance. Walking from the tip to other tip of a curve and you are done.

Standing at the center of the curve or at the center of the beach, the right end was actually mountain of rocks while the other ends were group of mangroves floating in the sea. Mangroves and rock mountains opposite each other in a white shoreline are good combination of paradise resort.

In my entire life I have not seen group of natures created in one setting unless the sunrise and sunset in a distance drops from the rooster of beautiful spots. It will make the whole setting vague. I mean in the world of beautiful beach resorts, factors affecting the beauty you have to include the shining sun that adds radiant to the beach.

Walking the shoreline with your bare feet was smooth but you can feel some corals are sharp. But corals could be tolerable when pressed against while walking because they are there seasoned to become smooth like the sands. It’s a fun thing to do. You will never regret doing this in the beach but not in your home.

Rock Formations

In the far end of the beach along the right is a mountain of rocks. It looks like the steepest hill calling the eye of adventurers. I remember the website I visited many times when I looked the blog post of Palawan Underground River. The mountains en route to underground river resembles the mountain of rocks. Wow! We have our own Palawan adventure in Caraga Region minus the underground river.

Those mountains of rocks added attractions. Most visitors want to explore the far end where rock formations and cave exists. But sad to say when high tide began our extra ordinary visits cut shorts because the sea level started to gobble up the ground. All you have to do is go back to the beach line and witness how nature changes in time.

Trees Live In The Water

One thing amazes me when visited Bolihon Beach Resort is the presence of trees that live in the salt seas. I live in Butuan City of my entire life since at birth and witness how trees grown in the urban communities and in the remote barangays. I love trees in the mountainous terrain in Agusan Valley or in the deepest forest in Caraga. The trees in the city help me cool off from too much heat of the sun and trees are part of ecosystem. But I did not imagine trees live in water much more in the salty world of Butuan Bay. I was shocked witnessing them in another world adapting to that level of environment.

Here in the left end of the curve was an army of trees. But if you want to explore the beach far from it even the boundary of Caraga Region and Northern Mindanao Region witness them scattered along Carmen beach and even the coastlines towards Nasipit like what I discover in Amontay Beach Resort.

Adventure will never end here. I am fortunate because I live in Caraga.

The photo captured Bonsai Park found in the town of Loreto, Dinagat Islands. The troop of mountains cannot imagine how precious and unique creations defined as taking a walk not for giant trees but a crowned of small trees living for a hundred years. Natures make a natural phenomenon when it was there in the beautiful mountains of Dinagat Islands. The art of creations is excellent!

Credit: Manuel Pangan, Jr./Department of Tourism Caraga

Dinagat Islands shows landscape of mountains not just in the land but the serene jade waters in the Pacific as well. Troops of rock formations in the seas like giant stones. Or just drifting in the shorelines mixing with those white sands beaches. Rock formations what makes Dinagat Islands a champion.

The photo shows lovely Bonsai Park of Loreto, Dinagat Islands a rare treasure finds in Caraga Region. Lush vegetation set in the backdrop of the province skyline make it perfect for tourists haven. Greenish mountains make it a resting place for someone preoccupied from the harshness of the city.

I did not visit the Bonsai Park of Loreto, Dinagat Islands like what I did to Bonbon Eco-Park of Butuan City. But when you are living in a paradise place Caraga the photo show me how beautiful it is living at the edge of the world with those bonsai forests as your neighbors. Never mind the facade of modern world.