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Showing posts from 2018

Lake Janagdan - The Hidden Gem of Mt. Aminduen

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After successfully summiting the Alto peak, the highest point in the Leyte mountains, Me and my climb companions planned to visit Lake Janagdan as well. I was excited with the plan to climb and could not wait to see the hidden treasure that lies on top in one of the highest mountains of Ormoc. I was thrilled the next day when I got a message from Anne, it was the about the climb to the dormant volcano, the Lake Janagdan. Lake Janagdan is located in the eastern part of Ormoc and is part of Mt. Aminduen ranges. It measures 1120masl and is surrounded by lush and diverse vegetation. Various plant species can be found, with ferns, vines, and trees covered with mosses. Different types of insects often crawl along the trail too. It was five o'clock in the morning when I readied my pack. The contents were a pair of clothing, cameras and bottled water. I waited and rode a van to Ormoc City and there I met Anne and Irish. After buying food for lun

Virgin Island - An Exceptional Getaway in Bantayan

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Pulo Diyot - An exceptional getaway site in Bantayan Group of Islands. The plotted itinerary for our 2-day trip revolves mainly on Bantayan island, the plan was to visit the entire famed eco-park and landmarks by road via Santa Fe, to Bantayan, and to Madridejos. But that was changed when ate Ellen told us about a very fun place to visit - the Pulo Diyot (popularly known as Virgin Island). Her story convinced us to alter our itinerary and readied ourselves to plunge for it. And we don’t have any regrets. Aside from the white powdery sand and crystal clear water, this tropical paradise has a popular facility for adrenaline junkies! They have a monkey swing, 40ft bamboo platform and a zip line to try - all are an exciting way to fall into the sea.  And if you love a quieter spot and ponder to natural music of nature, head up south to their mini forest trail leading to a secret beach and swim along with friendly sergeant fishes. A perfect site

Mt. Mangilatong

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Here, the called "clearing" is much precious as a rare gem. We didn't expect that this elusive and mysterious mountain will show its glory to us. Since we arrived here at Mt. Mangilatong, cold fog hovers around creating zero visibility surrounding and the rain and the freezing air soaked us over the night. The situation strongly declared that we could never see the sunrise in the morning and the beautiful scenery around will be left unseen. But, at dawn, the sky revealed each glinting of the stars and right away elated the mood of us. We're thankful that the Aminduen god gave us the "clearing" that we were asking for. At that break-of-day moment, everything was intensely beautiful. <3 p="">

Bugabuga Hill - The Historical Landmark of Villaba Leyte

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Buga-buga hill is one of the fascinating site in Leyte and declared as historical lanmark located in Barangay Bugabuga, Villaba. During the Japanese occupation in Leyte (1942-1945), the place was known as Mt. Canquipot and was heavily involved in the tragic history of the Second World War. Serves as one of the strategic locations of the Japanese imperial soldiers, military camps are built in and around the towering landmark where many soldiers, American, Japanese as well as defenseless Filipino had lost their lives during the intensive crossfire during the year 1943 to 1945. In Leyte, the most gruesome fight between two forces happened here in the last stronghold of Japanese soldiers led by General Suzuki. Until now some family members and relatives of the fallen Japanese soldiers would still visit the site to commemorate the somber days of their loved ones. Today, this is a remarkable destination that totally depicts a 100% true adventure. Aside from that imposing ro

Busay Falls - 3 Hidden Gems of Villaba Leyte

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It's time to begin your own simple adventure today! Time to get your lazy feet up and start a healthy trek while enjoying yourself to these spectacular showcases of nature in a single location. First, the Butnga Falls also known as 'Busay Uno'. Here, you'll see its astonishing cascades split into two falling into its deep and green pool. This spot is perfect for picnic and swimming. You can also climb to the top and take a plunge to its deep pool. Few meters upstream is ‘Busay Dos’. You can reach this site by following the stream, climb boulders, and walk under lush vegetation of the jungle. If you're looking for a refreshing dip in a cold clear water, this is a good site for you. Lastly, just above 'Busay Dos’ is the majestic and tallest of all, the ‘Busay Tres. The raging water that descends into a small pool will give you a relaxing natural massage to cool off yourself after some serious trek. Planning to include this cool adventure

Possible Tourist Destinations in Villaba, Leyte

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Unlike its neighboring town, Villaba has probably been underrated when it comes to tourism. The town has been less explored from travelers who wanted a getaway of unequaled experience, thus making their way to the more famed and mainstreamed destination. Yet being off from the main tourist circuit, still, Villaba has something remarkable to offer, just waiting, unless if you'd prefer an off-the-beaten-path nature trip. Its coastline sprawls some quieter beaches, the hinterland promises an extraordinary adventure and the people? They're amazing! So here, I have listed good places I've visited around Villaba whom I believed having the potential to be the next local destination. And does really, captivated my adventurous heart. 1. Buga-buga Hills –  The place was heavily involved in the tragic history of the 2nd World War. The last natural fortress of Japanese soldiers where military camps are built surrounding the imposing rock. Many Ja

Alto Peak - The Marvelous Summit of Mt. Amandiwing

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It was a busy Wednesday morning when a message popped up in my messenger’s notification. It read – “are you available this Saturday?”. I was then so delighted to send her my positive response. Why so? Because, for the past years, I am captivated by the mountains I have seen during my entire travel to Ormoc city, and I can't help but admire these soaring towers of Leyte - the sky-high Tongonan and Mt. Amandiwing in the left and the towering Magsanga on the other side. I have been longing to set foot in all of these mountains since then. Went scrambling in Magsanga last year and this time, let me start with Alto Peak. The message was sent to me from a friend who is also an AdveNaturer, whose passion for mountain climbing has sparked within her that every weekend she would physically take off on a long-haul nature trip. She would invite and encourages others to do the same enriching, healthy workout. Her name is Anne. Saturday. I woke up at exactl