Come along to Camiguin!

Camiguin is a pretty, quaint volcanic island located off the northern coast of Mindanao.

Though it is the second smallest province both in population and area, the island is rich in history, natural resources and magnificent wonders. It is composed of five towns, namely, Mambajao – the capital town, Mahinog, Guinsiliban, Sagay and Catarman.

Our brief holiday to this island began on board the 19-seater LET410 UVP of South East Asian Airlines (SEAIR) which undoubtedly is the best aircraft suited for short haul transport.

Upon arrival, Elizabeth Yu, our weekend host and owner of Camiguin Highland, surely a haven of a resort, warmly welcomed us all to paradise. And then our adventure and fun started.

With clear skies, relatively calm waters and a breathtaking sunset beneath the waves, we sailed to the boutique beach resort called Secret Cove where owner Bida Solski prepared a sumptuous full dinner complemented with excellent wine. It was nothing short of spectacular. Then off we went to our home on the hills of Mambajao for a good night’s rest.

The following morning, a truly hearty Filipino breakfast was laid out on the lanai that overlooks the Olympic size pool. Basking in year-round warmth, we marveled at the property’s calm and tranquil surroundings with beautifully landscaped lush tropical gardens that hosts a riot of colors. Although the mountain resort does not have direct access to a sandy shore, the local beaches are just 10 minutes away. Guests can enjoy the splendor of a morning sunrise over the mountains that mark the joy and exuberance of a new day.

Join me as we tour this peaceful dreamland of verdant rainforests, volcanic splendor and ancestral homes.

Several centuries-old churches are found in various parts of the island. Of interest are the Sto. Rosario Church in the municipality of Sagay built in 1882 and the Catarman Gui-ob Church. History reminds us that on May 1, 1871, Mt. Vulcan Daan erupted and wiped out the Spanish settlement that was established in 1697. Today, all that remains are the ruins of the ancient Spanish church, a convent and a bell tower that are mute witnesses to the wrath of nature.

Springs dot Camiguin and rivers tumble down its volcanic slopes, producing several impressive falls and many lesser ones. One of the most popular is Katibawasan Falls on the slopes of Mt. Timpo-ong that punctuates a very majestic and powerful stream which plummets 40 meters into a pool.

The Esperanza Mountain Resort has dammed a stream where the Ardent Hot Springs bubble up. One may sit, soak and relax in 36o C mineral water. Further along you may also visit the Sto. Niño cold springs swimming pools for an invigorating dip.

Dominating the whole island is Mt. Hibok-Hibok, a diminutive, dramatic volcano which erupted violently in 1951.It is the only active volcano among the seven others on the island.

For beach enthusiasts and lovers, Camiguin is blessed with two pristine islands, The Mantigue and White Island, both ideal and excellent for swimming and diving around vivid underwater vistas, with the Vulcan as its picturesque backdrop.

While Camiguin has become through the years famous for its sweet lanzones fruit harvest which is celebrated with an annual festival held every third week of October, the island is best defined by the dramatic, ominous beauty of its seven volcanoes. While these can occasionally be a threat to paradise because of their possible eruptions, the Camiguinons hold deep in their hearts such love and loyalty that even if forced to evacuate they always return to the land they call home.

I was enchanted the first time I visited Camiguin and I know that I will always keep going back because of its charm and mystery, the many leisurely detours to its many towns, its scenic harbor, the seaside restaurants, and most importantly the Camiguinons’ warmth and unquestioning trust in their fellowmen.