Laid back Baler: Sunrises, Waves, History

DAWN. I couldn't resist doing a jump shot with this amazing sunrise on my background

My first impression of Baler was that it pretty much looks like other municipalities in my own province, Catanduanes -- lush trees, simple structure of houses, and the simplicity of the people. All things considered, it's a 4th class municipality tucked away from the busy metro, a place perfect for a quiet retreat.

COMMUNITY. group of fishermen gathering their early morning catch

We got to explore the town center in the afternoon. There, we found great places which are somehow distinctly Baler.

Our first stop was Museo de Baler. I was deeply disappointed upon knowing that it was only open during weekdays, but Jojo, the caretaker of the museum, was kind  to open the place exclusively for us. YEY! I realized how well kept and maintained the place was as soon as we entered. It is even air-conditioned! Aside from the photos and artifacts of our katutubo who once lived in Baler, the place also keeps facts about famous people there (like the Quezon and Angara clan).

Museo de Baler

We got to explore the town center in the afternoon. There, we found great places which are somehow distinctly Baler.

Our first stop was Museo de Baler. I was deeply disappointed upon knowing that it’s only open during weekdays, but Kuya Jojo, the “curator,“ was kind  to open the place exclusively for us. YEY! As we entered, I realized how well kept and maintained the place was. It is even air-conditioned! Aside from the photos and artifacts of our katutubo who once lived in Baler, the place also keeps facts about famous people there (like the Quezon and Angara clan).

The prominence of these clans is apparent in most of the tourist and historical places in Baler. We went to Quezon Memorial Park where one can get a good doze of a lazy afternoon, nothing much to see except the statue of former President Manuel Quezon. Then we headed to Ermita Hill, a place being developed by the Angaras, as we were told. We also got a view of the Baler fishport. Then, we went to Baler Catholic Church where we witnessed a mass wedding being celebrated. We looked like the uninvited guests enthusiastically taking photos of the ceremony.hehe

Baler is a laid-back place where one can enjoy the comfort of a simple life.

Probably the most beautiful thing I’ll remember of this town is its beautiful sunrise at Sabang Beach. The sky looked like a broad canvas of colors:-) I also enjoyed swimming at the beach (even for a very limited time). 

One thing that puts Baler nowadays in the tourism map is its surfing bay area. However, during our stay there, the beach was so calm. No regrets, I might just be back to get stoked in the famous waves of Baler.

How to get there:

My friend and I took the 4.30 a.m. bus bound for Baler. At the time of our trip, only Genesis Bus Transport (Cubao-bus rate P394) has the Manila-Baler daily route. Travel time from Manila to Baler is approximately 8 hours.

Another option is to go straight to Cabanatuan City and from there take another 1 and a half hours ride to Baler. 

Upon arrival, trikes are available to get you to the place where you want to stay. Options are available either within the poblacion area or beachfront (3-5 mins away from poblacion- fare P10-13). The last trip of Genesis Bus bound for Mla is 9:30 am, daily.

Itinerary:

Saturday

3:00 am- meet up

4:30- ETD- Genesis Bus Terminal Cubao

12:30 ETA- Baler Terminal

01:00 Lunch

02:00 Bay INN check in

03:00 Start of Eco-Strip Tours/Baler tour

Dimadimalangat Islets/Lukso-Lukso

Baler Fishport,Ermita Hills

05:00 Cemento Beach/Cobra Reef (sunset and beach bum)

07:00 Dinner/ beach bum ulit

Sunday
06:00 Breakfast

07:00 Walking tour of Baler

Sabutan Weaving

Suman Making

Pasalubong Center

Balete Tree (oldest in Asia)

History Trail (Baler Church, Quezon Park and Museo de Baler)
Ditumabo Falls

Monday
homebound

What to bring (note: travel light)

Comfortable shoes
Slippers
Swim wear
Pants
Walking shorts
Shirt (bring extra)

Jacket

Personal hygiene needs-toothbrush, soap, and shampoo

Water