Backpacking Pilipinas: October 2012

Monday, October 29, 2012

Braving Basilan

Hello from Basilan!

My mother didn't know that I went to Basilan. In fact, she wasn't aware that her two curious daughters went to this island which is widely known for its volatile security situation. She would have definitely opposed the idea that we would step in this island that has been so notoriously portrayed in the local and international media. And to spare her unnecessary headaches, we deliberately chose not to let her know about our trip.

But we did survive Basilan. Well, at least Isabela City, its capital.

Basilan, which is a part of the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), is a 4^th class province in terms of gross provincial income. It is home to three ethnic groups – the Yakans and Tausugs who are predominantly Muslims and the Zamboanguenos who are mostly Christians.

The daring trio -- Ja, Che and Cha

Along with our friend Janet, Cha and I did a quick side trip to Basilan during our recent backpacking Mindanao adventure. For security reasons, we sought the help of Kuya Daniel, an ex- military man who accompanied us while roaming the streets of Isabela.

Chasing Waterfalls

I'm the type who'd go around chasing waterfalls. Quite literally, though.

I think there's nothing more exciting than hiking down a ravine, hearing the wild surging water descending from an upstream river, and seeing for the first time a rough flow of water plunging straight down a deep catch basin. There's always that moment of awe knowing that that beautiful scene is tucked and hidden in the middle of a thick green forest, and there's always that invitation to jump right into the turquoise-colored water.

I have seen some of the most vibrant cascades here in the Philippines. Most of these waterfalls share the same character as the others. Just like the graceful flow of Kabigan, Batlag, Daranak and katibawasan Falls; or the rogue vertical drop of Tapiyah and Bomod-ok Falls; or the tiered and delicate cascade of Merloquet Falls; or the gentle and segmented flow of Cambugahay Falls.

I know there are still a lot around that I have yet seen. And I'm so looking forward to updating the list I have below as soon as I get to explore the others. But for now, bask in the beauty of these waterfalls. :)

Note: The next time you visit a waterfall, please make sure not to leave any trash within the area. Bring your own trash bag, and if possible bring home your spoils. Please keep it clean. Thank you.