Camigin

Finding your way

Benoni Port is the gateway of the island. If you intend to go around Camiguin, hiring a multi-cab for large groups or a habal-habal  (modified motorcycle with driver) for small groups is recommended.  Don't get too excited on immediately hopping onto one as prices vary from driver to driver. Some would even suggest a "tourist" itinerary wherein the driver/guide would tour you around the island’s popular sites in one day. Make sure you clarify your destination, routes and most importantly, the rate before riding.  A quote of over Php2, 000 is simply too much as Camiguin Island is small and can be circled in less than a day. Just make sure to stop and enjoy the sights of the rustic coastal communities.

Clear Water 

Enjoying the sights

Most ofCamiguin’s popular sights are accessible via the main road. Katibawasan Falls can be found northeast at the center of Mambajao. The place has been developed into a park, complete with cottages for a fee of only Php I 0. The falls has a narrow and silky cascade towering up to 250 feet and a pool-like basin. Nearby, there are optional stops like the Old Vulcan where pilgrimages to the Stations of the Cross are held every Holy Week.

From northeast, go to the western tip of the island at Barrio Bonbon where the Sunken Cemetery can be found. Sunset is the most dramatic time of the day to visit this site. A huge cross can be found just off shore marking the location of the old community cemetery which sank in 1871 when Mt. Hibok-Hibok erupted. There are boats to ferry people to the cross. Some even snorkel to check out the submerged tombstones. Optional stop in town is the Catarman Church Ruins, which was wiped out by an earthquake during the same time when the cemetery sunk.

Just off the coast ofYumbing is White Island, the shape of which changes with the rising and falling of the tides. To get there hire a boat at Johnny's Dive Shop for Php500. The boat, which can accommodate four to six persons, can be arranged to wait or return at a designated time. Gone are the huts of sellers from years past following a recent ordinance that banned infrastructures on this sandbar.  This favorite place for daytrippers and snorkelers who want a pure unadulterated beach is now backing to its almost pristine state.

Katibawan Falls

Giant Cross ( Old Cemetery)

Feeling at home

If you want to be near most of the island's attractions, lodge at the Secret Cove Resort (www.secretcovecamiguin.com; rates start at Php850).  While basic in terms of facilities, it is located across White Island. Johnny's Dive Shop has also turned it into a popular destination among divers. Just outside the resort, there are a number of Stores and eateries for food and basic supplies. The public market is just nearby where a number of habal-habals can also be hired. Within walking distance from the Benoni Port, you can stay at the Islet Resort (tel. +6388 387 4005; mobile no. +63916 365 3966; rates start at Php700 during off peak season) in San Roque, Mahinog. We got a good price there for very basic accommodations. They also have habal-habal services.

Photo and Article Source: Mabuhay Magazine (PAL)