On The Beach Holidays – An Introduction

On the beach holidays, especially during the feast of Saint John The Baptist, are pretty much spent by beach goers, island vacations buffs and natural attractions seekers wading in the crystal clear water of the best beaches in the world either on a white sand beach, black sand beach or pebble beach considered as favorite island getaways. In the case of the residents of Bucas Grande Island in Socorro, Surigao del Norte, Philippines spending the Saint John the Baptist Day in Puyangi White Sand Beach, located just a walking distance from the town center, has become an annual tradition.

On The Beach Holidays – Spending Saint John Day in Puyangi White Sand Beach

As a backgrounder especially for the non-Christian readers, Saint John the Baptist was the prophet mentioned  in the Holy Bible who prepared the faithful for the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. John’s main character in the gospels is attributed to his baptism to Jesus Christ at the Jordan River which is now one of the Seven Sacraments in the Catholic Church.  Since, he was 6 months older than Jesus, the Catholic Calendar placed the feast of John the Baptist on June 24, six months before Christmas.

June 24 is being celebrated in various ways according to the customs and traditions of the place. Other Christian communities in the Philippines celebrated it with fanfare more so for places who chose Saint John the Baptist as their patron saint, hence, the annual fiesta celebration. But other areas just considered June 24 as another ordinary day of the year.

But in Socorro, the lone town in Bucas Grande Island in Surigao del Norte, Philippines, the feast of Saint John the Baptist, though not their annual fiesta, is one of the important days marked in the calendar of the inhabitants. While it is not declared as a public non-working holiday, but the Socorronhons considered it as such as the entire family has to take time spending on the beach holidays  and take a dip to commemorate the Jordan River baptism of Jesus Christ. And, though there are several patches of white sand beaches surrounding the island, the inhabitants chose to converge  in the most popular beach in town- the Puyangi White Sand Beach.

On the eve of the June 24, 2011 Saint John the Baptist Day, I went to Puyangi White Sand Beach to scout for a place where I and my family could settle  for the next day’s  picnic and join the customary on the beach holidays of the Socorro  inhabitants. I rode on my motorcycle, went through a foot trail beneath the coconut trees  parallel to the 1.2 kilometer stretch white sand beach and reached the place in 5 minutes. As I stepped on the sand, I was enthralled on this tantalizing views . . .

The 1.2 kilometer-Puyangi White Sand Beach stretching towards the Socorro town center.

The Puyangi White Sand Beach stretching towards the Puyangi Spring.

I slogged over the pearly-white sand beach and loved the feel of a mixture of silica and pale quartz grains touching my sole as it actually squeaks a bit when stepped on until I reached the Puyangi Spring . . .

The impounded portion of the series of streamflows of the Puyangi Spring.

The Puyangi Spring spillway flowing to the Puyangi White Beach into the sea.

Candidly, I felt nostalgic as I waded through the knee deep crystal clear water while taking photographs of this scenic view of Puyangi White Sand Beach. . .

The Puyangi White Sand Beach showing the convergence point between the cool waters of the Puyangi Spring and the warm sea water.

I couldn’t help but imagine the days during my childhood when I was so fascinated with the bright sand at Puyangi White Sand Beach which makes the sea waters especially beautiful with emerald, light blue and sparkling azure colors. There were times that, while enjoying the swim, I would be told by my elder brother  that the proximity of a barrier reef makes the crystal clear water at Puyangi White Sand Beach naturally calm and warm. But the waters cascading from the Puyangi Spring enables the convergence point uniquely cool thereby offering  me and the other swimmers the option for an alternate warm and cold bath. I cannot forget the days when, after taking a languorous swim in the warm waters, I occasionally took a  quick dip at the refreshingly cool waters of the Puyangi Spring.

After quite sometime, I went home eagerly dreaming for the coming of the on the beach holidays a day after. Then, June 24, 2011 came. I went to the vicinity of the Puyangi Spring again and found some beach revellers already dotting the white sand beach . . .

On the beach holidays revellers at Puyangi White Sand Beach.

Including this pair on the way to their rendezvous . . .

A fiance with his fiancee having an idle and leisurely walk at Puyangi White Sand Beach . . .

As I slogged further, I was delighted by the sight of these children . . .

Two boys dashing neck-and-neck to beat the 100-meter dash . . .

A child wallowing at the sand enjoying the sand mask . . .

But nothing beats the sight of this innocent smile . . .

A child enjoying his labor . . .

While the sports enthusiasts really found time to blend beach going with sports . . .

A group of beach goers enjoying their Beach Volleyball game . . .

I walked further towards the direction of the town center and found a lot of on the beach holidays revellers positioning atop the limestone serving as natural breakwater . . .

Beach goers taking time to enjoy the Saint John The Baptist Day . . .

Until I reached the cottage where my family and friends were awaiting for  me to . . .

. . . signal the official start of the Eat-All-You-Can Challenge . . .

We then ventured into a lively chat while occasionally glancing the spot where my 8-year old child Edrian was enjoying the swim.

As the horizon started to dim, we called it our turn for a romantic and  languorous couples’ swim which we did until the later part of the night . . .

On The Beach Holidays – Final Thoughts

June 24 is an important event in the life of the Christians. It is celebrated in one way or another in various communities. Others made a mockery of the celebration by throwing murky canal waters at the sight of the passers-by. But in Bucas Grande Island, we chose to celebrate the day  of the Feast of Saint John The Baptist in a memorable and enjoyable manner with each and every able-bodied Socorronhon joining the much awaited annual  on the beach holidays celebration.

Malapascua Island – Where Is It?

Malapascua Island, one of the favorite island getaways of island vacations enthusiasts and among the best vacation spots in the world and best family vacation destinations suitable for family beach vacation goers and host of a number of couples resorts and best family resorts especially if you are looking for a white sand beach resort fronting crystal clear water suitable for island water sports,  is situated off the coast of the town of Daanbantayan in the southern part of Cebu, Philippines. The tiny island can be reached via a four-hour public utility bus ride from the Cebu South Bus Terminal in Cebu City to Maya Port within the jurisdiction of the municipality of Daanbantayan, Cebu for a Php 165.00 fare and, afterwards, riding on a passenger boat for a 30-minute voyage to the island at a fare of PhP 80.00.

The 137.7-hectare Malapascua Island. Photo courtesy of www.gotomalapascua.com.

Malapascua Island – Why I Visited The Place

My eyes glowed with excitement when my brother, whom I fondly call “Ingko” Ben Sangco told me about the beauty of Malapascua Island in Daanbantayan, Cebu, Philippines. As he related the beautiful spots of the place, as told to him by his best friend, Emmanuel Manalili of the Malapascua Legend Water Sports and Resort, I told to my self… “now I know where to go to apply my newly acquired knowledge on basic photography.” It is worthy to mention that I had just graduated from the April 15-17, 2011 Cebu Basic Photography Workshop held in Cebu City and sponsored by the Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation in cooperation with the Cebu Photo Works! Typical of a soldier who have had just finished the jungle warfare training, I wanted to go to the battlefield immediately to put into acid test my knowledge on the basic photography rule of FEWCD which stands for Focus, Exposure, White Balance, Composition and Decision. After packing my Nikon D 7000 camera, lap top and  few belongings into my backpack, I boarded a south-bound bus with MAYA signboard and embarked on a trip that started at exactly 6:48 in the morning of April 17, Monday. We were traveling on a paved road passing through various towns until we reached Bogo City Bus Terminal at exactly 9:40. An hour later, we reached the port of Maya…

The Maya Port

I chanced upon a cargo boat bearing the name Malapascua Legend Water Sports and Resort and I asked the operator if “Sir Maning” Manalili was in the island which he answered affirmatively. As I was about to walk towards the ticket booth, the operator invited me to ride on the cargo boat as they were leaving towards Malapascua Island. Without batting an eyelash, I jumped overboard and, after a few minutes travel I was breathing with excitement as the distant island came nearer to my eyes…

Distant view of Malapascua Island seen from the cargo boat

As we were moving a little bit slower, we arrived Malapascua Island exactly 45 minutes after we left the port and I almost shouted “Oh! it’s paradise…” when this beach front view of Malapascua Legend Watersports and Resort was caught by my watchful eyes. . .

Alluring beach front view of Malapascua Legend Watersports and Resort . . .

As I was walking towards the resort’s bunk house where the staff were taking lunch, I was fascinated with the resort’s swimming pool but chose to shot it at the appropriate time.

After exchanging pleasantries, Sir Maning Manalili instructed his aide Ricky Ducay to tour me at the resorts amenities and facilities. The amiable Ricky then showed me the way towards the Deluxe Rooms and was really fascinated to see these place capable of hosting members of the royal family . . .

A romantic scene at the De Luxe Room featuring the twin queen-size beds . . .	Another view of the De Luxe Room's twin queen-size beds. . .
The De Luxe Room featuring the partially-covered floor-to ceiling windows . . .	The De Luxe Room with fully exposed floor-to-ceiling windows. . .

I was then ushered to the Presidential Suites and was awe-inspired upon seeing these . . .

The Presidential Suite viewed from the door . . .	The Presidential Suite seen from another corner . . .
The floor-to-ceiling windows providing ample sunlight to the Presidential Suite . . .	The breath-taking view of the veranda, beach and water scenery as viewed from the Presidential Suite . . .

After taking a rest for a while, I embarked on the trip around Malapascua Island. And this was the sight that first struck me . . .

A European tourist sleeping soundly under the shade of a coconut tree enjoying the feel of the powdery-white sand on his back . . .

I was able to befriend a motorcycle driver who willingly toured me around the island. Our first stop was at the light house and I was so struck and awed upon viewing this . . .

Bird's Eye view of Sitio Guimbitayan Beach

Heading to our next destination, we passed by a building labelled “Pilar’s Residence Haven By Sea” . . .

The Malapascua Island residence of former Miss Philippine's Pilar Pilapil. . .

We then proceeded to Bamboo Resort and managed to take shots of alluring views . . .

Concrete rails on rocky coastlines . . .

The Bantay Dagat Guard House standing proud atop Lapus-Lapus Islet . . .

The other side of Malapascua Island - its rugged coastlines fronting the azure seas . . .

We rushed to Bantigue Beach to catch the Malapascua Island sunset . . .

Malapascua Island's Bantigue Beach . . .

My best shot so far on Malapascua Island sunset . . .  comments please from my co-basic photography workshop participants and professors.

Malapascua Island sunset viwed from Bantigue Resort . . .

It was already dark when I returned to Malapascua Legend Resort and this sight had caught my attention . . .

Malapascua Legend Water Sport & Resort at Night

After taking a sound sleep at the resort’s bunkhouse, I woke up early in the morning to shot this awe-inspiring view of the resort’s Swimming Pool, the only one of its kind in the island . . .

The turquoise waters of the swimming pool enticing guests to take a quick deep or engage in a languorous swim. . .

I then took time to shot the island’s sunrise . . .

Malapascua Island sunrise . . .

Afterwards, I bid good bye to the very accommodating resort staff. As I walked and headed towards the docking area in Barangay Logon proper, I chanced upon this view . . .

One of Malapascua Island's best beaches situated just a few meters from the wharf with two lovely European ladies enjoying the sun and sand. . .

I then boarded on the passenger boat and headed back to Maya port for my travel back to Cebu City. . .

Sailing away from Malapascua Island on board a passenger boat

Malapascua Island – Final Thoughts

While the Spanish sailors, who were stranded in the island on a Christmas day more than three centuries ago, had cursed the place as they were spending a “bad Christmas” without potable waters available, hence, the name “malapascua,” but my visit to the island was one of the most fulfilling trips in my life. Lots of sea, food, sun, sand and fun in great resorts are the most acceptable ingredients for a very great vacation. In Malapascua  you can find all these attributes in one paradise setting. Vowing to return with my family and spend our island vacations thereat, I strongly encourage visiting Malapascua Island and savoring its beauty yourself.

Seaside Lagoon – Where Is It

A seaside lagoon, aptly named Lagoon Tiktikan and one of the best vacation spots having crystal clear water with floating rock gardens ideal for various forms of island water sports frequently visited by island vacations junkies and island getaways seekers wanting to spend unique vacations was my next stop during my February 14, 2011 sight seeing trip to natural attractions of Bucas Grande Island in Socorro, Surigao del Norte, Philippines.

Seaside Lagoon – Why I Visited The Place?

As a backgrounder,  Tiktikan is a 2-hectare lagoon situated within the vicinity of Sohoton Cove in the southwestern part of the island. It is the site of the Community-Based Environmental Program for Lagoon Tiktikan Ecosystem Project, a three-year (2006-2008) undertaking funded by the Philippine-Australian Community Assistance Program (PACAP). The project encompassed direct protection of Lagoon Tiktikan and its environs, development of mariculture sub-projects and bringing into picture a fishermen’s cooperative  based in the town center, who originally developed the area, as well as a peoples organization  in Barangay  Sudlon and another in San Roque to co-manage the lagoon ecosystem themselves. Lagoon Tiktikan is situated between these two barangays’ boundaries thus the inclusion of peoples organization representations from these areas was a tactical move to ensure the project’s success. Since then, the area is  ably co-managed by The TANARIZ Multi-Purpose Cooperative (TAFIMCO), a cooperative based in the town center whose members hail from the three poblacion barangays of Taruc, Navarro and Rizal, hence the acronym TANARIZ; the Sudlon Environmental Protectors Association (SOEPA) based in Barangay Sudlon and San Roque Farmers and Fishermen Association (SAROFFA)  of Barangay San Roque.

Two years after the end of the project, I decided to pay a visit to the area to see for myself its current state. From the docking area, a visitor needs to thread the uphill and downhill trail. . .

The boat lag and weariness I suffered was completely vanished upon having a glimpse of the lagoon’s  azure waters seen  in between tree trunks. . .

The Reception Cottage . . .

I was enthralled by the breath-taking view of the islet within the lagoon as viewed from the Reception Cottage . . .

I maneuvered through the trail downwards to the lagoon and I chanced upon this wholesome  signage  . . . .

Towards  the comely lagoon-side cottage . . .

I managed to convince the visiting lovely ladies Angel and Ivy of  TV 5 Butuan to pose as Tiktikan Lagoon models . . .

I went into boating in the placid waters towards the lagoon’s view deck . . .

And was attracted with the sight of the turquoise waters viewed from the Tiktikan Lagoon View Deck . . .

SAROFA President Roberto Cortina took his time broadcasting Milkfish feeds. Note the waters being disturbed by rumbling movements of the fishes grabbing for their share of  food . . .

On my way towards the paddle boat docking site, I was inspired by the sight of this perfect symmetry between the mountain ranges and its reflections on the calm lagoon waters . . . .

As our boat was about to depart from the docking area on our way to the Crystal Cave, my eyes were glued at the two innocent children and the extra-ordinary thing they were doing . . . that of utilizing a piece of styropor as their paddle boat . . .

The elegance of the glittering white stalactites and sparkling stalagmites  inside Crystal Cave located near the Tiktikan Lagoon would surely catapult the spot into  the cavers’ map . . .

Seaside Lagoon – Final Thoughts

There were 2 things that made my trip to Lagoon Tiktikan memorable. For one, I cannot forget the ingenuity of the two kids on board the styropor. A scene depicting their innocent stares kept flashing on and off in my mind until nowadays. They were at the lagoon because it was the turn of their parents, who were members of the Sohoton Environmental Protectors Association (SOEPA) to guard the place. The environmental protection endeavors of their parents would surely imbibe in their psyche. They would eventually grow to become vanguards of environmental conservation not only in the seaside lagoon but the entire island town as well.

Second, I cannot help but admire on the way the peoples organizations had managed Lagoon Tiktikan in preserving its pristine state. Their courage and determination in driving out illegal tree cutters within the vicinity of the seaside lagoon are worthy of emulation. Surely, their efforts would go a long way in making Lagoon Tiktikan as a seaside lagoon listed as among the best vacation spots by nature lovers and adventure seekers like you.

Hidden Island Resort is one of the island getaways in Bucas Grande Island, Socorro, Surigao del Norte, Philippines that I long to visit . For one, I want to see for myself the veracity of the stories being told that it has been transformed into a world-class resort by its owner, my good friend Roger Pimentel. Though I live in the island  but it was already quite some time that I visited the place since it was first constructed around 5 years ago.

Hence, on February 14, 2011, armed by my newly-acquired Nikon D 7000, I embarked on a sight seeing trip around my island home with the Hidden Island Resort as my first tourist spot destination.

Truly, after our boat maneuvered at the back of one of the secluded islets within the vicinity of Barangay Dona Helen, I was awe-struck when my eyes caught this view . . .

As I disembarked from the boat, my appetite to dive had soared upon seeing this dive board. . .

The Hidden Island Resort reception desk is simple and comely . . .

With its Patio so elegantly designed . . .

The simple yet elegant Blue Marlin Cottage had really caught my attention . . .

More so with the schools of groupers swimming on the azure waters beneath . . .

I saw for myself that guests in the Dolphin Cottage are treated like kings and queens as evidenced by this exquisite bedroom . . .

Standing at the resort’s catwalk, I cannot help but be inspired by the resort’s signage . . .

The sight of the resort’s flagship billeting place, the Lobster Cottage, is simply amazing . . .

But, nothing beats the exhilarating view of the island scenery as seen from the Lobster Cottage veranda . . .

Savoring the beauty of floating dish garden-like islets dotted on azure seas as viewed from Hidden Island Resort’s Lobster Cottage veranda would surely excite  the  urban guests and make them forget the hustles and bustles of city life . . .

Even I, an islander myself, so dearly admire the view of the Hidden Island Resort from atop the limestone view deck . . .

Truly, as my boat had sped away towards another tourist spot,  the spot had left an imprint in my mind in that . . .

judging from its facilities and amenities, Hidden Island Resort would surely dig deeper into the company of world-class vacation resorts capable of offering tourists a wholesome island vacations.

Majestic Beach Resort – An Introduction

A majestic beach resort is one of the best vacation spots as well as the most sought out island getaways of island vacations enthusiasts and takes the form of either a hidden beach resort, a white sand beach resort or any  best family resorts or couples resorts situated in a black sand beach ideal for island water sports and family beach vacations.

Majestic Beach Resort – Why Visit Club Tara?

Beach resorts are found anywhere in the world. But a majestic beach resort, which can provide all the key ingredients for a great vacation, is seldom to be found. But in Bucas Grande Island, Socorro, Surigao del Norte, Philippines, there is one hideaway- the Club Tara Resort which stands out as among the best as it is blessed with the flawless blend of:

1. Enviable Location. You can find this majestic beach resort inside a small sheltered bay on the idyllic southern coast of Bucas Grande Island set in the backdrop of verdant islets and rolling karst hills carpeted with lush tropical vegetation. The breath-taking sight of the sparkling light, purplish blue color of the waters fronting the resort resembling that of a clear and unclouded sky surely captivates your senses and rejuvenates your soul. A watchful walk eastward through an uphill trail and a few careful steps downhill leads you to the serene lagoon “Kwaknitan,” so named after a bat specie, where you can commune with nature and go on kayaking on its blue-green brackish waters. Take a 5-minute boat ride  or go on a 20-minute hike southwards and you will be enthralled by the beauty of the Kanlunes Beach with the grains of its silver-white powder sand glistening like gems with just a slight touch of light coming  from the sun.
2. Intoxicating Amenities. Club Tara, the majestic beach resort, is known throughout Caraga Region as much for its inspired sceneries as for its world-class facilities and comfort-laden, convenience-oriented and pleasure-bearing amenities. Originally built by its owner, my good friend Dr. Potenciano Malvar of the General Miguel Malvar Foundation, the resort had reached its present stature thanks to his Korean business partner Mr. Marsi Kang who innovatively combined Korean-Filipino architecture on its cottages, restaurant and reception center carefully designed to capture the essence of tranquility. You can see 10 suite-cottages standing on the blue lagoon’s edge with only the walls and posts made of concrete but the roofs made of local “nipa” materials to match perfectly with the aggregate of features that give character to its surrounding landscape. Inside the individual suites, which officially opened for guest occupancy last October, 2009, you can witness the highest quality fixtures and furnishings- a California King-sized bed, cable TV and DVD and a tiny refrigerator.  You can watch with awe and admiration the floor to ceiling windows installed to frame the stunning view of the lagoon piercing though the wooden-floored veranda featuring a see-through glass designed for guests to peek the waters underneath playfully enwrapping the concrete posts en route to the shoreline. Upon entering the bathroom, you cannot help but feel engulfed with magical spells with the sight of the black pebbles carefully laid on the floor. The view of a jacuzzi pool for two set on glass side windows overlooking the lagoon would surely tickle your mind that the place is so perfect for romantics of all ages. In between the suite  cottages you can find a beautiful horizon edge serpentine-sized freshwater pool that appears to flow into the azure sea that entices guests in for a quick dip or a languorous swim. At Kanlunes Beach, you can see cottages in between palm trees deliberately  built 200 feet from the water, close enough to hear the waves pounding on the shorelines and high enough to enjoy the inspiring view of the sprawling Mt. Legazpi  in the mainland and the ever-changing  blues of the Hinatuan Passage seas and sky.
3. Excellent Services. Most importantly, in this majestic beach resort you can savor its innovative cuisine, which artfully blends international favorites with island flair. During your stay, you will be served with classic yet contemporary dishes fused with Asian and European culinary influences. As an added advantage, you can really feel the warmth, grace and personable services of the staff belonging to the Filipino race known internationally for their hospitality. You can dine and wine on its restaurant or arrange a special sunset dinner on the beach front. For island water sports lovers and enthusiasts like you, snorkeling, diving and kayaking gears with expert guides are always available.

Majestic Beach Resort – Final Thought

A great resort, sea view, lots of entertaining activities or relaxing time on a fine sand beach, good food and lots of sun are usual key ingredients for a great island vacations. In Club Tara Resort, you can find all these attributes and you can experience paradise in a secluded haven for luxury, elegance and superb cuisine. You can take my word that this majestic beach resort is one of the finest in this part of the country, but I recommend seeing it for yourself.

CLUB TARA VITAL INFORMATION PLEASE CLICK HERE . . .

If you want to stay in another world-class resort within the vicinity of Sohoton Cove, please click here.

Looking for great island vacations spots in Bucas Grande Island, please click here, also here, as well as here.

A Breath-taking Sunset At Club Tara Resort

A photograph on 4 of the 10 Jacuzzi Suite and 2 of the 4 Tropical Cottages

The Club Tara Swimming Pool

A Distant View of Club Tara Cottages

Inside Picture of Suite Cottage with Floor To ceiling Glass Windows Facing the Veranda and Lagoon

Close Up View of the Jacuzzi with Captivating View of Floating Flowers

A dainty and demure Filipina enjoying the fresh and cool Jacuzzi dip

Special Sunset Dinner at Kanlunes Beach

Photo of Tents in Wooden Catwalks at Club Tara

Poolside Dinner At Club Tara

An Enviable Poolside Kiss Among Club Tara Guest Couple

Two Amiable Staff in Ethnic Attire Welcoming the Club Tara Guests

View of a Tropical Cottage Atop A Limestone Islet fronting Club Tara

A lady tourist savoring the mesmerizing beauty and serenity of the Kanlunes Beach...a part of Club Tara -this island's majestic beach resort.

Fairs and Festivals – What Are They?

Fairs and festivals started as celebrations to honor God and deities such as in religious festivals, the coming of seasons as in summer festivals, the start of harvests like the harvest festivals and to showcase various art forms like the film festival and music festivals and are generally characterized by street dancing to the tune of street dance music with performers in colorful dance costumes executing dance steps in various dance routines in accordance with the dance choreography. As people, among them the island vacations enthusiasts, assemble in a mood to spend for relaxation and enjoyment, smart individuals  saw these events as opportunity to do business by installing shops and stalls in the vicinity. Later on, cultural programs and  fun-filled activities were organized. Then, government and non-government organizations set-up forums, exhibits, and civic actions. Thus, fairs and festivals became venues where worshippers worship, the merry-makers making fun, the businessmen doing business and the government and other sectors trying their best to catch the attention of the masses.

Fairs and Festivals – the Bucas Grande Experience

While fairs and festivals in general have religious and seasonal themes, others have cultural and historical significance. These occasions could be the day institutions are founded or any other event which the community decides to commemorate periodically. Such is the case of the “Tinabangay” Festival in Bucas Grande Island, Socorro, Surigao del Norte, Philippines held on the 22^nd day of February every year in time for the town’s foundation day.  Nevertheless, of all fairs and festivals, the one in Socorro stands out to be forever unique for 3 compelling reasons.

1. Its Historical Fervor. The Bucas Grande fairs and festivals trace the history facts of the island municipality. You can see street dancers from participating contingents depicting the coming into the island of scores of families searching for greener pastures from the island of Leyte in the Visayas in 1919 being joyfully welcomed by the natives of then Sitio Bunga. Further, you can witness the performers portraying the heroism of the local men responding to the shout of “Socorro” from the church workers accompanying a Spanish priest pleading for “help” as the sailboat they were riding towards the place was battered by gigantic waves and  on the  verge of capsizing in one Sunday morning of 1920. Furthermore, you can see dancers illustrating the local defenders fighting a one-sided battle against the Philippine Constabulary forces assisted by the mighty US Marines backed up by  ”USS Sacramento” warship  in 1924 on mere suspicion that they were members of a “colorum” or unregistered society founded to rebel against the government. Finally, you can watch the street dancers characterizing the lowly Socorronhons being shouted at as “colorums ” and “mad men” by the people from the neighboring towns in the aftermath of the 1924 Colorum Uprising.
2. Its Cultural Theme. The Socorro fairs and festivals features the people helping people culture of the place, hence, the term “Tinabangay” in the local dialect and “Bayanihan” in the Filipino language. Here you can see dancers depicting their forebears who, in response to the derisive and ridiculous remarks from their neighbors, had decided to form into a cohesive community  thereby giving birth to the “Tinabangay” activity in the later part of the 1940’s, wherein, each and every able-bodied Socorronhon has to live the privacy of his life for one whole month or exactly 30 days in a year  and offer his labor services for free in the house construction and collective farming activities with the house and farm owners only shouldering the food and material cost. Relative thereto, you can witness the performers portraying the actuations of various sectors in an actual “tinabangay” with one sector in full gear performing carpentry works, others doing masonry works, the rest depicting as labor assistants, the farmers tilling the land and harvesting crops, fishermen catching fish as viands for the laborers and most importantly, the lovely ladies taking turns preparing the most nutritious and delicious foods as a means of easing the weariness of the workers.
3. Its Festive and Service Mood. The Bucas Grande event is not only a plain festival but an annual fair for the entire island municipality. You can witness the shops and stalls selling handicrafts, garments notably the used clothing popularly known as “ukay-ukay” and other wares being set up to let people go on a little shopping spree. You can also view fun-filled activities for children and grown-ups being undertaken, cultural programs including magic and puppet shows being organized to regale the crowd and joyful competitions being done to enhance public participation. Further, you can take part in the medical-dental mission sponsored by the municipal and provincial governments as well as the blood-letting sponsored by the local medical technologists’ society.  In the latter part of the day, you can participate the “Harog Festival” and gaily feast on the porridge in more than a thousand large kettles being lined along the major streets in the town center prepared  by the  various people’s organizations, schools and agencies for free to the well-wishers. Finally, you can savor the customary fireworks display in the later part of the night done in the town square to signal the end of the fairs and festivals in Bucas Grande.

Fairs and Festivals – Final Opinion

Fairs and festivals help to celebrate and showcase the rich history and culture of the place through arts, music and fun. It provides men, women and children from all walks of life the occasion and opportunity to make new friendships and renew old ones. It is all about celebrating, partying, eating, shopping, establishing relationships and merry-making. The fun and frolic at the fairs and festivals in Socorro can only be experienced rather than explained. So come,  visit Bucas Grande and savor the uniqueness of its fairs and festivals.

The Barangay Navarro Contingent - last Tinabangay Festival's Champion displaying their stationary dance prowess at the Socorro Feeder Port.

The Barangay Taruc Contingent in their 2nd Runner-Up Winning Performance

The Barangay Nueva Estrella Contingent in their awe-inspiring presentation

The Barangay Sering dancers in their display of well-choreographed stationary dance

Socorro's former Mayor and incumbent Surigao del Norte Provincial Board Member, Hon. Mamerto D. Galanida, Ed. D. getting his cup of "harog" or porridge from a student of Socorro National High School.

Part and parcel of more than a thousand kettles filled with "harog" lined-up in the major streets of the town center.

Close-up view of the porridge locally called "harog," with rice, mung bean, gabi, cassava, sweet potato, squash with coconut milk as major ingredients, which is a popular snacks for the laborers after a day's work in the Tinabangay activities.

Socorro National High School students getting the "harog" ready for the festival

The "harog" servers getting ready for the start of the "Harog" Festival.

Portion of the major town center thoroughfare filled with "Harog" Festival revelers on a festive mood- a site to behold in the Bucas Grande Fairs and Festivals.

Island Vacations- An Introduction

Island vacations aficionados prefer to spend unique vacations and visit island getaways hosting a variety of natural tourist attractions like a seaside lagoon with islets having lush natural vegetation and wildlife resembling that of floating rock gardens in crystal clear water teeming with coral fish and surrounded by fantastic caverns. Name them all and it is found in the famous island vacations spot named Sohoton Cove in Bucas Grande Island, Socorro, Surigao del Norte, Philippines.

Island Vacations – What Sohoton Cove Can Offer?

Island vacations are best spent in Sohoton Cove as it is a single tourist destination that offers you a variety of tourist attractions:

1-    Enchanting Cove. As part of the Inayaran Inlet in the southwestern part of the island, the cove is accessible only during low tide through the 40-meter Sohoton Cave serving as the sole entry and exit to the area. The best time to enter the cave is when the tidal movement recedes enabling the sea water current to slow down or come to a complete stop. You could have a completely satisfying experience if you will ride on a kayak or canoe. But if you are on a group, you can opt to ride a motorized boat and signal the operator to stop the engine upon entry and just paddle it inwards. You will be a little bit nervous and breathing with emotional thrill as the boat slowly enters the passage way. Going into the center of the cave and as the foreign light from the other end meets your eyes, you could hear a mixture of strange sounds resembling that of a banging metal or other identical vibrations. A very dark corner at the left side occasionally shoots-off a noise that resembles that of a frying lard. With the dim light from the outside serving as background, you can view the spell binding stalactites hanging from the cavern’s ceiling. Looking down, you can see blended colors of sea water often forming tiny whirlpools as the cave ends into the serenity of the lagoon.

2-    Identical Islets. A hard-to-explain feeling of fulfillment for your island vacations would greet you once you are inside. Looking straightforward, you cannot help but admire the sight of the islets of almost the same size resembling that of floating dish gardens adorned on water streets. Glancing downwards, you would be amazed with the reflections of its lush natural vegetation flashed in the pristine and crystal-clear waters. Occasionally, you can see a variety of birds and fruit bats hopping from one aguho and iron wood tree to another.

3-    Magnificent Rock Formations. A sight to behold in this island vacations spot are the spectacular, scenic and sometimes colorful rock formations resulting from weathering and erosion sculpting the existing rock of some islets.

4-    Alluring Caverns. There are 2 small caverns inside this island vacations destination. The first is the “hagukan” due to the snoring sound it emits as the water slams into the cavern. You can enter it by swimming carefully so your head will not touch the upper portion of the low mouth entrance. There is a big rock in the central portion inside the cavern where you step on and take a rest. As light comes in through the small cavern entrance, you can witness a luminous green color of the water thereby offering the only chance for dark-skinned visitors to have a fair complexion. The other cavern is the “magkukuob” coined by the bending position you shall undertake to barely make through a low opening and walk up the steep and rocky passageway towards a skylight leading to a wooden platform right on a cliff located 15 feet above sea level for a dive back into the lagoon.

5-    The Jellyfish Kingdom. If you happen to visit this island vacations spot in the months of January to September, you will be fortunate enough to mingle and swim with a smack of stingless Spotted Jelly or Lagoon Jelly (Mastigias papua) which abound inside the cove.

Island Vacations In Sohoton Cove- Final Views

Island vacations destinations offering a variety of attractions are not-so abundant. In Sohoton, you can go sightseeing and bird watching on its thickly vegetated identical islets and scenic rock formations, snorkel and dive on its placid waters, experience fun and thrill on its caverns and swim with the friendly and harmless jellyfish. No wonder, Sohoton Cove is the emerging all-in-one island vacations spot in this part of the world.

SOHOTON COVE VITAL INFORMATION PLEASE CLICK HERE. . .

SOHOTON COVE TIDAL CALENDAR PLEASE CLICK HERE . . .

If you are looking for world-class resorts suited for island vacations enthusiasts like you located within the vicinity of Sohoton Cove please click here and also here. However, if you are one of the budget travelers like me, you may opt to stay in a backpackers hostel featured here.

Want more emerging island vacations spots in Bucas Grande  frequented by sightseeing aficionados, please click here as well as here.

You can also see the most popular white sand beach in the island by clicking here and a seaside waterfall being featured here.

Finally, if you are looking for a Package Tour either for 1 day visit at the Sohoton Cove and its vicinity only or avail of the 3-day, 2-night package for the Bucas Grande Island Tour, please click here.

Sohoton Cave, the lone entrance and exit of the Sohoton Cove . . .

The Sohoton Cove entrance towards outside of the lagoon.

Horse's shoe rock formation inside the cove

Another angle of the horse's shoe rock formation

The verdant islets dotted on crystal-clear waters inside the cove.

Islet ranges mirrored on the placid waters had delighted these island-hoppers much.

Fantastic view from inside the Hagukan Cave inside the Sohoton Cove

The Dagongdong Rock Formation inside Sohoton Cove.

Swimming with the smack of stingless jellyfish at the Jellyfish Kingdom

Pristine waters leading to Club Tarra resort within the vicinity of Sohoton Cove.

Bird's Eye View of Club Tarra Resort near the Sohoton Cove.

Club Tarra Swimming Pool

Another fantastic view of Club Tarra Resort Swimming Pool- a sight that island vacations lovers really like to behold.

Island Vacations – What Is It?

Island vacations are island getaways incorporated in the vacation checklist of best vacation spots in the world including family beach vacations at best family resorts and couples resorts. Further, island vacations is not only about island hopping, beach vacations and various forms of island water sports but is also about island sightseeing.

Island Vacations – the Kapihan View Park

Kapihan View Park, situated in Bucas Grande Island on the easternmost part of Surigao del Norte, Philippines, is one of the emerging sightseeing destinations suitable for you who intend to go on island vacations. You need to visit the spot for 3 strong motives:

1. The View. Being a vantage point located atop Bucas Grande Island, the surrounding sight of this island vacations spot stimulate your senses and rejuvenate your soul. Facing the east, you can savor the sun slowly arising out from the bosom of the Pacific Ocean in the wee hours of the summer morning. Turning to the south, you can view the towering ranges of Mt. Legaspi resembling like a watchful giant keeping guard in that part of mainland Surigao. In the late afternoon of a sunny day, you can enjoy watching the horizon turning to crimson and orange as the sun is slowly embraced by the sea. Glancing at the north, you can see the picturesque Siargao Island dubbed as the Philippine’s surfing capital.
2. The Facilities. This promising ecotourism destination proudly hosts the Bayanihan View Deck and Resort. The blend of warm sea breeze and cool mountain air provides ambiance to the open hall ideal for your retreat sessions, social gatherings and seminar-workshops. Meanwhile, delicious and nutritious foods are served according to your wishes. Further, the bath and comfort rooms are attuned to international standards. Furthermore,  the twin-size bedroom with extra bed is perfect for honeymooners and small family vacation goers. Finally, electricity and water are provided 24/7.
3. The People. The tourist spot is being taken-cared of by the members of the Socorro Bayanihan Services, Incorporated, the biggest and strongest people’s organization in the island noted for nurturing the Filipino tradition of “bayanihan” or helping each other. During the whole year-round, you can observe the group members taking turns in tending the communal farms situated within the vicinity of the view park. If you happen to go there by July,  you can observe them and the other islanders leaving the privacy of their lives and offer their services  for a period of 30 days in the construction of houses and collective farming activities with the house and farm owners shouldering the food and materials expenses while the labor is offered free.

Island Vacations- Final Thoughts

Island and nature lovers like you intending to have respite from work prefer to visit unspoiled hideaway. Hence, come and visit the Kapihan View Park and you can truly conclude that spending island vacations here is truly rest and pleasure.

KAPIHAN VIEW PARK VITAL INFORMATION PLEASE CLICK HERE. . .

The Right Side & Entrance of Bayanihan View Deck and Resort at Kapihan View Park

The picturesque Siargao Island Viewed from the outdoors of Bayanihan View Deck and Resort

The Siargao Surfing Area viewed from the open hall of the Bayanihan View Deck & Resort

The sprawling Mt. Legazpi in the mainland Surigao on the south of the Kapihan View Park

Close-up photo of the right side entrance of the Bayanihan View Deck & Resort

Bayanihan View Deck & Resort Front View

Left side view of the Bayanihan View Deck & Resort

Back View of Bayanihan View Deck & Resort

Twin size bedroom with extra bed for honeymooners and small family vacation goers at the Park.

Doors of Female and Male Comfort Rooms for live-out guests especially the island vacations lovers