Friday, November 15, 2013

A not so fortunate discovery in the Sulu Sea





After a short visit to the Philippines oldest mosque in Simunul, i spotted a sparkling white sandbar near the farther island of Tandu Bas. I asked the boatman and my company how long it will take us and was told it may take us half to 1 hour.

The boatman was saying we might not have enough fuel; 

We're already that close so I thought we might as well check it out. I suggested that we'll just scout some crude from the islands we'll pass by (which we did in LA).



Khen and company appeared warry of my intention, but thankfully agreed somehow. I could tell from their face that they were unsure of our security since no one has been to the island before.

From a distance of 250m away, the water was very shallow. We had to be very slow and careful so as not to break the boat's propeller. From there, I could see something floating, appearing as if a turtle flipped over. But then, It was too big though, and I could not confirm within myself if it were a turtle indeed.

We docked and took pictures. Then, we walked close to the object.

It is in fact a turtle, slaughtered. It's shell has been peeled, and chest opened. The organs are floating away from its stomach. 




Khen works for an NGO, and has contacts with the world wildlife foundation in the province so she reported it immediately.

We saw a number of dried skeletons close and realized this is not an isolated case. It has been ongoing and local fishermen have tolerated it (or at least none has reported it).



I knew there was something else to see. We walked around and found 2 more rotting turtles; one filled with maggots and another rotting just like the first. There were some more skeletons. All in all, we counted 9.







As per Khen who's a fisheries graduate, these Sulu green turtles grow something like a pearl in their chest. This seems to be the motive behind te killing (apart from the peeled shell in their backs).

Fortunately, i have some fb friends who are concerned citizens of Tawi Tawi, and upon seeing my post, took details and said they are reporting it to the local government. I hope they take action.

The sizes, mode of killing, and the count of the turtles are a worry.







After a short visit to the Philippines oldest mosque in Simunul, i spotted a sparkling white sandbar near the farther island of Tandu Bas. I asked the boatman and my company how long it will take us and was told it may take us half to 1 hour.

The boatman was saying we might not have enough fuel; 

We're already that close so I thought we might as well check it out. I suggested that we'll just scout some crude from the islands we'll pass by (which we did in LA).



Khen and company appeared warry of my intention, but thankfully agreed somehow. I could tell from their face that they were unsure of our security since no one has been to the island before.

From a distance of 250m away, the water was very shallow. We had to be very slow and careful so as not to break the boat's propeller. From there, I could see something floating, appearing as if a turtle flipped over. But then, It was too big though, and I could not confirm within myself if it were a turtle indeed.

We docked and took pictures. Then, we walked close to the object.

It is in fact a turtle, slaughtered. It's shell has been peeled, and chest opened. The organs are floating away from its stomach. 




Khen works for an NGO, and has contacts with the world wildlife foundation in the province so she reported it immediately.

We saw a number of dried skeletons close and realized this is not an isolated case. It has been ongoing and local fishermen have tolerated it (or at least none has reported it).



I knew there was something else to see. We walked around and found 2 more rotting turtles; one filled with maggots and another rotting just like the first. There were some more skeletons. All in all, we counted 9.







As per Khen who's a fisheries graduate, these Sulu green turtles grow something like a pearl in their chest. This seems to be the motive behind te killing (apart from the peeled shell in their backs).

Fortunately, i have some fb friends who are concerned citizens of Tawi Tawi, and upon seeing my post, took details and said they are reporting it to the local government. I hope they take action.

The sizes, mode of killing, and the count of the turtles are a worry.



Read More »

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Where I stayed in Malaybalay, Bukidnon: Plaza view Tourist Inn



I arrived a little late and hungry at 6pm. No itineraries, no reservations, just my backpack and my wallet.lack of preparations was not a challenge though. I had my internet over phone that helped me research for my needs.

The bus dropped me right in the plaza. As i was hingry, i munched on the balut, tempura, and kwek kwek that piled up in the plaza. 



Shortly after, i checked in at plaza view. There was no single ordinary room available so had no choice but to pay in the twin bed settlement.





I have also posted about ARL Resto in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon here



Travelling Philippines? Follow @CheapBedsPH on Instagram for geotagged backpacker accomodation below PHP400 (US$9) for easier searches.



I arrived a little late and hungry at 6pm. No itineraries, no reservations, just my backpack and my wallet.lack of preparations was not a challenge though. I had my internet over phone that helped me research for my needs.

The bus dropped me right in the plaza. As i was hingry, i munched on the balut, tempura, and kwek kwek that piled up in the plaza. 



Shortly after, i checked in at plaza view. There was no single ordinary room available so had no choice but to pay in the twin bed settlement.





I have also posted about ARL Resto in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon here



Travelling Philippines? Follow @CheapBedsPH on Instagram for geotagged backpacker accomodation below PHP400 (US$9) for easier searches.

Read More »

Climbing Bud Bongao





After a few cancellations, and several rebookings, I'm finally flying to tawi tawi; and gladly, a friend's friend is hosting me ;-). 

I really dont mind introducing myself to strangers, but having a ready acquiantance will always offer convenience.

The plane arrives in Sangga Sangga airport at about8. My host had her brother in law pick us up. We dropped by their house just a walking distance fr sangga sangga before heading to our destinations.

Our first stop was bud bongao. We stopped by a bridge for a panoramioof bod bongao, but the sunlight makes it more inviting to jump off the bridge and to the water.



The river has a white sand bed, and crystal blue waters, you'd regret that bridge was even there.

We had to drop by the market to buy some bananas that we'll feed for the monkeys in the trail. I took the chance too to have a muslim brekkie.





It took us about an hour and a half to get to the summit. There were a number of hikers, but surprisingly, not the regular mountaineers. While there may be some young ones who probably take a weekend break in the mountain, some are pilgrims who, according to my host khen, normally do the hike as thanksgiving, or sacrifice. Several of them are families, including infants who are carried on cloth tied around the chest. Khen said, some pilgrims come all the way from zamboanga and sulu. (Too bad couldn't take picture; kinda hesitant taking pictures just like that in muslim areas).

Sometime after an hour of hike, we heard some movements. The monekys are approaching. Coming out from the thick buhes, and into the wires, they came so close waiting for us o hand the bananas. Their count was amazing. I thought we'd come across with only a few but they came in about 30 or so. From the grannys, to moms with their babies, to small independent ones. They followed us through until they finally realized there are no more bananas to give.









Upon getting close to the summit, we came through what appeared to be a tomb. I asked khen what it was. She said it is in fact the burial of royal families, and now a site for where people offer prayers. A number of cut cloth scattered around, and she said, its what is offered to the dead. It is te same cloth that is used in burying muslims.



There are three viewing areas in the summit. The best one is that with a 180 degree view of the bongao town, the airport and sulu sea.



Mt bongao actually has 3 summits, though one of them doesn't really seem to be accessible by feet; more for wall climbing. Khen said locals normally throw a stone to this other summit, and if that stone touces the wall, you can be granted a wish. I wanted to try but there isn't any stone available; it was but improper though to cut through the rocky ground just for it (i mean, if every visitor is to do so, it will eventually flatten out at the level f the ground.lol).








There was a group of students having picnic in the summit; while i have water for myslef, i thought khen might run of supply, so left mine for her too, and asked for orange juice from these kids. They were great and kid, i did not bother asking for another glass ;-)



*there are no jeepneys or so in Tawi Tawi. You'll have to take a trike to go around.For those visiting tawi tawi, I highly suggest renting a trike (commonly referred to as motor) for the whole duration of the trip. Sanga sanga itself to town may cost P100 already. In our case, Khen had a brother in law who drives a motor so not much of a problem and hassle. You can probably negotiate for 300-400/day exclusive of gas (tell them you'd shoulder for gasoline).


see here for my post on Sang Ai Shapo and our discovery in some random sandbar




After a few cancellations, and several rebookings, I'm finally flying to tawi tawi; and gladly, a friend's friend is hosting me ;-). 

I really dont mind introducing myself to strangers, but having a ready acquiantance will always offer convenience.

The plane arrives in Sangga Sangga airport at about8. My host had her brother in law pick us up. We dropped by their house just a walking distance fr sangga sangga before heading to our destinations.

Our first stop was bud bongao. We stopped by a bridge for a panoramioof bod bongao, but the sunlight makes it more inviting to jump off the bridge and to the water.



The river has a white sand bed, and crystal blue waters, you'd regret that bridge was even there.

We had to drop by the market to buy some bananas that we'll feed for the monkeys in the trail. I took the chance too to have a muslim brekkie.





It took us about an hour and a half to get to the summit. There were a number of hikers, but surprisingly, not the regular mountaineers. While there may be some young ones who probably take a weekend break in the mountain, some are pilgrims who, according to my host khen, normally do the hike as thanksgiving, or sacrifice. Several of them are families, including infants who are carried on cloth tied around the chest. Khen said, some pilgrims come all the way from zamboanga and sulu. (Too bad couldn't take picture; kinda hesitant taking pictures just like that in muslim areas).

Sometime after an hour of hike, we heard some movements. The monekys are approaching. Coming out from the thick buhes, and into the wires, they came so close waiting for us o hand the bananas. Their count was amazing. I thought we'd come across with only a few but they came in about 30 or so. From the grannys, to moms with their babies, to small independent ones. They followed us through until they finally realized there are no more bananas to give.









Upon getting close to the summit, we came through what appeared to be a tomb. I asked khen what it was. She said it is in fact the burial of royal families, and now a site for where people offer prayers. A number of cut cloth scattered around, and she said, its what is offered to the dead. It is te same cloth that is used in burying muslims.



There are three viewing areas in the summit. The best one is that with a 180 degree view of the bongao town, the airport and sulu sea.



Mt bongao actually has 3 summits, though one of them doesn't really seem to be accessible by feet; more for wall climbing. Khen said locals normally throw a stone to this other summit, and if that stone touces the wall, you can be granted a wish. I wanted to try but there isn't any stone available; it was but improper though to cut through the rocky ground just for it (i mean, if every visitor is to do so, it will eventually flatten out at the level f the ground.lol).








There was a group of students having picnic in the summit; while i have water for myslef, i thought khen might run of supply, so left mine for her too, and asked for orange juice from these kids. They were great and kid, i did not bother asking for another glass ;-)



*there are no jeepneys or so in Tawi Tawi. You'll have to take a trike to go around.For those visiting tawi tawi, I highly suggest renting a trike (commonly referred to as motor) for the whole duration of the trip. Sanga sanga itself to town may cost P100 already. In our case, Khen had a brother in law who drives a motor so not much of a problem and hassle. You can probably negotiate for 300-400/day exclusive of gas (tell them you'd shoulder for gasoline).


see here for my post on Sang Ai Shapo and our discovery in some random sandbar
Read More »

Eleven (11) islands and 1 great trip in Zamboanga City


I


Forget Sta Cruz Island, forget the news on terrorism, there is 1 great destination awaiting visitors in Zamboanga City.

I'm bound for tawi tawi but connecting flight from Zamboanga will have to be the next day.





I've attempted to go to 11 islands on the second trip, 3 days  right after the recent MNLF war, but i had to listen to reports that it is very risky. Rumor has it that it is through here that some MNlF rebels have taken entry.

7am was my arrival in zamboanga, and as usual, I went straight tothe market to get breakfast. To my surprise, the lady in the muslim carinderia greeted me with "antagal mo nang di pumasyal". I was at "WOW! They remember me." I returned her warm greeting with "penge nman ng masarap na wadjit" (though they did not have it available then an offered me putlimundi instead).

I took the chance to ask them too how to go to 11 islands. They've given me the directions along with some caution.

On my way to the bus station, i asked a bystander (whom I thought as an officer)  In the police compound next to the market if there is an alternative transpo to brgy libugan; i was told there's none but only te Rural bus; And, again, I was told this place used to be the camp for Rebels.

Having been to the most daring destinations in ARMM, i thought it was normal. So, I left acting as if I will not push thru but truth is, I went to the bus station.



Upon reaching brgy panubigan, luckily, there were these kids who got off a van and are bound to the community. We walked the long 3.5kms uphill and downhill for 45mins.









The kids house is halfway through and aske one of them to escort me to any barangay official.

Konsehal wasn't around at that time as a relative have died; I was received by his wife, and since they have a store, I asked for coffee.



Talking among the locals while having my coffee, I was told that there is a army detachment in the community. Just a little while later, i bid thanks and left for the detachment. 

As an SOP, i was asked to identify myself, and my purpose. Gladly, unlike that experience in Vitali/Merloquet, I was well received by these officers. In fact, since it was almost noontime, they said to rest for a while, have lunch, and sail after. More than that, i even took a 2 hour nap from their hammocks after feeling drowsy from filling my stomach.







I woke up about 2pm, and inasmuch as I'd like to sleep further, I had to get up or miss the island hop.

I walked on each of the houses til I was pointed to chief tanod Abdal. He was so accomodating, that he cut his nap just to take me to where I'd like to go.







The 11 islands park will give you the 100 islands/caramoan feel. Rock formations, lush forest, and white sand beaches.













We also got to this island that is but a shallow black block of rock where waves are eating up our "katig"-less boat.


After going round this table like island, sir abdel saw a fishin boat on the farther side. He said we'll ask for some fish catch and made te approach ;-)



We docked by 'bisaya' island. Rumor has it that there used to be a bisaya settler in this island. Being the only bisaya in this dominantly muslim community, his settlement has been referred to his. I went snorkling too on its thick coral reef (and water was even shallow at this part).
















We were supposed to be on our way back to the community but Sir abdel insisted that we visit the fish cage. I was well received by the owner and his staff (his brethren) and were very excited to show me to the cages of fishes and lobsters. Lobsters of probably a kilo a piece or more, and there's more than hundreds of them of this size in just a cage.. What a dream dinner.














It was getting late and I asked that we get back. I washed up fromthe freeflowing hose around, and after, asked that I leave for I want to pass by konsehal again to say thanks. Sir abdel escorted me to Konsehal. After meeting konsehal, he flagged a motorcycle who'd drop me to where I can catch the bus ( and the motorcycle didn't leave until I got a van). 


Now who said it's not safe?


How to go to 11 islands?

From Zamboanga City, take the Pagadian/Dipolog bound buses and asked to be dropped in Brgy Panubigan. Fare is 65 pesos (aircon). 

From brgy Panubigan, either walk the 3.5kms or wait for motor habals that will get you to the community. Fare is P10 pax.

Upon reaching community, ask fr chief tanod Abdel. As courtesy, ask to be brought too to Konsehal and the detachment.



For other destinations you can include in this trip to zamboanga, see how I found a new home in Merloquet Falls



Looking to travelling to this destination? Talk to me and we'll let's talk about your accomodation, transpo, and tour options


I


Forget Sta Cruz Island, forget the news on terrorism, there is 1 great destination awaiting visitors in Zamboanga City.

I'm bound for tawi tawi but connecting flight from Zamboanga will have to be the next day.





I've attempted to go to 11 islands on the second trip, 3 days  right after the recent MNLF war, but i had to listen to reports that it is very risky. Rumor has it that it is through here that some MNlF rebels have taken entry.

7am was my arrival in zamboanga, and as usual, I went straight tothe market to get breakfast. To my surprise, the lady in the muslim carinderia greeted me with "antagal mo nang di pumasyal". I was at "WOW! They remember me." I returned her warm greeting with "penge nman ng masarap na wadjit" (though they did not have it available then an offered me putlimundi instead).

I took the chance to ask them too how to go to 11 islands. They've given me the directions along with some caution.

On my way to the bus station, i asked a bystander (whom I thought as an officer)  In the police compound next to the market if there is an alternative transpo to brgy libugan; i was told there's none but only te Rural bus; And, again, I was told this place used to be the camp for Rebels.

Having been to the most daring destinations in ARMM, i thought it was normal. So, I left acting as if I will not push thru but truth is, I went to the bus station.



Upon reaching brgy panubigan, luckily, there were these kids who got off a van and are bound to the community. We walked the long 3.5kms uphill and downhill for 45mins.









The kids house is halfway through and aske one of them to escort me to any barangay official.

Konsehal wasn't around at that time as a relative have died; I was received by his wife, and since they have a store, I asked for coffee.



Talking among the locals while having my coffee, I was told that there is a army detachment in the community. Just a little while later, i bid thanks and left for the detachment. 

As an SOP, i was asked to identify myself, and my purpose. Gladly, unlike that experience in Vitali/Merloquet, I was well received by these officers. In fact, since it was almost noontime, they said to rest for a while, have lunch, and sail after. More than that, i even took a 2 hour nap from their hammocks after feeling drowsy from filling my stomach.







I woke up about 2pm, and inasmuch as I'd like to sleep further, I had to get up or miss the island hop.

I walked on each of the houses til I was pointed to chief tanod Abdal. He was so accomodating, that he cut his nap just to take me to where I'd like to go.







The 11 islands park will give you the 100 islands/caramoan feel. Rock formations, lush forest, and white sand beaches.













We also got to this island that is but a shallow black block of rock where waves are eating up our "katig"-less boat.


After going round this table like island, sir abdel saw a fishin boat on the farther side. He said we'll ask for some fish catch and made te approach ;-)



We docked by 'bisaya' island. Rumor has it that there used to be a bisaya settler in this island. Being the only bisaya in this dominantly muslim community, his settlement has been referred to his. I went snorkling too on its thick coral reef (and water was even shallow at this part).
















We were supposed to be on our way back to the community but Sir abdel insisted that we visit the fish cage. I was well received by the owner and his staff (his brethren) and were very excited to show me to the cages of fishes and lobsters. Lobsters of probably a kilo a piece or more, and there's more than hundreds of them of this size in just a cage.. What a dream dinner.














It was getting late and I asked that we get back. I washed up fromthe freeflowing hose around, and after, asked that I leave for I want to pass by konsehal again to say thanks. Sir abdel escorted me to Konsehal. After meeting konsehal, he flagged a motorcycle who'd drop me to where I can catch the bus ( and the motorcycle didn't leave until I got a van). 


Now who said it's not safe?


How to go to 11 islands?

From Zamboanga City, take the Pagadian/Dipolog bound buses and asked to be dropped in Brgy Panubigan. Fare is 65 pesos (aircon). 

From brgy Panubigan, either walk the 3.5kms or wait for motor habals that will get you to the community. Fare is P10 pax.

Upon reaching community, ask fr chief tanod Abdel. As courtesy, ask to be brought too to Konsehal and the detachment.



For other destinations you can include in this trip to zamboanga, see how I found a new home in Merloquet Falls



Looking to travelling to this destination? Talk to me and we'll let's talk about your accomodation, transpo, and tour options

Read More »

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