Summer Place, Florida Blanca, Pampanga

Summer Place in Florida Blanca, Pampanga

Today's amazing! I dropped my mom to the airport and when i got back..my kins were craving for a swim. Thanks to the dry hot weather.

heading to Summer Place in Florida Blanca Pampanga

Since i barely had enough sleep as we had to leave 2am and be at the airport by 4, i took an hour nap. When i woke up, i heard them talking about "Summer Place" in Florida Blanca Pampanga.

en route past SCTEX bridge

 I've long wanted to get back to this place. The last time i was here was 21 years ago, when i was just 6, and my memories of it were as if it was just last year. 

power structure of SCTEX bridge

Much of the elder townsmen know the place as it was the only resort during those times. Pools weren't as convenient then. Meantime, most of natural attractions have vanished during the consecutive years of lahar destruction and so, people hadnt really thought that the resort still exists. It was only recently when i caught environmental interest that i recalled the place; and that, i guess, made my aunts wonder whatever happened to that place.

hut / kubos in Summer Place

 Then, this summer, an uncle's friend had told him that they've just been there. Thank goodness my aunts organized everything. We left home from the town of Porac at quarter before 11. We didn't really know the access to the place anymore but we were told this resort sits below the SCTEX bridge past florida exit coming from Tarlac. We were also told it was close to the BASA air base. We drove all the way to the air base and asked in the tricycle terminal for the location. We were told we were past it and that it's in San Jose, just right after the church. Then i recalled that that's the access to SCTEX, and given what we were told that it's right below the SCTEX bridge, i knew the advice was correct. 

Summer Place in San Jose, Florida Blanca, Pampanga

On the way to the SCTEX toll gate, there was a jeepney ahead who are 90% potentially going to swim. We followed them and as we approach the bridge, we could see the river and the rock boulders which i still remember very well. The excitement goes on.. There were huge groups and bundles of people with aching pores. We had to do several river crossing past these people, just so we could pitch in less saturated waters. It seemed as if all kubos were occupied but thank gooodness again, there is one vacant. 

Summer Place in San Jose, Florida Blanca, Pampanga

Summer Place in San Jose, Florida Blanca, Pampanga

The water is kind of green, guessing because of the molds, but staring closely at the water, its clear. Plus the fact that it's coming from the mountains, i didnt hesitate to dip, i was chasing on the current for several times. The water is a little warm when we got there, probably because the weather was intensely hot and considering how far the stream have travelled.

Summer Place in San Jose, Florida Blanca, Pampanga

 A little later in the afternoon, the water began to cool off the and the current has gone stronger. We went home past 7, and my folks my talking about coming back this coming sunday. As for me, being yhis close, i'll certainly be camping here one of these days.

Summer Place in San Jose, Florida Blanca, Pampanga

Summer Place in San Jose, Florida Blanca, Pampanga

*Add'l notes

 Surprisingly, the entrance are still at 5 pesos. Hut rental were at P150 though my people skills (if any) got it at p100.

 The "kulot" in charge said they allow overnight and provide kerosene lamps for P250. 

*if you'll commute, take the florida/dinalupihan jeeps from Angeles/Porac terminal. The vicinity is within brgy palakol, where you'll get off in San Jose. In the parish church, take a tricycle. Not sure how much it would cost. Try negotiating being picked up as there is no way to get a service from there. Make sure you have the mobile no, and perhaps an alternative, of your pre arranged service guy.

Summer Place in Florida Blanca, Pampanga

Today's amazing! I dropped my mom to the airport and when i got back..my kins were craving for a swim. Thanks to the dry hot weather.

heading to Summer Place in Florida Blanca Pampanga

Since i barely had enough sleep as we had to leave 2am and be at the airport by 4, i took an hour nap. When i woke up, i heard them talking about "Summer Place" in Florida Blanca Pampanga.

en route past SCTEX bridge

 I've long wanted to get back to this place. The last time i was here was 21 years ago, when i was just 6, and my memories of it were as if it was just last year. 

power structure of SCTEX bridge

Much of the elder townsmen know the place as it was the only resort during those times. Pools weren't as convenient then. Meantime, most of natural attractions have vanished during the consecutive years of lahar destruction and so, people hadnt really thought that the resort still exists. It was only recently when i caught environmental interest that i recalled the place; and that, i guess, made my aunts wonder whatever happened to that place.

hut / kubos in Summer Place

 Then, this summer, an uncle's friend had told him that they've just been there. Thank goodness my aunts organized everything. We left home from the town of Porac at quarter before 11. We didn't really know the access to the place anymore but we were told this resort sits below the SCTEX bridge past florida exit coming from Tarlac. We were also told it was close to the BASA air base. We drove all the way to the air base and asked in the tricycle terminal for the location. We were told we were past it and that it's in San Jose, just right after the church. Then i recalled that that's the access to SCTEX, and given what we were told that it's right below the SCTEX bridge, i knew the advice was correct. 

Summer Place in San Jose, Florida Blanca, Pampanga

On the way to the SCTEX toll gate, there was a jeepney ahead who are 90% potentially going to swim. We followed them and as we approach the bridge, we could see the river and the rock boulders which i still remember very well. The excitement goes on.. There were huge groups and bundles of people with aching pores. We had to do several river crossing past these people, just so we could pitch in less saturated waters. It seemed as if all kubos were occupied but thank gooodness again, there is one vacant. 

Summer Place in San Jose, Florida Blanca, Pampanga

Summer Place in San Jose, Florida Blanca, Pampanga

The water is kind of green, guessing because of the molds, but staring closely at the water, its clear. Plus the fact that it's coming from the mountains, i didnt hesitate to dip, i was chasing on the current for several times. The water is a little warm when we got there, probably because the weather was intensely hot and considering how far the stream have travelled.

Summer Place in San Jose, Florida Blanca, Pampanga

 A little later in the afternoon, the water began to cool off the and the current has gone stronger. We went home past 7, and my folks my talking about coming back this coming sunday. As for me, being yhis close, i'll certainly be camping here one of these days.

Summer Place in San Jose, Florida Blanca, Pampanga

Summer Place in San Jose, Florida Blanca, Pampanga

*Add'l notes

 Surprisingly, the entrance are still at 5 pesos. Hut rental were at P150 though my people skills (if any) got it at p100.

 The "kulot" in charge said they allow overnight and provide kerosene lamps for P250. 

*if you'll commute, take the florida/dinalupihan jeeps from Angeles/Porac terminal. The vicinity is within brgy palakol, where you'll get off in San Jose. In the parish church, take a tricycle. Not sure how much it would cost. Try negotiating being picked up as there is no way to get a service from there. Make sure you have the mobile no, and perhaps an alternative, of your pre arranged service guy.

Read More »

Baler, Aurora

After 2 months and 5 missed treks, im finally travelling with my Climb group, this time for Baler, Aurora.


We left Pampanga at 6:30am, and are to meet around 46 other people in The town of Maria Aurora where we'll have lunch in one of the member's native residence.

headed to a member's ranch

We reached maria aurora at 11:40am. I was very tired of the trip and did not have an appetite for anything but cigarettes and more cigarettes. There was a bounty served, and a Generous coconut harvest.

unlicoco

my original climb group

Just few minutes after everyone's eaten, we set back to the road.

gigantic balete in balete park

trail within balete park, aurora

and there comes the view deck; balete park, aurora

I did not really ask about the itinerary, and the fact that i was going to surf, i was quite ok. I did not really have an idea of the road leading to Baler so I kept looking arpund especially that i's my first time there.

In less than half an hour, we reached a place called balete park. It's a humungous and certainly aged balete drive where tourists and literally get inside and climb from its veins -quite an experience.

Thereafter, we've set forth to the beach in brgy suklayin, baler, aurora.

headed to the ditumabo falls

everyone was good even just here

As we got there, which was probably around 4 or 5, i had nothing in mind but to try the surfing; so i told my friends of my plan, and got dressed, walked towards the board rental store and got my lesson.

basins along the way to ditumabo falls

odds of the trail to ditumabo falls

It took me 2 attempts to rise up the board on the wave. After that, i had barely cared about my instructor that I was everywhere and rode every current there was. After probably 10 successful rides, through that lesson though, my shoulders were beginning to weaken and i couldn't get my body up anymore; a little while later, it's class dismissed. Went back to the resort and digged for food; at half past 9pm, i was already asleep.

here you go, ditumabo falls, aurora

ditumabo falls, aurora

Six o clock the morning after, we set off for the dimatubo falls on a 6-wheeler truck; and of course, this rough ride is no better on topload.

About less than an hour from brgy sinuklayan, through the town of san luis, we reached the "jump off point" to the falls. There are some more members who are yet to arrive and so everyone else went for a swim. Meantime, me ang Mark thought to go ahead.

ditumabo falls, aurora

headed back from ditumabo falls in aurora

It took us less than 30 mins to get to the falls and several hours to leave; about 30 feet tall drop of pressure which mist's is all over.

highway heading to san luis, aurora

topload convenience

and who goes out of baler without surfing???

time to surf in baler, aurora

Add:
Surfing lessons were at 350 inclusive of gears. Taht was for 1 hour. After the lesson, should u want to surf more, it's 200 without the instructor. Rate is standard whichever shop.
Baler sumans were unique and delicious.
The slopes were of steep inclination.
There is no point of going to baler to swim if u don't surf. Fine dark sand and grayish water which is not uncommon for beaches with big waves.
Quite a rough road to the dimatubo falls. Thick slippers during trekking.sunblock not quite necessary as it is a canopy rainforest.



From Baler, you may head again to Casiguran, Aurora

You may also want to read another my travel guide for Baler.

After 2 months and 5 missed treks, im finally travelling with my Climb group, this time for Baler, Aurora.


We left Pampanga at 6:30am, and are to meet around 46 other people in The town of Maria Aurora where we'll have lunch in one of the member's native residence.

headed to a member's ranch

We reached maria aurora at 11:40am. I was very tired of the trip and did not have an appetite for anything but cigarettes and more cigarettes. There was a bounty served, and a Generous coconut harvest.

unlicoco

my original climb group

Just few minutes after everyone's eaten, we set back to the road.

gigantic balete in balete park

trail within balete park, aurora

and there comes the view deck; balete park, aurora

I did not really ask about the itinerary, and the fact that i was going to surf, i was quite ok. I did not really have an idea of the road leading to Baler so I kept looking arpund especially that i's my first time there.

In less than half an hour, we reached a place called balete park. It's a humungous and certainly aged balete drive where tourists and literally get inside and climb from its veins -quite an experience.

Thereafter, we've set forth to the beach in brgy suklayin, baler, aurora.

headed to the ditumabo falls

everyone was good even just here

As we got there, which was probably around 4 or 5, i had nothing in mind but to try the surfing; so i told my friends of my plan, and got dressed, walked towards the board rental store and got my lesson.

basins along the way to ditumabo falls

odds of the trail to ditumabo falls

It took me 2 attempts to rise up the board on the wave. After that, i had barely cared about my instructor that I was everywhere and rode every current there was. After probably 10 successful rides, through that lesson though, my shoulders were beginning to weaken and i couldn't get my body up anymore; a little while later, it's class dismissed. Went back to the resort and digged for food; at half past 9pm, i was already asleep.

here you go, ditumabo falls, aurora

ditumabo falls, aurora

Six o clock the morning after, we set off for the dimatubo falls on a 6-wheeler truck; and of course, this rough ride is no better on topload.

About less than an hour from brgy sinuklayan, through the town of san luis, we reached the "jump off point" to the falls. There are some more members who are yet to arrive and so everyone else went for a swim. Meantime, me ang Mark thought to go ahead.

ditumabo falls, aurora

headed back from ditumabo falls in aurora

It took us less than 30 mins to get to the falls and several hours to leave; about 30 feet tall drop of pressure which mist's is all over.

highway heading to san luis, aurora

topload convenience

and who goes out of baler without surfing???

time to surf in baler, aurora

Add:
Surfing lessons were at 350 inclusive of gears. Taht was for 1 hour. After the lesson, should u want to surf more, it's 200 without the instructor. Rate is standard whichever shop.
Baler sumans were unique and delicious.
The slopes were of steep inclination.
There is no point of going to baler to swim if u don't surf. Fine dark sand and grayish water which is not uncommon for beaches with big waves.
Quite a rough road to the dimatubo falls. Thick slippers during trekking.sunblock not quite necessary as it is a canopy rainforest.



From Baler, you may head again to Casiguran, Aurora

You may also want to read another my travel guide for Baler.

Read More »

Calaguas Island, Camarines Norte

shot from the kubo

The trip that began from a forum and made 19 instant new travel friends

PEXers Calaguas

We scheduled this trip months ahead. There were supposed to be 32 of us in this trip but a few days before the scheduled departure, North Korea shot an impending disaster. Camarines, and generally Bicol, was put under a no fly no sail zone.

approaching calaguas

We did not bother about the warning, except that we weren’t sure whether we can get the boatman to get us there alongside the memorandum. Good thing, the notice was withdrawn hours before we are scheduled to leave. Everyone was all day waiting for the news.

our P300 accomodation next to the P300 rental tent in Calaguas Island

The Calaguas Island fine sand

Summer Place in San Jose, Florida Blanca, Pampanga

Summer Place in San Jose, Florida Blanca, Pampanga

While almost half of us withdrew their interest at the same time of the release of the warning, At 7:45pm, 19 of us showed up with thrill in Superlines Bus Station in Cubao.

water quality in Calaguas ISland

Itinerary:

Day 0
7pm Meet up in Superlines Cubao. Took DAET Express leaving 7:45. Paid P515.00

7:45pm to 6am travel time cubao to paracale


Day 1
6-7am breakfast at a nearby carinderia. I paid P65 for a cup of coffee, egg, fried rice and 2 skinless longganisa. Meals are fairly priced. Hotdog/Egg at P10. Pancit at P10/half serving.

7-8:30am Went to the market for food supplies. Prices are probably the same price as manila though quality wise, for vegetables, seems like stocks have been on standby for days and days. Not so much selection too. Probably 3 vendors for red meat, 2 for fish, and a few for vegetables.  There was a refilling station at P50/5gallons. We did not have the container so we paid P200 deposit, and got it back upon return. We borrowed an ice chest from our boatman, mang nelson, and he asked for P100 for ice. The ice vendor is right next to the port.

9am Depart to Calaguas Island

10:30 am Arrival

Day 2

10am Depart Calaguas

11:30am Arrive in the port. Rinse (c/o Mang nelson’s relative’s house).
1:30 pm  Depart Paracale (Van to Daet for P60/pax).

2:30 pm  Arrive in SM Daet. Have Lunch
3:15 pm  Tricycle ride to Superlines bus station (Trike at P40; P10/pax)
5:30 pm depart DAET

2:00 am Arrive Cubao

lunchtime: boodle boodle in Calaguas Island

dinner serving

ready to leave calaguas island

Breakdown of expenses:

515 bus fare cubao to paracale via superlines

65 breakfast in Paracale
448 boat rent, per person (P8500/19)
167 contribution for the food and drinks
120 entrance and barangay fees
16 cottage (300/19 pax)
10 Rinse Water (from Pump in island)
60 van fare paracale to daet

105 lunch in Happy Choices SM DAET for 2 viands + 1 rice

360 bus fare daet to cubao via superlines airconary bus (ac bus but ordinary fare)

the P500/day hut accomodation in Calaguas Island

other white sand beaches around Calaguas Island for side trips

Some tips:

*For those who’ll run out of funds, there is one Rural Bank atm in the town center servicing Banknet, Expressnet and Megalink cards.

*I managed to get a contact for a better priced boat; Nilo Canesa 09214845150. Kindly say it’s a referral from Ian. He said he’ll accommodate P7000 for up to 20 persons. His boat  he said is also bigger.

*In case you’re coming in small groups, you can use smaller boats but it might not be that safe sailing. The waves could be really strong along the 1.5 – 2hr boat ride. Might as well wait until a bigger group comes and negotiate to share with them.

*make sure you have Bonamine available. A lot of the people in the bus were puking like it were a contest.

*While in the island, I bought buko’s from the caretaker at P25 each. There are also stores in the island with the following known prices: 8oz softdrinks: P10  GSM Blue/Emperador litro: P100  Marlboro lights: P40

*Those who sit in the boat rear shall be drier than those in front. Pick up the slack

*You can climb the rocks on the right side of the island facing the beach. Just make sure you will be on your sandals cause it’s quite rough of rocks. Snorking activity is zero unless you come close to these rock formations.

*For those without tents, you can rent P300 from the caretaker. On the other hand, there are hut accomodations at P500 good for up to three persons.

*Before reaching the island, you’ll come across several other islands of white sand beach like pulang daga, maculabo, etc; Might want to include these in the trip and during negotiation with the boatman. Behind the island of tinaga (or calaguas) are also other seemingly much better beaches. See google maps.

Superlines bus scheduled bound and coming from Daet

Superlines bus scheduled bound and coming from Daet

shot from the kubo

The trip that began from a forum and made 19 instant new travel friends

PEXers Calaguas

We scheduled this trip months ahead. There were supposed to be 32 of us in this trip but a few days before the scheduled departure, North Korea shot an impending disaster. Camarines, and generally Bicol, was put under a no fly no sail zone.

approaching calaguas

We did not bother about the warning, except that we weren’t sure whether we can get the boatman to get us there alongside the memorandum. Good thing, the notice was withdrawn hours before we are scheduled to leave. Everyone was all day waiting for the news.

our P300 accomodation next to the P300 rental tent in Calaguas Island

The Calaguas Island fine sand

Summer Place in San Jose, Florida Blanca, Pampanga

Summer Place in San Jose, Florida Blanca, Pampanga

While almost half of us withdrew their interest at the same time of the release of the warning, At 7:45pm, 19 of us showed up with thrill in Superlines Bus Station in Cubao.

water quality in Calaguas ISland

Itinerary:

Day 0
7pm Meet up in Superlines Cubao. Took DAET Express leaving 7:45. Paid P515.00

7:45pm to 6am travel time cubao to paracale


Day 1
6-7am breakfast at a nearby carinderia. I paid P65 for a cup of coffee, egg, fried rice and 2 skinless longganisa. Meals are fairly priced. Hotdog/Egg at P10. Pancit at P10/half serving.

7-8:30am Went to the market for food supplies. Prices are probably the same price as manila though quality wise, for vegetables, seems like stocks have been on standby for days and days. Not so much selection too. Probably 3 vendors for red meat, 2 for fish, and a few for vegetables.  There was a refilling station at P50/5gallons. We did not have the container so we paid P200 deposit, and got it back upon return. We borrowed an ice chest from our boatman, mang nelson, and he asked for P100 for ice. The ice vendor is right next to the port.

9am Depart to Calaguas Island

10:30 am Arrival

Day 2

10am Depart Calaguas

11:30am Arrive in the port. Rinse (c/o Mang nelson’s relative’s house).
1:30 pm  Depart Paracale (Van to Daet for P60/pax).

2:30 pm  Arrive in SM Daet. Have Lunch
3:15 pm  Tricycle ride to Superlines bus station (Trike at P40; P10/pax)
5:30 pm depart DAET

2:00 am Arrive Cubao

lunchtime: boodle boodle in Calaguas Island

dinner serving

ready to leave calaguas island

Breakdown of expenses:

515 bus fare cubao to paracale via superlines

65 breakfast in Paracale
448 boat rent, per person (P8500/19)
167 contribution for the food and drinks
120 entrance and barangay fees
16 cottage (300/19 pax)
10 Rinse Water (from Pump in island)
60 van fare paracale to daet

105 lunch in Happy Choices SM DAET for 2 viands + 1 rice

360 bus fare daet to cubao via superlines airconary bus (ac bus but ordinary fare)

the P500/day hut accomodation in Calaguas Island

other white sand beaches around Calaguas Island for side trips

Some tips:

*For those who’ll run out of funds, there is one Rural Bank atm in the town center servicing Banknet, Expressnet and Megalink cards.

*I managed to get a contact for a better priced boat; Nilo Canesa 09214845150. Kindly say it’s a referral from Ian. He said he’ll accommodate P7000 for up to 20 persons. His boat  he said is also bigger.

*In case you’re coming in small groups, you can use smaller boats but it might not be that safe sailing. The waves could be really strong along the 1.5 – 2hr boat ride. Might as well wait until a bigger group comes and negotiate to share with them.

*make sure you have Bonamine available. A lot of the people in the bus were puking like it were a contest.

*While in the island, I bought buko’s from the caretaker at P25 each. There are also stores in the island with the following known prices: 8oz softdrinks: P10  GSM Blue/Emperador litro: P100  Marlboro lights: P40

*Those who sit in the boat rear shall be drier than those in front. Pick up the slack

*You can climb the rocks on the right side of the island facing the beach. Just make sure you will be on your sandals cause it’s quite rough of rocks. Snorking activity is zero unless you come close to these rock formations.

*For those without tents, you can rent P300 from the caretaker. On the other hand, there are hut accomodations at P500 good for up to three persons.

*Before reaching the island, you’ll come across several other islands of white sand beach like pulang daga, maculabo, etc; Might want to include these in the trip and during negotiation with the boatman. Behind the island of tinaga (or calaguas) are also other seemingly much better beaches. See google maps.

Superlines bus scheduled bound and coming from Daet

Superlines bus scheduled bound and coming from Daet

Read More »

All Smiles in Alibijaban Island

Alibijaban (Alibihaban) Island, San Andres, Quezon

Having doubts about the traffic ahead and the strict available time i have, i asked to go 1hour undertime just to be sure i catch the san andres bus in Lucena grand.

pickers in Alibijaban Island, San Andres Quezon

It was 4pm when the LUCENA lines bus bound to Lucena Grand left the central terminal in cubao.

Because of the weekend rush, it was already 20mins past 8pm when i reached Lucena grand.

When i got there, that last bus was already almost full, and totally jam packed with baggage. Alighting passengers literally climb the dump of goods on the bus aisle.

Mangrove in Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

A few mintues after 9pm, the bus left; And, so, there we were... I'm finally riding an R&R bus(by far my third attempt to reach alibijaban)

2 bus stops from there, we reached San andres market. From there, my co passengers had advised me to speak to yet 2 sets of passenger who are bound for Alibijaban. They said that the trips going to alibijaban will be later at about 7, and I might want to negotiate with the other passengers so i can ask to fit in their boat.

Walking around Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

The first set were 2 ladies with 2 babies and plenty of baggage. The boat was too small for me to fit me in, plus the waves were strong at the time. The boatman agreed to come back though to fetch me and the other passengers, which he did in less than an hour.

Fisherman in Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Fisherman in Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Children in  Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Children's pick of weeds from the waters of Alibijaban

It was when I was in the boat when i felt how kinda risky the waves are. The boat was swinging left and right, smashes forward, and my grip on the boat was just hilarious. There isnt even a comfortable seat in there.. I felt like i'll be thrown away. Plus, the boatman didnt even have a light.

Ian Limbonis in Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Ian Limbonis in Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Ian Limbonis in Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Ian Limbonis in Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Luckily, we docked safe.
Although the moon wasn't around to give some light, from the shore, you could tell how clear the water is. You'd see the silhouettes of the stones; The sand was obviously bright.

I sat on a bench and waited for the sunrise.

Kuya randy, the boatman, stood with me for the time and entertained with quick facts about alibijaban.

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

By the time it was bright, he volunteered to walk me around after getting permission from kagawad (Kaptain isn't there at that time). 

After telling kagawad about ME and stuff, he asked Randy to go ahead and escort me. We walked through a guesthouse which he said is intended for visiting tourists. It's actually a DENR facility though since it's not really occupied most of the time, they allow tourists to stay in it. 

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Next to the facility is the barangay school, which, according to Randy and the locals is impending turnover into a resort.

Further inland, we got to the mangroves, the dismantled boat (in Dong Ho of Eskapo's blog, it was still erect and docked), then the bridge to the next barangay.

kids in  Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

kid in Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

After the bridge, we walked back to the bench and off i was for my picture moments.

By 9am, i felt sleepy and walked back to the guesthouse and took a nap. 

When i woke up, it wa already past 11. I woke up very hungry and cooked some noodles. Lit a cigarette and then then walked back to the beanch to find kuya randy. 

Along the way, There were some locals along who asked if i were bound to 

bayan, and walked with me towards randy's boat. 

By 12:30, i was already at the bus station. Since the bus is leaving only by 1pm, i took the time to charge my phone.

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

It was already past 1 when it left and thank god the bus isn't as loaded as it was at the night. Every so often, the bus has to stop to pickup passengers along the way. Just before reaching san narciso, a man walked in carrying a toddler and a kid. As soon as he sat, he yelled over a woman in the window. My tumor has it, they were on a fight. When the conductor came to get his fare, he was pleading to be excused as he doesn't have money. The conductor noded and left. Try doing that in manila. Also, on my trip going to san andres, a lot of the passengers were bargaining on the fair. I was amazed how the system here is.

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Meantime, along san narciso, traversing through the mountain range, the other extension of the province was very visible. It seems that they also have white sand at that part. I asked my bus seatmate, and she said it is called punta. It is a beach stretch all over the coast of the land between that going to bicol and san narciso. Something to add up to a alibijaban itinerary.

kids in  Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Ian Limbonis in  Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

waters of  Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

departing  Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

*add'l details:
*from Cubao to Lucena Grand terminal is P218. Trips to san andres, from lucena starts 5am. Last trip at 8pm (they actually leave 9, but you wont want to be left by the bus, just like what happened to me before and i had to cancel the trip in lucena itself). Fare is P270. Prepare to tight fit in your own seat as people would normally carry boxes and bags of whatever goods they can get from the city.

Regular boat fare from and to san andres pier to alibijaban is P20 (though i had to pay kuya P50 in the morning dahil wala ako barya; And P200 on my way back to the port since it was supposedly a special trip plus considering his hospitability).
*people in the island, and generally in town are very, and i mean very, superstitious and speculative. Quezon is known for the pogi (Communist brothers), so all eyes on unfamiliar faces. When i got off the bus, foot set in san andres, i had some coffee in one store and opened a converaation with manang about the island. She asked if i was carrying my water as it is unsafe to drink from there. In turn, i said yes, but again asked if it were with the quality of the water. She exclaimed it was of poisoning which I was having a hard time to believe. Meantime, when I was with the other passenger waiting for Randy to come back, the passenger was telling me too not to eat just on anywhere. Again, he said it was bec of poisoning.


*an even better view was the kids enthusiasm on the cam. When they see you taking pictures, they'll get close and will be very happy to pose for you.
*please approach and talk to the locals. They'd love to talk to u.. They're rather just hesitant.
*try the bibingkas sold on stopover.
*i was informed that a lot of the people from the pier offer guiding services, etc and ask for vain tip. Careful.
*kuya randy may be contacted, for guide and boat service, at 09773708487, 09982758413 (new as of June 2015).
*you can also do a sidetrip to Sombrero Island in San Pascual Masbate which shall be 2 hours boat from Alibijaban island (see burias island post for details)
*superlines now ply cubao-san andres



see here for the outreach activity we did in Alibijaban
see here for a cool sidetrip of your travel to Alibijaban: Talao Talao Rock Formation in San Narciso

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

Alibijaban (Alibihaban) Island, San Andres, Quezon

Having doubts about the traffic ahead and the strict available time i have, i asked to go 1hour undertime just to be sure i catch the san andres bus in Lucena grand.

pickers in Alibijaban Island, San Andres Quezon

It was 4pm when the LUCENA lines bus bound to Lucena Grand left the central terminal in cubao.

Because of the weekend rush, it was already 20mins past 8pm when i reached Lucena grand.

When i got there, that last bus was already almost full, and totally jam packed with baggage. Alighting passengers literally climb the dump of goods on the bus aisle.

Mangrove in Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

A few mintues after 9pm, the bus left; And, so, there we were... I'm finally riding an R&R bus(by far my third attempt to reach alibijaban)

2 bus stops from there, we reached San andres market. From there, my co passengers had advised me to speak to yet 2 sets of passenger who are bound for Alibijaban. They said that the trips going to alibijaban will be later at about 7, and I might want to negotiate with the other passengers so i can ask to fit in their boat.

Walking around Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

The first set were 2 ladies with 2 babies and plenty of baggage. The boat was too small for me to fit me in, plus the waves were strong at the time. The boatman agreed to come back though to fetch me and the other passengers, which he did in less than an hour.

Fisherman in Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Fisherman in Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Children in  Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Children's pick of weeds from the waters of Alibijaban

It was when I was in the boat when i felt how kinda risky the waves are. The boat was swinging left and right, smashes forward, and my grip on the boat was just hilarious. There isnt even a comfortable seat in there.. I felt like i'll be thrown away. Plus, the boatman didnt even have a light.

Ian Limbonis in Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Ian Limbonis in Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Ian Limbonis in Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Ian Limbonis in Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Luckily, we docked safe.
Although the moon wasn't around to give some light, from the shore, you could tell how clear the water is. You'd see the silhouettes of the stones; The sand was obviously bright.

I sat on a bench and waited for the sunrise.

Kuya randy, the boatman, stood with me for the time and entertained with quick facts about alibijaban.

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

By the time it was bright, he volunteered to walk me around after getting permission from kagawad (Kaptain isn't there at that time). 

After telling kagawad about ME and stuff, he asked Randy to go ahead and escort me. We walked through a guesthouse which he said is intended for visiting tourists. It's actually a DENR facility though since it's not really occupied most of the time, they allow tourists to stay in it. 

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Next to the facility is the barangay school, which, according to Randy and the locals is impending turnover into a resort.

Further inland, we got to the mangroves, the dismantled boat (in Dong Ho of Eskapo's blog, it was still erect and docked), then the bridge to the next barangay.

kids in  Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

kid in Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

After the bridge, we walked back to the bench and off i was for my picture moments.

By 9am, i felt sleepy and walked back to the guesthouse and took a nap. 

When i woke up, it wa already past 11. I woke up very hungry and cooked some noodles. Lit a cigarette and then then walked back to the beanch to find kuya randy. 

Along the way, There were some locals along who asked if i were bound to 

bayan, and walked with me towards randy's boat. 

By 12:30, i was already at the bus station. Since the bus is leaving only by 1pm, i took the time to charge my phone.

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

It was already past 1 when it left and thank god the bus isn't as loaded as it was at the night. Every so often, the bus has to stop to pickup passengers along the way. Just before reaching san narciso, a man walked in carrying a toddler and a kid. As soon as he sat, he yelled over a woman in the window. My tumor has it, they were on a fight. When the conductor came to get his fare, he was pleading to be excused as he doesn't have money. The conductor noded and left. Try doing that in manila. Also, on my trip going to san andres, a lot of the passengers were bargaining on the fair. I was amazed how the system here is.

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Meantime, along san narciso, traversing through the mountain range, the other extension of the province was very visible. It seems that they also have white sand at that part. I asked my bus seatmate, and she said it is called punta. It is a beach stretch all over the coast of the land between that going to bicol and san narciso. Something to add up to a alibijaban itinerary.

kids in  Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

Ian Limbonis in  Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

waters of  Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

departing  Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon

*add'l details:
*from Cubao to Lucena Grand terminal is P218. Trips to san andres, from lucena starts 5am. Last trip at 8pm (they actually leave 9, but you wont want to be left by the bus, just like what happened to me before and i had to cancel the trip in lucena itself). Fare is P270. Prepare to tight fit in your own seat as people would normally carry boxes and bags of whatever goods they can get from the city.

Regular boat fare from and to san andres pier to alibijaban is P20 (though i had to pay kuya P50 in the morning dahil wala ako barya; And P200 on my way back to the port since it was supposedly a special trip plus considering his hospitability).
*people in the island, and generally in town are very, and i mean very, superstitious and speculative. Quezon is known for the pogi (Communist brothers), so all eyes on unfamiliar faces. When i got off the bus, foot set in san andres, i had some coffee in one store and opened a converaation with manang about the island. She asked if i was carrying my water as it is unsafe to drink from there. In turn, i said yes, but again asked if it were with the quality of the water. She exclaimed it was of poisoning which I was having a hard time to believe. Meantime, when I was with the other passenger waiting for Randy to come back, the passenger was telling me too not to eat just on anywhere. Again, he said it was bec of poisoning.


*an even better view was the kids enthusiasm on the cam. When they see you taking pictures, they'll get close and will be very happy to pose for you.
*please approach and talk to the locals. They'd love to talk to u.. They're rather just hesitant.
*try the bibingkas sold on stopover.
*i was informed that a lot of the people from the pier offer guiding services, etc and ask for vain tip. Careful.
*kuya randy may be contacted, for guide and boat service, at 09773708487, 09982758413 (new as of June 2015).
*you can also do a sidetrip to Sombrero Island in San Pascual Masbate which shall be 2 hours boat from Alibijaban island (see burias island post for details)
*superlines now ply cubao-san andres



see here for the outreach activity we did in Alibijaban
see here for a cool sidetrip of your travel to Alibijaban: Talao Talao Rock Formation in San Narciso

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

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