Sceneries

Sceneries on Agusan Del Sur

MT. MAGDIWATA (San Francisco). This mystical mountain stands 633 meters high, perfect for a fun climb to regular mountaineers. It is San Franciscos sole-source of potable water supply and is a recipient of the DENRs reforestation program dubbed as Billion Tree Act. It has an area of 1,658 hectares covered with lush forest and an array of wild, rare tropical flora and fauna. A scenery of nature in perfection, the mountains peak offers a panoramic view of Agusan del Sur and its neighboring provinces. From a distance, Mt. Magdiwata poses as a backdrop of San Francisco.

Binaba Falls. It is one of the most attractive waterfalls in Agusan del Sur. It is located at the middle of the jungle with fresh waters coming from the natural springs. Right now, it is being developed to appear like a suitable swimming pool. Through this, peoples from the nearby towns started flocking and enjoy the clear cold water emitting from the deep of the earth flowing onto a rock of limestone.

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Bega Falls According to the legend, this falls is known as the refuge for stunning mystical women. It also covers with abundant and bright forest breeze. It also considered as the hidden treasure. Because of its calm surroundings and pristine waters, you will completely feel its essence and beauty to uplift your tired spirit. Bega Falls was a haven of nature and mountain trekkers because of its jungle paradise in a one clad of Mother Nature. Adventurers started walking into the river channel meeting 18 falls, wild fauna and flora, thick forest and wild birds before embracing Bega Falls, the three-tiered falls.

Gibong River It is an opening to the Binaba Falls that also provide as the water irrigation to several rice fields. River banks are rich of untouched vegetation as you make the journey the flowing river.

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AGUSAN MARSH. The largest marshland in the Philippines holding up to 15% of the countrys freshwater. This mystical wetland is the home of indigenous Manobo people who live in clusters of wood and bamboo houses built on rafts of floating logs. For bird watchers, the marsh is a must visit destination. Purple herons, storks, sea eagles, wild ducks and other migratory wetland birds from the Southeast Asia Region will be seen during the months of November to January. Exotic flora and fauna and other endangered species like the dinata, a soft-shelled giant turtle, and sailfin lizard also exist in this wildlife sanctuary.

LAKE HIMBANG. It is more than an hour drive from the Maharlika Highway going to Lake Himbang in Talacogon. The lake is an alternative destination of Agusan Marsh. The thrill of riding a motorized small boat or a woodenboat (made of a log) while admiring the tranquility and view of the lake plus a relaxing meal at the floating cottage are some of its attractions, which you would never want to miss.

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NALIYAGAN (June 12-17, Government Center, Prosperidad). The festival depicts the Agusanon culture and heritage. Natives from far-flung areas of the province participate in the festivity by displaying their skills and gracefulness in a natural way. A trade fair showcasing the provinces own products also takes place at the Naliyagan Plaza.

SANTIKAN (June 12-15, Trento). Santikan is a Manobo word which means to strike or the striking of two hard objects to create fiction or fire. It is to this essence that the festival is highlighted by different friendly competitions throughout its duration.

KAHIMUNAN (First Sunday of January, Bayugan). Local version of Sinulog of Cebu, the main attraction of this particular festival is the street dancing. The dances are focused on Agusan del Surs indigenous culture.

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Tugonan Falls The word tugon means promise and located at Barangay San Lorenzo. It covers innate wonder that captivates the preference of the tourists. It mainly described as the bliss of nature with various orchids, ornamental and towering plants.

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Sceneries on Agusan Del Norte
GENERAL LUNA (Siargao Island).A bewitching 27 kilometer stretch of sugar-white beaches, sapphire seas and natural coral barrier that keeps the inlet waters placid. At high tide, tube-like waves from the Pacific Ocean can be heard and seen. A perfect destination for surfing during the months of November to January and Island hopping adventure from November to January.

GUYAM ISLAND (Siargao Island). Across the General Luna Beach is an islet with powdery-white sand and a cluster of coconut trees. It can be reached by pump boat in less than 10 minutes. It offers a good view of the incredibly powerful waves of Siargao Island. A few meters away from the island, one can go surfing and do other sports activities.

DAKU ISLAND (Siargao Island). A wonderful island adjacent to Guyam Island which only takes about 5 minutes by pump boat. It is an ideal location for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

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DEL CARMEN (Del Carmen). The Crocodile Sanctuary of the Philippines. It is the home of the biggest crocodiles in the country. These crocodiles can be usually found in Del Carmens vast and preserved mangrove forest.

SOHUTON CAVE (Bucas Grande Island). This enchanting cave is half-submerged in water most of the time and accessible only during low tide. Inside is a lagoon with countless islets and crystal waters that sparkle with the bright reflection of the sun. Lush vegetation abound in its periphery.

MAGPUPUNGKO BEACH (Siargao Island). Situated in a cove facing the Pacific, the place is surrounded by limestone and granite sculptures. During low tide, its pockmarked limestone floor reveal pools of assorted shapes and sizes resembling basins, barrels, tubs and ponds.

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SANTA MONICA WATERFALLS (Sta. Monica, Siargao). A gentle burst of falling water amid the tranquillity of a tropical forest - this is an apt description of this waterfalls. The well preserved natural environment is another come-on.

Magpupungko Rock Formation, Pilar. A most refreshing natural lagoon, sorrounded by limestone and granite sculptures facing the Pacific Ocean, Its pockmarked limestone floor reveal pools of assorted shapes and sizes resembling basins, barrels, tubs and ponds during low tides.

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Lake Mainit, is the fourth largest lake in the Philippines and the second largest in Mindanao, having a surface area of 173 square kilometers. The lake is also the deepest lake in the country with a maximum depth of 223 meters. The largest lake in the country, Laguna de Bay, has a maximum depth of only 20 meters.

Magellan Marker : Erected in the time of Spanish District Gov. Jose Maria Carvallo in 1872, this edifce located at the mouth of Agusan river in present day Magallanes, is the site of the first catholic mass in Mindanao on April 8,1521. Magallanes, in the olden days was called Baug, formerly the site of Butuan.

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Centennial Bitaug Tree: More than 500 years old this was declared a centennial tree by the Phil. Centennial Commission on June 3, 1998. Location: Brgy. Caloc-an, Magallanes.

Cabadbaran Ancestral Houses: Cabadbarans Ancestral houses are predominantly old Spanish architecture. The most prominent of them is the Atega Ancestral Home, the biggest and most beautifully preserved in Caraga. It is the abode of Cabadbarans revolutionary hero Don Andres Atega.

Our Lady of Assumption Church: After the devastating typhoon in 1876, Fr. Urios instigated Jabonganons to look for a higher ground for a permanent church. Fr. Chambo, SJ, started construction in 1878. Fr. Llobera, SJ,blessed it during the feast of Corpus Cristi, June 17, 1897.Today, it is the oldest Spanish church in the whole Caraga.

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Cabadbaran Museum: This is a minimuseum located at the ground floor of Teofisto Guingona Sr. Hall. It is a repository to the towns old documents, as well as artifacts from Cabadbarans 4 archeological sites

Kalinawan River :Declared as Caragas cleanest inland body of water, this 29.1 kilometer of pristine and picturesque river is Lake Mainits only outlet. It passes through the municipalities of Jabonga, Santiago, Tubay before it finally empties into Butuan bay. By history, it is one of the oldest trading and missionary routes in thePhilippines. Its historical past (part of the Old Kingdom of Butuan even predates Philippine history. The river is fishing ground to the mamanwas since immemorial. The mamanwa tribe who inhabits around the lake and this river is the oldest indigenous tribe of the Philippines.

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Mt. Hilong-hilong, 2,012 meter above sea level: Straddling over the eastern portion of Cabadbaran and RTR is Agusan del Norte and Caragas highest peak. Seven major waterfalls, an ancient rock art, a carpet of giant white anthuriums, still undetermined number of virgin caves, nesting site of the critically endangered Philippine Eagle, habitat of the Philippine wildcat, flying squirrel, tarsier , and microscopic flower not found anywhere else in the Philippines (German botanist circa 1920) are just some of its main features. By degree of difficulty, it is recommended to climbers with intermediate and expert skills only. A climb to the peak via Malvar Trail takes 4 to 5 days. This mystical mountain was venue to the 17th national MFPI mid-year climb in 2002

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Sceneries on Surigao Del Sur

Tinuy-an Falls is a waterfall in Bislig City, Surigao del Sur in the southern Philippineisland of Mindanao.[1] It is the main tourist attraction in Bislig, a city known as theBooming City by the Bay. The falls are 95 m wide and 55 metres (180 ft) high, touted as the Niagara Falls of the Philippines. Tinuyan is a white water curtain that flows in three levels and is said to be the widest waterfall in the Philippines. Every morning, the area shows a rainbow between 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. hunter Bidok who in that time was chasing a boar first discovered this cave. Since then, villagers considered it a place where their gods dwelt. The first cave is 100 meters in length, 15 meters radius entrance with creek water coming in and Miniature Falls. The sunlight passes through the 10 meter diameter opening in the middle ceiling that allow birds and other winged animals to come in and out of the cave. It also has 50 meter wide swimming area that leads to the entrance of the second cave. You can also find an underground river and stalactites that are mostly forming elephant trunks and balusters.

Hinayagan Cave was previously called Suhoton Cave from the local term suhot which means to pass through inside. A

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Hagonoy Island pride of Bislig City in the province of Surigao del Sur. This island beach resort was ideally isolated for 3 kilometers from the mainland as simply as good champion for all honeymooners out there! Its so sweet like Guyam island. A pearl-shaped paradise just about the size of 4 basketball courts, good enough for a white sand lovers for tropical getaway. You can mesmerize with its crystal blue waters as it gleams in your eyes across the pacific ocean. Another wonderful experiences to all scuba divers out there too, and prepare for the best swim in your life! Enchanted River Enchanted River nestles in Barangay Hinatuan. It is a 48 kilometer barrio from the national highway which is Mangagoy, Surigao Del Sur. It was in this place where the movie Spirits was filmed. Enchanted River is mostly visited because of its tranquility and majestic ambiance that any tourists would feel when they are around the place. Far from the overcrowded place in the beaches, here you will really feel that you are indeed in a vacation. As you approach this magical river, you would definitely feel the ambiance that there is a mystery behind.Its like youre standing and lurking around in another dimension. Enchanting, indeed!

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Cagwait White Beach Resort also known before as Waikiki Beach of the Philippines as called by famous pilot Charles Lindberg, located in the town of Cagwait, province of Surigao del Sur. In modern times, this beach, was credited as Boracay of Caraga where the annual Kaliguan Festival was held in every 24th of June. When you takes a visit there, your first impression was the scenic horseshoe shape coastline with powdery white sand and crystal clear bright water facing the pacific ocean. And you, will really appreciate its beach pristine beauty. This could be, in the future, another hot spot destination in Caraga for local and international tourists

Magwakas Falls Magkawas Falls located in the Municipality of Lanuza. A fiveminute hike from the national highway is an eco-destination that offers a gradual accelerando of natures beauty. This wonderful falls makes one irresistible to take a refreshing dip.

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Britania Islands was composed of unspoiled 25 white coral islands and islets of sugary white sand and clusters of limestones hills. It lured me and my friends as we take our journey using rented pump boat seeing different islands, mangroves, and rock formations. You can also do bird watching and caving if you wish because you can do a lot of things here enjoying yourself with nature.

Casarica Island is a pristine white beach with crystal clear waters which is only a 10-minute ride by pump boat from Consuelo Port.

Huyamao Island is presently owned by the nine heirs of the late Teodoro Urbiztondo, this private majestic island is covered with very fine white sand. This is located in front of Baybay, Cantilan shoreline. From there, one would not fail to notice the white sand along the mountain island that is compatible to the sand bar of Camiguin. Its water is so pristine; one can even clearly see the sea bed while riding a banca.

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Cabgan Island is located in Sua in the municipality of Barobo. A mile long pristine white sand beach, multicolored reefs, good for scuba diving, swimming and fishing.

Turtle Island is located in the municipality of Barobo. It is an 8 hectare beach where multicolored reefs abound. It has white sand, blue waters teeming with marine life. Viewed from a distance, the shape and formation of this island is like a huge turtle floating in the Pacific Ocean. It is ideal forsnorkeling and scuba diving. It is accessible by pump boat for about 30 minutes.

Blue Lagoon is situated in General Island, Cantilan, this province, the lagoon has a deep blue crystal clear water safely enclosed by an island.

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Bag-ong Banwa is also part of General Island fronting the Pacific Ocean. Its shoreline is covered with very fine white sand. It has cottages to accommodate visitors. A big cave can also be found where stalactites and stalagmites are so abundant. This is a 30-minute boat ride from Cantilan Wharf.

Bat Island also known as Mangkagangi Island. It is located just two miles east of Tandag. It has enticing white beach, guanofilled caves and bats inside, offering a unique experience to all adventure seekers. Just a few meters from the island is a deep, blue sea which is ideal for scuba diving.

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Sceneries on Surigao Del Norte

Cloud 9, Gen. Luna

A legend goes that during the colonial period, there was a huge bell atop a local Catholic Church in this small town of Gen. Luna Siargao Islands. The bell allegedly rang so loud that its sound was used by Muslim Pirates to locate the town. To protect their village from raiders, the town folks decided to dump the bell in the sea. Today, such bell no longer toll in the town but there is a sound far less feeble coming from its beaches that echoes as far as Australia, Guam, Hawaii, Indonesia, Japan and the U.S.A. the splash of its gigantic waves. This time, raiders no longer come to conquer the land but only the surfs. Its powerful waves challenge surfers during the annual international surfing cup held every September or October.

Tranquility Beach, Bacuag Fine sand beach stretching 3 kilometers and facing the scenic Puyo islet and Calm bay. This is also home to the annual Surigao National Skimboarding Challenge held on summer.

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Del Carmen Mangrove Swamps

Corregidor Marine Sanctuary, Casulian Island, Dapa Just 20 minutes by light boat from the Municipality of Dapa, this sanctuary is a living ocean park. Schools of various species of fish, squid, octopus, marvelous corals and rare marine turtles thrive in their natural setting. A perfect haven for diving enthusiasts.

A sanctuary of the large species of salt water crocodiles. One can take a closer look into tall marine jungle of vast mangroves and other endemic swamp creatures. A river cruise along the narrow passageway leading to Sugba lagoon is a thrilling experience one will always cherish.

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Sto. Nino de Bad-asay Feast Day Every 14th of January, pilgrims and devotees from different places of the country come to celebrate the Feast of Santo Nio de Bad-asay in the honor of the child Jesus. The celebration begins with a Thanksgiving Mass after which the pilgrims dance the "sirong" to offer their prayers and petitions.

Suhoton Cave, Bucas Grande This enchanting cave is half- submerged in water most of the time and is accessible only during low tides, inside is a lagoon with countless islets and crystal waters that sparkle with the bright reflection of the sea. One can also experience a rare opportunity to swim and float with thousands of nonstinging jelly fish inside the lagoon.

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Lumondo Waterfalls and Eco-Park This natural park nestled at Brgy. Budlingin, Municipality of Alegria is just 2 kilometers from the Poblacion. One will be awed by the huge volume of water cascading into a 45 meter granite precipice a majestic panorama which can be viewed from a misty mountain trail.

Cuyapnit Cave, Gigaquit Visitors will be treated to an exciting boat ride by shooting the rapids of Baoy River a 2.5 kilometer cruise leading towards Cuyapnit Cave. Numerous formations of stalactites, stalagmites, Columns, draperies and flowstones are found inside the cave, Unique features of a giant circular ceiling hole, a crystal floor, a column in the making and chocolate- colored mud floors makes the cave more interesting.

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Magpupungko Rock Formation, Pilar A most refreshing natural lagoon, sorrounded by limestone and granite sculptures facing the Pacific Ocean, Its pockmarked limestone floor reveal pools of assorted shapes and sizes resembling basins, barrels, tubs and ponds during low tides.

Lake Mainit This pear shaped lake is the fourth largest in the country with 17,340 hectares of clear freshwater. Its shore is home to the Municipalities of Mainit and Alegria while the rest of the border covers that of neigh boring Municipalities of San Roque and Jabonga, Agusan del Norte.

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Guyam, Daku & Naked Islets, Gen. Luna Islets with Powdery white sand, palm fringed beaches and well preserved marine flora and fauna, a complete hideway in this part of the Pacific.

Bonok-Bonok is the name of the local festival in the province capital city, Surigao. This is a ritual dance which originated from the Mamanwas, the early settlers of Surigao. The rhythm usually starts with a slow beat and gradually gets faster, causing the dancers to work at pace with the music. Adding to the attraction of the dance, is the colorful raiment, which includes beaded headdresses or tubaw, bracelets and anklets of the women. The ceremonial dress of the men and women are likewise ornate in design, and of various colors. The dance ritual has been brought down through the generations and still being practiced today. In reverence to the Patron Saint San Nicolas de Tolentino, the people have already adopted the Bonokbonok Maradjaw Karadjaw Festival which is a reflection of Surigaos rich cultural heritage.

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Sceneries on Dinagat Island

PIG-OT HIDE AWAY RESORT. A cluster of islets that look like broken emeralds slapped on the aquamarine surface of the water. The islets are connected with a wooden bridge. As one strolls, he/she will witness the different aquatic species gliding and hiding behind coral reefs. This hideaway is indeed heavenly specially for the adventurous, leisure seekers, and nature lovers.

Basilisa, Dinagat Islands - Rock Formation

The famous rock formation along Basilisa shore. Along with the green and blue salt water is the coral reef deep down fresh water, perfect for scuba diving. Looks like a lagoon with a colorful salt water surrounded by a green environment helps you relax and feel freshness.