Their #Summer2018 getaways

The summer ahead holds a great deal of excitement for all of us. Whether you're swimming, grilling and exploring the world, summer crackles with infinite possibilities. And even though spontaneity defines the season, summer's even better when you plan out a few adventures.

While you decide how to fill your own summer days, here's how some of our Boholano friends would spend theirs.

Batuan Vice Mayor Yes Tirol-Dumagan-  My plans for #summer2018 include attending a workshop in Jeju, Korea organized by Cifal United Nations for Training and Research (UNITAR) for the promotion of sustainable tourism and forest management of Batuan; turning over musical instruments to Rizal High School so they can final form a drum and bugle group and train this summer; also the 1st Batuan Youth Camp will be materialized that will allow various private and public schools in the town to showcase their students skills in sports, etc.  On a personal note, will bond more with my family through getaways and enroll my eldest child in a swimming workshop.

For some, it is a time to explore different places
or sweat it out for a sizzling summer bod. Contributed Photos

EJ Relampagos- I am planning on spending my summer enjoying Davao. Then, I want to rediscover Bohol.

Queenie Melody Fullante- My summer plans for this year are to travel locally; spend a few days in the beach; and to attend in the wedding of a former Miss Bohol!

Rosalinda Paredes- I need to take a much-deserved week-long vacation from my work in the SURGE Project. Summer weather is meant for travel time. The direct flights from Tagbilaran to Davao or Clark are attractive travel packages our family is considering to take.

Mizken Tirol Andan-  I am planning to have my vacation in Boracay this Holy Week. I will buy a condo unit and a car as I decided to relocate myself in Manila where it will be more accessible in preparation for my showbiz career at Viva.

Panglao Councilor Rogelin Clemeńa-Degoma- What do you mean with #summer2018 plans? As a councilor? As an entrepreneur? As a mom and a wife? As a councilor, I will be starting to facilitate livelihood projects on recycling. As an entrepreneur, I will be monitoring on the business on its peak season.  As a mom and wife, my family will go to Cagayan de Oro- Bukidnon for a soccer tournament/family vacation in Mindanao on the 1st week of  April. And Hongkong with kids on 1st week of June. Asa ka ani makauban nako? Kuyog ta!

For them, summer is all about unwinding
 and going places. Contributed Photos

Doris Dinorog-Obena- I might be busy with freelance work this summer but I would like to finish something on the research and academics side but a weekend get away to Surigao or Siargao via Leyte with my children will be great for this summer.  Have a great summer!

Leah Tirol-Magno- To be able to launch my Baking Mama Original BukUbe Pies.

Butch Bernas, Ph.D.- My summer 2018 bucketlist is to mesmerize the beaches of Siargao and to explore the gigantic rock formation and crystal clear beaches of  El Nido, Palawan. For now, I’m preparing myself to go to gym to achieve a beach body physique.

Melinda Mendez- Basalo- I will be spending more time with my family this summer. I will keep myself busy with the events for the Women's Month.

Benjie Oliva- A trip to Coron, Palawan with my family and in-laws. Aside from the vacation, it's an opportunity to visit the last communities affected by typhoon Yolanda way back in 2013 to introduce our Blue Boat Project of our Rotary Club in Pasay. In our province, Panglao and Maribojoc are beneficiaries of the project with 40 paddle boats already turned over to the fisherfolks of the said towns in partnership with Angat Buhay of VP Leni Robredo. And at the same time, we want to link them also with our partner Rotary Clubs in Rotary International District 3810 composed of Manila, Pasay, Cavite and Oriental Mindoro to sustain the livelihood and humanitarian efforts in the area. Northern Palawan was the last place devastated by the said supertyphoon.

Fiel Angeli Espejo Araoarao-Gabin- Summer plans? I will pursue with my usual culture and arts promotion activities.  I will spend Holy Week with family in Siquijor province for spiritual enrichment, communing with nature and family bonding.  And also, I will try to start a fitness regimen for a healthy lifestyle for both health and aesthetic purposes. 

Maria Fe H. Evasco- Travel and bonding with family. Celebrate thanksgiving for Saint Joseph's fiesta.

AR De La Serna- Goal is sunkissed skin. I would like to get tanned for the first time because my friends from Manila tell me why I’m not dark. I'll try my best to be as dark as possible.

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Blazing Bohol!

Bohol's charm lies on its culture, heritage and rich natural resources.

Miles of white sand beaches and pristine waters can be found on Panglao Island composed of Panglao ang Dauis towns.

The hills are alive...

There are several beach resorts there that can provide accommodation and water sports activities such as jetskis, parasailing, among others depending on the budget.

One attraction that is a must is the recently discovered school of sardines in Panglao.

The sardines, locally known as “malangsi,” arrived in the waters off Barangay Tangnan in Panglao and stayed there for good. They are also attracting bigger species of fish like thresher sharks and mackerel.

“Sardines are always migrating but they’ve been in Panglao for some time. Biologists couldn’t explain why but our member marine biologist said it’s probably because of climate change,” Ian Uy, a member of the Dive Ta Bai group, who discovered the shoals of sardines two summers ago.

City of Friendship

The sardine have formed a shoal that could easily number to tens of thousands, even up to a hundred thousand, a delight to those who love to dive and snorkel.

There are some islands to visit in case the tourists are up for some island hopping.

The favorite sites are the Balicasag, Virgin and Pamilacan islands because they are close to Panglao Island.

Balicasag Island, which retains its laid-back charm, is a known dive and snorkel destination because of its marvelous coral reefs formation and spectacular drop-off (underwater wall) up to a depth of 60 meters.

Virgin island is an uninhabited islet where you can enjoy a long string of white beach. Kilometers of white beach emerge during low tide but disappears on high tide.

Pods of dolphins can be seen in the waters off Pamilacan Island which also hosts a Spanish watchtower and fish sanctuary.

Man-made forest

Other places where one can enjoy the underwater world are Cabilao Island in Loon, Bien Unido, Anda and President Carlos P. Garcia Island (Pitogo Island).

In the afternoon, one place to try out is the Extreme Adventure Tour (E.A.T) at the Danao Adventure Park in Danao town.

It hosts a variety of activists that get the adrenalin pumping.

These include a zipline, ATV, rock climbing and caving. For water adventures, the park also offers river kayaking and river trekking near the Danao Adventure Park is the “Sea of Clouds.”

For an entrance fee of P15, visitors can go up to Laguna Mountain in Barangay Concepcion and savor the jaw-dropping vista –fogs that look like clouds hovering the mountains.

“It was one of the most beautiful natural sceneries that we can enjoy,” said Ken Reignald Rara, a resident of Tagbilaran City.

Sevilla's hanging bridge

One of the better vantage points from which to enjoy the spectacle is at the nearby Dagohoy town. An entrance fee of P10 will give you the best view of the sea of clouds located in Sitio Puntaas, Barangay La Esperanza.

“Seeing fog amid the backdrop of nature makes the scenery seem like a work of art,” said Rex Simbajon Pizaña, 38, a resident of Dagohoy town.

A habal-habal (motorcycle for rent)can take the tourist to the area from the town proper.

There are still several areas to visit in Bohol like the watch tower located in Maribojoc town, the Inang-angan stairway in Loon town which is made of five flights with 212 steps, the lying foxes on Cagban Island in Tubigon; and the St. Nicholas Tolentino Church and the Ermita Ruins (a wall of tombs in a honeycomb-like arrangement) in Dimaiao.

But to go to these places would require another day in Bohol.

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Best things to do in summer in Bohol

Ah, sweet summer, you’ve arrived! With summer already breathing warmth and excitement throughout the country, VRS pooled together our most feel-good summer pastimes— it's time to do something new and possibly productive this summer the next time you are bored!

1.Do one touristy thing in your city/town that you’ve never done before.

2.Turn off your phone and go read in a park.

The Can-uba Marble Beach in Jagna town

 is a public beach and blessed with a long stretch 

of pebbles and cool blue waters. Leo Udtohan

3.Ice cream No. 1 after lunch at The Bohol Bee Farm/The Buzzz.

4.Ice cream No. 2 after dinner at Cresencia Cafe.

5.Take photographs in nature.

6.Stargaze — after all there’s a whole universe out there.

7. Learn to cook new recipes for family and friends.

8.Go fishing. Go camping.

9. Take your dog for a walk.

10. Fly a kite.

11.Collect seashells.

12. Eat a slice of watermelon. Sweet melons can be found in Lila and Dimiao towns this summer.  Make sure you get of these tropical fruits— sineguelas (Spanish plum), bayabas (guava), lomboy (black/java plum), avocado and kaimito (star apple)- —abundant this season and find out that indulging in these fresh and delicious treats will bring you good health.

13.  Pack a picnic.

14. Visit the library. Read wonderful books and learn about the world around you. Library time is active, not passive.

15. Visit the museum. There is no doubt that a primary role of museums is to engage and educate the community. The Bohol Museum will make you smarter!

16. Learn how to drive. Obey traffic rules and drive safely.

The Malingin Falls in the village of Patrocinio in 

Cortes town is one place to explore as the province 

gains a boundless energy this summer. Leo Udtohan

17. Take a road trip to the nearest beaches, springs and waterfalls.  Enjoy the captivating beaches of Jagna, Loon, Calape and Anda. We have many cold springs and cascades in Antequera, Cortes, Dimiao, Lila, Bilar and Sierra-Bullones.

18. Look for old family and high school photos and share them on Facebook.

19. Plant a tree in your community. Do some charity works. Check the Gov. Celestino Gallares Regional Hospital  or visit the Philippine National Red Cross-Bohol chapter if you want to volunteer.

20. Sound trip! Listen to your parents favorite songs—Born Free, My Way,  Downtown and Tennessee Waltz. Nice to go down memory lane every now and then!

21. Clean your room!

22. Be healthy! Stop smoking, sleep on time, observe a no-fat diet, go for a walk or jog or a run, take vitamins and drink at least eight glasses of water per day.

23. Always remember two things in life: Don't take any decisions when you are angry and don't make any promises when you are happy.

24. Pay your debts!

25. Make it a Sunday habit to read VRS.

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15 Unsung places of Bohol, Philippines

Wake-uppers:

 

Scene: It’s the merry month of May! The feast of Saint Joseph, patron saint of Tagbilaran City, on May 1 starts the month-long fiestas in Bohol. Everyday is fiesta and visitors and strangers can “eat the house.” Plenty of inasal, humba, hamunada, tuba, desserts, etc…Everybody is welcome, no invitations required!

 

Scene:  From Atty. Greg Delgado: The Lungsuranon Performances Arts Ensemble (LUPAE) of Tubigon failed to place in Folk Dance National Competition sponsored by NCCA at MOA but the paisanos learned a lot competing against Vigan, Palawan, Phil. Normal University, etc. Calling NCCA insiders like Gardy Labad to invest into these kids which defeated best dance schools in Cebu recently earning them an invite to this prestigious dance contest.

 

Scene:  The body of the Boholano seaman who died during an Iranian Navy operation for the rescue of the crew of a hijacked ship off the southwestern coast of India last month finally arrived home last Thursday. Stephen Barbarona, 33, of Antequera town, suffocated in heavy smoke in the vessel’s burning engine room, where he hid during the gun battle. (Prof. Reinerio Augusto Real, who represented Gov. Edgar Chatto, was at the airport to meet the bereaved family. Thanks a bunch to SPO1 Melinda Mendez Basalo, PO2 Reymar Catubigan, Marcelo Orioque and Reniel Mendez for facilitating my request.)

 

Photo: ICM

Scene:  Island City Mall was taking part in the celebration of Earth Day's 42nd anniversary staging the Miss Teen Earth 2012. The nine candidates took part in a tree planting activity of the Alturas Group of Companies in Brgy. San Pascual, Ubay supervised by DENR. Karen Morfreux of Anda was crowned Miss Teen Earth 2012. Miss ICM Teen Air was Irish Cleanuar,  Erica Jane Mejos  was crowned  Miss Teen ICM Water  and Frances Marie Montejo was declared Miss ICM Teen Fire.

 

Scene: The University of Bohol/Rafael Palma College grand alumni homecoming is on May 15 at the University of Bohol. The event coincides with the Tigum Bol-anon sa Tibuok Kalibutan (TBTK) gathering slated on May 8-9. A registration fee of Php 200 is required for the dinner-fellowship. Contact Renee Marjorie Plazos (0900-528-6198), Atty. Greg Austral (0920-903-7894) and Reinerio Augusto Real (0916-457-6504).

 

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Inspired by Lonely Planet’s unsung places of the world, Bared came out of some destinations, no matter how beautiful and stunning, drop off the tourist radar.

 

 It's not easy to put together 15 unsung and unfairly underrated places because Bohol is known for its terrific scenery, history and culture. It has great towns, countryside and a coastline.

 

I remind you, this is completely subjective. You may have your own favorite unsung places. Here’s a sampling of places to spark your interest, away from the usual tourist spots, mostly overlooked because of chance, geography and the presence of more glamorous and well-promoted neighbors.

 

1. Anda

This anomalous town is top of a must-visit list. Anda feels like a hidden oasis where people can enjoy and relax in its white sandy beaches and bright turquoise sea. The shoreline remains largely untouched by buildings and infrastructures, and a coral reef that keeps the waters calm also makes for an ideal snorkeling and swimming spot. In fact, Anda has yet to be completely invaded by tourism and is, therefore, still rather secluded and peaceful.  Locals recommend that you take a trip to the less-travelled ‘other’ side of Lamanok Point, a place to see hematite rock painting and ancient burial caves. Ask the guide about the love story of Iska and Mugan.  

Half a mile of sparkling sand, palm trees swaying over a white beach, lush tropical plants, and endless sunshine make Anda one of Bohol’s most scenic beaches. Photo by Leo P. Udtohan

2. Pandanon Island and Banacon Island, Getafe

Pandanon Island has gradually gained popularity because of its natural white sand that extends into the sea and the church which stands in the middle of the island. The neighboring Banacon Island is the home of the largest mangrove plantation in Asia.

One of many islands in Getafe town, Pandanon Island stands out with its blend of chic and island relaxation.

 

 

 

 

Early morning view at Banacon Island Photo by: Leo P. Udtohan

 

3. Bien Unido

Perhaps it’s the lure of Ubay that leads people to forget Bien Unido. Whatever the reason, this graceful town is bizarrely under-visited. Those who make it out here will discover the underwater grottos. The wilderness beach on Jao Island has some of the most pristine sand to be found.  For locals, Bien Unido is the best place to catch some waves and have some fun in the sun in the northern Corregidor of Bohol.

Bien Unido charms people Credit: LGU-Bien Unido

 

4. Mahaba Island, Talibon       

Mahaba Island's popularity is on the rise, and for good reason. This small island in Talibon is a hot spot for beach-goers, and locals suggest Jayvee Beach Resort as the place to soak up the sun and swim in the sea.

A warm welcome from Jayvee Beach Resort in Mahaba Island, Talibon

 

5. Loon

This island prides itself of having one of the most beautiful dive sites in the Philippines. Local sightseers enjoy the crystal-clear water of Piong Falls located between Nagtuang and Canmaag.  In some upland barangays, water flows from springs that have encouraged the local folks to develop their own bathing and washing areas.   

 

Canawa Spring

6.  Candijay

Candijay’s Canawa Spring is not on most travelers’ itineraries, but if you have time it rewards exploration.  The water is crystal blue from January to May. Locals would tell you that someone measured the depth of the water but the instrument did not touch the bottom after 50 fathoms.  The Can-umantad Falls is a must. There are some great rice terraces in Candijay near the village of Cadapdapan. 

 

7. Jagna

The town of Jagna shimmers with beaches made up of smooth white pebbles or smooth slate. But they are all washed by waters that are crystal blue—the most unforgettable color in the town.  It’s chilly and balmy in the off-the-track Mayana, which is famous for its flowers. The waterfalls of Kinahugan and Boctol are a must-see. Malbog Hill provides a panoramic view of the wonderful works of God's hands. Everyone knows calamay, but who takes the time to stop off at Ching’s?

 

8. Logarita Spring, Bilar

Often bypassed in favor of neighboring Carmen, Bilar is worthy of more attention, with its cold Logarita Spring. Logarita is extensively covered by a beautiful mahogany forest which is also home to some flora and fauna.  The Simply Butterflies Conservation Center is the first butterfly livelihood breeding and conservation program in Bohol with a butterfly garden full of flowering plants and a nature trail. Poblacion sells flavored pintos and alupe produced fresh on the premises each day.

 

9. Himuntagon Hills, Loay

Barangay Botoc Occidental is an astonishing surprise in an oft-forgotten corner of Loay. It’s worth planning to spend the day here, so you can admire the scenic place of Himuntagon Hills overlooking the Mindanao Sea.  The hills bring to the traveler a feeling of serenity and tranquility and provide fascinating scenes during sunrise and sunset. 

 

10. Guindulman

One of the hip spots for the air-kissing, well-heeled set, Guindulman boasts some of the prettiest rocky and unspoiled shoreline. The Bunhayag Hills overlooks Anda and Guindulman and is an oasis of relaxation and romance. If you have an interest in archeology, ancient civilizations or just love exploring, then barangay Basdio is the perfect combination of sun and adventure.

 

11. Antequera

This unassuming yet charismatic town retains its glorious native handicrafts. It also comes alive when you visit Mag-asao Falls. All summer long, the sound of the waterfall is music to the ears.  When it comes to the overall waterfalling experience, Mag-aso Falls is hard to beat.

 

12. Tubigon

 This town, which is blessed with white beaches and sandbars, hills and mountain ridges for trekking, retains an enticing, elegiac sense of the past. Another heritage of Tubigon is manifested in its handicrafts such as the loom weaving in Pinayagan Norte and Sur, Panaytayon, and Ilijan Norte and Ilijan Sur. Climb Mt. Ilijan for flora and fauna.

 

13. Garcia-Hernandez

The rocky coastline has a number of smaller beaches.  The coastline is partly protected with coconut trees that provide a pleasant shade.  The Roxas Park is perfect for summer getaway. The water is beautifully clean and clear and the area is beautiful. The park is also ideal for outdoor activities.

 

14. Sierra-Bullones

Visitors can’t forget the magnificent rural panorama and variety of color, a profusion of greenery and flowers.  While most tourists come to Sierra-Bullones for their hidden springs especially Bohol Paradise Hills Resort, the hilly middle of this town offers some of the country’s best rice terrace travel.  Walking amongst the rice terraces of Sierra-Bullones is a feast for the senses.

The rice terraces of Sierra-Bullones stand firmly with all its beauty and charm but due to its remoteness it has been overlooked. Photo by Leo P. Udtohan

 

15. San Isidro

Besides a friendly welcome, you’ll experience an off-beat allure in this town. Hiking in the nearby Candungaw Peak in Barangay Candungao is a great San Isidro outdoors adventure. The view from atop this peak is breathtaking in a number of ways.  Try to visit Cantijong Cave in Cansague Sur and Kilab-kilab Falls in Baunos.

 

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