Canigao Island

Leyte, an economic-dormant island lies on the east side of the Philippine archipelago. Known for its abundance in natural resources, the island has etched the name in Philippine history through "The Leyte Gulf War" and the infamous first-mass controversy. With all of these tags, Leyte still is not famous as a historical- heritage site for tourists but surprisingly famous for its eco-tourism and a center for natural research since it  shoot a line to its diverse habitat. These are the information normally popping up when I heard about the island.

But, do you know that there is one island in Southern Leyte famous for its crystalline waters? This made me curious years back and that I kept inviting my friends to visit the place but it turned out that everything was just merely "a plan". Ignored and went to Boracay and to many places in the country.

I am not a swimmer but ironically I call myself a "beach bummer". I defy the thought that only swimmers enjoy the vast area of the sea. With this, my desire to visit the island has all been set. Itinerary was narrowed down hoping that we could visit all those places in 3 days only.

Our trip fell on a significant holiday of 2012, Black Saturday for Christians to be specific, where transportation via land, air and sea is hard. But the nothing has ever stopped the journey. 

We took a trip at 8:00PM going to Bato, Leyte. We were three then and the thrill was apparent to our faces and gestures. After 6 hours of unnoticed travel, we reached Bato. Sunday, Palm Sunday that we decided to attend a mass but unfortunately, it was held at the bus terminal that we have had just passed by. We stayed at the church dawn until sunrise. We waited for a friend to fetch us and take us to our destination but the first stop was not realized. We were halfway in reaching the falls but we took the long way that could take us two more hours. Our legs then complained as the place was rocky and no signs of inhabitants. 

Second stop, Canigao Island. From Matalom market to the island itself took us 15 minutes through a tricycle. Then ticket was worth PHP75.00 rtt via pump boat. The island is just 10 minutes from the terminal. The white-sand beach and the crystal-clear water glistened as we viewed it from the boat. 

As we stepped on the sands, cameras were set to do its task. But, we have to first get our tent for an overnight use. The rental was pretty inexpensive (PHP400.00) as locals got crowded on the island.

I just can't wait to stroll around the islet. I was so amazed of the place since our area was located near the fish sanctuary. The sun was up and the rays were pricking underneath the layers of the skin. But we did not mind the weather instead, we drowned ourselves in the waters of Canigao. 

Basking under the heat of the sun is the best way to achieving a perfect summer vacay. Of course, you go back to your place with your sun-kissed skin and people would notice the change of your color. 

Truly, this island is a perfect escape from your stressful urban life. You just have to bring all your food good for the days you intended to stay as the island is selling way too expensive food. No corkage but the burden of carrying is the price you pay. Water, canned goods, alcohol, toilet papers and of course your beach wear has to be in your bags.

Twilight time and we're up to preparing our dinner. It was quite special because a friend offered to bring us food in the island. She just lived near the there. Surprisingly, her family went with her that the three of us felt so embarrassed!

Night time and the electricity was only until 12:00 MN. Our neighborhood had bonfire while we were lying on the sand. Since the sky was clear, we did star gazing. 

After the deep slumber with nature. We packed up for our next destination, Hilongos. As we bade farewell to the island. Good memories were stored in our minds and literally saved in our microSD's. At least, the short vacay gave us a break from our hectic schedules.

We took a tricycle ride from Matalom port to Bato Terminal. We paid PHP 15.00 peso each. Then another ride to Hilongos to where my brother lives. We took a heavy breakfast as our legs will take us to the port for Cebu bound.

We safely arrived home from our trip at exactly 3:00PM. The exhilarating trip was a memorable experience. Canigao Island is a place to de-stress and to refresh your body and mind.