It was a heart-stopping trip. It gave the word “swerving” a whole new definition for me. Trying to follow seasoned drivers is like running after an Olympic marathon winner. It didn’t help that the road was wet with rain and the sky was downcast. I really hoped that the rain wouldn’t deluge our company outing.
I was glad to reach our initial destination: La Corona. This is where we had a late breakfast of croissants and coffee. Soon after, we changed to our swim clothes, put on sun block and bought colorful native hats.
Several instructions were given. Only two to three passengers per banca. Wear life vests. Remain seated on the waterproof cushions and keep legs flat on the banca. Maintain your balance. Keep your hands within for they may get scraped by unseen stones.
I saw that traversing the rapids is an art. Muscles must flex. It requires speed and presence of mind. Boatmen must have attentive eyes in order to dodge the hidden rocks under the murky waters of the river (because it rained for the past few days). They knew from which side they should push to navigate the banca. Many times, I felt its bottom sliding hard against the rocks beneath the water. Sometimes, it just fitted right between rocks that jutted out. And there were moments when the water was threatening to spill over into the banca. Some may call the water ride tame but it can still make one nervous. It is like having a mini-roller coaster ride.
As we traveled through what I later learned was Bumbungan river, we spotted monkeys among the greenery. There was even a baby monkey running after its mother. We passed by a few “little” falls which might just be the accumulation of rainwater as they fell down from the hills.
The first stop was at the Talahib Falls which served as a short respite for the tired boatmen. We took pictures and then off we went to our real destination, the famous Pagsanjan Falls (or Magdapio Falls). The strong cascade of water created a booming noise. The short ride on a bamboo raft brought us underneath the falls and into the Devil’s cave. The water was refreshingly cold. For a few minutes, we stayed inside and allowed ourselves to be showered with the exploding gusts of water from the falls.
It takes an hour and a half to go to the falls because you go against the current and you cross 14 little rapids. But the way back is much shorter. It only takes half an hour as the water current carries the banca downstream. It was an exhilarating yet peaceful experience. And the best thing? The clouds cooperated. It did not rain.
A sumptuous lunch of real native Filipino dishes was waiting for us. The chatter and laughter was only disturbed by the beautiful voices of a group of singers as they serenaded us with local and foreign songs. With our stomachs full and satisfied, we headed to our next destination… Lagos del Sol.
We enjoyed all afternoon swimming at the pool. Picture addicts that we were, we just posed and smiled to the camera. And of course, we had our fill again when we were served with a late snack of pancit and buko juice. Then off to our cottages to rest for a bit, take a bath and prepare for the evening events.
The night started early with light cocktails and chips. Karaoke singing came next, with both foreigners and Filipinos showing their skills and bravado. The kids were sent to sleep while many of the adults spent the night away laughing, singing, dancing and drinking.
After breakfast the following day, we found ourselves heading towards Paete. The Paete Church was visited for the woodcarvings that beautifully graced the altar. Then off to the woodcarving shops that dotted several streets. Along the way, I noticed the road lined with lampposts of fruits and the curious names of donors.
We caught sight of some people who were still deep at work even on that Sunday morning. What I found most amazing was the shop of papier-mâché fruits. They amazingly looked so real. There were other unique products being sold such as masks, statues, etc. Of course, the trip wouldn’t be complete without a little shopping.
For the way back to Manila, we took a circuitous route through Rizal and Antipolo. It was more challenging because of the zig-zag roads. Lunchtime caught us on the road. Solution? We ate beside the road, with food spread over large slabs of concrete, shooing away flies, laughing and sharing food. We had the privilege of having a view of Laguna Lake and Manila.
Many people would not consider Laguna as exciting because of its accessibility and familiarity. What made this trip memorable was the company as well the simplicity of the pleasures we had.
*Currently published online at Philippine Star's I love Philippines.
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