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O F F T H E B E A T E N T R A C K
Maripipi is also best explored by
habal-habal along the meandering
23km ribbon of concrete that
circumnavigates it. My first stop was
the St. Michael the Archangel Parish
Church and colonial
lantawan
or
watchtower. Overlooking the Samar
Sea, the latter served as a lookout
for Moro pirates during the Spanish
period. Further on were Candol Beach
in Agutay village, a marine sanctuary
suited for swimming and snorkeling,
and Napo Beach Resort, an oasis of
comfort with a saltwater pool and
private jetty. Lastly, Viga Cold Spring
offered a refreshing place to cool off
with its extremely clear reservoirs,
home to schools of friendly fish.
And just when I thought I’d seen
Biliran’s best, my last hurrah proved
to be my journey’s brightest highlight.
Hopping on a small outrigger canoe,
I finally reached Sambawan Islands,
a sliver of paradise some 20 minutes
away from Maripipi’s west coast.
A chain of stony islets linked by
volcanic boulders, the eastern side has
immaculate crescents of white-coral
beach and aquamarine waters, while
the other side has soaring outcrops that
wouldn’t look out of place in El Nido.
The finest vantage point was the grassy
head of the central islet, where the ruin
of an unfinished lighthouse stood. From
here, one can admire a 360° view
of the island chain with magnificent
Maripipi as backdrop. Sambawan is
hands down one of the most incredible
islands I've ever set foot on.
In Biliran, Mother Nature truly spoils
you for choice. From its white-coral
fringes to its terraced interior bursting
with abundant cascades, the little-
known province brings together the
best of the country's natural beauty.
Indeed, this parcel of land is a priceless
pearl waiting to be revealed. And from
the windswept summit of Sambawan,
I beheld its ultimate crowning glory.
Cebu Pacific flies to Tacloban from
Manila, Iloilo and Cebu.
www.
cebupacificair.com
Top to bottom: The
habal-habal
is the
best way to get
around Maripipi
island; keep your
eyes open for
small wonders; a
spectacular view
atop Sambawan’s
central islet