Bantayan Ecological Adventures & Escapades
Sunrise is no stranger to this place. Its ethereal beauty scintillates not only from the thin horizon that separates earth and heaven. It reaches deeper than the sleek blue ocean as the boat travels. The first time I landed my feet on the sands of Bantayan, I knew already that the richness of the island extends even to the souls of the people living there.
Waiting is non-existent the moment I grasp the dry, balmy air welcoming me to the exciting tropical trip. The smiles that form the faces of the jeepney drivers anticipate my entrance to their humble ride to the paradise of the locals who call themselves Bantayanon. It is a smooth journey before I see more trees revealed along the road. People are waving and cheering for the visitors as if we belong to one family. It is true somehow; we are all part of God’s family. The same Creator who made this immaculate island also built the places I have been and lived.
Folklore suggests that the name of this place was derived from its valiant role long ago. There were 18 watchtowers built on the islands and they served as sentinels for the incoming vintas (Moro pirate vessels). The local term “Bantayan sa Hari,” means “Watchtowers of the King” in English.
Bantayan is composed of three municipalities: Santa Fe, Bantayan, and Madridejos. The nearest one from the port is Santa Fe. Most of the tourists come to visit the beaches of Santa Fe and the most famous spot there is “The Ruins.” Nipa houses can be seen along the side of the road before the historic St. Peter and Paul Parish is reached in the municipality of Bantayan. It is one of the oldest Roman Catholic churches in the Philippines. Not only that, you can also find the church where I grow up and go to up until now. This church helps people to know God deeper, considering you as one of their family. We call it Christian Life Church.
Bantayan is also known to have mangrove forests. One famous destination for tourists is found in Omagieca Mangrove Garden. Located in Barangay Obo-ob, it is one of the most prominent nature abiding places in Bantayan Island. The place was built with the help of students who were fond of tree planting. It is an academic priority to train students to embrace and protect the importance of the ecosystem, which is why tree planting is a monthly necessity.
The municipality that is farthest north is Madridejos. This municipality is the main producer of dried fish in public markets all throughout the island. Whenever I am looking for a good spot where scenes of orange and red of the half-naked sun seem to splatter around the dark hovering clouds to wave its goodbye, I am confident that it is in Madridejos. A perfect sunset can always be seen from the shores of Kota Park.
There is so much I take on for myself in a day before this trip is over. This is not an ordinary place. This is where I most likely picture myself when I close my eyes to praise God. As I run my fingers on the cold sands to draw out my name, I spot the uniquely beautiful twilight. I never imagined how daunting blue is. It is unlike any other. Here in Bantayan, it feels like everyone and everything have found their purpose in details and gratitude. There is the misty flowing wind coming from the sea reminding me of who I am and why I was created. Should I ever run out of reasons to worship, I station myself back to this place, where God’s creations simply collide in sweet harmony of His glory.