11/13/11

Pinoy Pride: Puerto Princesa Underground River

This weekend has been a victory weekend for the Philippines. Aside from Pacman's controversial win against Mexican boxer, Marquez, there's another reason for Pinoys to celebrate.


At the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park
with my girl friends


It was also announced this weekend that the Philippines' official entry to The 7 New Wonders of Nature, the Puerto Princesa Underground River, made it to the list. Alhough the final roster will be released by early 2012, the foundation's president, Bernard Weber already revealed that from the initial tally of votes, the Underground River is indeed included. It really amazes me how Pinoys exhibit the bayanihan spirit whenever online or sms voting is needed. :) Take a look at beauty pageants and it will be a big surprise if Miss Philippines won't win the online voting category.

The other equally amazing wonders include: the Amazon rainforest, Halong Bay in Vietnam, Iguazu Falls in Argentina, Jeju Island in South Korea, Komodo National Park in Indonesia and Table Mountain in South Africa.


Touring the Underground River


I was fortunate enough to experience the jaw-dropping beauty of the Undergound River three times. My first trip was in the mid-90's with my mom. In March 2007, I was there with my girl friends and on December of the same year, I was some sort of a tour guide to my balikbayan relatives from Canada. Being a part of UNESCO's World Heritage List, I must say that the place, also known as the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, never failed to amaze me. Even on my 2nd and 3rd trip, it still felt like the first time.


On our way to see God's majestic creation


The limestone formations are truly breathtaking as paddlers lead you through a short portion of the river. You'll surely be awed and soon realize how great of a sculptor God is. As if man-made, natural stones are seen in different forms such as a mushroom, corn, lion, maiden, The Holy Family, etc. In those three separate occasions that I was able to experience such stunning sight, I can't help but have a renewed faith in our Creator. I bet you will also say to yourself that no body else can concoct such beauty except Him. It's quite difficult to explain and you might not even get what I mean. So, I suggest that the best way is to experience the sight yourself in order to find out.


At the Puerto Princesa City airport


Spent one night at the nearby barrio without electricity


A piece of travel advice: If this is included in your itinerary, you better schedule this as soon as you reach Puerto Princesa City. You see, it will still take around 3 to 4 hours of land travel before you reach the area. You might also need to spend a night in a nearby barrio where there are numerous rooms for rent. Take note that there is no electricity in the area although there's generator service only until 10 PM. Remember that it is safer to find  a room rather than find yourselves still on the road at night. Just travel back to the city the following day. By the end of your river tour, all the extra effort to have a glimpse of God's masterpiece will be all worth it.


Family Field Trip


Some friends ask me what would be the best destination for an out-of-town trip. I would always mention that a Palawan trip would be best for those who will travel with kids. Aside from the Underground River experience, there are other sights that kids would surely enjoy such as the Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Centre, Baker's Hill, Butterfly Farm and Honda Bay. 

When SJ heard the news that the Underground River made it in the The 7 New Wonders of Nature, she was asking me to bring her there. She was even wondering why didn't my mom and I bring her with us the first time. Of course, she was not born yet. He he! I'll probably arrange a family field trip on summer and if possible, Palawan would be a great destination. With approximately 4 months left, I am already excited just thinking about it. Spending time with loved-ones are certainly occasions to look forward to.

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