"The Island Born of Fire: Camiguin"
The Camiguin Island’s history is both colorful and intriguing. The name Camiguin is derived from the native word “Kamagong”, a tree of the Ebony family that thrives near Lake Mainit in the Province of Surigao del Norte. The original inhabitants of Camiguin were “Manobos” who migrated from Surigao. The old native language in Camiguin is called “Kinamiguin”, which is similar to the dialect spoken in Surigao.
The island of Camiguin is one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines. The advantage of Camiguin versus other local tourist destinations lies in the "completeness" of its natural environment and the high diversity of the ecosystem. The Provincial Government of Camiguin, together with the Local Government Units work hand in hand in the improvement the delivery of its services and the meticulous sustainable enhancement of the island's resources to attract more visitors as well as investors.
The Regional Development Plan recognizes Camiguin's role as the leading Tourism destination for Northern Mindanao. The Northern Mindanao Development Plan (1993-1998) envisions the region to the south linking resource-rich Mindanao to the rest of the country and the world.
Camiguin is a beautiful island would be an understatement. True, most tourists and locals love the beautiful beaches, the rich marine life, refreshing waterfalls, hot and cold springs — and all of Camiguin’s tourist spots. However, there’s more to Camiguin than meets the eye.
Old Spanish documents indicate that the renowned explorers, Ferdinand Magellan and Miguel Lopez de Legaspi landed in Camiguin in 1565, respectively. The first Spanish settlements in what was later to be known as Guinsiliban as established in 1598. Guinsiliban comes from the old Kinamiguin word " Guinsilipan" which means to look out for pirates from a "Watch tower." An old Spanish watchtower where the Camiguinous kept watch for Moro pirates still stands in Guinsiliban.
The first major Spanish settlement established in 1679 was called Katagman of Katadman (known now as Catarman). This settlement grew and prospered to what is now Barangay Bonbon. On May 1,1871, Mt. Vulcan Daan erupted and destroyed the town. A portion of the town center is presently located. Today, all that remains of old Catarman are the ruins of the ancient Spanish church, a convent and a bell tower.
Sagay, located south of Catarman, was formally established as a town in 1848. The word Sagay is derived from the name of a poisonous fruit tree that grew in the area.
Mambajao became a town in 1855. The name was coined from the Visayan term " Mamahaw," meaning to usher breakfast and "bajao," which is leftover boiled rice. In the early 1900s, Mambajao prospered to become the busiest port in Northern Mindanao.
Mahinog was established as a Municipality in 1860. the name Mahinog comes from a Cebuano word meaning "to ripen" or to become ripe." Although Guinsiliban was the oldest settlement in the island, it was only in 1950 when it became a Municipality. Both Mahinog and Guinsiliban were formally governed by Sagay.
Liberation of Camiguin
In 1945, Philippine Commonwealth forces landed in Camiguin and liberated the Island during the Battle of Camiguin against the Japanese Imperial forces at the end of World War II.
Independence
On July 4, 1946, the country gained independence from the United States of America and became the Republic of the Philippines. From 1946 to 1958, Camiguin was part of Misamis Oriental. In 1958, it became a sub-province and in 1968, a full-fledged province with Mambajao as its provincial capital.
Camiguin was part of Misamis Oriental until 1958 when it became a sub-province. It was made into a separate province on June 18, 1966, but was formally inaugurated only in 1968.
Brief Introduction to Camiguin Province
Camiguin is a small island province of the Philippines off the northern coast of Mindanao. It belongs to the Northern Mindanao region.Its capital is Mambajao and it is the second-smallest province both in population and land area. Only Batanes is smaller. The population is 74.232 and the area is 229.8 km2, that is 323/km2 (16th highest) .The island of Camiguin is in the Bohol Sea about 10 kilometers north of Misamis Oriental.
Camiguin is accessible by air and sea from Cebu City however trips are limited only. Most fly in to Cagayan de Oro City in Misamis Oriental Province, the gateway to Northern Mindanao. One would then take 2 more or less hours bus or hired van from Cagayan de Oro City to the port of Balingoan. Ferries leave Balingoan to Camiguin Island every hour from 6:00 am until 5:00 pm.
The people of Camiguin are called "Camiguingnon". The main occupation of the people is fishing and farming, with copra providing the greatest income contribution. Other plantations are abaca, rice, mangoes, lanzones and other fruit trees. Small cottage industries are increasing in number to accommodate the influx of visitors. The population is of Visayan descent. "Visaya" and "Hiligaynon" are widely spoken while a few speak Kinamiguin. Nearly everyone speaks English fairly well.
Best Things To Do and See
Thankfully, this small island is abundant with must-see attractions. Buy some sunblock, water gears, mosquito repellant and lots of food. You will need them in Camiguin when you go tours all the main points of interest:
White Island
I know many people would have told you this famed white island in Camiguin is just so overrated. In fact this is not even an island. It is a sandbar of white powdery sands surrounded by clear turquoise water which is just one of the many sandbars in the entire 7,107 islands of the country. So what makes it special other than patches of white powdery sands? I don’t know but I love it. Be the judge! See it for yourself!
Mantigue Island
Mantigue Island is so intriguing that you wouldn’t help but want to find out what it is made of. If you are someone who’s fond of making love with the sea and its amazing creatures, then nothing will make you happier but to dive into the richness of this island and its surrounding waters.
Mt. Hibok Hibok Ardent Hot Spring
Take a relaxing hot bath for only PHP 30 (entrance fee) at Ardent Hot Spring. It’s located at Mt. Hibok Hibok in Mambajao. If you aren’t on a private tour, you can hire a motorcycle for PHP 80 to get to the place.The hot spring has four separate pools. It’s best to visit it by early evening, just before you head back to your hotel. The warm bath will help you sleep better.
Sto. Nino Cold Spring
Camiguin Island always has the answer to your needs. There’s the hotspring to help you relax and wash away that cold lonely nights but if you prefer something more refreshing then there’s Sto. Niño Coldspring where you can swim for hours and enjoy the cool running waters under the sunny skies.
Camiguin is blessed with great beaches, waterfalls, hot springs and yes — a cold spring too. Enjoy the cool waters and swim for hours at Sto. Nino cold spring. This place is perfect when you’re traveling during the summer months.
Sunken Cemetery
When Mt. Vulcan erupted in the 1870s, it sank some parts of Camiguin including this cemetery. To get there, head to Bonbon town and ask the boatmen to take you to the cemetery.
You’ll know it’s the Sunken Cemetery when you see a huge cross in the sea. The spot is ideal for taking postcard-perfect photos. Don’t visit just for the photos though; it’s best to explore what’s underneath.
This also made Camiguin famous. The sunken cemetery is a remnant of that havoc which had once plagued the island and almost swept it out of existence. It is represented by a huge cross of what have been an old chapel. An adventurous heart won’t be content with seeing what is on the surface and would love to dive and explore the world beneath it. If you are that kind of person then this is the perfect place for you.
Gui-ob Old Church Ruins
This church was destroyed when Mt. Vulcan erupted. The grounds are covered in grass, but you can still get a glimpse of its magnificence structure.
If you love history, the ruins will delight you. There’s also a great view of the sea from the back of the church.
This church was destroyed when Mt. Vulcan erupted. The grounds are covered in grass, but you can still get a glimpse of its magnificence structure.
If you love history, the ruins will delight you. There’s also a great view of the sea from the back of the church.
Giant Clam Sanctuary
Head to Kabila Beach in Guinsiliban for the surprise of your life. Kabila Giant Clam Conservation has a collection of over 2,500 colorful giant clams.
Take a tour and admire these beautiful and enormous clams from underwater. Bring an underwater camera with you and take photos. There are smaller clams too and they’re placed in smaller pools so they can reproduce.
Head to Kabila Beach in Guinsiliban for the surprise of your life. Kabila Giant Clam Conservation has a collection of over 2,500 colorful giant clams.
Take a tour and admire these beautiful and enormous clams from underwater. Bring an underwater camera with you and take photos. There are smaller clams too and they’re placed in smaller pools so they can reproduce.Katibawasan Falls
The refreshing waterfall is perfect for an afternoon swim, right after a day tour. Bring food as tables and chairs are provided in the area.Katibawasan Falls is the most accessible falls in Camiguin. There is no need to take on long walks to get to the place. Here you’ll be surrounded by rocks, ferns and lots of trees. Entrance fee to the area is PHP 35.
Where to Eat
A vacation won’t be complete without indulging in good food. Camiguin isn’t only abundant with beautiful attractions, this small island is also blessed with restaurants that serve delectable dishes.
La Dolce Vita
La Dolce Vita is one of the best Italian restaurants in Mambajao, Camiguin. Homemade pasta and wood-fired pizza are their specialties. Plan one of your dinners with this must-try restaurant.Address: Baylao, Mambajao, Mindanao 9100
Phone Number: +63-936-100-4733
Operating Hours: 7:00 am – 10:00 pm
Casa Roca Inn
The restaurant is located on the first floor where you can see Evelyn, the chef cooking. They serve only freshly cooked meals at their open kitchen.
If you love wine, Casa Roca has quite a collection. The ocean views from the hotel is another thing to love about Casa Roca. It’s the best.
If you’re planning to stay, do make sure to call in advance. Casa Roca Inn is almost always full.
Address: National Highway, Naasag, Mambajao, Mindanao 9100
Phone Number: +63-883-879-500
Cajun Joe’s Sportsbar & Grill
menu collection. They offer Filipino and European dishes.
Grab a cold beer or try the shrimp or calamari. You won’t regret it.
Address: National Road Bug-ong Mambajao, Mindanao 9100, Philippines
Phone Number: +63-905-603-89
Luna Ristorante
restaurant offers tasty dishes and the staff are very accommodating.
Address: National Highway Mambajao, Yumbing, Mindanao 9100
Phone Number: +63-936-9094
Where to Stay
Depending on your budget, you can either stay at affordable hotels or indulge in a little luxury. Here are three hotels in Camiguin that will give you the best stay.
Camiguin Volcan Beach Eco Retreat & Dive Resort (PHP 2000)
This is a new hotel with five different room categories. They have villas, cottages and rooms. The price varies and depends on the inclusions of each bedroom.A 100-year old tree, fruit trees and fragrant flowers adorned the hotel. They also have their own restaurant and massage wellness. If you love adventure, book water activities with them.
Overall, Volcan Beach is by far one of the best. For budget travelers, they have a backpacker hostel room for only PHP 1000.
Address: Camiguin Circumferential Road Baring, Naasag, Mambajao Mindanao 9100
Balai sa Baibai
If you’re traveling with a life partner, this will be an ideal place. There are only six yet cozy rooms at Balai sa Baibai. Free wifi is included in their comfortable non-smoking rooms.They have a hotel bar where you can get a good view of the sunset. Don’t miss this when you’re at Balai sa Baibai.
Address: Agoho, Mambajao, Mindanao 9100
Bahay Bakasyunan sa Camiguin Resort Mambajao (4600 PHP)
Stay at their beachfront accommodations and revel in the beauty of the ocean. A pool is also available for guests as well as a fitness gym. They have a bar and a grill near the beach where you can eat dinner while listening to the sound of the waves.Apart from offering good accommodation, Bahay Bakasyunan also offers the best tasting wines and seafood. They’re both a must-try.
If you’re traveling with a group, some hotels in Camiguin offers dorm-type rooms where 10 people can fit in. The place is great for budget travelers.
What to buy for pasalubong
Going on vacation is a good thing, but buying pasalubong is another. Camiguin is quite famous for their extremely delicious delicacies. You can buy loads of them for pasalubong to friends and family.
Vjandep Pastel
Lanzones Wine
Each year in October, a festival is held celebrating the Lanzones, a small grape-sized tropical fruit grown all over the island. The week-long Lanzones Festival is one of the more colorful events in the Philippines.
We filipino's must admit that Camiguin (this wonderful island so beautiful filled my dreams for weeks) was not initially part of my itinerary for my Mindanao tour. we Never have imagined that we would fall in love with it over and over.
If you’re on a budget and would like to explore the southern part of the Philippines, please do spend a day in Camiguin. I promise it wouldn’t eat up much of your travel money and it will be worth it. Here are the reasons why.
Thank you for Reading our Blog About the place of Camiguin.
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