hermanajuli

“You wanna go chase some waterfalls”

It means chasing intangible dreams, with no thought of the consequences.

Will you?

I did.

The invite actually translates to going on a 2 days trip aiming to hike and explore waterfalls.

We stopped by Liliw Laguna, early in the morning because I am very skillful at packing I forgot to bring a pair of slippers.

We spotted a humble pastry shop and bought a slice of delightful chocolate cake for P20. The street where lined with stores built just below old houses. After a few minutes of walking, I saw a guy selling berries. I thought it was “duhat”, delighted cause it reminds me of my summers as a child, I was eager to buy some. Only to find out it was not. But I still bought a packet. The guy taught us how to eat it. Just add salt, shake and take a bite. It will leave a tinged of red on your fingers, tongue, and lips.

Along the road a woman was carrying a basket. We got the hint she was selling something. We stopped and asked her.

Alas! Turon and Maruya.

She was selling banana pancakes and banana wrapped in spring rolls dusted with sugar then fried.

We finally arrived at Luisiana Laguna. The road to Hulugan is a bit obscure, but can easily spot it with a signage and the people.

A paved river welcomed us, then into the forest; you can hear it hum. You can literally hear birds chirping. Initially, it was easy. I felt like little red riding hood bringing cookies to grandma.

As sweat slowly drips off your forehead, the first of three falls welcomed us into the staggering journey.

Talay Falls

Sadly. You can not swim in here. It is too deep. There are tables and benches made of bamboo. You can easily have your picnic by the falls.

You don’t have to bring gallons of water, there are pit stops where you can refill or drink fresh mineral water fresh from the mountains or wash your face.

The next part of the trail is for the weak of heart because it will strengthen it. It will start to get steeper, your heart will pound harder, your breath will be deeper faster and sweat will be dripping all over your face.

Just before you reach the second falls, a big boulder of rock awaits. Time for some rock climbing.

Hidden Falls

You can indulge and take a shower, it felt utterly glorious.You just have to climb a little more. There are no bathrooms to change clothes. It will be better if you are wearing a fabric that easily dries because you’ll hike again.But if you have the guts to go naked and change behind a boulder of rock, why not?

Rest if you must.

The way to Hulugan from the Hidden Falls was easy. As you go nearer, the gushing of water blends with the chirping of the birds. I love the how the forest slowly unfolds the beauty of the falls.

Hulugan Falls

We came during the summer season. Our guide told us that all of the three falls was a bit dry. He mused that it is a lot better to come during the rainy season. All falls are bigger, the trail is muddier and it is harder. He said he loved it when tourists would go home almost covered with mud and laughter.

Hulugan Falls is towering, with its water dropping like a humongous outdoor shower head. If you do not swim, you can still walk your way through the rocks, cross your legs and feel the water.

We were warned. The center where the water pool is deep. I have never swum in a body water where I can not touch its floors with my feet. In my heart, I wanted to see the falls. It felt like it was the best view. With a scared and curious heart, I shouted to our guide.

“Kuya Bugoy! Please look after me don’t let drown”

I took the leap and swam.

After a few strokes, I decided to stop, turn and let my soul float into the water.

It is gorgeous and it was sure is blissful.

We took our lunch at the Brgy Captain’s home after the steep hike back up. We brought our meals at ate it by hand. There are designated shower areas. Humble, but enough.

After a refreshing shower, we are back on the road. A few minutes more and we are in Pagsanjan. We stayed at La Vista, an inn overlooking the river. You can sit on the balcony and watch spindle like boats pass by.

We had our dinner in Pagsanjan. There are gorgeous well-known restaurants but we are on a tight budget.

What we did?

We walked out, exploring its streets and follow locals. People often aim for Goto (rice porridge ) even at wee hours of the night. We opted for rice and sisig and a dose of Maalala Mo Kaya playing on their TV. Pagsanjan is an old quiet place, with small streets and very congested place, not in a suffocating way. You can trace history even on the photographs that hang on the walls.

The morning burst. I spent a few minutes soaking in the moment I was in Pagsanjan.

We rode again.

Where?

I guess I’ll leave the story to myself.