JUNE 13, 2025! From Sagada, me and my ka-rampas Blooming, Ana Jean and Althea were waiting at Dantay Primary School like early birds. Around 7 AM, our van from Manila finally arrived—fresh (?) and sleepy. We crossed over to Bontoc for a quick breakfast while half of our group went off to Kupapey (good luck, climbers!).
By 10 AM, Buscalan, here we come! I tried the tramline—yes, the one that feels like a DIY cable car. For ₱200, I had the most heart-racing 1-minute ride of my life straight to the tattoo village. Instant adrenaline.
Upon arrival, we went straight to our homestay where, surprise surprise... UNLIMITED COFFEE was waiting. Buscalan knows the way to my heart. We chilled for a bit while waiting for lunch.
Then I couldn’t help it—I roamed around the village, fangirling over Apo Whang-Od, who was already inking brave souls. I snapped some pics and vids, resisting the urge to scream, “LEGENDARY!”
When lunch was served by our tour guide/chef/all-around superstar CJ, we feasted. His pork steak BBQ? Chef’s kiss. I had to stop myself from asking for rice refill number three.
The afternoon was for more exploring, but around 4 PM, the suspense began: “You're next for the tattoo!” Mixed emotions—excited, scared, slightly regretting, but mostly just nervous for my first ever ink.
At almost 5 PM, I sat on Apo Whang-Od’s iconic chair. My heart was racing faster than the tramline. Then tap tap tap—the pomelo thorn met my skin. Tingling pain, but manageable. After about 5 minutes, boom—three dots on my once innocent skin. No blood, just pride. Officially inked by a legend.
Evening came, and so did the inuman sessions—drinks, kwentuhan, and good vibes. We shared San Mig Beer and Red Horse with other visitors, and excited to have chit chat with Philip—a visitor from Texas, USA. Slept around 2 AM with a smile on my face and coffee still in my bloodstream.
Next morning? Brewed coffee again (bless you, Buscalan). Then CJ took us for a mini hike to the rice terraces—breathtaking views, fresh air, and yes, more photo ops. We even saw some miracle plants and met the oldest woman in the village—Buscalan’s treasures everywhere!
After the tour, it was time to go. We trekked down the stairs, easy trail this time. But then came... THE BRIDGE—137 meters of wobbly adventure over the deepest river I’ve seen in my life. I almost ran, but CJ reminded me, “No running, or the bridge runs you.”
Fun fact: that bridge was built in 2023 thanks to Sen. Robin Padilla. Scenic and historic!
We grabbed pasalubong, waved goodbye, and by 10 AM, we were heading back to Manila via Malico Road, just in time to catch a gorgeous sunset.
Arrived in Manila at 10 PM, headed to the hotel, and wrapped up this epic journey. Next stop? Davao City, but now with coffee in my veins, a tattoo on my skin, and Buscalan in my heart.
Alright, budget time breakdown time! Sooo, how much did this unforgettable Buscalan Adventure cost me? Let's spill the tea (or coffee, kasi unli yun hahaha)
