Siquijor Serye: Chasing Falls and Flying Like Tarzan – Cambugahay Adventure

After our thrilling freediving adventure earlier that day, we weren’t ready to slow down just yet. The next stop on our Siquijor escapade was one of the most talked-about natural wonders on the island—Cambugahay Falls in Lazi, Siquijor. With the sun still high and our energy levels even higher, we hopped back on our TukTuk with our ever-reliable driver-slash-tour guide, who felt more like a travel buddy at that point.

When we arrived, the place already buzzed with excitement. For only ₱20 per person, we gained access to a slice of paradise. The entrance fee was nothing compared to the beauty that awaited us below.

Together with my fellow Bilasa and travel buddies, Blooming and Jeric, we began our descent, roughly 135 steps down into the lush jungle. The path, shaded by tall trees and surrounded by the sound of rushing water, added to the anticipation. As we made our way, we passed by both local and foreign tourists, all with smiles, towels slung over their shoulders, and GoPros in hand.

When we finally reached the main area, Cambugahay Falls did not disappoint. Crystal-clear turquoise waters flowed gracefully from multiple tiers, surrounded by dense greenery. It was like something out of a dream. We took a moment just to breathe it all in before diving into the experience—literally.

I first tried the balsa (bamboo raft) for ₱100, wanting to get closer to the cascading waters. I asked our guide to capture every moment, and he did—dutifully snapping photos and taking videos of me enjoying the peaceful yet majestic vibe of the falls from the raft. It felt like time slowed down as the cold mist kissed my skin and the water’s rush filled my ears.

But the real adventure came with the Tarzan swing. For just ₱20, I got unlimited tries—unlimited thrills. My first attempt was... well, let’s say, memorable. Though I’ve never had a fear of heights, something was unnerving about launching myself from the platform with a crowd of strangers watching below. My hands gripped the rope too tightly, and instead of letting go mid-air, I forgot to release it. I awkwardly swung back to the starting platform like a pendulum. The surrounding people gasped—and laughed—calling it an accident-prone move. I laughed too, partly out of embarrassment and partly from nerves.

But I couldn’t let that be my final moment. I tried again—and this time, I got it right. I let go at just the right moment, and the rush was indescribable. My body cut through the air, then splash! I hit the cool water below. Adrenaline surged through my veins, and I resurfaced with a victorious whoop. It was one of those moments when you feel so alive, so proud, so free. Honestly, it was a "love yourself" moment—and I mean that in the best possible way.

After a few more swings (and lots more laughter), I took time to roam the area. I watched my friends experience their own Balsa moments; they didn't try the Tarzan swing. We each had our turn under the spotlight—posing, slipping, splashing, laughing. We made sure to capture every detail, every stunt, every genuine grin.

Eventually, the time came to move on. With our hearts still pounding and hair dripping, we made our way back up those 135 steps, pausing now and then to look back one last time at the falls. But our adventure wasn’t over yet—Sambulawan Cave and Underground River was next on the itinerary.

Cambugahay Falls was everything I imagined it to be and more—a perfect blend of serenity, fun, and wild moments that make a trip truly unforgettable.

Tips for Visiting Cambugahay Falls, Siquijor:

✅Arrive Early: To enjoy Cambugahay Falls without the heavy crowds, aim to arrive as early as 7:00 AM. This gives you more space and time to enjoy the swing, raft, and take photos without too many photobombers.

✅Wear Water-Friendly Footwear: The rocks around the falls can be slippery and uneven. Water shoes or sandals with a good grip will save you from slipping or walking awkwardly barefoot.

✅Try the Rope Swing—but Know Your Limits: The "Tarzan Swing" is safe and fun if done properly. Ensure you follow the local staff’s instructions and release the rope at the correct time. Don’t hold on too long, or you’ll swing back to the platform like I did on my first try!

✅Secure Your Valuables: Bring only essentials and store gadgets in waterproof bags or dry pouches. If you’re taking photos, assign a buddy or guide to handle your phone or camera while you’re in the water.

✅Pack Light but Smart: Aside from swimwear and towels, don’t forget sunscreen, extra clothes, and a power bank if you’re vlogging or taking lots of photos. There are no charging stations nearby.

✅Respect the Environment: Leave no trace—don’t litter, avoid using single-use plastics, and respect the locals and fellow tourists. Cambugahay is beautiful because people have worked hard to keep it that way.

The Quiet Strength of Juana: A Story Behind Bravery

“Behind acts of bravery often lies a heart quietly struggling to stay strong.”

This quote speaks volumes in a world where strength is often equated with loud victories and unshakable confidence. But sometimes, the truest form of courage is silent. And Juana is living proof of that.

At first glance, Juana appears composed and unbothered—someone who gets things done, meets her deadlines, and maintains her calm even under pressure. Colleagues admire her professionalism, her ability to stay organized, and her outward grace. She is often seen as a pillar in the workplace, a steady presence in a fast-paced environment.

But what many don’t see is what lies beneath.

Behind Juana’s acts of bravery—her consistency, her calm under pressure, her quiet leadership—is a heart fighting hard to stay strong. Day after day, she silently wrestles with emotional exhaustion. The pressure of expectations, the weight of back-to-back deadlines, and the internal fear of falling short are battles she doesn’t talk about. To the world, she is strong. But inside, she often feels broken.

Juana doesn’t complain. She doesn't seek pity. She simply continues. Not because it's easy, but because she's wired to keep going. And that, in itself, is a powerful form of bravery.

Her quiet battle doesn’t end when work does. In fact, it often follows her home. But Juana has found a way to cope. A sanctuary that doesn’t ask her to explain herself: the outdoors.

She finds healing in hiking trails, mountain peaks, and sunrises that remind her to breathe. Nature, to Juana, is more than a hobby—it’s a lifeline. Every hike is a form of therapy, every climb a metaphor for the emotional hills she conquers daily. In those quiet moments away from emails and expectations, she reconnects with herself. She finds calm. And, for a while, she lets go.

Juana’s story reminds us that not all warriors wear armor. Some wear smiles. Some sit quietly in the back of the room. Some hike up mountains to carry their stress away one step at a time. They are not without struggle—they are just brave enough to keep walking with it.

In a world that praises loud strength, Juana represents a different kind—invisible strength. The kind that wakes up every morning, shows up, and keeps going even when no one is watching. She teaches us that you never really know what someone is carrying behind their composed exterior.

Her story is a gentle reminder to be kind—to others and to ourselves. Because behind every strong face may be a heart that’s quietly trying its best to stay strong.

And that… is the truest act of bravery there is.

The Power of Letting Go!

What is the underlying message or interpretation of this quote?

A focused mind begins with letting go of what you don't need. Clear the clutter, claim your power!

"A focused mind begins with letting go of what you don't need."

This part emphasizes that mental clarity and focus come when we release distractions, worries, or anything unnecessary—whether physical (like clutter), emotional (like grudges), or mental (like overthinking). When we hold on to too much, our attention gets scattered.

"Clear the clutter, claim your power!"

This is a call to take action. By removing the clutter—whether in your environment, your thoughts, or your schedule—you create space for what truly matters. And when you do that, you regain control over your time, energy, and direction. That’s where your "power" lies: in choosing what deserves your attention.

Let's discuss:

• What kind of "clutter" do you think the quote is referring to—physical, mental, emotional?
• In your own life, is there anything you've recently let go of that helped you focus more?
• Do you think letting go always brings more clarity—or is it sometimes hard to know what to let go of?

Feel free to share your thoughts or how this quote connects to your own experiences!

Tattoo, Tramline, and Kapeng Barako – My Buscalan Adventure!

What’s up, guys! Welcome to my Buscalan trip—where we got tattooed by a legend, drank unli-coffee, crossed killer bridges, and survived CJ’s pork steak BBQ (spoiler: it was dangerously delicious). Let’s gooo!

So here’s how it all started...

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)

👉 Tour Fee (Inclusion: Van Transpo, Homestay, 3 Hosted Meals, Unli Cofee plus CJ the Legend) – ₱ 2,400.00

Not just a guide. He's the chef, photographer, motivator, and walking history book.

👉 Tramline ride – ₱200.00

Best ₱200 ever spent for a 1-minute thrill hanging above mountains. Worth every “hala, ang taas!” moment!

👉 Tattoo by Apo Whang-Od – Priceless... but actually, ₱300.00

Yes, the legendary 3 dots from the OG Mambabatok herself. Pain? Minimal. Memory? Forever.

👉 Tinik for Tattoo: ₱150.00

The traditional tattoo tool of Apo Whang-Od.

👉 Pasalubong + souvenirs – ₱400.00 (but depends on your self-control 😅)

I said I’ll only buy one magnet. I left with coffee, keychains, a shirt, and a bag of Buscalan beans.

👉 Other expenses/Food/Etc.: ₱500.00

🧮 Total damage? Roughly ₱3,950.00, but the experience? 10/10 would do it all over again—tattoo, bridge panic, coffee overload and all! 💚

From Shaw to the Summit: Mt. Pulag in 24 Hours

Hey guys! It’s Rampa Jonah once again, and today, I'm taking you with me on an epic journey to the one and only — Mt. Pulag — the highest peak in Luzon and the legendary playground of the gods! Buckle up and let’s gooo!

Day 1 – On Our Way to the Mountains!

June 7, 2025 – Ortigas, Pasig City

Blooming and I arrived at Shaw Greenfield, Ortigas from Sta. Rosa, Laguna where we had our fun moments at Enchanted Kingdom at exactly 8PM — yes, 2 hours early from our pickup time. That’s how excited we were!

It was raining, but that didn’t stop us from grabbing dinner while waiting for our van. A little rain just added drama to the start of this adventure.

A little past 10PM, the van finally arrived. And just like that — our road trip to Mt. Pulag in Benguet Province officially began!

Day 2 – Orientation Day in Bokod, Benguet

After almost 7 hours on the road, we reached Bokod, Benguet just before sunrise. We needed to stop by the DENR Office for an orientation and to secure our medical certificates — a must before climbing Mt. Pulag.

But here’s the twist — it was a Sunday, so the office wasn’t open yet. So what did we do? Breakfast hunt mode: ON!

After filling our bellies and waiting a bit, the DENR office finally opened. We had our orientation about the rules and conservation efforts — super informative and helpful.

Ambangeg Homestay + Veggie Views

After that, we headed straight to Ambangeg and checked into Baban’s Homestay — cozy, peaceful, and perfect for pre-climb relaxation.

We settled into our assigned room and had a hearty lunch. Afterwards, we explored the nearby area and wow! — the views were amazing. Lush vegetable landscapes surrounded us — from carrots and cabbage to a rainbow of fresh crops. Pure mountain life!

At around 3PM, our ka-rampas Ana Jean and Althea finally arrived! They had some issues during boarding back in Davao, but we were just so happy to be complete at last! 😄

This climb has been in the works since February, when we first bought our tickets — so this reunion made it extra special!

Midnight Prep – It’s Climb Time!

After dinner, we got some rest, then geared up by 12 midnight — headlamps on, jackets zipped, bonnets, gloves, neck warmers — lahat na!

It was cold and drizzling when we started the hike. We met our local guide, and the climb officially began.

The Hike – Into the Dark and Cold

Compared to my Mt. Apo climb last January, this trail was way more manageable. The Ambangeg Trail is known as the easiest trail — unlike the infamous Akiki Killer Trail. So yes, this was the “chill” version of the Pulag experience.

The trail had three zones:

1. Pine Forest

2. Mossy Forest

3. Grassland Summit

After 3 hours of hiking, we reached the campsite — a grassy section under pitch-black skies, with only our headlamps lighting the way.

Summit at Sunrise — or Not Quite

By 5AM, we reached the summit of Mt. Pulag. But nature had its own plans — the fog was thick, it was super cold, and there was almost zero visibility.

Then… just for a moment… a small ray of sunlight peeked through. We were all like: “Is this it? Is this the clearing?” But nope — it quickly disappeared.

Still, we took photos, laughed it off, and made the most out of the experience. Even if we didn’t see the sea of clouds, it still felt magical.

But whew — the cold was on another level. My hands were shaking, and my whole body was literally shivering.

By past 7AM, we started to descend.

The Descent – Now We See Everything!

Now that it was daylight, everything around us looked surreal. The grasslands glowed with a soft red hue, making it feel like we were walking through a dream.

We passed again through the stunning mossy forest — so lush and green, it looked like a movie set! Of course, we took our time and had our photo ops. Can’t miss that Instagram content!

Then came the pine forest, a peaceful path that led us back to our homestay.

Back to Base – But Not the End!

Back at Baban’s Homestay, we had our well-deserved lunch and packed our things.

But wait — the adventure wasn’t over yet! We hopped on our ride and headed straight to Baguio City for the next leg of our journey. Yes, Baguio City tour coming in hot! 

So that was our Mt. Pulag adventure! Cold, foggy, and unforgettable! Even without the sea of clouds, the views, the trail, and the memories made this trip absolutely worth it. Don't forget to like, comment your favorite mountain spot, and subscribe for more of rampa adventures with Rampa Jonah! 'Til the next summit — bye, guys!

How much did it cost me to climb Mt. Pulag?

Tour Fee: Php 4,300.00

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS:

Van Transportation

Homestay

Environmental & Cultural Heritage Fee

Guide Fee

3 Hosted Meals

Medical certificate

Bagtag

Coordinator

Other expenses: Php 500.00

(Foods not included in the package/Water/Gatorade/Trail Foods)

Total Estimated Cost: Php 4,800.00

Conquering Mt. Apo: A Journey to the Sky

At exactly 6 PM on January 18, 2025, Nely and I left my home in Mintal, Davao City with excitement and a bit of nervousness in our chests. We hopped on a jeepney bound for Ulas, where our real journey began. From there, we boarded a bus heading to Digos City, with our sights set on Kapatagan. Along the way, we met up with our fellow ka-rampa, Blooming, who was just as eager to conquer Mt. Apo as we were. The road was quiet, and the night was slowly settling in. By the time we reached Culan in Kapatagan via tricycle, it was already past 9 PM. This was our designated homestay — a humble shelter and our final stop before taking on the mighty Mt. Apo.

Sleep was a luxury we never got to enjoy. We rested, yes, but our excitement was louder than our fatigue. Before midnight struck, we were already preparing for the climb. I was with my ever-adventurous ka-rampas, Blooming and Nely, our friendly and reliable tour guide, Remlar, and a solo joiner Lani who quickly blended with our group.

Trekking through the dark forest, our only lights were our headlamps. The silence of the night was broken only by the sound of our footsteps and the occasional laughter. We brought our baon (packed meals) for breakfast and lunch, included in the tour package, though food was the last thing on our minds at that moment. Around 3 AM, we arrived at Camp 1. There, we took a short rest and warmed ourselves with coffee, but the cold was biting and merciless. Rather than freezing in place, we chose to keep moving forward.

By 5 AM, just as we reached the foot of the boulders, the sunrise greeted us. Golden rays pierced through the darkness, casting a magical glow over the trail. The beauty and excitement were indescribable — we were really getting closer to the summit.

But the real challenge began at the boulders. It was a brutal stretch. The heat of the exposed trail, the steep climb, the sulfuric fumes, and the monstrous boulders pushed us to our limits. My legs felt like they were breaking with every step, but we paused now and then — not just to rest, but to eat breakfast and admire the raw, powerful beauty surrounding us.

Near 9 AM, we reached the crater. The wind was howling, the cold made me tremble, but the view — oh, the view — was breathtaking. A crystal-clear lake sat peacefully below, shimmering like ice under the sun. There, with nature’s masterpiece as our backdrop, we had our lunch.

After regaining strength, we pressed on to the Mother Peak. The final stretch was nearly vertical, like climbing a 90-degree wall. It was punishing, but my heart was full. When we finally reached the summit — the highest point in the Philippines — a moment of silence swept over me. The skies cleared just in time, giving us an unobstructed view of the majestic Mt. Apo in all its glory. It was truly a dream come true. Then slowly, fog began to roll in, wrapping the summit in a soft white blanket, as if heaven itself had descended upon us.

Before noon, we began our descent. It was still a challenge, but compared to the ascent, it felt more manageable. I even enjoyed hopping from one boulder to another like a child playing on giant rocks — despite the creeping muscle pain. I took my time on the way down, pacing with other climbers and sharing stories and laughter along the way.

By almost 5 PM, I finally reached the base, where a row of habal-habal drivers waited. I climbed on one and rode back to our homestay for ₱300. As soon as I arrived, I felt overwhelming relief and gratitude — I was alive, tired, sore, but very much alive. I treated myself to a warm cup of noodles that tasted like heaven in that moment.

I packed my things and waited for my ka-rampas to return. Despite the exhaustion, my heart was full. That climb was the hardest yet most fulfilling journey I’ve taken — a true test of endurance, spirit, and will.

By past 8 PM, we began our journey home. And before the clock struck midnight, I was finally back in my home sweet home—physically worn but spiritually full.

Breakdown of my Mt. Apo Day Tour Package:

Tour Package: Php 1,900.00

Breakfast and Lunch (Trail): Php 600.00

Dinner: Php 70.00

Homestay: Php 200.00

Other Expenses (Foods/Water): Php 200.00

Fare:

Residence to Ulas: Php 20.00

Ulas to Digos City: Php 240.00 (2-way)

Tricyle to Terminal (Bound to Kapatagan): Php 20.00

Tricycle to Culan: Php 400.00 (2-way)

Habal-habal: Php 300.00

Taxi (Ulas-Home): Php 120.00

Total: Php 4,070.00