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.