Marinduque, with its heart-shaped attract, has at all times held a particular place in my early journey adventures. I’ve been fortunate to go to this enchanting island thrice earlier than, savoring its scenic coastal roads, fascinating falls, lush hills, and vibrant cultural tapestry. However on this latest journey, due to the fantastic help of DOT MIMAROPA, I had the chance to expertise Marinduque in a completely new approach – exploring its wonders on two wheels. Biking via this picturesque paradise allowed me to attach extra intimately with its magnificence, embracing the slower tempo that enriched my appreciation of the island’s allure.
Journey to Marinduque
The journey to Marinduque was an journey in itself. Leaving Manila, we launched into a 132-kilometer van experience to Dalahican Port, the place we then boarded a ferry for a two to three-hour journey to Balanacan Port, Marinduque. It’s not the simplest place to succeed in, however the effort is totally price it once you lay eyes on the unspoiled splendor that awaits.
Putong Welcome
I used to be thrilled to be joined by fellow biking lovers, together with well-known YouTube Vloggers Ger Victor, Levi, and Sara from The Darlings. Representatives from PhilCycling and the Nationwide Bicycle Group had been additionally a part of our thrilling expedition. Marinduque welcomed us with open arms via a standard “Putong” or “Tubong” ceremony, the place songs, blessings, crowning, presents, and dance made up the heartwarming welcome. My two left toes had been put to the take a look at, however it was all in good enjoyable!
The Marinduque Provincial Capitol
Our journey formally started on the Marinduque Provincial Capitol, an architectural gem showcasing elegant American influences courting again to 1927. The capitol suffered important harm throughout World Warfare II however was restored with American funding post-war. Presently, it’s into consideration for recognition by the Nationwide Historic Institute (NHI), a becoming tribute to its historic significance.
Boac Heritage City
And so, the Boac Heritage Experience commenced as we pedaled northward towards Boac’s city correct. “Boac” is derived from the Tagalog phrase “biak,” that means “divided,” which completely describes the municipality, divided by a flowing river.
As we biked alongside the Marinduque circumferential Boac-Gasan-Torrijos Highway, I used to be captivated by the sight of Antillean homes gracing the world. A few of these ancestral houses have developed into industrial institutions, but they preserve their heritage constructions. I made a psychological notice to return for a extra thorough exploration of those noteworthy homes, every with its personal story to inform.
I earnestly hoped that the native authorities would take additional strides in preserving and creating Boac’s heritage. This charming city has the potential to grow to be one of many nation’s best heritage locations, and making a map for strolling and biking excursions, together with complete documentation of the notable ancestral homes, would undoubtedly improve the expertise for heritage lovers like me. As of now, I can simply acknowledge Casa Narvas, the one NHI-designated home in Boac, and the Lardizabal-Trivino Home, however there may be a lot extra to uncover.
Boac Cathedral
We continued our biking journey and confronted a little bit of a gradient rise as we reached the Boac Cathedral, formally often known as Immaculate Conception Cathedral Parish. This 1792-built baroque church emanated a delicate, heat glow from its lit lights after we arrived within the late afternoon. Standing tall and proud, the Boac Cathedral symbolizes religiosity and likewise served as a fortress throughout previous conflicts. Its designation as an Vital Cultural Property by the Nationwide Museum in December 2018 is well-deserved, honoring its historic significance.
Laylay Port
Urgent on, we cycled 3.5 kilometers out of city to the historic Laylay Port, our subsequent vacation spot. Though our authentic plan was to witness the sundown right here, the bustling site visitors delayed us barely, and we arrived after dusk. Laylay Port has witnessed the touchdown of notable historic figures corresponding to Governor Common Leonard Wooden and Governor Common Roosevelt throughout their visits prior to now. It holds a particular place in Marinduque’s historical past, having served as a strategic touchdown port throughout totally different intervals of colonization.
The primary day of our heritage biking journey in Marinduque left us exhilarated. We soaked within the charming townscapes, shared pleasant moments with native riders, and cherished the heartwarming putong ceremony. Nevertheless, this was only the start of our biking expedition via the fascinating island.
With power nonetheless coursing via our veins, we determined to increase our experience to Luxur Resort, masking a further 12 kilometers for a tasty dinner. Driving via the night breeze, I couldn’t assist however relish the enjoyment of bicycling within the tranquil countryside.
Marinduque’s heritage, unveiled via the light revolution of bicycle wheels, supplied me with a completely new perspective on this treasured island. I eagerly anticipate our subsequent adventures, able to uncover extra enchanting discoveries as we delve additional into the wealthy historical past and breathtaking landscapes of Marinduque.
Ferdz Decena is an award-winning journey photographer, author and blogger. His works has discovered print in publications corresponding to Singapore Airways’s Silver Kris, Philippine Airways’ Mabuhay, Cebu Pacific’s Smile and Seair InFlight. He has additionally lent his experience to varied organizations just like the Oceana Philippines, Lopez Group Basis, Save the Kids and World Imaginative and prescient, contributing high quality photos for his or her advertising supplies.
