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Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte: the undiscovered diving frontier
Southern Leyte is a province bestowed by nature with alluring sights waiting to be discovered by tourists. Its underwater beauty boasts of many colorful clusters of corals which makes it famous to diving enthusiasts. If you are on a diving trip or simply wanting to explore new places our country has to offer, you should definitely not miss out on this place.
How to get there:
By plane
There are daily flights from Manila as well as from Cebu going to Tacloban. From Cebu, there is one direct flight daily going to Tacloban. From there, there are several buses going down south to Padre Burgos that cost around P350.00. The land trip is estimated to be three hours.
Taxis are also available at the airport but be prepared to spend around P3,000.00 or twice the meter of the cab.
Where to stay:
SOGOD BAY SCUBA RESORT
Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte
Got extra money to splurge? Then check-in at Sogod Bay Scuba Resort! Their rooms offer spectacular views of Sogod Bay with a beachfront terrace overlooking the sea. All of their rooms are equipped with backup generator and are serviced everyday to make your stay comfortable. Room accommodation ranges from P1,100.00 – P2,200.00 per person per night.
STAY WITH THE LOCALS
You can also find a a lot of locals offering their homes to tourists. Backpackers or those who are conservative with their budget can rent out one or two rooms. Not only will you cut down on expenses, but you’ll also experience a warm welcome as local owners really take good care of their guests and treat them like family!
What to do and where to go:
1. GO DIVING AT SANTA SOFIA
Bgy. Sta Sofia, Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte
What makes Santa Sofia a great diving spot is its unspoiled crystal clear waters. Untouched coral reefs, amazing deep wall dives, and underwater creatures such as lion fish, anemone, and sea snakes. Sometimes even whale sharks are spotted in the area. But the highlight of your dive could possibly be a sea-turtle joining you for a swim!
2. GO SNORKELING AT LIMASAWA ISLAND
Limasawa, Southern Leyte
3. GO SPELUNKING AT CAMBARO CAVES
Bgy. Cambaro, Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte
Just in case you’ve had enough of the tranquil seas Padre Burgos has to offer, then better do some stretching and get ready to go spelunking! Barangay Cambaro is considered to be the Cave Capital of Southern Leyte because here, you can find 100 caves waiting to be explored! Are you ready to behold its jaw-dropping and unique rock formations, cave corals and many more? Bet you are!
A newbie at caving? Don’t fret because youre lady tour guides will guide you every step of the way, literally! Tour guides are mostly females because men in the prefer farming. Rock on, girls!
BIYAHERO TIP: Make sure you wear proper footwear for this activity because the trek can be muddy and slippery.
4. HAVE A DIP AT UWAN-UWAN WATERFALLS
Barangay Kawayan, Libagon, Southern Leyte.
Going here is a mix of climbing, swimming, and trekking. This adventure is really not for the faint of heart. It will take a two-hour trek to the mountains, rappelling and climbing bamboo ladders in the midst of cascading falls before you reach the top. But hey: every bit of the view on top is going to be worth it! Trust us!
Where and what to eat
Aside from its diving spots, Southern Leyte is also famous for its one-of-a-kind kakanin or rice cakes that can be found in this province
Pintos
Pintos is made from corn, condensed milk, butter and wrapped with the husk of corn's ear
Tostados
Tostados is made out of sticky rice and just sugar. It can be likened to a biko.
Seafoods are also available here and the best way to enjoy it is have the locals cook it for you! Happy eating!
Indeed, our country is blessed with stunning islands each offering unlimited opportunities for diving enthusiasts. If you will only give Padre Burgos a chance, this island will surely leave you in awe and who knows, this might be your #bestdiveever! ---Kimberlie Refuerzo/BMS, GMA Public Affairs
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