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| Late afternoon at Plaridel Beach in Misamis Occidental |
Mindanao is a land of rich heritage and Misamis Occidental is no exception to this. Nestled along Panguil Bay, the province has a lot to offer. Here is a list of places to check out.
1. Fuerte de la Concepcion y del Triunfo: If you’re fascinated with history and enthralled by grandeur old structure, then the Fuerte de la Concepcion y del Triunfo is a must see destination in Ozamiz City. Built in 1756, the more than two century old Spanish fortress has been a witness to the rich history of the city. It reminds me more of the Sto Nino Fort at Cebu City wherein you can roam around the fort in just a few minutes unlike the Fort Santiago at Intamuros, Manila wherein you have to allot at least a day or half to check each hidden tunnels.
The museum also houses the tourism office of the city so if you need a little assistance on your next trip here at Ozamiz City, this is the place where you can find them. I must say that the museum area is not spacious. Yet, I assure you that you’ll get to learn a lot with its few key artifacts. Say for instance, one of the surprising facts I learned is that gongs were used for serenading Subanen – tribes who are residing in Misamis Occidental- ladies. Oh yes! gongs have soulful rhythms too. I also thought at first that gongs sound the same and they are just used for symbolic rituals or any celebration of praise to nature.
Outside the fort is the Cotta Shrine. For more information about this place like their page on Facebook here:
Cotta-Shrine
2. Christ the Redeemer: Surely, the almost 200 steps up to the shrine will make you catch your breath but the view from the top will definitely take your breath away.
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| Christ the Redeemer Shrine |
Commute Guide: Here's a commute route for the solo soul searchers.
From Ozamis City, ride a bus going to Calamba Bus Teminal
From Calamba Bus Terminal you may rent a habal-habal going to the Christ the Redeemer Shrine or Caluya. Usually they will charge you 80 Php for a round trip tour.
3. Caluya Floating Restaurant: Whether you are just a seafood lover like I am or just wanted to experience a different kind of dining with your love ones, the Caluya Floating Restaurant should be included in your itinerary. Cruise around the seas of Misamis Occidental while embracing the cool breeze on your cheeks.
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| Caluya Floating Restaurant |
4. Plaridel Beach: If you want to get some tan while being serenaded by the tranquility of gushing waves then the Baobaon beach at the Municipality of Plaridel in Misamis Occidental is the perfect sanctuary for you.
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| Unspoiled beach of Plaridel in Misamis Occidental |
With its scenic view and fine ivory sands, the Baobaon beach is one of those unspoiled hidden treasure of Mindanao. Emphasis on hidden, since you have to take at least a 30 minute walk at a bamboo footbridge before you can get some salts on your hair. To enjoy the
5. Clarin House of Suman: A 15 minute drive from Ozamiz City, the House of Suman and Pasalubong Center will definitely satisfy your cravings for something local. The store is operated by the local government of Clarin. Besides the suman inspired pillar and leaf shaped roof, I am also amazed with the concept of this store. Why?Unlike, other pasalubong centers wherein you just have to pick products from their shelves, pay, and leave, you can get to enjoy their signature suman and hot chocolate made from tablea at their al fresco lounge or cottages outside. Isn’t that enjoying? Having an afternoon snack of local products while discussing your thoughts about the places you’ve visited in Misamis Occidental.
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| House of Suman at Clarin Misamis Occidental |
Truly, this is remarkable! I believe this should set a model for every destination in the Philippines: the government supporting the local industry and giving livelihood to the people while promoting its products.
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