My Bicolano blood always ignites my wanderlust interest in my next hometown region – Bicol Region. Housing two mini-archipelagic provinces of Catanduanes and Masbate, I am imagining many shorelines with promising tourism potential. Came the town of Balud in Masbate Province. Through the Domestic Tourism Invitation Program with the Tourism Promotions Board, we set foot in the promising land of Balud.
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
- THE MAGIC OF JINTOTOLO ISLAND
- NEW TOURISM DEN: The Danao Mangrove Park
- ZELLYNE BEACH RESORT AND ADVENTURE PARK
- SE DETENDRE RESORT
- BEATRIZ RAFAELA RESORT
- IMMACULATE CONCEPCION CHURCH
- HOW TO GO TO BALUD, MASBATE
Taking the Legazpi-Pilar-Masbate route, we arrived at the newest Bicol International Airport with the Mt. Mayon at its full glory and splendor. A quick side trip at Daraga Church and a Bicolano breakfast led us to the famous homegrown food chain – Biggs. Momentarily, we transiting to Pilar Port to whisk us to Masbate Island via Montenegro Fast Ships. In less than 2.5 hours, we docked at Masbate City where the coaster bus is already waiting for us. About 1.5 hours of land travel is between us and the white sand beaches of Barangay Panubigan.
Catching some quick snoozes during the transit, we arrived at Beatriz Rafaela Resort – a luxury beach resort. We were welcomed by Balud Tourism OIC Ms. Aida and led us for a quick snack, soon – checking in with our beloved sanctuary for 4 days. We never skipped the opportunity to marvel at Balud’s secret – the grand sunset. I dived on one of their colorful bean bags and watched the golden disk slowly sink at the horizon. It is truly a great sunset, I can, one can challenge that of Boracay’s.
An alfresco dinner under the stars with fresh large crabs, shrimps, scallops are served. Every serving or spoonful of seafood dishes are fresh. We capped the night with happy tummies.
The next days in Balud are filled with awe and wonder because of the natural splendor that awaits us. Taking the half an hour van ride to Calumpang Port, we set sail to Jintotolo Island not only to have a grand welcome akin to heroes, but we enjoyed the splendid beaches, the quaint landscape, witnessed a dance presentation and ultimately capped with the rustic features of the Jintotolo Lighthouse Tower. The island itself itself is a destination. The Alegria Aplaya Beach Resort boasts its own fine white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters sans the crowd.
THE MAGIC OF JINTOTOLO ISLAND
After mooring, the locals, young and adults bearing flags warmly welcomed us as if we were celebrities. How lovely to see the children’s smile and laughter as one by one we set foot officially at Jintotolo Island. A dance performance by elementary students ensued to begin our tour. Afterwhich, we were whisked to Barangay Jintotolo proper where a simple yet heartfelt program set by their Barangay Executive Head to welcome the team. Dancers, Majorettes and a Drum and Bugle team roared alive as we alighted from our respective vehicles. Fresh Coconut Juice were served and delightful glutinous rice delicacies were calling us to devour, all of these happening under the thick canopy of large Talisay Trees, unknowingly, with their underwater paradise about 20-30 meters away from us.
GEMS OF FINE WHITE SAND, ALEGRIA PLAYA BEACH RESORT
A quick stop at Alegria Playa Beach Resort of Barangay Cantil led us to enjoy its crystalline turquoise waters. Imagine Boracay at its primitive state. Fine White Sand beach and native huts plus the gentle sea breeze that serenaded us as we saunter around this promising beach resort.
Native huts curated for day and overnight experience are already installed. More than beach bumming, you can try kayaking or saunter its long stretch of fine white sand beach. Every spot is picture worthy. More than stunning landscape and seascape, it is the quiet and relaxing ambiance that stood out for me. The long commute is worth it and an overnight stay is highly recommended to somehow give justice on your Jintotolo Island experience.
Contact Details of Alegria Aplaya Beach Resort
- Official Facebook Page: https://web.facebook.com/p/Alegria-Playa-Joys-Beach
- Mobile Number: +63 951 968 8292
SOLITUDE AT ITS FINEST
The Barangay Cantil Team then welcomed us in their private beach spot and where fresh seafood buffet lunch awaits us. Under tents and native huts, we devoured the awesome goodness spread. Full and happy tummies, plus the unabated dance of the sea breeze lullabyed us to have one of our best afternoon naps. One by one found a spot on native huts facing the sea. The powers of dreamland were upon us in a few minutes.
MEANDERING TOWARDS THE LIGHTHOUSE TOWER
The Lighthouse trip itself exudes a different character. Most centuries old lighthouses are closed to guests, but this one, you could access through its spiral staircase until you reach its observation deck. Careful as you should since the rusty and craggy staircase gets steeper as you reach the top. The ascent is quite challenging for a couch potato, like me, however, the reward is breathtaking and captivating. Not located on the core of the island, but on the highest hill where we the surrounding seas, the main island of Masbate, the towering Mt. Guiting Guiting of Sibuyan Island in Romblon, and the distant peaks of Panay Island are in full view.
It was all but serene at Jintotolo Island. Unforgettable. Remarkable. Gentle. Therapeutic. Loving. Surprisingly awesome!
TRAVEL GUIDE TO JINTOTOLO ISLAND
From Masbate City, take vans or bus bound to Caumpang. Alight at the road right beside port. Take the public boat to Jintotolo Island.
If you missed the public boat, you can charter a private pump boat ride.
Daily Public Pump Boat Schedule* (MV Hans):
- 10:00 AM
- 1:00 PM
Return
- 12:00 NN
- 2:00 PM
Fare: Php100*
*Prices and schedule may change without prior notice
NEW TOURISM DEN: The Danao Mangrove Park
Balud always has new surprises. With less than a month in formal operations, we visited the Danao Mangrove Park. Welcomed with warm gestures from the barangay officials, we were led to the floating huts for a quick discussion and formalities. I decided to try the paddle boat to the other while the others took the longer route on foot – it was low tide. They waded the Knee to ankle deep clear waters to the coastal portion of the natural park. Seeing the azure seas, I instantly ran towards the shores and allowed my senses to be cloaked by this natural splendor. Nothing but waves crashing and ocean breeze that serenaded my ear. We caught second wind under a native style hut.
Our country gifted with one of the longest coastlines in the world homed inumerable mangrove ecosystems acroos the archipelago. What makes Balud’s own in Danao are the existence of a miniature specie of mangrove – the Bantigue. Its shrunken height, smaller leaves and undulating roots makes it a highly prized and most sought ornamental plants. Hence, the Barangay officials has placed strict rules and intensive guarding of the hotzone to protect such multitudes. Sauntering at the trail with canopy barely higher than my forehead makes this mangrove park experience unique.
Travel Guide to Danao Mangrove Park:
Since the destination is relatively new, it is recommended to arrange with the Balud Tourism Office. They can arrange a transport service fitting your needs and knowledgeable to the destination.
ZELLYNE BEACH RESORT AND ADVENTURE PARK
Despite Balud’s distance from different regional and econonomic centers, they never go out of surprises. The Adventure Parks seats silently like a giant that beckons you to enter its halls. Naturally interesting gentle rolling hills welcomes you as you enter its boundaries. Hordes of cows litter a small portion of the sprawling adventure park. We alighted on a large repurposed barn where fresh coconut juice and another spread of lovely glutinous delicacies. Before munching them, we tried to set foot at its highest hills where we enjoyed the views and the action of directing the cows from pastures to the hut. They let us do cattle feeding with salt which is an engaging experience. A brief rest after moments of documentation and we were hurled back to the beach resort.
An ATV ride lets you cruise the adventure realm where you can whisk around from gentle rolling hills to sprawling plains. Just watch out for the cows and bulls. Increase the level of adrenaline and don the cowboy hats and take the clippity clop ride.
The beach resort is a different story. Fronting the iconic Panubigan Long White Sand beach, and the serene lounges under the Talisay trees were our resting site. As we wait for our vehicle to come after sending off the first batch to the adventure farm, we took the advantage to savor this rare moment in paradise.
Contact Details of Zellyne Beach Resort
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554858366073&mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Mobile Number: +63 999 998 2271
- Address: Panubigan, Balud, Masbate
SE DETENDRE RESORT
Nomenclature that is French, it is interesting to note the meaning of it. “Relax” as it is translated in English. Having a delightful lunch here at Se Detendre Beach Resort by the same iconic white sand beach sets another signature experience. Under the mix of coconut and fruit bearing trees, large shrimps, fresh lemon lime juice, crunchy vegetable dish and steamed crabs were set for this gastronomic adventure. Live entertainment with symphonic voice akin to a mermaid serenaded us while chaffing dish were full to brim until the last portions were scooped out.
The Se Detendre resort features a large fresh water swimming pool with choice of accommodations that fits a quite premium taste.
Contact Details of Se Detendre Resort:
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/SeDetendre_Official?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Mobile Number: +63 905 500 4136
- Address: Panubigan, Balud, Masbate
BEATRIZ RAFAELA RESORT
This is the premium choice of a luxury beach resort while in Balud. Enjoy the vast Panubigan long stretch of fine white sand beach coupled with the strikingly beautiful amenities and facilities of Beatriz Rafaela Resort. Enjoying the same sunset side of the town, one must watch out for its daily natural grand light show.
The luxury beach resort offers villas with private pools, separate deluxe rooms, a spacious events center plus more swimming pools with one coupled with an exquisite poolside bar. Its beachfront amenities feature hammocks, bean bags, and customized beach front table setups for intimate group or couple dinners. Beatriz Rafaela Resort was our official residence during our stay in Balud.
Meal service is stellar. We were served with fresh seafoods that are naturally abundant from the shores of Balud. I cannot forget the lusciously prepared savory lobsters with plump savory core and the buttery goodness of their baked scallops. Breakfast serving is a different culinary experience. The traditional Filipino choice of dried fish and squid are served daily. Such a perfect to kick start our daily activities in Balud.
Contact Details of Beatriz Rafaela Luxury Beach Resort
- Facebook Page: https://web.facebook.com/beatrizrafaelaresort/
- Email Address: beatrizrafaelaresort@gmail.com
- Mobile Numbers: +63 950 682 8971 | +63 928 046 0268
- Address: Barangay Panubigan, Balud, Masbate
IMMACULATE CONCEPCION CHURCH
Visit one of Balud’s well-frequented churches located at Barangay Poblacion. The structure features a modern-style facade with its iconic triangular roof design. Enter its main fall and be mesmerized by the interesting ceiling fixtures depicting biblical scenes.
HOW TO GO TO BALUD, MASBATE
Take Direct Flights from Manila to Masbate.
DIRECT FLIGHTS FROM MANILA TO MASBATE CITY
Cebu Pacific Air
MNL-MBT 05:30AM – 6:55 AM
DG 6177
MBT-MNL 7:35AM – 09:05AM
DG 6178
From Masbate City Airport, take Tricycle Ride to Van Terminal Php15.00 Fare and take the Balud bound Van at Php200 fare.
Balud bound Van Schedule from Masbate City
- First Trip: 6:00 AM Last Trip: 5:00 PM
Masbate City Bound Vans from Balud
- First Trip: 5:00 AM Last Trip: 1:00 PM
DIRECT BUS TRIPS TO BALUD
(advanced reservation highly recommended)
Bicol Isarog Transport System
- EDSA Cubao to Balud 9:00AM
- Balud to EDSA Cubao 8:00 AM
Bus Fare: Php 1,800 inclusive of RORO
ALTERNATIVE FLIGHTS VIA DARAGA (LEGAZPI)
Manila to Daraga (Legazpi)
CEBU PACIFIC
MNL-DRP 5x daily
- DG 6193 03:50 AM
- 5J 321 05:25 AM
- 5J 325 07:05AM
- 5J 6195 3:15 PM
- 5J 6197 4:00 PM
DRP-MNL
- DG 6194 5:45 PM
- 5J 322 07:10 AM
- 5J 326 08:50 AM
- DG 6196 05:20 PM
- DG 6198 05:50 PM
PHILIPPINE AIRLINES
MNL-DRP
- PR 2921
- PR 2923
DRP-MNL
- PR 2924
- PR 2920
Alternative Bus Route via Pilar, Sorsogon
Take Pilar, Sorsogon bound bus at PITX. At Pilar Bus and UV Terminal, walk or charter a tricycle to the Pilar Seaport.
Pilar Port to Masbate City Port
Montenegro Shippine Lines
Pilar-Masbate
RORO
- 12:00 MN
- 8:00 PM
Fast Craft
- 8:00 AM
- 12:00 NN
- 4:00 PM
Masbate-Pilar
RORO
- 10:00 AM
- 12:00 NN
- 4:00 AM
- 8:00 AM
- 12:00 NN
Fare:
RORO
- Regular: Php360
- Student: Php 306
- Senior/PWD: Php257
- Half (3-7 yo): Php180
FAST CRAFT
- Regular: Php720
- Student: Php612
- Senior/PWD: Php514
- Half (3-7 yo): Php360
*fares and schedules may change without prior notice
UPCOMING TRUSTED TRAVEL SERVICES FOR BALUD
Traveling to the Balud town of Masbate Province could be daunting for first-time tourists and explorers hailing from distant regional centers. Thanks for the direct flights with Cebu Pacific connecting Luzon and Visayas to the pristine island of Bicol Region. To create your seamless Balud adventures, contact Eventive Travel Services, DOT-accredited travel agency located in Valenzuela City who personally visited the island’s wonders and on its way to create strategic links with local stakeholders. Contact your trusted travel company at Mobile Numbers +63 917 892 9369, Email at sales@eventivetravelservices.com, or visit their office at Unit 203 Golden wings Bldg. 4031 Gen. T de Leon , Valenzuela, Philippines.
Read more about Balud’s Festival – the PANGUMAGAT FESTIVAL