Banner Drone Shot by Rex Remo

Waking up to the gentle rustling of leaves and distant coos of wild birds in Mayoyao for the first time, the rewarding slumber proves regenerating. The relentless cold of the early morning cloaked the sleepy town. Sipping a hot cup of coffee on the balcony with the sunrise slowly blazing on the horizon, the cool air of Mayoyao still seemingly cradles me back to bed, but the breathtaking views of the rice terraces glued my sleepy eyes in that direction. 

Mayoyao has been on my radar after visiting the Batad and Hungduan Rice Terraces. But the pandemic pushed back plans and yet, here we are setting foot in the quaint town that bears colorful heritage and love of their culture. Thanks to the Tourism Promotions Board for this opportunity. The 10-hour drive from Parañaque to Mayoyao proper is worth it. About an hour away from the famed Banaue town proper, passing through more scenic mountain roads unveiling cloud-capped mountain ranges and random waterfalls, you have to truly marvel it yourself. 

Here are the top reasons why you should be (more than visiting and experiencing) Mayoyao: 

A LISTED UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE 

Being one of the five inscribed UNESCO World Heritage Site at Ifugao in the year 1995, it is highly recommended to set foot to all. A lot of tourists frequent Batad, but much has to be explored also in Mayoyao. The Central Mayoyao Rice Terraces feature a sprawling cluster of rice terraces bestrewn by traditional Ifugao houses. What these clusters possess is the authenticity of structures as how they were believed created 2,000 years ago. The structure integrity of the carved rice paddies is maintained also using traditional manners and manual techniques. 

Comparing to the touristy Banaue, the Rice Terraces of Mayoyao are far better maintained. Much of the paddies where maintained with stone walls and from afar, you can marvel truly the “bi-millennia” old structure that cradled the Mayoyao society and defined its ways of living. Honestly, all I can truthfully say, It is hard to give justice about the beauty of Mayoyao through any media – YOU HAVE TO SEE IT YOURSELF.

TREK DOWN TO THE MAYOYAO CENTRAL AND BANHAL RICE TERRACES

The picturesque rice paddies carved manually along the steep mountain slopes of Mayoyao should not be seen only – it must be experienced. 

Mayoyao Rice Terraces features the most sprawling and expansive rice terraces among the five Ifugao UNESCO Heritage Site destinations. It is hard to give justice to this article, but I might invite you to stand on the platform at the Nagchajan Viewdeck and allow your vision to be filled with the vast rice terraces that actually surpass your entire peripheral vision. A recommended easier trek is through the Banhal Rice Terraces, it features a shorter and easier circuit that features getting closer to different-sized rice paddies, and traditional huts, and this is where you can engage with the local backyard industry of handloom weaving. From there, you can purchase items and take home treats directly from the weaving community. A more immersive footpath is via the Central Mayoyao Rice Terraces where you will begin from a higher elevation and descend on a scenic path through the rice terraces. More than the hike, there are lots of stops around, and having a tour guide is essential to obtain the colorful narratives that make up the grand story of the rice terraces. There are so many elements you can marvel around like the countless traditional Ifugao houses, different scenic view decks, and interesting domesticated livestock. The Tourism of Mayoyao has developed a circuit that fits every guest to marvel extensively at the different rice terraces group of Mayoyao. Some find it daunting but you can arrange with the tourism office on what path you can try based on your physical limitations. 

ENCHANTING AND TOWERING ICY CASCADES 

As quaint as it can be, the town of Mayoyao boasts its waterfalls park – developed and road access prepared. Given the opportunity to visit two waterfalls, I felt the excitement building up. Hopping on a police patrol car, the media team chose this for the unprecedented view we are to behold along the way. 

TENOGTOG FALLS – A multi-tiered waterfalls park complex that is about 15 15-minute walk from the parking lot on a developed concrete footpath. The ride to the jump-off point was about less than an hour passing through more winding yet scenic mountain roads.  A cloudless blue sky welcomed us as soon as the vehicle finally parked. At the jump-off point, an ascending concrete footpath clearly signals the beginning of the short hike. Right beside the trail is a small brook that already welcomes you with a gentle flow. The footpath leading to the waterfalls bears colorful ornamentals adding more colors to the vibrant natural surroundings. Just a few minutes, a tourism desk would welcome you to assist you in registration, and right beside it is the first tier that features a twin cascade collecting icy clear waters on a rolling rocky catch basin. Two separate stairways lead to the second deck. I chose the carved on the rock wall to ascend with the cascade a few feet away from me. Two huts welcomed me and moving forward unveils the next cascade flowing onto a pebbly catchbasin. A natural large rock formation poses as your vantage point to marvel at the scenery. Leading to the topmost developed area, there are more huts dedicated to guests and clean toilet rooms. Thus, the third cascade is revealed as a thundering icy cold waterfall that seemingly dances against the rock crevice, collecting onto two levels of catchbasin. A developed concrete stairway is made for the safety of the tourists. Tenogtog word means. “tinadtad” or chopped – a culture of sharing their hunting bounties to the community they belong with.

A’PFAW MAHENCHA FALLS – required to have a 15-minute continuous descent on a concrete pathway, the short hike rewards you with another captivating waterfalls park located in between deep mountain crevices. Huts with concrete flooring perched atop a rocky natural platform are a natural vantage point to the multi-tiered cascade. Mahencha hailed from the name of a legendary maiden, through oral translations, that she lost her beloved necklace in that river complex, and search efforts led to futility. Since the deep catchbasin, one can experience and try to jump atop the waterfalls, about 30-40 feet approximately in height, down onto clear icy waters. We witnessed jumps from their Tourism Officer, Ms. Detch, and SK President Sir Zacky. The waterfalls park features tourist lounge amenities such as huts, concrete pathways, and toilet rooms. Interesting large ferns and colorful bugs, plus wild indigenous feathery friends frequent the site. One must tackle the ascending stairs back at Khohang Garden Viewdeck to return at the jump off point, and this is the moment to truly marvel, IN DETAIL, the surrounding sceneries while catching your breath. According to Ms. Detchie, they have an ongoing cultural mapping in their town, and she actual got surprised at the diverse giant ferns they still have to tag and map during our descent to the waterfalls park. Imagine if all the 82 provinces did well their respective cultural mapping, and create a whopping information on how truly diverse is our current biodiversity. We talking a parcel of mountain slopes but still a lot of species surprises the local, what more, on a larger scale, that altogether put effort to map these cultural treasures – each and everyone of us will be definitely astoundend.

CAPTIVATING VIEW DECKS 

Nagchajan View Deck is the best vantage point to view as much of the rice terraces of Mayoyao. Almost 360 degrees fill you with this unbelievable marvel made by humans using crude materials believed to be at least two millennia ago. The view deck features developed concrete hairpin curves, parking spaces, toilet rooms, a spacious deck, and twin traditional hut-style decks. During our visit, the Nagchajan View Deck became our converging point with the LGU team for a cultural experience. 

Khohang Garden View Deck welcomes you with breathtaking and higher views of the Mayoyoa Rice Terraces. One of the newest spots developed by the Tourism Office. It features a spacious parking lot, toilet rooms, picnic tables under a tall pine tree forest, and a stone-cladded foot path that adds rustic elements to the view deck park. We enjoyed having breakfast here with the view of Mayoyao Town. There are picture interests such as swings and seats. Kaofang View Deck is the jump-off point to the Manemcha Waterfalls. 

NATIVE BACKYARD INDUSTRIES

During our 4 day excursion in Mayoyao, the Tourism Promotions Board held a 3-day Immersive Community Based Tourism Workshop for the Mayoyao Tourism Stakeholders. Among the attendees are the local weavers who learned various techniques for enhancing their respective tourism-related operations from handling guests even up to digital marketing. In line with these learning sessions, it would help to establish stronger footholds of their respective heritage craftsmanship like the handloom weaving that requires a tedious and laborious process to produce such intricate traditional grabs for both men and women. Apart from learning sessions, each category of attendees was awarded of respective business starter items that would further assist the growth and enhancement of their respective crafts. 

Local women are striving to keep their weaving tradition breathing alive. We have witnessed various techniques in weaving their valuable Lenchom, a G-String for men, and Lamuy for the female garb. According to a local, it would about 7 days to finish an adult-sized Lenchom, if unhampered. Also showcased is their rattan style of decorative weaving they call To’nor. I tried weaving a single style, but indeed, the muscle memory required is difficult and truly ingenious. Well-spaced geometrical weaved patterns form a decorative casing for mugs and wine bottles, a perfect take-home treat that bears the heritage of Mayoyao. 

TRADITIONAL HIGHLAND RICE PLANTING CULTURE

Rice Terraces Experience is indeed scenic, existing for more than a millennia as believed, experiencing its main purpose is recommendable – why don’t try the different cycles in rice cultivation. Visiting the rice terraces in different months exhibits different seasons – the usual patterns are the planting season, the growing season, the grain ripening season, and the harvesting season. You may connect with the Tourism Office of Mayoyao if you wish to experience anything about rice planting. We visited in the month of February and it is planting season. During our trek on the rice terraces, we witnessed locals preparing their respective rice paddies. Seeing the grueling and back-breaking planting, dike making, and maintenance of the rice terraces walls, the laborious and tedious process truly earned my respect. Unlike the flatlands farmers can take advantage of modern technology, the rugged terrain proves a hindrance on bringing these equipment.

Farming in the rice terraces certainly requires rustic ways in order to maintain its structural form. You have to experience too the tedious harvesting of individual rice stalks – collecting individual pieces on each palm to build a heavy heap of stalks born on each shoulder. From drying to the shelling process involves tedious and laborious steps to obtain the much-valued grains for daily sustenance. Imagine the long process that each grain of rice partakes in its own cultivation process. Since the terraces’ age, maintenance works are expected, hence, you would see patriarchs on their hunchbacks creating mud dams or stone fortification of the walls. Observing such love of their craft truly sends a chill in me. I could not imagine the grand work required to produce the staple food that governs each family’s table. 

HORDES OF TRADITIONAL IFUGAO HOUSES 

Unlike with the other rice terrace destinations which are well-frequented by tourists and obvious modern constructions, Mayoyao features the must traditional Ifugao nailless architecture dominated by its steep tetrahedronal roofs and high stilted flooring. From any vantage point, it is hard not to see these iconic houses. Albeit having modern galvanized roof for fire protection, but maintaining its original ways of construction prevails. 

A traditional Ifugao house features a common deck where activities of daily living are observed from communal dining and as sleeping quarters. The Attic deck, as defined in modern times, is their crucial storage space. Windows are optional of this style. The only entry and exit is an elevated door only accessible by detachable stairs. The stilts are designed to keep the rodents away. If you wish to experience staying in a traditional house, you can connect with the Tourism Office to coordinate one. Recommendable to try at least for a single night to experience how the locals’ cap their day to slumbering. The social place is located below. The timbre used for house construction is treated with smoke emanating from cooking to preserve the wood and to keep termites at bay. For added security, the stairs are hoisted up. Majority of houses have sidewings they termed as padyay which is an extension of the main deck usually used as added sleeping quarters. Since of the architectural features, the familial culture revolves around on what they have. According to our guide Sir Leandro, you would notice modern houses with reasons for women’s room provision. 

YOU CAN SLEEP HERE! Yes, you read it right! The Tourism Office of Mayoyao are actually opening some traditional Ifugao Houses for guests to experience an overnight stay. If you wish to try, I have placed their contact details at the end of this article. I myself would want to experience it. It could have lesser urban comforts but the traditions and cultures surrounding me as I would drift to slumber world is the main character. According to Ms Detchie, there are lots of traditional houses whose owners have already migrated overseas and structures left at the mercy of their neighbors. Having guests to actually stay can help instill the idea to maintain these culturally important structures.

LOVELY AND WELCOMING PEOPLE 

Despite being located on farfetched towns, you would be surprised that much locals can converse in Tagalog and English. This is a good gesture from the community that is ready for foreign visitors. Apart from their polyglot prowess is their heartfelt hospitality. Most of the locals are welcoming on the idea of tourism. Majority, you would encounter their grins with stained teeth because of their momma tradition – a chewed betel nut tradition. Some would engage in a delightful conversation and would enthusiastically share anything about their beloved Mayoyao town. 

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES 

One must not leave Mayoyao without experiencing the cultural element of the town. Evident are the hordes of traditional house dotting every streets of Mayoyao that speaks of the locals’ paying homage to their heritage. Find someone who can practice Hudhud, their traditional chanting style. It is recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, hence, you have to truly to marvel at such. 

During our visit, we experienced their traditions of welcoming visitors. What made the experience even more momentous is the town executive himself, Mayor Jimmy Padchanan Jr (blue shirt), took the centerstage and performed a spirited dance ritual along with Vice Mayor Rudy Chilagan Jr.

Truly memorable is learning their dance ritual with the LGU representatives, and a chance to learn gong patterns taught by the good mayor himself. Truly, a breathtaking moment for me!

If by chance you would witness their traditional dance made recognizable by repeated majestic glide of the feet and arms spread bearing meanings and representations of their social status and performed along with strong rhythmic syncopation of metal gongs. If they don their traditional garb, one must pay attention also to every detail it bears. Each element and piece has a story tell. The feather on men’s headdress represents their victories during tribal warfare. The necklace, “palangapang” made of prized shells bear intricate minute and detailed carved details. Notice the mens belts, that has layers of shell heads bearing the natural spiral design and they call it “Khinotto”. Their traditional backpacks made from native materials are used during hunting and warfare that adds protections against chill and rain. Take a deep look at their textiles. Apart from warfare, they have a “pino’ha”, a mini shoulder bag used to store their betel nut traditions that features intricate bead work. Notice the female headdress they call “Pujagkid” that has a more colorful and layers of intricate beadwork. Their skirt is called “Pfinnalit” that features much of their textile’s tailed design and color intricacy. A betel nut mini bag they call as “chukaw” is part of their traditional garb. Pay attention to the colors as well. Each one bears a meaning. Green defines their respect to their ancestry. The Blue color signifies the skies above them. The White color means the clouds and the Red color signifies the bravery of the locals.

Additionally, visit their traditional grave or burial sites located elsewhere. It is in their culture to bury the dead at their respective yards, hence, public cemetery is not a thing in Mayoyao.

Pfajah is their native rice wine, or technically a rice beer because of its grain nature. The Pfajah drinking is also part of their culture where it is served during welcoming rituals and tribal celebrations or special occasions. Additionally, the Mayoyao locals have this tradition of sharing a meal together which they call as “Maor’pfong”. One our final night, we enjoyed a lovely fiber-rich dinner using their “tag’khai”, a square rattan container where a bed of rice is topped with the local viands, and of course, eating with our hands. Add a notch of authenticity by dining at the floor either squatted or seated.

Visiting Mayoyao is an immersive journey into the heart of the Far Northern Philippines, where the timeless beauty of the Cordillera Mountain Range meets the warmth of its people. From the ancient rice terraces etched into the mountainsides that catapulted the region as a tourism rockstar to the vibrant cultural traditions trying to be passed down to the current generation, Mayoyao offers travelers a chance to connect with the soul of the Ifugao people. As you explore its captivating landscapes, engage with locals, and savor the interesting flavors of authentic cuisine, you can discover a profound sense of wonder and awe.

Come to Mayayao, Find Yourself in the Cordilleras and explore more reasons to Love The Philippines.

SAMPLE AND SUGGESTED TWO-DAY ITINERARY IN MAYOYAO (FROM MANILA)

Day 0 ETD Manila at Night (Suggest to Enter via Banaue and side trip at Bangaan Rice Terraces View Deck)

Day 1 Chasing Waterfalls in Mayoyao

• Arrive Early Morning
• Breakfast at the Mayoyao Public Market, pre-arranged with Maura’s Cafe
• Visit Tenogtog Falls and have lunch there
• Visit Manemcha and have afternoon snacks at Kaofang View Deck 
• Check In at Homestay
• Dinner at Homestay 

Day 2 Rice Terraces Hiking and Viewdecks 

• Breakfast at Homestay
• Visit Central Mayoyao Rice Terraces 
• Lunch at Carmen’s Cafe
• Visit Nagchajan Viewdeck 
• Check Out and drive back to Manila

Suggest to exit via Alfonso Lista and refresh at Reystar Cafe

LIST OF MAYOYAO ACCOMMODATIONS

MAYOYAO VIEW INN

• Rate starts at Php300 per pax
• Located Near Town Center
• Contact Number: +63 905 412 9293

HELEN’S GUEST HAUZ

• Rate starts at Php250 per pax
• About 5 minute drive from Town Center
• Contact Number: +63 906 141 0715

MAYOYAO HOSTEL

• Rate starts at Php250 per pax
• Located on a ridge with 360 panoramic views
• Contact Number: +63 927 518 5814 / +63 935 916 9273

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION GUIDE

FROM MANILA

• Take buses bound to Banaue via Ohayami or Codalines, then take public vans to Mayoyao

FROM BAGUIO

• Take buses bound to Banaue at Dangwa. Alight at Banaue and take vans bound to Mayoyao

FROM ISABELA

• At Santiago City Terminal, take buses bound direct to Mayoyao that takes about 4-5 hours travel
• Buses departs at around 8:00 AM, 11:00AM, 3:00 PM
• Vans Depart at around 7:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM

FROM NUEVA VISCAYA VIA LAGAWE, IFUGAO

• Bus from Solano departs at around 8:00 AM located at Petro Gas Station near Chowking
• Upon arrival at Lagawe, the bus departs at around 3:00 PM
• Vans from Lagawe departs at around 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM and takes about 2 hours travel

LIST OF OTHER DESTINATIONS IN MAYAYAO

• Historic Lumagiode Stone
• Chaya Rice Terraces
• Chumang Rice Terraces
• Muntuytuyub Falls
• Mun-Alajah Falls
• Akakoy Park and Loach Hatchery
• Marian and Eucharist Center
• Nuestra Señora de los Dolores Church

ANNUAL TOWN FESTIVAL

Igkhumtad ad Majajaw is celebrated every April 25-27 of the year that showcase the culture of the Mayoyao locals expressed in different ethnic activities and sports disciplines.

MAYOYAO TOURISM OFFICE

• Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/PhilippinesMajesticMayoyao/
• Mobile Number: +63906 958 2204 | +63 949 664 0088
• Email: mayoyaotourism@gmail.com

TOURIST MAP