Trip to the Philippines: Ambon-Ambon and Biak na Bato Falls

One of the splendid wonders of nature lies inside a town known as Panguil. It is situated in the fourth district of Laguna in the Philippines.

The Panguil River Eco-Park is a must place to see. It boasted the “Ambon-Ambon” and “Biak na Bato” falls, two of the refreshing treat of the place.

It is one of the 26 towns of Laguna in the Philippines. The place is ~433 years old after it was founded in 1579 by two Franciscan missionaries.

Based from Panguil history, there are three possible origin of its name: after the fang of wild boar called “Pangil”; from the first native inhabitants of the place called “Pangilagan”; and from Gat Pangil, the first pre-Spanish chieftain whom once dominated the place.

The park is located at Natividad Extension, Brgy., Natividad, Pangil, Laguna.

Entrance fee: Php75 (~$1.68)

Environmental and developmental fee: Php67 (~$1.50)

Cottage (size varies): Php200- Php500 (~$4.48- ~$11.21)

Ambon- Ambon

I do not know how Ambon-Ambon falls got its name but “ambon” in our place literally means mild rain shower. The touch of mild shower of water from the falls (near the great rapids) is really like "ambon". Hence the name (just my opinion though).

On the way to Ambon-Ambon, you will see the “Biak na Bato” falls. Not that as large as the other but it can also catch your interest. Maybe the strong current of water caused pressure to the rock and as a result, it was cut in the middle.

Trekking with "balsa" ride and a bit of swimming to the falls is highly recommended!

The experience was great!

This activity will consume around 30 mins to 1 hour of the time. It can even burn some calories in the body. The fee for the tour guide, life vest, and balsa is Php60 (~$1.37) each if you will reach the minimum six persons per group and higher if not (as of May 2012).

In case you’re not familiar, “balsa” is a kind of boat made from bamboo. The tour guide pulls a rope to bring the balsa to the opposite riverbank.

Water tubing (Php30 each, ~$0.68).

In free-floating tubing, the tube riders are untethered and often conveyed by the current of a waterway (wikipedia) . It will just take less than 10 mins. Life vests and hard hats are provided.

Swimming for the kids

At the entrance two swimming pools can be seen however they are for the kids.

Camping

There is a camping site where you can stay overnight. In case you don't have your own tent, you can rent one at PhP300 (~$6.85- $7) per night and I think it could accommodate few persons. Camping fee depends on the time of the day and length of stay.

Hold different events

They have a pavilion that I think can accommodate hundreds of guests for different events like reunion, team-building, wedding, birthday and other parties.

Massage Therapy

Unfortunately I think this is no longer available. The massage hut was a bit messy and not well maintained anymore from my observation.

1. Ride the Sta. Cruz route jeepney, and then get off at the plaza (very near the church and Jolibee). Fare: P40.00 (~$0.91)

2. From there, ride the siniloan route jeepney. Fare: P38.00 (~$0.86)

3. Get off at Panguil church, ride tricycle going to the eco park. Fare: P10.00 (~$0.22)

The adventure was indeed memorable and overwhelming. Just give it a try!

Make sure to add this on your next nature escapade.

Be safe and have fun! :-)