Monday, May 17, 2010

Toledo City: Malubog Lake


LOCATION:
Toledo City, Cebu (midwest part of Cebu)

FESTIVAL:
Hinulawan Festival (June 12)

FEES: (as of May 2010)
Bus Fare from Cebu South Bus Terminal to Toledo City (70.00)
Van fare from Cebu Citilink to Toledo City (100.00)
Jeepney Fare from Poblacion to Gen. Climaco Malubog Lake (50.00)
Boat Ride (5.00)

OTHER PLACES TO VISIT:
Manguyakuya Falls
Cambang-ug Creek
Cantabaco Cave
Bulongan Cave
The Ranch Resort
St. John de Sahagun Shrine
San Pedro Calungsod Shrine
Ilihan World War II Foxholes
DAS Mines View Park
Lebumfacil Ancestral House
Springpark Mountain Resort

Malubog Lake
Malubog Lake or Malubog Dam is famed for stories of a creature lurking in its waters. The elders, living in this mountainous barangay in Toledo City, tell tales of a monster within these waters, bodies were taken and were never seen, and countless instances of cattle being dragged from the grasslands to the waters. I've never seen the creature but I sure wouldn't want to try and find out.



Gen. Climaco is a barangay in Toledo City (Cebu), an hour drive from the jeepney terminal at the Toledo Public market. The jeepney travels through a distinct route, going up the mountains of Toledo. The fare ranges from 20 to 30 pesos. Upon reaching Gen. Climaco, the view of the lake welcomes everyone.

In one of our outreach activities in 2010, we decided to stroll around the lake after we finished our Teach-A-Kid Program. The lake is not as large as the other famous lakes in the country, like Taal Lake, but the tales of the lake were far more intriguing to us (since we are from Toledo), giving its effect to the people.

Before we even got there, my mom reminded me not to take a dip or to even try to ride the boats crossing the lake. Sorry mom, I did, all of us did (haha). We rode a boat going to the opposite side of the lake. I was afraid (who wouldn't be) but at the same time amazed by the natural beauty of the lake. There were a few Tilapia Farms around the area, but the lake still had this immeasurable beauty. It was magnificent.

The boat ride was only 5 pesos. It was not costly at all and the experience was priceless. It's like winning a lotto sweepstake (just kidding). A lotto sweepstake win is way better (haha). The experience was amazing for a first-timer. They even cater reservations for the floating restaurant they have. The cost amounts to 3,000 pesos, costly, but it is good for 10-20 persons, not sure how many dishes they serve for that amount.