Upon research, I discovered that the province of Compostela Valley (Davao de Oro) became the second richest province in the Philippines in 2017 according to the Commission on Audit. Why not, aside from the local business establishments, they are the largest producers of gold (Oro) in the country, they have a lot of silver mines and banana plantations. Aside from these, they also hide something very precious - the majestic Awao Falls.
Awao Falls hides in the mountainous farming village in Municipality of Monkayo. There is no direct transportation, so having an hour bumpy habal-habal ride, with a river crossing, is necessary to see its beauty. Getting here will undoubtedly be challenging but you will be rewarded with a pristine and breathtaking waterfall. The picturesque is perfect, the ambiance is relaxing, the water is cool, and the air is fresh.
OTHER WATERFALLS: Singkabungan Falls, Bungkilaton Falls, Tugonan Falls, Batinag Falls, Malumagpak Falls, Tadja Falls, Marangig Falls, Pyalitan Falls, Miyaya Falls, Tagbibinta Falls, and Salvosa Falls.
HOW TO GET HERE: From Manila, Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, Air Asia and other carriers have regular trips to Davao City. From the airport, take a taxi to Ecoland Bus Terminal where you can take a bus.
WHERE TO STAY: I did not spend an overnight in Compostela Valley. After the visit, I headed back to Davao City and stayed at D'Morvie Suites (San Pedro). The room has a flat-screen TV with Netflix (not working), AC, toilet and bath, WiFi (very slow reception). READ: SOLO-BACKPACKING in Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley, and Davao City.
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