Ozamiz Cathedral

The Ozamiz Cathedral houses the most significant relic and patroness of the city - the Our Lady of Misamis, also known as the Virgin sa Cotta, The Blessed Virgin of Cotta, and Birhen sa Cotta. Originally, the statue of the patroness was set up outside the walls of Fort sa Cotta, but fray Jorge Carcabilla moved it to this church. In 1975, the statue was stolen and was only returned on December 8, 2017. Also, Ozamiz Cathedral is the home of the second largest bamboo organ in the Philippines, after the Las Pinas Bamboo Organ. READ: SOLO-BACKPACKING IN ZamBaSulTa, Region 9, and Misamis Occidental 

Ozamiz City Hall

 

Ozamiz City Hall 

Fort sa Cotta

Fort sa Cotta is one of the Spanish-built fortresses in the Philippines. The main purpose of this edifice is the same as the function of Fort Santiago in Manila and Fort sa Pedro in Cebu which is to protect the city/town against the attacks of the Moro pirates. This sturdy structure is made up of coral stones, thus, during World War 2, Fort sa Cotta served as a garrison, barracks and storage area for the military. Today, it is one of the most popular historical sites and a landmark in Misamis Occidental and in the entire Northern Mindanao region. During my visit, it was closed due to renovation. READ: SOLO-BACKPACKING IN ZamBaSulTa, Region 9, and Misamis Occidental. 

Bukidnon Capitol and Grounds

My accommodation was at the Green Ridge Apartelle which is near the capitol compound, so early in the morning, using Google Maps, had my walking tour at the capitol building and to Kaamulan Park and Zoo where I met the animals that I usually see online and on TV. The area is surrounded with greens, the breeze is cool and the air is fresh and the landscape is instagrammable. By the way, the perfect time to visit Kaamulan Park and Zoo is in the morning and the entrance fee is free. READ: SOLO-BACKPACKING: Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley, and Davao City.

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Green Ridge Apartelle, Bukidnon

For 550 pesos, had my overnight stay at Green Ridge Apartelle (visible on Google Maps) near the capitol compound. From Gaisano Mall, using Google Maps, I walked on the streets to Green Ridge.

READ: Rates, Location, How to Get Here, My Solo-Backpacking in Bukidnon

Kaamulan Open Theater, Bukidnon

On a sunny day, I visited Kaamulan Park in Bukidnon, and their open theater captured my attention. READ: SOLO-BACKPACKING: Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, Davao del Norte, Compostela Valley, and Davao City. 

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ABOUT ME: SIRANGLENTE

Most Affordable and Budget-Friendly Hotel (Resort)

Though my journey here lasted overnight, I was able to grasp what Siargao island can offer to tourists and visitors. I was able to see the lifestyle of the smallest locals to the most expensive hotels and resorts. I know and can feel that I will definitely be back here.

Pacifico Beach, Siargao

Pacifico Beach is the top surfing destination in Siargao. It was my last destination. Very self-explanatory, its name is given because it is facing the Pacific Ocean, having said that, the waves here are huge. The gigantic waves are powerful but it is the perfect playground for professional surfers.

Palm Tree (Coconut) View Deck, Siargao

While we were en route to Pacifico, we passed by the roads decorated with draft live mango trees and tall coconut trees present on both sides, such a gorgeous landscape. Then, we also passed by the coconut plantation, another top destination in Siargao. On this spot, the sea breeze is cool and fresh with a wide view of the countless coconut trees and mountain slopes.

Secret Beach (Guiwan), Siargao

The secret beach, also known as "Guiwan," is accessible via motorcycles. Surrounded by coconuts, fine white sand, and crystal clear waters, it is a quiet place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. This is an incredible spot to do sunbathing.