Camarines Norte is part of Bicol region. Calaguas Island is the most sought place in the province but there are a lot of places of interest that one can visit and enjoy. I love coming back to Camarines Norte because it offers a combination of nature so alive and the warmth of the locals.
So recently I was back in Capalonga via the invitation of their local tourism. It's my 3rd time to be here and yes it was nice to be back. They are celebrating their 385th founding anniversary and it's the most fitting time to revisit.
CAPALONGA 385TH FOUNDATION
We arrived at Capalonga around 8 in the morning. The parade has just started and it was a joy to see the students in their costumes. The municipal government of Capalonga was also part of the parade. It was a fair weather that day and the festive atmosphere sure pumped our morning.
We had a quick breakfast at their municipal hall and had a chance to meet their Vice Mayor, too. Everyone's so welcoming and accommodating.
A little past 9 and the delegates were ready to showcase their cultural presentation. It started with the participants from various elementary schools followed immediately from the groups in high school.
I had a wonderful time watching each group. The kids and the teens were all out in their performances. Everyone gave their 101% effort in their intricate costumes and props, music and talent.
At the end of all the performances, the following emerged victorious:
ELEMENTARY CATEGORY:
3rd Place: Capalonga Central Elementary Scool/ Brgy. Poblacion
2nd Place: Talento-Roll Elementary School/ Brgy. Alayao
1st Place: Necio-Olila Elementary School/ Brgy. Ubang
HIGH SCHOOL CATEGORY:
3rd Place: Capalonga Institute/ Brgy. Poblacion
2nd Place: Victoria J. Tuacar High School/ Brgy. Del Pilar
1st Place: Gonzalo Aler National High School/ Brgy. Alayao
During the night, Mr. and Miss Teen Capalonga 2019 was held at the municipal plaza. Everyone's in high spirit and all the delegates had their supporters loudly cheering for them. The candidates competed in the School Uniform, Talent, Formal Wear and Q and A.
Miss Teen #3 Eloisa Mhae Olit bagged several awards: Best in School Uniform/Miss Selfie Beach Resort/Miss Prime Suite Hotel; #5 Jhozelle Faye Romero won Miss Talent , St. Francis CCA Award and Best in Formal Wear.
Mr. Teen # 7 Jumark Diezmo won several special awards: People's Choice, Best in Prod Number, Tinagong Beach Ambassador, Mr. Talent and Best in Formal Wear; Mr. Teen # 6 Hal Manuel Orit won Mr. Selfie Beach Resort, St. Francis CCA Award and Mr. Prime Suite Hotel
WINNERS:
Photo: Jona Mendoza of JonaShares
2nd RU: Lynette Jane Guadalupe/ Joshua Icaranom
1st RU: Leah May Pitogo/ Acer Marco
Mr and Miss Teen Foundation Day 2019: Hal Manuel Orit/ Chrisha Mae Talento
Mr and Miss Teen Tourism 2019: Jogin Aguilar/ Jhozelle Faye Romero
Mr and Miss Teen Capalonga 2019: Junmark Diezmo / Eloisa Mhae Olit
WHEN IN CAPALONGA
Capalonga offers breathtaking sights, beautiful beaches and hospitable locals. Sir Rod Rawat, municipal tourism officer and Camarines Tourism Staff Ate Myrna Gobrin and Jovanie Teodoro ensured that we will have the best time in this town.
I have been to several sights in Capalonga already. Click HERE for my TRAVEL GUIDE in Capalonga. Its beaches offer waters that are warm and inviting, a beaming sunshine and shore that's perfect for tanning and a nice bottle of cold beer. Or you can check their magical waterfalls or have a pilgrimage at the Shrine of the Black Nazarene and visit the miraculous icon that has become a popular tourist destination.
SELFIE BEACH RESORT
Selfie Beach Resort is the newest resort facility in Camarines Norte. I have been to this area last year and was surprised to see the big change in the area. I remember walking in its shorelines half filled with fallen coconut husks- hardly seeing its sands. Fast forward to this day, I never thought the place had beautiful sands.
This sprawling resort offers top-notch facilities. The rooms are spacious, are fully air-conditioned and with LED TVs- perfect for binge watching after a tiring day swimming at the beach- and an en suite toilet and bath. Grab a bottle of cold beer and munch on some snacks at their beautiful bar after a fun-filled day laden with activities. The resort also offers an area fit for wedding or debut.
How to get there? Hop on a trike from the municipal plaza and ask the driver to take you to Selfie Beach.
Selfie Beach Resort
Sitio Lumok, Brgy Camagsaan, Capalonga, Camarines Norte
0977 8010634
TINAGONG BEACH RESORT
It's my second time to be here. This resort is just beside Selfie Beach Resort. I can see there's been a progress already compared to what I've seen last year. The rock boulders are still the best place to take those photos for IG.
Do a little cardio and visit the area above. From there, you get a nice glimpse of the whole downtown. Watch sunset or go moon gazing- I think it's the most romantic place to be at. :)
Regular cottages are at P200-P350. Those who wish to spend overnight may rent a kubo at P1500- P2500.
We were told a lot will still be done to improve the place- add more rooms, more cabanas maybe. This area is indeed a promising destination because of its serene and tranquil environment.
Tinagong Beach Resort
Sitio Lumok, Brgy Camagsaan, Capalonga, Camarines Norte
0942 5651992
PULONG GUIANLO
Crystal clear waters, fine, white sands and a seclusion you could want- this is Pulong Guianlo. A 30 minute boat ride from the Capalonga Bay Walk and one would reach Pulong Guianlo. It was low tide when we arrived at this island and we had to walk at its waist-deep bathtub-warm water to reach the shores. The adventure has just started.
Find your inner castaway and escape the chaotic life in the city. The island is so private- perfect for fun and some romance.
There's no entrance fee to the island. One can walk through the whole island in under an hour. There are no cottages, no stores to buy food- just the sea, sun and sand. Shade may be a scarcity so make sure you protect your skin with a sun screen.
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We were told one can stay overnight- just make sure you bring your own tent. As this is a very secluded island, I suggest visitors drop by the tourism office and advise them of your stay.
MOMMY TERRY'S BULALOHAN
One's Capalonga visit will not be complete without dropping by Mommy Terry's. You cannot miss her place because it is conveniently located by the road side, some stones throw away from the Talagpucao Fish Port.
While her store is famous for bulalo, one can still a order a variety of authentic Bicolano staple dish and lots of seafood! I love their FISH STEAK. Go 'putok-batok' with their crabs and pusit. Taste laing and kinunot na pating- you will love it like I do.
WHERE TO STAY IN CAPALONGA
There are no big hotels in Capalonga but there are modest accommodations that you can find. For this trip we stayed at Enrico's Lodge and Diner.
We stayed at a room that can accommodate 4 people. It was spacious and has 2 decadent beds. The sheets smell clean and the mattresses were just right for a comfy sleep. We got a cable LED TV and private T and B. Toiletries like soap and shampoo are available. They provided bath towels too. I think it got the basics for a convenient stay. The AC unit can be improved tho.
We had our breakfast at their diner located at the ground floor. It was a plated meal and was enough for morning fuel. Snacks can also be brought here.
Enrico's Lodge and Diner
Vinzons Ave., Purok 5, Brgy. Poblacion, Capalonga
0917 3221278
HOW TO GO TO CAPALONGA
The nearest airport to Daet is Naga. It is a 45 minute plane ride. In front of SM Naga are bus terminals- look for a shuttle that will bring you to Daet. From Daet, there are buses and vans that will take you to Capalonga. Or if you don't want to bore hole in your wallet, travel by land. Board Superlines in Cubao to Daet (fare is at P660, first class). Travel time is around 7-8 hours. From Daet, ride a van or a bus going to Capalonga. It's another 2 hour trip to Capalonga.
I read from somewhere that Superlines also has a direct trip from Cubao to Capalonga.
PUNTA CAPALONGA NA!
Embark on an adventure that will allow you to revive your senses. Indulge in a relaxing respite from the busy city life. Punta Capalonga Na!
Big Heaps of Thanks:
Sir Bong Palma, Camarines Norte Tourism Head
Sir Rod Rawat, Capalonga Tourism Officer
Myrna Gobrin and Jovanie Teodoro, Camarines Norte Tourism
Mike Zuniga, Katooga Ph
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Allan works full time as a Recruitment Head for an IT Solutions company in Makati and juggles blogging along side. He’s fond of travelling, a certified beach and nature lover and would want to explore more of Earth’s riches. A former community theater director, a pre school teacher and a frustrated Star In A Million contestant, Allan hopes of conquering the big stage for a spotlight one day. Conversation and people are his passion..
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