Travel Guide: 10 Places to Visit in Misamis Occidental

Misamis Occidental is a province located in the region of Northern Mindanao in the Philippines. It is shaped like a collapsible fan or a loaf of American bread or the letter D in the alphabet. 

Its delectable suman and mouth watering lechon, pleasant climate, rich culture and history, stunning beaches and magical falls, unique architecture, and warm people are the best reasons why one should include Misamis Occidental in their travel bucket list.

I was privileged to have visited this precious gem in Northern Mindanao and on this blog, I'll be giving you a list of the places and activities that you should not miss.

1. The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

Located in the heart of Ozamiz City, the Cathedral is a popular destination for religious pilgrims. This Cathedral is the seat of the Catholic faith in Ozamiz.

The arched columns and beams give it a modern vibe but still exudes calmness and peace. Huge statues of St. Augustine and St. Ignatius welcome its parishioners and pilgrims at the entrance.

Located at the choir loft is a pipe organ installed in the 1960's , said to be the only pipe organ present in the entire Mindanao. It is also the 2nd largest in the Philippines.

While the architecture does not feature coral stones like that of Jiminez', the interiors are ornate and detailed- a testament of the Misamisnon's uplifting and inspiring faith.

2. Cotta Fort

Originally built in 1756 to serve as Spanish outpost, Cotta Fort was renovated and restored to its original design in 2002. It was originally built using large stones believed to have come from Panguil Bay and Siquijor.

Known as the "El Fuerte de la Concepcion y Del Triunfo" in Spanish, Cotta Fort once served as the shelter for the ships of the Spanish fleet during that time.

The place reminded me of Fort Santiago. During my visit at MisOcc, this is where we had a hosted dinner. It was raining that night and the outdoor setup would have been lovely but we don't want to get drenched and dined inside the small hall instead.

3. Hoyohoy Highland Stone Chapel Adventure Park

Located in Tangub City, Hoyohoy Highland Stone Chapel Adventure Park is situated on top of a hill offering its visitors a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.

The main attraction of the place is the stone chapel, which is made entirely of local materials and features beautiful stained glass windows. 

The place used to offer recreational activities like zip-lining, rope courses and wall climbing. These were halted, though, during our time of visit but we were told it will soon resume to its normal operations. 

It gave us Baguio vibes here. It was foggy when we arrived here and it wasn't even too late of an afternoon that time. It was romantic and serene and kind of made me want to sip coffee and just enjoy being with nature. With the combination of its breathtaking views and natural beauty , this place should not be missed.

 

4. Piduan Curtain Falls

Located in Don Victoriano Chiongbian, this 60 meter curtain falls is a stunner. In order to reach this place, we trekked around 20-30 minutes. Depending on your pace, you can get there earlier. The long walk sure tired my feet and legs but the trek itself was a great opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the area, with towering trees and diverse flora and fauna.

We ate our lunch here and the view of its cascading waters was as sumptuous. Some of my friends took the opportunity to immerse their bodies in the cool and clear waters. I was tempted to bathe too but due to limited time, I was content taking pictures with the falls in the background.

Piduan Falls is also known for its cultural significance. The area is considered sacred by the local Subanen Tribe. 

5. Belvedere Tangub

Belvedere, an Italian word for "Fair View", is situated on top of a hill and offers visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding country side, including the neighboring Mt. Malindang and Panguil Bay.

The main attraction of Belvedere is the observation deck which offers 360-degree view of the area. It is a component to the soon to be fully developed Gardens of the World project.

6. San Juan Bautista Parish, Jimenez

This Baroque, late 19th century church in Jimenez is a National Cultural Treasure.

The interiors are very well preserved and features a painting done in 1898 and portions made of tanique pampango, a local version of a dry wall using panels of interwoven slats or branches covered with lime.

A magnificent steel pipe organ can also be found at the choir loft. It is said to have been installed in 1891.

7. Jimenez Heritage Town

After our visit to the historical church of San Juan Bautista in Jimenez, we also had a walking tour in this heritage town. Jimenez is known for its heritage houses, which are a testament to the town's rich history and culture. These houses are a blend of different architectural styles, including Spanish and American.

Being in this quaint town was like a walk back in time. We had a glimpse of the Bacarro house. The architecture features large windows, balcony and intricate wood work. It is known as the old Bacarro Printing Press where bills during the Japanese occupation were printed.

I was in awe with a great number of well-preserved houses in Jimenez. My jaw dropped in intricate wood carvings and beautiful capiz windows. I felt like I was transported to a time when our old folks don native baro't saya and kamisa de chino and carabao and horse carriages. And yeah, I wish we had a longer time to walk to its streets.

This is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture and culture.

8. Bawbawon Island

This hidden gem is located in Plaridel. This tropical paradise is perfect for guests who are looking for unspoiled beaches with crystal-clear waters. The place is relatively undeveloped which makes it an ideal spot if you're wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and just want to enjoy the tranquility of the nature.

To go here, we hopped on a boat from Plaridel. The ride took us at least 30 minutes passing thru a lush flora of mangroves.

Bawbawon means shallow in local dialect. One word of caution, guests have to be back before the sea go on a low tide. We got stuck in the middle because a part of waters were already shallow for a boat to navigate. 

9. Sapang Dalaga Falls

Located in the municipality of Sapang Dalaga, this 60 feet tall falls is surrounded by lush greenery and is one of the more popular destinations to locals and tourists alike. Unlike the long trek to Piduan falls, this one's relatively easier with just 10 minute walk. Yes, no need to trek. 

Visitors can enjoy swimming in the cool, refreshing waters or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. There are also available  picnic huts and tables available.

There's a very interesting story about the lady in the falls. You'll have to visit here to know more about it.

10. Suman House of Clarin

One's visit to Misamis Occidental will not be complete without experiencing the famous suman of Clarin.

The Suman House is a local establishment that specializes in making suman, a Filipino delicacy made from glutinous rice, coconut milk and sugar, wrapped in banana leaves.

Aside from freshly made suman, you can also eat and buy other local delicacies like bibingka and other rice cakes.

During the time that we were here, we also had the chance to see how a suman was made. My favorite is the suman moron- one with chocolate filling. 

HOW TO GO TO MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL

By Air, a flight from Manila to Ozamiz Airport usually takes an hour and 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take a flight to Laguindingan Airport in Cagayan de Oro then take a van or bus to Ozamiz City.

By Land, it is accessible by bus from Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, Zamboanga, Pagadian and Dipolog.

By Ferry, 2Go serves Manila, Iligan, Tagbilaran and Cebu routes to Port of Ozamiz City. Ferries from Cebu, Siquijor and Bohol are available weekly en route to Port of Plaridel.

LAAG-LAAG SA MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL

My trip to Misamis Occidental was one of the best I've had. The LGU gave us the warmest welcome. The biggest show of love is the long line of students, all smiles and waving orange flags, to show their warmest welcome as we enter Tangub. I mean, I've been to several Tourism invites but this one's for the book. I really felt the love. It made us feel like celebrities!

Every meal felt like FIESTA! We had lechon all the time! In every hosted meals, we went from one municipality/city to another. Some even had dances and bands to welcome us. We had our tummies and hearts full.

This is my first trip to Mindanao and I can truly say it is very safe to go on a trip to Misamis Occidental. 

Whether you're a nature lover or an adventure seeker or wanting to discover a new oasis, Misamis Occidental is a great place to escape the city. 

ALSO READ:

• MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL PERANGAT FESTIVAL 2022

Special Thanks:

• Gov. Henry Oaminal
• Madam Myra Paz Abubakar, DOT Undersecretary 
• Madam May Salvana-Unchuan, DOT 10 Regional Director 
• The whole provincial government of Misamis Occidental
• Sir Albert Neri Medina, Supervising Tourism Operation Officer 
• Sir Decius Esmedalla, OIC Chief Tourism Operations Officer
• Miss Ruby D. Ala, Executive Assistant for Tourism
• Tourism officers and Staff of OPTACA
• Miss Maria Margarita Montemayor, TPB COO 
• Sir Albert Gadia, TPB Market Specialist