To the gems of Calabidongan Cave in Camalig, Albay

In January of 2009, a very good friend brought me to Hoyop-hoyopan cave. I remembered it was drizzling but I insisted to be there. Then, we finally reached the place. Inside, I felt the wind blowing my slightly wet body. It gave me chills, sort of rare refreshment (that’s the reason why the cave was named from - “blow-blow”).

After minutes of touring, I saw translucent stones the lady was selling. “Sain ‘yan hali?” (Where did you get those?). Because of that curiosity, I found a new terrific spot that I wanted to go to – the Calabidongan Caves. I told myself that I am going to get the gem myself too, probably a souvenir for that adventure.

The Calabidongan cave is dubbed as “cave of the bats”, located in Camalig, Albay and 2-km away from Hoyop-hoyopan. It has an underground stream that can be very dangerous when heavy rains approached. It is said that there were also traces of ancient pottery, ornaments and human bones that have been retrieved and housed in Camalig Church.

Just after “Undas” in November 2009, I was blessed to visit the cave with my friends. We had our little bumpy road trip to the place.

Arrival time: 2 PM. This is the entrance with deep water. I was the one who decided to go inside and get the gem. My friends didn’t accompany me may be because of their near-drowning experience. It was really dark but I was eager. Good thing I have four tour guides with me (cost: P100).

 After several steps of spelunking, the first stop made me say “Wow!” I partially submerged myself in cold water under this grotto- or dragon’s mouth-like formation to have picture taking.

We saw these human bones caught in the net. Scary, right? But it was just a joke. Those were from the bats.

This cute little dude appeared before us.

All 5 of us were swimming across this seven-foot lagoon called lizard’s gate.

The lizard’s gate has stalactites nearing to touch the water. It was fun swimming with limited light. You don’t know what’s beneath or after it.

Finally, a sand! No more stones that can hurt my feet.

The noise from the bats was getting louder and I still haven’t seen any gem.  

“What’s up, Doc?” Bugs Bunny isn’t here to take this large carrot. This is my second “Wow.”

I had wished to extend my time swimming around here. The formation is just like in the Sagada Falls. It’s beautiful.

The streak of light in the ceiling was the last pic of the trip. The camera’s battery was about to be emptied. We chose not to pursue in obtaining the gem. It was almost 4PM and my friends were worried waiting for me.

I really enjoyed that my experience here was such a huge blast. I promised that I’ll be back to swim more and find that token for me.

Reminders: 

• Things to bring: Flash light; slippers or shoes; water.

• Spelunking: heavy

• Road: from well-paved to bumpy

• Travel destination: more than an hour from Legazpi City to Camalig, Albay