Captivated by Kalanggaman Island!

Who would've thought that in a third-class municipality, such as my mother's hometown in Palompon in the province of Leyte, there hidden an islet so beautiful and so virgin!

I've been hearing of Kalanggaman Island from my uncles and aunts in Palompon, Leyte since I was young. They would point to a small islet that one could easily see from the highest spot of our village. Then they would talk of clear waters, fine white sand, gigantic shells, untouched fish sanctuary, and of birds.

Well, for purposes of better cultural appreciation, "langgam" in Visayan dialect is not the hardworking "ant" in Tagalog. In fact, langgam means bird.

Spanning a mere 9.82 hectares of pure white sand, Kalanggaman Island has two sand bars extending on each side like a bird’s wings. It is perhaps named because of its shape. Another reason for naming such is that it can be a seasonal habitat for migratory birds or bird sanctuary at one time or another.

That's one sand bar!

One has to ride a pump-boat which could be rented via the Palompon Eco-Tourism office. It usually takes 45 minutes to an hour to get there from Palompon. I suggest you go with a big group. The bigger the group, the bigger the savings (ka-shing!).

As of this writing, the private pump-boat costs P3,000 for a capacity of 15 persons and below, P3,500 for 25 persons and below, and P4,000 for 30 persons and below.

All aboard!

I am happy that the island was finally re-possessed by the government after a trail of unlawful transfers of property. I appreciate the efforts of Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez for revitalizing the eco-tourism of Palompon, Leyte.

According to my aunt, it used to be a neglected island where people - sadly - abuse the nature. Now, it is a protected sanctuary and guests are prohibited to litter, take sand and/or sea shells, and go fishing.

This one's at the other sand bar. Amazingly, these rock formations, although lava-like, aren't hot at noon time.

Another thing I like about this place is that not so many people can come here at the same time because of the limited number of pump-boats. We were like only 60 people in this islet during our stay here. Sulit na sulit talaga ang getaway!

All cottages cost P250.

By the way, guests can stay overnight. However, they don't have rooms or any boarding facilities. So please bring tents. They don't have electricity and fresh water. But they have dressing rooms and toilets. They also have security - as in local police.

So talagang "island experience" siya. They say that the local government will continue to improve the place. They now have kayaks and soon, will offer other beach activities. It is also a good place for divers.

This marker's new according to my uncle. But hey, we saw six dolphins on our way back! :)

But I'd rather experience the island in its most basic and raw state. Of course, you don't go to an island for hotels and expensive toilets, or night clubs and bars. I know you know what I am talking about.

You go to an island to get in touch with nature and remind yourself that you are a part of this grand creation of God. And that you have a big responsibility to be a good steward of this wonderful creation - as we all are appointed since the earth was created.

Also, I can't help but be proud of my Leytenian heritage. And of course, of my being Filipino. I really hope all Pinoys would get to experience this captivating island and be awakened of the richness and beauty of our country.

White sand, blue sea, green trees, and one proud brown Pinay. :)

For more information on Kalanggaman Island, you may visit Palompon's local government website. Or you may call the Palompon Eco-Tourism Office at (053) 555-9010 or (053) 338-2094.