The Island Garden City of Samal
Hmmm... that is quite a mouthful. The Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS) is the official name of several islands located in the Gulf of Davao. This group of islands is dominated by Samal Island and surrounded by islets: Talikud, Big Ligid, Small Ligid, Arboles Shoal, Small Malipano, Big Malipano, Dela Paz and Wishing Islet.
Now, why would it have the audacity to call itself a garden? This may be because the flora of the corals beneath its shores look like a garden with plants in full bloom. Aside from the soft corals, gorgonians and basket stars, its reefs (especially within the Ligid Caves) are inhabited by sponge crabs, lionfishes, morays and sleeping parrots. Dive sites are not limited to the Ligid Caves. A vibrant marine ecosystem exists in the Pindawon Wall, Aundanao and Mushroom Rock (so named because of its underwater rock formations). The area known as Marissa 1, 2 and 3 are shallow reefs that can be explored by snorkel. You might be able to swim with Hawksbill turtles and pelagic fishes as well as see some lobsters.
Now, why would it have the audacity to call itself a garden? This may be because the flora of the corals beneath its shores look like a garden with plants in full bloom. Aside from the soft corals, gorgonians and basket stars, its reefs (especially within the Ligid Caves) are inhabited by sponge crabs, lionfishes, morays and sleeping parrots. Dive sites are not limited to the Ligid Caves. A vibrant marine ecosystem exists in the Pindawon Wall, Aundanao and Mushroom Rock (so named because of its underwater rock formations). The area known as Marissa 1, 2 and 3 are shallow reefs that can be explored by snorkel. You might be able to swim with Hawksbill turtles and pelagic fishes as well as see some lobsters.
Recognizing that all these blessings should be taken care of and propagated, the Samal Island Mariculture Park and the IGaCoS mangrovetum has been created. The former ensures that the city is not crippled with starvation while the latter functions as a laboratory for the study and conservation of mangroves. Mangroves, likewise, act as buffers against strong winds and waves. Barangay Aundanao on the eastern side of the island serves as a marine sanctuary.
Diving, snorkeling and swimming are not the only activities one can enjoy in Samal. Spelunking can also be a great pastime in this garden. Caves to be visited, and perhaps explored, include the Balete, Baga and Magongawong caves. But the most thrilling expedition to a cave must be visiting the Monfort Bat Cave in Barangay Tambo in the Babak District. No bat mobiles can be found exiting this area and definitely Batman does not live here. The Monfort Bat Cave, instead, provides residence to millions of fruit bats. They don't provide horror stories to residents but provide guano and help pollinate forests.
Diving, snorkeling and swimming are not the only activities one can enjoy in Samal. Spelunking can also be a great pastime in this garden. Caves to be visited, and perhaps explored, include the Balete, Baga and Magongawong caves. But the most thrilling expedition to a cave must be visiting the Monfort Bat Cave in Barangay Tambo in the Babak District. No bat mobiles can be found exiting this area and definitely Batman does not live here. The Monfort Bat Cave, instead, provides residence to millions of fruit bats. They don't provide horror stories to residents but provide guano and help pollinate forests.
An alternative to swimming in salt water is dipping in fresh water. One choice is Hagimit Falls which is in the Samal District while the other is Tagbaobo Falls in Kaputian District. If you love camping, you might want to set up a tent near Binoling River. Other activities may include exploring the island on foot or on wheels, including a bicycle (no pollution + great exercise). You can go beyond the relaxing stroll by scaling Mount Puting Bato and get a bird's eye view of the marriage of sea and sky. Speaking of marriage, the serenity that the island provides may also lead to the intimacy of couples or honeymooners. Romance is dependent on the newly-weds while the honeymoon destination has all been set.