Who would have known that in the heart of a war place there is a serene waterfalls hidden in the midst of coconut plantations walking down 300+ footsteps below? The Tinago Falls. Yes, you read that right. Tinago which means “hidden” was really a hard find.
Tell me I’m crazy but I visited this fantastic waterfalls in Iligan City went back 2017 when Mindanao was still under the Martial Law because of the incident in Marawi City. I did not intend to go to Mindanao for so many reasons and one of them is my safety. But, fate and responsibility urged me.
I were assigned to conduct a work-related activity which will take place on a Sunday. As a protocol I visited the Provincial Office when I arrived there, Friday noon. Then I insisted of going to some of the must-see places there. I was alone and the staff wouldn’t allow me. I just planned to see Maria Cristina falls but it was closed for public during that time. So the second option was to visit Tinago falls. According to my research, it was the second nearest after Maria Cristina. Little did I know that it was really hidden. Thank God, I did not commute to go there! A friendly staff, Sir Noy, accompanied me. And even if we rode on his car, we got lost a bit.
Welcome to Tinago Falls.
It was an adventure I really miss. It was die daring and really dangerous. I could have not went home alive.
It took a lot of steps going down but the sound of the water hitting the rocks and chirping of the birds was calling me. I quickly went down. I can’t wait to be one with Mother Nature. I was so fascinated with the hymn of nature, I didn’t bother to take a shot of the flora along my way. And as I went down, I was really captivated. I have forgotten I was in an unsafe world.
“Why we just met now?” I asked Tinago falls as if he would answer me back. If I stayed in my office and did not venture all these inconvenience and trouble I would have not seen you, Tinago. You are awesome, giving life to this hidden forested area. I felt like I discovered another door from the Secret Garden and entered into it. I was captivated.
It took me minutes doing nothing but just staring at the falls. It was not just one, not two, nor three. The whole place was surrounded by waterfalls. Some are like chandeliers, while others rush like a wave.
And when I were back in my senses, Sir Noy asked a local* to tour me around. I went on a raft with some of the visitors. I really get to enjoy my moment here because there were only few groups of tourists during my visit. One were group of friends who said they live nearby and a group of soldiers, who I suppose were the one assigned to secure the place.
As the raft went near the falls, I were really nervous. It felt like we were about to hit a storm. The water’s impact was so strong! But I have to overcome it.
And the best part was to stand on the rock and jump! But I didn’t. I told myself I have to return to my mother whole and intact. I have my life vest, yes, but I really didn’t tried to swim. The waters were clear but the whole place was green and rocky. I can’t see the bottom. I suppose it was too deep. And not to mention, I already slipped off the floor because of the molds.
Sorry, friends. I’m the only girl in the family. My mother would miss me if anything happened. Enough of my bravery-thingy. I am not, for real. I’m afraid too.
Nevertheless, it was truly one of a kind adventure. I did not wrote the way to Tinago falls for two reasons. One is because I really don’t know; and second, it is part of the adventure, looking for your way to the “hidden” paradise. I hope you won’t be afraid of this place and have time to visit the other fantastic falls aside from Tinago.
And when it was time to go, I can't imagine myself going up these stairs. How did I get down in the first place?
I have another adventure, not quite daring. But still here in Iligan City. Stay tuned for uploads.
P.S. You can rent a life vest at the entrance gate. They also have the waterproof pouch for your cellphone, so you don’t need to worry a thing if you happened to drop in this place. And I forgot to mention, you need to pay an entrance and environmental fee. It’s just minimal. Now worries.
*The tour guide took these photos. He’s good at it. He knew where to capture the best shots. Don’t forget to be generous on giving tips. There are days they don’t have customers.
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