Experiencing the rich and diverse Tuban seascape

This year’s version of summer has ended. And while most of my traveling friends are busy uploading and making stories of their respective summer escapade experiences featuring popular destinations in the Philippines and beyond, I would like to share a story of a destination in my hometown that has slowly but surely been tagged as a spot to watch out for – a rich and diverse sea scape of Barangay Tuban in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.

  

Sunrise of Barangay Tuban on June 2, 2013

As I treaded to this part of the town on June 2, 2013 in the morning; I realized that there are more pressing features of the place other than the famous linubirang suman, imbao and the according-to-them mind-boggling abode where witches dwelled.

The long coastal stretch of Tuban

Being one of the open areas situated in the Davao Gulf, Tuban is a perfect sight for those who would want to experience nature at its best. The isolated Passig which can be reached via sitio Baybay or Baliwaga can be compared to that of Zambales’ Anawangin Cove. The islet is bounded by an undisturbed mangrove forest with assorted fishes rooming around the place.

Fisher folks on their way to the mainland

With the island detached almost 150 meters from the mainland, a private resident had installed a bamboo hanging footbridge which made it even more attractive. The footbridge towers over a vast mangrove canopy where one can see the other neighboring coastal barangays of the town. It also connects the mainland to a distinct resort owned by the Laude family.

The hanging footbridge of Tuban with its lush mangrove forest

After an hour of taking pictures in the island, I headed back to the mainland and while I was on the way through the bridge, I spotted several fisher folks unloading their fresh catches. The place where they docked their fishing boats saw several residents still keen on doing collective efforts in helping fisher folks carrying their catches all the way to the fish traders (lab-asera). Bayanihan is still very much alive in Tuban.

Residents helping fisher folks docking their catches is Tuban's manifestation of Bayanihan

I then brought home several over-the-counter fresh fishes and squids for breakfast to the delight of my wife. Indeed, it is always nice to share to our family some things pulled out just right from the palm of nature’s bounty.

Some of Tuban's fresh catches

Thank you very much Tuban for always bringing out nature’s best offerings to your good people. I have always been glad to have stayed here for the last three years, and I will forever be staying here, no doubt about it.