Guimaras Island is one of the places in the Philippines that I will never get tired of visiting. It is the ideal vacation destination for those who wants to do nature tripping like mountain trekking, island hopping or simply just reading a book while you’re lying comfortably in a hammock.
On my second visit to Guimaras last September, I met up with Kuya Cherald, a good friend of mine who toured us around the island years ago. Before we knew it, we’re the chosen godparents of his daughter named Ava. She was christened on my birthday!
Before I met up with the whole family, Kuya Cherald asked me if I am willing to trek. Of course, I said yes.
It was hot and humid morning. I’m happy that the tall trees served as our shed towards the top of the mountain. It seems like Kuya Cherald brings his guests often here since a lot of locals waved at him.
Balaad Bukid means ‘Holy Mountain’. The 14 Stations of the Cross is often visited by devotees especially during the Holy Week break.
While on our way towards the giant cross, I silently prayed. I pushed through with the Iloilo-Guimaras trip because I needed space and I want to hear a new perspective. It was once of the moments of 2012 wherein I longed to escape and go somewhere far yet familiar.
Found near the giant cross is the Ave Maria Shrine. A young caretaker opened the main door of the chapel for us. Outside, there is an overlooking view of Iloilo and Guimaras.
I was persuaded to continue further with the trek to see a better view of the surroundings.
On our way down, we encountered a number of cow trekkers 😀 What’s up?
It took us around 1 hour to complete our trek at Balaan Bukid Shrine. It was a bit tiring, but worth the effort.
Have you been to the Balaan Bukid Shrine of Jordan, Guimaras? For a nice Guimaras Day Tour, just contact Kuya Cherald at  09084748122
The more posts I read about the Philippines, the more I want to go back to see more of the country. I only went there on a week-long vacation when I was working in Korea and we spent a day in Manila then went directly to Boracay. It was great, but obviously very touristy and I feel like I would have liked the rest of the country much more.
i got the mobile # thanx for the info. i really wnated to go and see guimaras. anong month pa dapat magpunta don para mas maganda?