IBS visits Iligan City's Tourism Triangle

Product Knowledge in “marketing” parlance is the awareness of a marketer on the product’s origin, features and benefits. It is one of the essential things a salesman should know for him to be confident on what he is selling. Iligan Bloggers Society as an association of bloggers who are committed to promote Iligan City, took the first step of a “product knowledge” exploration. 

Dated August 7, 2011, the adventurous Iligan Bloggers Society members visited the city’s “tourism triangle”- a label used by the City Tourism Office for the three tourist spots including the ever majestic Maria Cristina Falls, beautiful Mimbalot Falls and fascinating Tinago Falls. 

While these places are really amazing, a negative impression on peace and order situation of the city is quite a critical issue which has created a bad image so to speak. Part of the itinerary was to visit the 2^nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade located at Brgy. Maria Cristina to know firsthand from the authorities the real score about the issue. At exactly 8:30AM, the group was warmly welcomed by the brigade commander Col. Aldred L. Limoso at the Pagari Park – so termed to mean friendship and an avenue for receiving guests.

The conversation started with a brief introduction from both parties and went further with the sharing of perceptions, experiences and realizations about Iligan City. Col. Limoso proudly shared the good news that Iligan City is indeed a safe place unlike what the majority thinks that it is a war zone. He then led the IBS members for a brief tour inside the camp. The group thanked and bid goodbye to Col. Limoso and his subordinates with a big smile for the unforgettable exposure to the place and for the reaffirmed belief that Mindanao and Iligan in particular is safe.

Then, the journey to the captivating tourist spots continued. The group reached NPC Nature’s Park at around 10:45 AM. They were welcomed and accompanied by Mr. Elvin Sanso, a tourist guide. Nature’s Park is a showcase of the nature’s goodness. One can see various animals like ostrich, deer, peacock, duck, swan, monkey and the endemic Philippine crocodile. It also has a butterfly garden and an orchidarium where you would truly enjoy the blend of wonderful colors. On the process of completion is the aviary that will safeguard various kinds of birds, one of which is the umbrella cockatoo.

Before everyone’s energy gets exhausted, the group ate lunch at the NPC canteen with a breathtaking view, the majestic Ma. Cristina Falls. Everyone savored the food with so much appreciation on the cascading waters of the falls. It was on its full blast that made its beauty more attractive and mesmerizing. After some rest, the group conquered their fear of heights by riding the ultimate zipline adventure. Some were reluctant at first but finally made it to the end point of a 4-platform zipline set-up. 

At 3:00 o’clock in the afternoon, the group proceeded to Iligan Paradise Resort and Eco-Park where the very beautiful Mimbalot Falls is located. 

Mr. Jopet Gerona, the son of the owners of the resort accommodated the group with so much enthusiasm. He proudly endorsed their zipline equipments bought from abroad. It was another zipline experience for the group but were equally interested to try still. Another was the cable car that can cater 3 persons at a time. One can have a focused glance on the fresh, virgin and pretty waterfalls while riding the cable car. So unique it was that for the neophytes, they would say it’s lovely. Moreover, the resort has more to offer. One of which is the bungee jumping equipment with trampoline. It’s a breathtaking experience and a lot of fun. The park also has a playground for kids, which makes it a very good place to bring your family with. The group sincerely thanked Jopet for the wonderful experience. 

The group kept their energy sustained that everyone got more excited to forge ahead to Tinago Falls, the last tourist destination to visit on that same day. Around 4:40PM, the group reached the entrance to the falls. Slowly, everyone reached the bottom of a 423-step stairs. Tinago Falls has always been fascinating that one wouldn’t be bored taking a glance in its captivating beauty. After a few minutes of rest, 7 of the members took a plunge into the water, so refreshing and rejuvenating. They enjoyed swimming with their vest for safety and protection. They went on to ride a bamboo raft and after some minutes, they prepared to leave the place. Going up was more challenging but thank God everyone managed to reach the top. Then, Buko juice replenished everyone’s sweat and revitalized their energy.

It was such a day filled with fun, learning and appreciation of God’s creation. Nature really, has a unique source of joy and inspiration that makes one more excited to visit the place again. It is our basic role then to preserve what is given us. Indeed, Iligan City houses a number of amazing tourist spots worth exploring. It defines a simple yet impacting reason of encouraging everyone to visit the city and enjoy the beauty of nature. From there will yield a collective experience of gratitude, satisfaction and appreciation that will further lead to the positive perception that Iligan and even Mindanao is a safe place.

The Iligan Bloggers Society is thankful to Sir Pat for organizing the trip, Iligan City Tourism Office for the free transport, Col. Aldred Limosod for assuring us that the city will be safeguarded, Mr. Alvin Sanso for the pleasure to answer our queries about the Nature’s Park, Mr. Jopet Gerona for personally guiding us all throughout the exploration in the resort and to all those who in one way or the other have made the trip successful, meaningful and fruitful.

God bless Iligan. God bless Mindanao. God bless Philippines. God bless everyone.

P.S. Each major visit will have a specified article for the details such as how to get there, what to bring and the activities that await you as well as the associated costs. Keep posted. Thank you so much. God bless.

PHOTO CREDITS: 

Ms. Lai Mirasol - http://www.pinaytravelista.com/

Mr. Noy Iko - http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000272331595&ref=ts

Mrs. Revilla Noel - http://rncn-adventuresinlife.blogspot.com/
Mr. Alexander Singcol - http://theiliganinquisitor.blogspot.com/
Ms. Lovette Jacosalem - http://traveljams.com/