Bantay Abot Cave in Baloi, Ilocos Norte: Formed out of Nature’s Wrath and Grace
When going to the various beach resorts situated in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, you will never miss this majestic rock formation resting ashore at Brgy. Baloi, on the eastern side of the town!
Bantay Abot Cave stands majestically amidst the rocking of the waves from the sea.
This rocky hill resembles that of a whale with its eyes serving as the hole, reportedly caused by an earthquake which struck it years before.
Once a hill now in a form of a cave, Bantay Abot Cave can be explored further by going down the main road, crossing boulders of rocks on the side of the cave, and scaling up the mouth of the cave to see the beauty of the sea beyond.
Hiking up inside Bantay Abot Cave is like a journey for the light at the end of the tunnel– the end being a great view of the sea beyond.
Tip: The tracks are relatively safe to climb, however, you need to be careful as the wind blows extremely and some rocks are sharper and slippier than others. Also, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing before you climb the steep incline.
Be careful! The path up can be a bit steep.
For those who would like to swim, wading in the waters near the shore is safer than swimming itself, as the waves are strong mostly in these parts.
The view on the other side of Bantay Abot Cave gets you face to face with the full power of nature.
When waves become stronger, then maybe you can just opt to take photos of the rock formation from the deck by the road.
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You may choose to stay near the deck by the road if all you want is a selfie with Bantay Abot Cave at the back.
From the beautiful Bangui Windmills, it will take you about 40 mins. to reach this place, so park your vehicles safely beside the parking place near the main road to savor this major “selfie spot” in the northernmost tip of the Philippines! Admission is free.
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How to get here:
- By car: From Laoag City proper, follow the Manila North Road before taking the Pan-Philippine Highway. You are on the right path when you pass by the Pagudpud Municipal Arch on the way. Go straight until you reach Baloi where a Baloi Barangay Police Outpost can be found. Turn left going to the many resorts in Pagudpud (eg. Hannah’s Beach Resort). Bantay Abot Cave is along the way.
This first appeared on Philippine Primer Japanese Magazine’s March 2019 issue.
Written by Chin Sanigan
