Over 200 Filipino balikbayans, known as “Very Important Pinoys” (VIPs), recently enjoyed an unforgettable experience exploring the scenic landscapes and rich heritage of Manolo Fortich in Bukidnon and the thrilling adventure of whitewater rafting and top attractions of Amaya View in Cagayan de Oro. This is the second day of their Northern Mindanao tour.
The VIPs were actually given the choice between two exciting itineraries. Itinerary 1 took them to the scenic and culturally rich Manolo Fortich, while Itinerary 2 offered an adrenaline-filled adventure in Cagayan de Oro City.
For those who chose Itinerary 1, the day began with an immersion into the Bukidnon Indigenous way of living. Delegates visited the Manolo IP Eco Park, where the Higaonon people demonstrated their traditional methods of transforming corn seeds into ready-to-cook rice, coffee making, preparing ‘binaki,’ and other aspects of indigenous life. The tour continued to the famed Dahilayan Adventure Park, where guests experienced exhilarating rides and then enjoyed a heartwarming lunch at Dahilayan Forest Park. The journey through Manolo Fortich concluded with a visit to Alomah’s Place, an organic farm where participants could relax in nature and witness a short horse show. The day was capped off with a delightful dinner at Ricardos by Cucina Higala.
For the VIP Tour delegates who chose itinerary 2 in Cagayan de Oro, they experienced the adrenaline rush of whitewater rafting on the Cagayan de Oro River, navigating through exciting rapids that offered both adventure and stunning riverine landscapes. The VIPs also explored Amaya View, a top tourist destination known for its panoramic views, Sky Walk, Rock Chapel, Paragliding, and the quirky Noah’s Ark, which provided a blend of thrill and relaxation. Lunch was served at Cucina Higala, and the day concluded with dinner at Crystal Hall, Amaya View.
This unique journey allowed the VIPs to reconnect with their roots while enjoying the diverse attractions that Bukidnon and Cagayan de Oro have to offer, creating lasting memories of their homeland’s beauty and excitement.
with photos/text from DOT-10
