In this peaceful town of Cebu, about 66 kilometers away from the main city, one finds the real taste of adventure. It has waterfalls, caves and mountains as well as historical heritages, evidenced by the Spanish and American influences. It is a perfect destination for those who wanted to relieve stress by engaging in tough yet exciting excursions.
Aside from its stated wonders, Argao is known for its delectable Filipino delicacies; the tableya, torta and tuba. A tour in Argao without tasting these superb delicacies is a great disgrace.
In order to upgrade the status and revenue of Argao, the government decided to boost tourism and promote the precious treasures of the town. Alex Gonzales was tapped by the government to promote and sell Argao. He is the man behind the concept “Katilingbanong Turismo” of Argao. He aims to put Argao in the number one spot of tourist destinations in Cebu.
To achieve this aim, Alex first sells Argao to his fellow Argawanons in order for the people to be aware of what they have. The people supported the program by dedicating their utmost cooperation with sincerity and honesty in dealing with the tourists, foreigners or locals alike.
The program offers tour packages: heritage tour, caving in Balay Sa Agta, Climbing the mystic mountain, visit the Bugasok Falls and trek to Mt. Lantoy to the enthusiastic visitors.
Here are some of the interesting places to go when visit Argao:
Located in the remote barangay of Conalum, it is only a 40-minute travel from the town proper. Rising to 593 meters, it is Argao’s highest peak. It was declared as a watershed forest reserve in 1994.
According to Philippine folklore, the mountain is used to be the domain of a mountain goddess, Maria Cacao and her husband, Mangao. Once abundant with Cacao plants, it was said to be her plantation.
Many interesting things can be done in Mt. Lantoy aside from trekking. One can visit Bugasok Falls or do caving in the Balay Sa Agta.
One of the most fascinating ventures ever is the caving inside the “Balay Sa Agta”, one of the largest caving system in Cebu. It is located in the barangay Conalum, a 40-minute drive from the town proper.
The cave is known for its massiveness as it is being believed to be the resident of the giant Mangao thus acquiring the name of the place. Agta is a mythical creature and gigantic in nature. Conquer your fears and be marveled on the spectacles and new discoveries it offers.
Bugasok Falls
Still located in barangay Conalum, Bugasok Falls offers a breathtaking view of this majestic waterfall. Hidden deep in the woods, the falls is considered a national treasure for its unadulterated offering. A walk in the forest is like walking in enchantment with unique flora and fauna abounding in the place.
St. Michael The Archangel Church
Another attraction is the stately structure of St. Michael the Archangel Parish Church. The church was built around 1734 and undergone several renovations over the years. The murals are done artistically by the Visayan artists Canuto Avila and Raymundo Francia. It indicates the events as described by the bible.
Argao Pipe Organ
The organ is one of the highlights inside the parish church. It is centuries old, designed by a Mexican artist but hands-on by the fellow Argawanons. It has 700 pipes and capable to produce 22 different kinds of sounds. Among the 14 organs built during the Spanish periods, the Argao Pipe Organ is now one of the 3 remaining intact organs in the country.
Argao Convent and the Parish Museum
The convent was constructed in 1820’s while the museum was on 1999. Located below the convent, the museum was built to house antiques and other religious artifacts, some were imported from Spain, and vestments. Some family heirlooms were deposited in the museum for safe keeping.
The Belfry or the Campanario
It is considered among the bests in the Philippines. it was erected in 1830 under the order of Bishop Santos Gomez de Marañon. It is a five-storey, slender structure featuring nine bells.
The Argao Unity Plaza
It is one of the most beautifully-kept plazas in the entire Visayas. It features three original cannons that are still functional. It is either used by the Spaniards or the Americans.
Balay Sa Tisa
Aside from its centuries old buildings, Argao also has several old houses found in the town center. Among it is the Balay Sa Tisa. Tisa means terracotta and clay roof tiles. It is the only remaining 18th century house that is still functional.
