* In the Near Future I will Update this Page. I anticipate filling it with much detailed and informative information on the island that time forgot. It's beautiful dive sites, topography, geography, fishing, whale sharks, and most of all, it's somewhat primitive and beautiful people.
* I was originally drawn to Limasawa Island, Philippines, by tales of a giant Anaconda or Python snake (ahas). In fact, I took an 8 hour slow pump-boat ride there. The entire time, I had visions of the original King Kong wrestling for his life with the snake. Especially when Limasawa first came into view. The feeling growing as our boat approached it. I never found the giant snake which was the impetus for my trip there, but I did experience personal contact with a giant whale shark! (Maybe the greatest thrill of my life!)
* For those who are into diving, spear fishing, etc., there are three excellent dive shops in nearby Padre Burgos where all dive-related equipment and services can be found.
* Limasawa also has the distinct honor of being the spot where Magellan conducted the very first Catholic Mass on March 31, 1521. A shrine named "Magellan's Cross" is located high atop the highest point of Limasawa Island. Stairs climb the mountain for those who wish to visit the site and take photos from the islands highest point. (There is some controversy, since Butuan in Mindinao also lays claim to Magellanes first landing, but Limasawa is the "accepted" historic location.)
* In the next few months I will be gleaning from my many photographs and video tapes, scan and post to this site.
* If there are any westerners who wish to travel to Limasawa Island, South Leyte, Philippines, they are more than welcome to contact me via e-mail at:
Limasawa-pcr@virtualtourist.com
* I am willing to allow some to accompany me on my trips, and in some cases, I am even willing to interrupt my work schedule to accompany someone there for a vacation, diving, swimming, cave exploration, etc. that they will never forget! (Not to forget that Limasawa has some of the most beautiful single ladies in the Philippines!) SINGLE MEN, HEY, ANY GUYS WHO ARE INTERESTED IN TRAVELING THERE - - FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME!!
* Being off the beaten path, and very secluded, you should know that the people are very cautious, and to many westerners, may even seem stand-offish. So it is a good idea to have a companion who knows some people there, as well as the customs, culture and habits of the islanders.
* Limasawa is only accessible by ferry or pump boat. The Ferry leaves Padre Burgos at 12:00 noon each day, and leaves Limasawa Island at 6:00 AM each day. There is only one trip each day, and in cases of bad weather and choppy seas, there may be no ferry boat service at all.
* Be advised that even though I am a Blue-Eyed, Brown/Blonde American, that I Love the Philippines and the Pilipino people. ("Pilipino" is proper, even though Americans say "Filipino". "Pilipino" is another word for the national language, which is "Tagalog".). In fact, I usually travel to Philippines a few times each year. Especially at Christmas (called "Pasko")time, when the Christmas spirit is very upbeat and happy, and where money is not the primary focus of the season.
* Despite my many travels throughout asia and the orient, I have to say that the Philippines (called "Pinas") and the Pilipino people have won my heart!! So much so that I am anxiously awaiting retirement there! (Seriously!)
* I am always searching for more information on Limasawa, Padre Burgos, Sogod, Maasin and Southern Leyte... so if anyone wishes to send me photographs, interesting facts, articles, folk stories, music, folk dances, etc., they are both encouraged and appreciated, as Philippines and it's culture, customs, history, foods, recipies, music, folk dances, folk stories are not only my hobby, but also my passion!
SOME FACTS ABOUT LIMASAWA ISLAND:
Population: Approx. 6,000
Area: Approx. Six (6) Square Miles
Barangays: Six (6) (Each Accessible by Boat)
Fiesta Date: March 31st
School: Limasawa National School
Healthcare: Limasawa Hospital
Electricity: On Between 5 PM and 11 PM
* Limasawa was created as it's own municipality on June 11, 1978, and was officially declared a Tourist Zone in 1994 by President Fidel Ramos, Republic Act No. 7822.
* The six barangays of Limasawa are: Triana, Cabuliha, Magallanes, San Agustin and Lugsongan. Triana being the largest and serving as the main port and/or barangay of Limasawa.
Please forgive this simple beginning, but be sure to return in the near future for my updates!
God Bless and Mabuhay!
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