Images from Cantilan, where sand, sea, and sky meet

Miles and miles of pristine, unperturbed beaches stretched out on both sides where I was standing, mesmerized by the thunderous sound and the fascinating sight of the Pacific Ocean waves crashing on the shores. The sound was like music to my ears, quite a change from the noise of car engines, the wailing of sirens and ambulance cars, the beeping of cell phones and humming of air conditioners. I was in Cantilan, a place that offers one a chance to reunite with nature, a place of idyllic beaches where you can splash and dive undisturbed, where you can feel that the world is your own. Here, nothing else seems to matter but you, the vast sky, and the long empty beach left unmarred by the advent of commercialization. Cantilan is a hidden paradise, a different kind of destination for people who want to take a breath from the city's crowded living. You could not help but be guilty when you tramp on the unspoiled shores, as though you violated nature by leaving your footprints on the smooth sand. The sky was overcast (I remember ordering clear blue skies the night before, but it was not delivered on time) but we were lucky considering the province was under storm signal #1 a couple of days before we arrived. The town is host to several tourist attractions like the Casarica Island, Malinawa Cool Spring, Sipangpang Falls, to mention a few. Globs of small islands dotted the vast ocean a few hundred meters away from the beach, and these are accessible by few minutes ride on pump boats. Cantilan belongs to the 3rd cluster of Surigao del Sur province, CARCANMADCARLANCORTAN (whew! breath...breath) which stands for Carrascal, Cantilan, Madrid, Carmen, Lanuza, Cortes and Tandag. Known as the cradle of Surigao towns, Cantilan is home to many old houses. Ah, if only the houses could talk, what interesting stories they have to tell. Beyond the walls are secrets that had been kept within its confines for the past decades. It was the second day of our road trip. We spent the first night in Lanuza and woke up feeling refreshed and new from a full night's sleep despite the long trip the day before. After a hasty breakfast which we shared with the locals and surf enthusiasts, we were on the road for more adventure. From Lanuza, we passed by the towns of Carmen, considered as nature's untouched haven and Madrid the rice granary of Surigao. We had a feast taking photos of the farmers who were busy plowing the fields in preparation for the planting season. The farmers posed willingly for us but the carabaos were not that happy to be in the limelight. The road to Cantilan gives one a view of picturesque coastal villages and sprawling rice fields. We entered the town and were impressed with the neat little streets and the friendly people. Cantilan is a place where no one seems to be in a hurry. I was hesitant to leave. The Pacific waves continued to roll and crash, as if angry at our interference of its routine. Funny but I found its anger beautiful, intriguing yet menacing, as though tempting me to go near. Ah, but I could sit here for hours and never grow tired of it all but then it's time to move on. Thanks to Surigao del Sur provincial administrator Johnny Pimentel and wife Liles (I just love your house!), provincial tourism officer Lala Ambray and her staff; designated driver -cum- tour guide Jun Tumbokon for his patience in giving in to our whims for three days; and to Jojie and Rhonson for extending the invitation which temporarily cured my itchy feet. Getting There: Buses ply the routes of Tandag-Butuan, Tandag-Davao and Tandag-Surigao City regularly. Vans for hire are also available. For tour packages and more information please contact Provincial Tourism Office at Capitol Hills, Tandag, Surigao del Sur, telephone no. (086) 211-3947. - Sun.Star