The golden destination in Nueva Ecija

MANILA, Philippines - It’s easy to overlook Nueva Ecija in a local traveler’s quest for an interesting travel destination in Northern Luzon. What rather comes to mind are the province’s more popular neighbors and their respective attractions – Baler’s sought-after surfing swells, Pampanga’s famed culinary delights, Pangasinan’s beautiful stretch of seascapes, the Cordilleras’ picturesque slopes and rich cultural heritage, or Cagayan Valley’s wealth of undisturbed terrain and rugged coastlines.

For many, Nueva Ecija largely remains merely a gateway or passage – until one discovers the natural treasure that is Minalungao.

Think Surigao del Sur’s Enchanted River and Palawan’s breathtaking lagoons rolled into one – calm waters hemmed by impressive limestone formations, giving off a vibrant emerald hue.

Spread over more than 2,000 hectares of prized land in the town of General Tinio, Minalungao National Park is Nueva Ecija’s well-kept tourist secret. The place derives its name from the local terms “mina” and “lungao” which mean “mine of gold in caves.” The area was brimming with commerce until gold panning was prohibited and the reserve was declared a national park in 1967. Sitting on the foothills of the Sierra Madre mountain range, the natural enclave holds a plethora of experiences waiting for both the daring adventurer and the passive admirer.

To get to the other end of the Peñaranda river, Minalungao’s center of attraction, an option is to traverse along the jagged limestone walls, where a gentle sloping trailhead lies at the end of the stretch. Within a good five-minute hike, adventurers will be taken to the mouth of a cave which, although modest in scale, makes for a worthwhile visit. Spelunkers are advised to bring a headlamp or flashlight and wear proper footwear as the cave’s chambers become slippery especially during the rainy season, when water continuously drips from the ceiling.

More experienced adventurers can opt for a more intensive cave exploration, as a system of subterranean caverns has also been identified. Another experience gaining popularity among the brave of heart is Minalungao’s version of cliff diving from a stone ledge jutting out over a portion of the river.

The less audacious need not worry about being left behind, as they can enjoy a leisurely trip gliding through the waters on a rented bamboo raft. Apart from providing a view of the stunning landscape, friends and families can enjoy a hearty lunch or merienda under the raft’s canopy.

These same rafts can also transport visitors to another point of interest in the park, which is the Minalungao cross. Perched on top of a hill adjacent to the river, the cross stands at the center of a polygonal base that can be reached after climbing a flight of a thousand steps. While the hike may be tiring, one’s hard work will be rewarded by priceless panoramic views of the national park and the majestic and imposing Sierra Madre looming in the distance.

To get to the Minalungao National Park from Manila, one can board a bus that plies the Cagayan Valley route and get off at Gapan, Nueva Ecija. From here, the best mode of transportation is the tricycle. Hop on the public routes to Gen. Tinio, or charter one to go directly to the park entrance to save time and effort.

Going back home, simply take a tricycle back to Gen. Tinio and take a jeep to Gapan or Cabanatuan, where buses bound for Cubao or Pasay are stationed.

Victory Liner, with its fleet of well-maintained air-conditioned buses, is the best bet for relaxing and safe travel in Northern Luzon. Victory Liner buses plying the Cagayan Valley route regularly pass by Gapan or Cabanatuan.

Victory Liner’s cushioned reclining seats, entertainment system plus strong WiFi connection are sure to make the four-hour trip to Nueva Ecija a breeze. Online reservations and bookings can also be made for added convenience.

For more travel information and for schedule of trips and bookings, visit www.victoryliner.com.