“It felt like stepping through the door to Narnia — into a world of wonder, waves, and warm welcomes.”
What does it feel like to stumble into a destination so untouched, raw, and full of soul that it changes how you see the world?
For CebuanaDiaries, this recent trip to Northern Samar via Philippine Airlines was just that — a door opened, and suddenly we were swept into a surreal chapter of rock formations, enchanted stories, and hospitality that felt like home.
✈️ Philippine Airlines now offers direct flights from Cebu to Catarman every Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, making this hidden paradise more accessible than ever.
From the moment we landed, we were graciously welcomed by Miss Josette Doctor and her wonderful team from the Regional Department of Tourism. Our first stop?
A courtesy call at the Municipality of San Rosario, then lunch at La Mezza where we savored their comforting native chicken tinola. Warm soup, full hearts, and a journey that had only just begun.
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Lunch at La Mezza Grill and Restaurant – Situated in San Isidro, Northern Samar, La Mezza offers a diverse menu that includes salads, pastas, grilled seafood, and other Filipino dishes. The establishment is known for its welcoming atmosphere and flavorful cuisine, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. Sharing a meal here provides an authentic taste of the region's culinary offerings, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Northern Samar. |
🌊 Day 1: The Mystical Realm of Biri Island
From Catarman, we traveled by van to Lavizares Port, which takes roughly an hour, whether by car, bus, or van. There, we hopped on a boat to Biri Island (₱140 per person) — and this is where the door to wonder truly opened.
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| Biri Port our gateway to the wonders of Biri Island, where every journey begins with a sea breeze and island smiles. 🌊⛵ |
Upon arriving at Biri Island, we were warmly welcomed by local tour guides who immediately made us feel at home. We then checked into Ahmara Traveller's Inn, a cozy and welcoming stay nestled in the heart of the island.
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From left to right: Mr. Pederito Guianan – Municipal Officer of Biri, Ms. Golda of Gem’s Travel, Ms. Josette from the Regional Department of Tourism – Northern Samar, Ms. Letty of WOW Travel, Ms. Niza of Uni-Orient, and Mr. Christian Cinco of Philippine Airlines |
From Ahmara, we took a quick side trip to a local footbridge — part of an inspiring community project that connects Barangay Kauswagan and Barangay Progress. This modest yet meaningful bridge represents more than just a path; it's a symbol of connection, unity, and development in the island community. Standing on it, with the sea breeze brushing your face, you can feel the rhythm of island life — slow, steady, and strong.
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| A local footbridge in Biri Island connects Barangay Kauswagan and Barangay Progress — a simple yet vital link that symbolizes unity and progress. More than just a bridge, it reflects the strength of community bonds and a shared vision for a brighter tomorrow. This footbridge offers a rare view into island life, where nature and development come together in perfect harmony. 🌉🌿 |
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| Children Fishing – A timeless scene of innocence and patience, where young hands cast their lines into the sea, learning the ways of the water. It's more than just fishing — it’s a rite of passage, a connection to nature, and a moment of quiet joy that echoes the simplicity of island life. 🎣🌊👦👧 |
The Legendary 7 Rock Formations of Biri:
- Magasang – Giant and mystical, like a sentinel guarding the shores.
- Magsapad – Wide and cinematic, a landscape that looks straight out of a fantasy film.
- Makadlaw – Where the waves and the sunrise meet with a roar — raw, electric, and soul-stirring.
- Puhunan – Said to hide golden treasures beneath, believed to offer enough wealth to start a business — rich in both myth and meaning.
- Caranas – Named after the small bamboos that grow in the area, simple yet strong.
- Hinablan – Textured like woven threads of the sea, delicate yet powerful in its beauty.
- Makabog – Home to a cave and bats, untouched and echoing with whispers of ancient times.
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| Busay Hills in Biri at Sunset – As the sun dips behind the horizon, Busay Hills becomes a breathtaking canvas of gold, pink, and orange. The sweeping views of the island are bathed in warm hues, creating a serene and magical atmosphere. It's a moment where time stands still, and nature’s beauty leaves you in awe. 🌅🌿✨ |
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| 🐚 Savoring the Sea – These native shells from Northern Samar are a coastal delicacy, harvested fresh and cooked simply to let their natural briny sweetness shine. A true taste of island life in every bite. 🌊✨ |
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| 🐟 Fresh Catch of the Day – Straight from the coastal waters of Northern Samar, these fish are as fresh as it gets — tender, flavorful, and cooked with local love. Every bite tells a story of the sea. 🌊🍋 |
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| 🦀 Fresh from the Sea – Northern Samar’s crabs are a true ocean treasure. Caught just hours before they hit the table, these crabs are meaty, sweet, and bursting with flavor — best enjoyed with bare hands and a seaside view. 🌊🍴 |
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| Watermelon is one of the proudly homegrown fruits cultivated in Northern Samar. |
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| Makadlaw Rock Formation – Standing tall and powerful, Makadlaw is a majestic testament to nature's artistry. With its jagged edges and towering presence, it feels both timeless and untamed. Surrounded by the rhythm of the waves and kissed by the first light of dawn, Makadlaw is a place where the earth seems to touch the sky, creating an awe-inspiring scene that leaves you breathless. 🌄🪨🌊 |
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| The Beautiful Makadlaw Rock Formation of Biri Island – A stunning natural wonder, Makadlaw stands as a majestic masterpiece of the sea and sky. Its rugged, towering rocks seem to defy time and weather, creating an awe-inspiring sight against the backdrop of crashing waves and the soft hues of the morning sun. Every angle reveals a new layer of beauty, making it a perfect symbol of Biri Island’s untouched charm. 🌄🪨🌊 |
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| 🌅 A First I’ll Never Forget – At 5AM, I walked across the mangroves of Biri — a surreal path where water met my steps and the rising sun lit the way. It was my first time experiencing something so peaceful, magical, and moving all at once. 🌿🌊✨ |
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| 🌅 Sunrise at Makadlaw – As the first light touched the rugged rocks, Makadlaw came alive — waves crashing below, winds whispering above. Here, where sea and sky collide, the sunrise isn’t just seen — it’s felt. A soul-stirring moment only Biri can offer. 🌊☀️🪨 |
🌿 Day 2: Stories of Strength & Sustainability
We traveled to Lalalagun, a humble paradise where purpose and tourism beautifully align. This community-run resort dreams big — to help every family in the area have at least one college graduate.
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| drone captures the serene beauty of Lalagun, a community-run resort on Biri Island. The aerial shot showcases the resort's commitment to sustainability, with native structures blending seamlessly into the lush landscape. Surrounding mangroves and clear waters highlight the community's dedication to preserving their natural environment. This perspective offers insight into how tourism and conservation coexist harmoniously on the island. |
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| Lalaguna Mangrove Eco Park, a protected area in Lavezares, known for its vibrant mangroves, clear waters, and wildlife, and a popular destination for eco-tourism. |
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| A heartfelt experience, the community of Barangay San Isidro, Lavizares welcomed us with a traditional feast that truly embodied the spirit of Northern Samar. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients were transformed into delicious dishes, showcasing the island's rich culinary heritage. The meal not only filled our bellies but also connected us to the island's culture and values, as the community works together to preserve their traditions and support sustainable tourism. Every bite was a reminder of the strength and unity that thrives |
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| The Agustin Sumuroy Monument in Palapag, Northern Samar stands as a tribute to the hero of the Sumuroy Rebellion, honoring his courage and leadership in fighting against Spanish rule. A symbol of local pride and historical significance. 🌟 |
Back at Marcella’s Inn, we recharged with their famous pizza — a cheesy, flavorful delight you must not miss.
Next stop: Lia’s Botanical Garden — a wide, open sanctuary with a rich variety of plant species, lovingly nurtured and arranged into serene trails and vibrant patches of green. It’s a garden not just for the eyes, but for the soul — a peaceful escape into nature’s quiet embrace.
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| Lia's Botanical Garden is a lush paradise in Northern Samar, showcasing a vibrant collection of plant species and serene walking trails. A perfect escape into nature’s beauty, where every corner offers a peaceful retreat. 🌿🌸 |
We continued to:
- Pinusilan Lagoon – A calm, mirror-like body of water, tucked among nature’s arms. The stillness was profound — the kind that quiets the noise in your heart.
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| Pinusilan Lagoon in Northern Samar offers a tranquil escape, with its calm waters and lush surroundings, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and nature lovers. 🌿💧 |
- Cory Aquino Highway View Deck – Offering a breathtaking panorama of the Pacific Ocean, waves rolling endlessly, whispering freedom.
Next stop: We ended our day at Clear Water Resort in San Roque, where we were welcomed with cultural dances, a buffet feast, and a sunset that felt like a hug from the sky.
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| The youth of San Roque welcomed us with a vibrant dance performance, “Tara na sa San Roque,” inviting us to experience the warmth and hospitality of their community. 💃🌟 |
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| The best sunset I've ever seen in Samar – the sky painted in stunning shades of orange, a perfect moment of tranquility and beauty. 🌅✨ |
We ended the night with a delightful dinner at Tagpuan in Catarman. 🌅🍴
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| Sinigang na Salmon and Native Chicken – a comforting taste of Filipino tradition in every bite. 🐟🍗 |
That night, we rested at FMD, full of memories and deep gratitude.
🎁 Day 4: Souvenirs and Goodbyes
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| CebuanaDiaries with Miss Josette G. Doctor |
After breakfast at FMD, we visited the Pasalubong Center at the Capitol — the perfect last stop for meaningful keepsakes.
What to bring home from Northern Samar?
- Mazapan
- Pinato
- Tablea
- Pili nuts
- Butter cookies
- Wooden carved wall clocks
- Weaved baskets
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| Cebu Media, Bloggers & Influencers united with Cebu and Northern Samar Travel Agents, Provincial Tourism Office of Northern Samar, and Governor Edwin Ongchuan — a collaboration bridging islands through stories, travel, and shared visions. ✨🌊📍 |
We also had the chance to meet Governor Edwin Ongchuan, who shared his passion for uplifting tourism and supporting community-led growth across the province.
🏝 Final Thoughts:
#CebuanaDiaries #NorthernSamar #PALAdventures #CebuBlogger #TravelPH #DiscoverEasternVisayas #ItsMoreFunInThePhilippines #PhilippineAirlines #ProvincialTourismOfficeofNorthernSamar
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