A must visit in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental, Agutayan Islandhas 5000 sq meters of fine white sand sitting on a 3 hectare marine sanctuary that serves as breeding ground of giant clams locally called as Taclobo and other marine animals/species. With its shallow- clear water and amazing marine life, the spot is a perfect place for swimming, diving and snorkeling.
Around eight o'clock in the morning when we leave the coastline of Barangay Jampason in Jasaan going to "the naked" Agutayan Island. According to Ate Jeaneth and Manong Felipe, the owner of the motorboat we hired, the best time to visit the island is in the morning from 6:00 to 9:00 - as the heat of the sun is not too scorching. Actually our original time of departure is 6:00 in the morning but due to traffic from CDO, we arrived late hehehe. Packed with baon- nilagang saging at kamote, pork chops for grill and fresh-caught matangbaka , we arrived in the island after more or less 15 minutes boat ride. We immediately set-up our tent- There are no cottages in this island and yeah it’s naked so expect that there are no trees/plants to shed. The only man-made structure within the sanctuary and close to the island is the caretakers’ makeshift floating quarter.
Wordless! The Islands is simply amazing and beautiful. Check my photographs below to see how fun and enjoyable to explore and visit Agutayan Naked Island.
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That’s Traveling Morion eating Swaki hahaha. Opps, I am just kidding swaki is full of spines! You have to open the body to get the yellow part- so yummy! |
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| Jump Shot ala Superman! Simply perfect to do in Agutaya Island :) |
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| Group jump shot. It's more fun in Agutaya Island! |
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| Spider Fight? No! We've tried something new, it's Agukoy Crabs Fight hahaha |
Crab locally called as Agukoy is abundant in the island. I assume the name “Agutayan” was derived from the name of this crab specie abundant in the island.
Notes: There are no trees or any cottages in the island so better to bring tent/umbrella. As far as I know, camping and overnight stay is not allowed. Upon arrival, pay courtesy to island/sanctuary caretakers and log your name on their record book. We are asked to pay P100 pesos (for maintenance daw?) but Ate Jeaneth declined – she talked with the caretakers and explained that she’s from Jasaan and not aware of any fees to be collected.
HOW TO GET THERE
Philippine Airlines/PAL Express, Cebu Pacific Air, ZestAir/AirAsia flies daily from Manila to Cagayan de Oro. There are also direct flights from Cebu and Davao.
From Cagayan de Oro Agora Terminal ride in a Bus bound to Butuan City. Tell the driver/conductor to drop you in Barangay Jampason in Jasaan. Travel time is more or less 1 hour. Bus fare costs P30 (ordinary)/ P80 (AC). From Barangay Jampason, hire a boat that will take you to/from the island. I recommend Manong Felipe (09061955698) he owns a motorized boat and will not charge you high.
From Butuan City. Ride in a bus going to Cagayan de Oro. Tell the driver/conductor to drop you in Barangay Jampason in Jasaan. Travel time is more or less 4 hours. (follow instructions above)
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