From Balaoi, Pagudpud, we went farther north to visit Portabaga Falls in the charming, verdant little town of Sta. Praxedes, the first town of Cagayan if you are entering from Ilocos Norte. It’s May weather hot all over. Caught Mayor Fe Aguinaldo before the huge TV, awaiting the fight of the century (as of this writing, we all know what happened next).
The water cascading to a mix of adult and kiddie-friendly catch pools is cool, fresh spring water. She explains that the pools are emptied at the end of the day, but the water doesn’t go to waste as it used to nourish farmlands. Through diligence and support of benefactors, the nature park has prospered with additional facilities, particularly comfortable family, standard and dormitory-type accommodations, a spacious function hall and more shaded areas, and is projected to boost tourism in her town. It’s wonderful to know that trekking to the forested environs is another activity being offered by the local government-managed park and resort.
Here’s a video of the waterfall (taken during cooler months I assume), which I found on the net.
Woven sarakat aka pandan products are the town’s OTOP. Leehua bought herself a chicified bayong. Love it in a mix of summer orange. Besides banig, the town is also a producer of dried gamet (Porphyia.sp) or local nori. A great idea, the Sta. Praxedes Gamet Gatherers and Vendors Association pack them with accompanying indigenous recipes.
The town celebrates the annual Sarakat Festival starting middle of May. Hope to be able to go and explore more of Pagudpud’s neighbor, Sta Praxedes.
Photographed by Blauearth © Blauearth™ All Rights Reserved 2009-2015
