They were singing that popular OPM song, ‘Mahal ko o mahal ako.”
It was the first time I’ve seen the Mararison Children’s Choir perform when the island in Antique was featured in a popular TV show.
Aside from the beautiful sandbar, I must admit that the kids really captured my attention. I’ve heard that song so many times on the radio, but it was the kids’ version that made me appreciate that song. I don’t know there must be something special about these kids’ voices. Their tiny voices that signify hope for the residents of Mararison island.
That was also the beginning of my never-ending plan to backpack Panay island and visit Mararison (also Malalison Island). But sadly my life as a corporate worker back then just couldn’t make that longing into a reality.
I’ve planned and booked flights to Kalibo numerous times in the past years, but I wasn’t able to use it. I had to focus more on my work at that time.
But I was very patient. I don’t give up that easily. By the time that I’ve finally quit my job last February to finally claim my freedom for my time and my life, Mararison was the top destination that I wanted to explore.
But God or the Universe can be surprising at times. After quitting the job, things have been going well as If telling me that yes, I am in the right flow of life. Surprises and blessings came one after another, like the day when I’ve found out that I was included in a group of travel bloggers and content creators invited by Philippine Airlines, Katahum Tours and Antique Tourism to travel, experience and promote the province.
You know what, part of the itinerary was an overnight stay at Mararison Island. How cool is that?
The view after hiking a nearby hill.
READ: Antique Travel Guide: 20 Awesome Things to do
We boarded the 6 AM flight of Philippine Airlines from Clark to San Jose, Antique. Upon arriving in Antique, we explored some of its heritage sites and experienced the adventures and cool weather of San Remigio before heading to Mararison.
From the mainland of Culasi, it was supposed to be just a 15-minute boat ride to Mararison, but I guess due to the waves, it took us about 25 minutes. Another thing was, we docked on the other side of the island, on the rugged west side in front of Enrique De Mararison resort.
The brown rolling hills were visible from afar. They said that the rolling hills turn green during the wet season. Since it was summer, it was brown. Some are saying that during this time the hills looked like the trail of Mt. Pulag.
The boat suddenly stopped. I could hear and see the waves crashing on to those huge rocks. Our bangkero (boatmen) said that it was low tide, we had to transfer to a wooden flatboat to get to the nearest shore and walk. It was a bit of a challenge walking there with our slippers but we were able to get through it. When we arrived at the beach, I enjoyed being welcomed by these lovely welcoming committee.
We stayed at Enrique De Mararison that night. We had a seafood dinner and some of my fellow bloggers were able to work on their laptops that night. As for me, I didn’t have any urgent work to do so I just chilled and enjoyed the evening.
We were already awake at 4 AM the next day to hike the rolling hills of Mararison, to witness that beautiful sunrise, visit the community and explore the beach.
I couldn’t explain the beauty that I’ve witnessed that morning, the color of the sky changes from purple to orange as it marks the beginning of that day. Also, one particular thing that made us all happy was the strong internet connection on top of the hills. Finally we were able to post some updates, and some even shared real time Instagram Stories, such as this.
Upon reaching the highest peak, we decided to stay for a few minutes enjoying the stunning views, savoring our reward for our early morning hike. Some took some photos, while others just sat there, admiring the beauty of the morning.
After that we descended going to the community towards the east side of the island.
Mararison is a 55 hectare island which is primarily a fishing village. But as time goes by, when the island became a popular tourist destination, some residents became guides and some households were transformed into homestays with the support of the local government.
The island and its people welcomed that change with open arms, because for them, tourism means more jobs and alternatives for them to raise their kids and family.
When we reached the community, we saw a coconut or buko stall. Just like some of the fellow content creators, I also bought one buko, and enjoyed my first meal of the day.
It was just a few more steps when we finally reached the famous beach. We were lucky to be the only tourists there at that time. Of course, we took a lot of photos.
While some were already relaxing at the beach, I decided to walk along its sandbar. Although the sandbar has not yet showed its full glory yet, it was still an enjoyable morning. It’s not everyday that we spend our mornings at the beach, right? So what you can do then but enjoy and savor each moment.
I must admit, I couldn’t help but think about the kids, I mean the Mararision Children’s Choir. I know I have no right to expect much because I already knew that the kids performance was not part of the itinerary.
That morning, I just felt that the visit to the island would be much better if we could witness and listen to their tiny but golden voices.
But you know what, we still considered ourselves lucky. Maybe God or the Universe must have felt my longing to see the kids perform, so it made my wish come true. You do not have any idea what I was feeling when I saw the kids at Calawag Mountain Resort in Tibiao the following day. They were invited by Sir Flord, the owner of the resort, to sing for his wedding.
Even though the experience didn’t happen at Mararison Island, I was still happy with it. The kids perform their signature Mararison Island song with an added performance of the Kinaray-a version of the popular OPM song, “Kahit ayaw mo na.”
Going back to Mararison Island, after enjoying the beach and the sandbar, we decided to just ride the motorboat going back to the resort.
Enrique De Mararison is located at the west side of the island, in front of the Nablag Islet. If the east side is filled with beaches, the west side is like the rugged part of the island with easy access to the hills and rugged terrain.
We had our breakfast, and then realized that we still have a lot of time to kill and enjoy on the island. So Ferdz, Kara, Celine, Levy and I decided to explore this tiny enclosed cove just near the resort named as Gui-ob beach.
Mararison island is by far a complete adventure and island getaway. You got a beautiful beach and sandbar at the east side, and then you have this rugged terrain and rolling hills on the west. But more than that, it is the experience and the memories with friends and family that you will cherish. If you happen to travel to Antique, don’t forget to visit Mararison. It’s just a 15 minute boat ride from the mainland and you’ll definitely enjoy the island’s unique vibe and charm.
When we were leaving the island back to the mainland, I felt this immense gratitude. “Finally,” I told myself. After numerous plans and attempts, I have finally visited Mararison. And I was even a lot happier. Imagine an opportunity to travel to Mararison laid on my hands by the time I finally quit my job, to be become a full time travel blogger. It just felt that a lot of good things has happened by the time I finally took the leap. I look forward what this life has in store for me with so much positivity.
READ THE FULL BLOG: 23+ Best Antique Tourist Spots
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How to get to Mararison Island?
Philippine Airlines flies thrice weekly to San Jose, Antique
Yes, you read it right,Philippine Airlines now has direct flights going to San Jose, Antique. That’s every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. From San Jose, just ride a bus going to Culasi for about an hour and a half to two hours.
Once you arrive in Culasi, ride a tricycle going to the Municipal Hall and head to the Tourism Information Center. The staff there will assist you with renting a boat going to Mararison. Please be reminded that there are also some Environmental Fees that you need to settle.(PHP30).
Kalibo or Caticlan
If you’re coming from Caticlan or Kalibo, there are buses there going to San Jose and Culasi. The drop off point is Culasi.
At the Culasi port, there are boats for hire going to Mararison for Php 750. This is good for 5 persons, roundtrip.
Where to Stay in Mararison?
We stayed at Enrique De Mararison Resort, one of the few resorts in Mararison. It was a good experience although the electricity fluctuates, and there are a few times that we experienced water shortage.
Another option is through guesthouses located near the beach itself, or on the east side of the island. Through the local Tourism Office of Culasi, some households were trained to offer homestays to the tourists. Rate is usually PHP 300 per person per night. Please be reminded that this is just a simple room or tulugan. With a very affordable fee, please do not demand for any luxurious accommodation, you know what I mean. Always keep in mind, “bawal maarte.” LOL!
Where to eat in Mararison?
There are no fancy restaurants on the island, only simple carinderias and eateries that offers local dishes. Pair with rice and one viand can be as cheap as less than PHP 50. If you’re not that picky with food, this is a very affordable option and you’re also getting a taste of the island’s local vibe and cuisines.
For a hassle-free tour and travel to Mararison, check out the services of Katahum Tours.
Mararison Island Map
First published on June 21, 2019 / Updated for 2020
One Comment
Beachpatato
September 20, 2024 at 10:51 amNice Jon!