“Sagada” . . . Before, when I would hear about this place, all I can think of is its famous hanging coffins, pine-studded mountains, cold weather, and the Ifugaos and Igorots with their unique cultures. And that’s all I know about this wonderful place until I was asked this question, “Do you want to come with me to Sagada?” And I said “Yes” immediately with a big smile. I was so excited that I couldn’t stop thinking about what it would be like to be in Sagada.

As we traveled to our destination, I could never forget the picturesque view spreading out across the road. There were many waterfalls flowing down in different ways. The rice terraces struck me with awe while the fog added a somewhat mystic effect on the surroundings. Although the journey was very tiring, it was nothing compared to the magnificent mountain scenery I witnessed.

We arrived in Sagada with a feeling of excitement and thoughts of the things waiting for us. As I made my first step in Sagada, I could hear the birds singing while the cool pine-scented wind kissed my cheeks.

Sagada has a myriad of marvelous sites to offer its visitors.

Our first stop was to visit Sumaguing Cave. I had no idea what’s ahead of us. Upon entering the cave, I could hear the screaming of the bats and the gushing of the waters below (coming from the underground river). It was so dark that if ever the lamp of our guide would be put out, it was certain that there’s nothing left to see but complete darkness.

Our pathway was very slippery and as we went deeper, it got colder than ever. I could see smoke-like vapor coming out of my nose as I breathed. I have to admit I got a little scared but all of that was replaced with amazement, as our guide directed the light to the stalagmites and stalactites. On one side, there was a formation resembling a miniature model of the Banaue Rice Terraces, another was an image of elephants and many more . . . all it took was a creative and imaginative mind. On the walls, you can see fossilized shell, giving an indication that that place was at some time submerged in water. I’d never seen such a remarkable phenomenon before in my entire life.

We all got wet as we made our way around the cave. We swam a short while when we got to a pool of water, resembling a little swimming pool. There were some instances when we had to hold on to the ropes just to get to the other side. Finally, we had reached the end of our incredible adventure. I could never forget those amazing moments in my life.

Next, we decided to go to Lumiang Cave or better known as the Burial Cave. This is because it was the site of the last repository of the dead. It was surrounded by an eerie atmosphere. The coffins were carved out from tree trunks and they were quite small for an adult person; this was why they had to force the body to fit inside the coffins. Sadly, people don’t put their deceased loved ones there anymore, since Lumiang Cave has been declared as a tourist spot.

From Lumiang Cave, we headed for Lake Danum. The lake was so placid and surrounded by green carpets of grass. I could see the grass reflecting on the lake, creating an impression of tranquility. It is a perfect place to relax and to have a break from this stressful life.

After experiencing the serenity of Lake Danum, we went for Echo Valley. There, we shouted our names and made fun of ourselves. Our voices and laughter reverberated across the valley and eventually faded away.

When we finished screaming and shouting at Echo Valley, we went to Bokong Waterfalls. It is not that big but nevertheless, it is very suitable for swimming. We climbed at the top of the waterfall and I could see the water flowing down gracefully. I waded through the water and felt the coolness of it. The water was so clear that you could see the pebbles and the stones underneath. All this made me very calm and brought me close to nature.

Before we went back to our inn, we trekked around the wonderful countryside to take pleasure in the great outdoors. We also decided to visit St. Mary’s Episcopal Church and the St. Mary’s School, established by the first missionaries who arrived in Sagada.
Before I knew it, we had to end our journey.

At present, every time I hear Sagada, there’s only one word that comes into my mind, and that is, amazing.

Until now, I still marvel at the extraordinary things I’ve seen in Sagada. If only I could replicate those things, I would make many copies so that I can share them with my friends. Because I know it is not enough for me to describe it; they just have to experience it themselves.

This is one of the countless reasons why God is so great beyond what we could imagine. I can’t help but be filled with curiosity as to how astounding it would be to live in God’s Kingdom. Indeed, let Thy Kingdom come!

About the Author: Joshua E. Infantado is a 17-year old youth from the Manila congregation. He was part of the team composed of a few youths from the Luzon congregations which visited Sagada to find out Sagada’s viability as a site for youth activities. The team visited Sagada between October 31 and November 3, 2006.