Sicogon Island in Pictures: After the Prestige

Introduction

Sicogon Island was once the go-to destination of the rich and famous during the 70s up to mid 80s. It was said that foreigners flocked this island either by plane or cruise ships to experience the exclusive beach life. But alas, after the People Power I Revolution, Sicogon Island, like the rest of Marcos-related assets and properties was left to ruins. Structures were left to rot while the rest were demolished by the local themselves—maybe to express their anger to the Marcos regime.

Remnants of  old structures during its heyday.

After more than 30 years, Sicogon Island will soon rise again and hopefully regain its lost prestige! I'm not here to talk about the upcoming developments in the island (though it was the reason why we went there). In turn, I will share to you dear reader the present state of the Northern area of Sicogon Island!  

Let's start...

Sicogon Island is located at the Northern portion of Iloilo, with a total land area of about 11,000 hectares. Travel time from Manila will take you a total of three hours. The first hour is an airplane ride from Manila to Roxas Airport. Presently, there are two scheduled flights but only during the morning. The second hour is from Roxas Airport to Estancia Fish Port by road, then an hour boat ride to Sicogon Island. You have two options for the boat ride: Php 40 (per head) passenger boat that leaves by 11:30am (the earliest) or boat rent which will cost Php 2,500 per trip.

Even without the previous structures and attractions, Sicogon Island is naturally beautiful! The water is clear with a light blue-ish hue; comparable to the best beaches the Philippines has to offer.

We're welcomed by the stunning view of Tumaguin Island!

The beach stretch is divided into three by a low mountain range and rock formations, each with its own features. The North area (perpendicular to the airstrip) is generally clear sand. The Western (almost parallel to the airstrip) and Eastern (near Tumaguin Island) section on the other hand is both characterized by a combination of sand and a number of uneven rocks.

The West beach area where several rock formations were visible due to the low tide.

Another view of the West beach area.

The North beach area, perpendicular to the airstrip, taken during low tide.

View of Gigantes Island on the North beach side.

Beach area towards the East. Tumaguin Island on the far left.

During low tide, the water level goes down, ranging from ankle to knee deep. One can cross towards Tumaguin Island or simply gather small crabs and seashells like the locals do—just be mindful of the school of sea urchins!

We we're supposed to swim after a long day of work. Too bad its low tide.

So we did the next best thing: cross towards Tumaguin Island!

Starfish along our way....

There were also Sea Urchins...

...lots of them!

A local's catch of the day, all taken from rock crevices and seabed.

Tumaguin Island, up close!

If the beach is not your liking (or you're simply good at drowning), you may stroll around 300 hectares of protected jungle area inhabited by monkeys and wild boars. You may also climb Kupao Mountain, a one hour (minimum) steep climb to the peak. If neither of these two attractions interest you at all, stay and relax at the only available guest house at the area and admire the view of Gigantes Island!

Day two started, waiting for the morning sun!

Hello morning sunshine! Day two starts!

Kupao Mountain: our itinerary for day two!

One of the scenic views at the peak. Tumaguin Island on the far left.

Radio tower located at the peak.

Panoramic view showing the on-going airstrip improvement, man-made lagoon (Center) which was dry due to the prevalent summer season, Calagnaan (Top Left) and Canas Island (Top Right)!

Another panoramic view on the Eastern side!

We took the steep but quick descent. It took us about thirty minutes.

The only existing place to stay that I knew (and at the time of this writing) is a guest house situated at the Northeast tip of the island. Open cottages (with nets) can accommodate up to thirty people; air-conditioned rooms are also available. Guests can arrange in advance the whole itinerary from cottage reservations, island activities to food choices.

The cottage where we stayed with a Tumaguin Island view!

This is where we slept that night.

The docking area.

Speaking of food, all of the seafood dishes that we ate were the catch of the day (very fresh indeed)! People who like seafood will surely love this place. You may buy either from the local (Sicogon) fishermen or at the Estancia Fish Port where the cost is 60-70% higher. Drinking water is sourced from springs located all around the whole island. At first, we're skeptic to take even one sip, but our client assured us that it passed the water test.

Our lunch for the first day!

Here's the room and service rates of the said guest house (at the time of this writing):

Room Rates

Non-aircon Room

4 pax - Php 400 pax/day

5 pax - Php 350 pax/day

6-10 pax - Php 300 pax/day

11 pax - Php 250 pax/day

Aircon Room

4 pax - Php 3,500 pax/day

Other Expenses

Fuel consumption for genset (incl. of handling and freight) - Php 1,100

Operator labor for 12hrs with 4hrs overtime - Php 467

Oil & Lubricants - Php 100

Beddings & Toiletry - Php 200

TOTAL - Php 1,867

Other Activities

One day island hopping at Gigantes (Island) - Php 6,000

Sicogon Island cruise - Php 2,500

Important Note

Power supply is up to 10pm only!

Contact Person
Mr. Gere Sarrosa (+63)918-4020604

Conclusion

Sicogon Island will be definitely on the radar again as a prime beach resort spot one to two years from now and onwards—but why wait? If you're interested to see the beauty of the island and sample the fresh seafood offerings NOW, consider Sicogon Island in your upcoming vacation itinerary!

Please look forward to my next blog entry! Ikimashou!