What To Prepare for Bucari, Leon

Bucari, Leon, Iloilo is dubbed as the "Summer Capital of Iloilo," akin to Baguio City in the North as the Summer Capital of the Philippines. They both share the blessings of cool weather, a forest of pine trees, and lush agricultural produce. For the longest time, Leon fruits and vegetables have been famous in the city for being pesticide-free and chemical-free. Their mangoes rival that of Guimaras'. They even have a rice-terraces-like plantation for their vegetables. Lately, Leon is now growing strawberries! Indeed, it has earned its monicker as our very own "Little Baguio."

If you do plan to visit Bucari during the day and experience Baguio in Iloilo, here are some tips that you may want to take heed:

1. Check the weather. If there's any hint or possibility of rain, don't go. The road going to Bucari is not only steep and narrow, it is very rough. And when I say rough, I mean very, very, very rough. The muddy and slippery road will be very dangerous and I fear the possibility of a landslide. Best time to go, summer!

2. Plan your itinerary well. Better depart the city early. It would take approximately one hour from the city to Leon and another hour going to Bucari. Our itinerary involved going to the Bucari Pine Forest campsite first where we had our lunch. Then, we proceeded to Imoy Falls. Allot some extra time on your way back because you will be sidelined by all the fresh produce that you will pass by along the road and you couldn't resist to buy! Leave Bucari before it gets dark if you have no plans of staying overnight. If you plan to stay overnight, you can do so at the Bucari Pine Forest campsite. Just bring a tent with you! When we went there, the delegates of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines were just leaving. Don't expect luxurious provisions. The bathrooms are tolerable since there was ample supply of water. If you're not into camping, check out Pineridge Resort, the same owner of Casa Fiammetta. You have to book ahead of time, though, should you wish to stay there.

3. 4x4 vehicle is a must! Oh, and a good driver. Thank goodness we rode the Mitsubishi Strada going there. And my hubby is a very meticulous and careful driver (especially since our son and I were onboard). You will realize how helpful it would be having a 4x4 should you decide to go to Brgy. Camandag where the Imoy Falls are located. Otherwise, better hire a jeepney with an experienced driver, someone who is from Leon and knows the terrain of the place. I don't have any tips if you plan on commuting. I suggest that you get in touch with the LGU of Leon so you can arrange for a transportation from the city to avoid any hassle. Although, I know that some of my companions from Tigbauan took the Tigbauan-Leon jeepney and joined us at the Leon town proper. You could probably make arrangements there as soon as you arrive.

4. Fees to prepare. Apart from your transportation fees, prepare for the following: entrance at the campsite (donation only) and Php 50 if you get a table. If you wish to venture further to the neighboring Barangay to swim at the Imoy Falls, prepare for a Php20/ person entrance fee and a tour guide fee (unfortunately, I forgot to ask!). Better check with the LGU of Leon.

5. Fruits and vegetables to check out: they have eggplants, sayote, calamansi, tomatoes, radish, pechay, cabbage, mangoes, to name a few. The Orchard Valley Farm of the Que family has the lettuce and strawberry farm but you can't go there without permission from their main office. Remember: the fruits and vegetables will be irresistible so bring extra bags or baskets to carry your pasalubong!

6. Clothing. It could get chilly so bring a light jacket with you. If you decide to go the falls, bring swimwear, aqua shoes/socks with you, and change of clothes. There's no bathroom in the falls area so a malong would be an ideal companion to cover you while getting undressed/dressed.

7. Bring food and water. In keeping with nature preservation, a boodle fight type food preparation is ideal so there's no wastage and plastic used. There's a store where you can buy some snacks but prepare to pay a little more that what you're used to paying in the city.

8. Cellphone signal is not good in some parts so prepare to be ex-communicado at some points.

9. Commune with nature. More than taking pictures, marvel at the wonderful sight before you. And may it inspire you to take good care of Mother Nature.