To make a difference for my week, my friends and I planned a memorable trip to a hidden glory in Sogod, Cebu—a magnificent lake still unknown to most, but whose beauty is truly a must-visit. Most often, we go to beaches and mountains for great experiences, but yesterday, we chose a place far from the crowd—a spot only exclusive to us. Fortunately, the word exclusive lived up to its literal definition, because we really had one in Binaliw Spring.
**THE VIEWING BEFORE THE EXPERIENCE**
We had just finished our research at an orphanage last week, completing it earlier than expected. It was a scorching four in the afternoon when we left, but ahead of that day we had already planned to visit a spring in Sogod, Cebu, just to make sure it was open when we returned soon. The orphanage was in Bogo, so we had to travel at least an hour to reach Sogod. Imagine how far that was.
My friend had heard talk about this spring that was still not popular, and it captured our attention because it could be a very clean and untouched spring without too much human visitation. Sogod is already known for its falls and springs, but this one remains concealed from most people’s recognition.
We rode in the car of our eldest friend. At first, we were doubtful because the trip seemed too far, but we wanted to check if the spring was legitimate and clean before our escapade. It was a preliminary visit, but since we had plenty of time before it got dark, we gave it a shot.
The hour-long trip with my research groupmates was filled with different moods. Some were sleeping, tired from our earlier research, while others gazed outside the window. The golden sun hit differently that day—it was scorching, yet the light touched us gently, almost like a winter afternoon. It was for dramatic effect, for sure.
When we finally arrived, we discovered that the spring could only be reached by walking down a forest path. Descending was tricky because it was slippery, but we managed.
We passed an area scattered with little local bamboos. Of course, taking photos is always part of the ritual, so we stopped for some shots.
The first thing I noticed upon reaching the spring was the sound of the flowing water. It was bordered by massive rock formations and various plant species, making it unique among the other springs in Sogod.
I took a photo while sitting on a rock. Behind me, the rock formation was ornamented with greenery, adding to the peaceful ambiance.
The waters flowed gently, but the silence touched our bodies like a soothing patch. The color palette of the place seemed perfectly balanced, as if nature had mastered artistry itself.
I adjusted my pants so they wouldn’t get soaked, then searched for another angle for photos. I found another rock formation slightly different from the first, yet it had the same calming effect.
We roamed around, took photos, and checked the safety of the place to see if it was truly fit for an escapade. Finally, our eldest friend gave her decision: the place was great and safe, so our trip two days later was officially settled.
**THE ACTUAL EXPERIENCE IN BINALIW SPRING, SOGOD, CEBU**
Binaliw Spring in Sogod, Cebu, is tucked away in Brgy. Bagatayam. The spot we visited wasn’t the exact place most visitors refer to as Binaliw Spring, but it was still part of it. Fun fact: Binaliw means “crazy” in English. Ridiculous, isn’t it? But despite the odd name, the spring is renowned for its healing powers and miracles. A beautiful irony indeed.
If you’re traveling from the south, Sogod comes after Catmon. From the north, it’s right next to the iconic Tabogon. This northern part of Cebu is basically a stretch of stunning landscapes, cold springs, and waterfalls.
I was so excited to return to Binaliw Spring after our first visit. It had already captured my heart—I wanted to go back immediately, but patience was necessary.
**THE GREEN LANDSCAPE**
The colors of Binaliw Spring are painted in shades of green and blue. I loved the landscape the most because it featured a variety of plants, many unfamiliar to me—banana trees, wild grasses, broad-leaf trees, and wide palm-like plants covering the rock formations. They seemed perfectly placed, creating a harmonious natural scene.
The rock formations were not something you could just glance at; you had to stare and appreciate their details. Although I had seen them before, this day felt different. I wanted to look closer and discover the hidden gems only patience could reveal. The water was so still that the rocks beneath were visible, as though waiting to be noticed. I loved rubbing my skin and feet against them—it was simple but soothing.
Of course, no escapade is complete without food that matches the place. As soon as we arrived, we placed our things on the table reserved for us.
Grilled beef, an iconic viand for beach and spring trips, was a must. It has become our culture to always include it in our food list. The hot, saucy meat, paired with the peace of the spring, made the meal memorable.
Alongside the beef, we had glorious lumpia, lechon manok (bought along the way), grilled fish, and guso—a seaweed dish eaten raw with spices. Everyone cooperated to cook and prepare everything quickly so we could feast.
And yes, you guessed it—we ate budol-fight style! Food spread out on banana leaves, shared together like one family feast. Fruits like watermelon and mango slices completed the meal. Everyone enjoyed it, and I was full the whole day.
After eating, we relaxed, sharing conversations about our research journey. Some of us looked for perfect photo spots to strike poses, capturing memories of the day.
We then had our final soak in the spring. The water was cold but soothing, washing away our tiredness. We talked, laughed, and marveled at the breathtaking scenery around us. At times, we took group photos and groufies, asking locals to snap pictures for us.
For me, this trip felt different. Maybe it was the friendship, or maybe it was the sense of reward after our hard work in research. The fun we had was something I could only experience in Binaliw Spring—like a long-deserved rest after a decade of struggles.
One of my friends had her quiet moment as the sun kissed her side profile. It reminded me how bright life can be if we let it.
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After a long day of dipping in the frigid waters, we finally headed home. The trip back felt like déjà vu—the sun once again gently touched our faces, leaving marks of good times and reminding us how important it is to pause when life gets hard. We slept while on the trip.
The sun was beautiful. So was the experience we had in the miraculous Binaliw Spring of Sogod, Cebu, Philippines.