Biyaheng Marinduque

A Trip to Remember

It was my first time to visit Marinduque, a heart-shaped island between Tayabas Bay in the north and Sibuyan Sea to the south. It is located south and west of Quezon, east of Mindoro  and north of Romblon. The province is known for Moriones during Lenten season. It is a religious festival held annually on holy week interpreted by locals; men and women wearing painted masks and costumes (brightly colored tunics complete with armor, shield, lance, and sword) who march around the city for seven days searching for Longinus. 

We are all set to leave as soon as we packed our things. Jam Liner is just a stone throw away from home since we are living beside GMA Network in Quezon City. We have waited for more than an hour and alas the bus is ready to leave the terminal at around 1:42 am of April first, yes it was April fool's day (hope I won't be fooled during the entire trip). Bus fare is basically ₱218; no student's discount given (brought my kids' school IDs). Travel took three and a half hour for a distance of approximately 142 kilometers (88 miles), arriving at exactly 5:12 am in Talao Talao Port, Lucena City. 

First trip going to Balanacan is schedule at 10:30 in the morning so we need to wait for another five hours. What we did is stroll along the area, jog a bit, took some photographs, tried to sleep but it was difficult when you are seated on a chair. I decided to have a little talk with fellow passenger while sipping a hot cup of coffee. Got up from my chair after chit chatting and looked around for ticket seller. 

Booth is already opened and got the chance to buy three tickets, one regular (₱260) for me and the other two for half rate (₱130) for my children. Student's fare is ₱210. Terminal fee costs ₱30 each regardless of age (not sure if below 3-feet in height is free). 

Here's the schedule of RORO (roll-on/roll-off) going to Balanacan Port, returning to Lucena Port and vice-versa. Note: Cawit Port is under maintenance.

leaving Lucena City

 These are the breathtaking and enchanting view near Balanacan Port. I can't take my eyes off from this greatness GOD has created for us.

Image of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage standing on fisherman's wharf of Balanacan Port overlooking passengers and vessels sailing. It can be seen on your left as you approach the town of Mogpog. 



From Balanacan, there are several jeepneys going to six different towns; Mogpog, Sta. Cruz, Torrijos, Boac, Gasan, and Buenavista. We will be boarding a passenger jeepney going to Boac, our final destination. 

waiting for other passenger

First stop over is the Marinduque State College, arriving at four o'clock in the afternoon. I'm glad that the staff from registrar's office is kind and accommodating. I was able to finish my transaction on time, not to mention the cashier's desk clerk is so slow resulting to intense queue and making my legs felt in agony for prolong standing. 

Afterwards, we hired a tricycle and headed towards the city, asking the driver to drop us at The Boac Hotel. Greeted by the homey ambiance of the hotel's lobby and courteous receptionist, I then manage to choose a room for the three of us. 

Room Rates:                                                           

Family Room ₱2,000                                               

Deluxe Room ₱1,200                                               

Standard Room ₱1,000                                               

Single Bed ₱500                                            

Contact Details:
The Boac Hotel
Bgy. San Miguel
Boac, Marinduque
Phone: (042) 332-2065

The Boac Hotel's lobby

The room is really small but comfortable enough to rest. It has a cable TV, free toiletries, towels, hot and cold shower for the bathroom and welcome drinks.

feels like home

Wake up early the following day with an empty stomach, grabbing crackers from last night’s snack. 

Photos of heritage houses taken while taking a walk going to Kusina sa Plaza.

breakfast at Kusina sa Plaza

Hot chocolate costs  ₱55 and a bowl of sumptuous beef mami is about  ₱55 also. It is rich in good flavors with vegetables top with egg. The serving is good for 2-3 people. 

Boac's Municipal Hall

complimentary breakfast

A cup of coffee (3-in-1 Nescafe), rice, egg and corned beef are included in the meal.

The Boac Hotel's interior


After breakfast, we proceed to Bgy. Mataas na Bayan to see the historical church, Boac Cathedral.

The Boac Cathedral

*From its initial construction that started in 1580 until its completion in 1792, church design and construction continually evolved - from a wood and anahaw structure to the imposing stone and brick edifice we see today.

*The Augustinians, the first friars on the island, called the church Montserrat de Marinduque. The Franciscans replaced the Augustinians in 1577 but adopted the same name. When the Jesuits came in 1621, they adopted the Blessed Virgin as patron saint hence the name Church of the Immaculate Conception.

MARELCO at a glance

enjoying the beach of Bgy. Ihatub

Time to go home, we'll definitely come back here and visit the charm and beauty of the island province of Marinduque.

*Source/Reference:

           Asuncion, Dindo. Marinduque - The Heart of the Philippines (Coffee Table Book)

Boac, Marinduque. Provincial Government of Marinduque. 2004