Celebrating New Year 2011: A Journey Back to Kapangan
January 2, 2012
My grandfather’s roots lie in Balakbak, Kapangan, but as one of his grandchildren, I was raised and grew up in the city. My grandfather doesn’t live there anymore, either; our visits were usually limited to holidays or special occasions like weddings and reunions. So, when he suggested we spend New Year’s Eve in Kapangan, we could tell he longed for a trip back home.
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The Journey to Kapangan
On December 31, we set off at around 5 a.m. for Balakbak, Kapangan. The journey took us about 2–3 hours from the city to the province, and the early morning air added an extra sense of adventure.
When we arrived, we headed to my grandfather’s sister’s house, where we would stay for the holiday. The warmth of family welcomed us, making the long drive worthwhile.
A Visit to the Ancestral House
Not long after settling in, we visited the ancestral house where my great-grandparents once lived. The house stood proudly on a hill, offering a breathtaking view of Dakiwagan Mountain, a local landmark. This mountain is famous for resembling the face of “Santa Claus” from a distance. However, to our sadness, the once-prominent “face” seemed to erode over time—a reminder of nature’s inevitable changes.
Exploring Longog Cave
Our aunt, eager to make our visit memorable, suggested a trip to Longog Cave, a natural wonder nearby. She took on the role of our tour guide and equipped us with the essential “starter pack” for the adventure—headlights!
Before reaching the cave, we crossed a hanging bridge that swayed with each step, adding a thrill to the journey. Once at the cave’s entrance, we found ourselves navigating through a narrow passage. Inside, the cave revealed its beauty: stunning rock columns and pillars that seemed almost magical.
The exploration was not without its challenges. The paths were steep and slippery, and at one point, we had to crawl through an incredibly tight space. My uncle even had to dig a bit to fit through—it was both hilarious and nerve-wracking!
The highlight of our cave adventure was a mini pool hidden within. The water was icy cold, but its crystal clarity made it worth the effort to reach.
Welcoming the New Year
As evening fell, we joined the townspeople at the school zone to celebrate New Year’s Eve. The air was alive with excitement as everyone danced the traditional Grand March, a lively dance where partners follow a leader, forming a long, winding line that grows with each participant. The longer the line, the more joyful the celebration!
We welcomed the New Year with dancing, singing, and laughter, surrounded by a vibrant community that made the night unforgettable.
A New Year’s Morning Adventure
The next morning, we bid our goodbyes and headed to Taba-o, Kapangan to visit another cousin. On the way back, we stopped by the renowned Amburayan River, a natural attraction in the area.
The river, known for its strong currents and clear, cold waters, serves as a lifeline for many rural communities. It’s a favorite spot for swimming, fishing, and picnics along its banks. Despite the icy water and the rushing flow, we couldn’t resist jumping in. We splashed, swam, and enjoyed the refreshing embrace of nature, making the perfect end to our trip.
A New Year to Remember
Spending New Year in Kapangan was a unique and heartwarming experience. From exploring caves and ancestral homes to dancing with the community and swimming in the Amburayan River, every moment was filled with laughter, connection, and memories we’ll cherish forever.
