Camalaniugan, You are the Finest!

Written by: Jay-Ar P. Conde

Who would have imagined that I would step on  this subservient viewpoint? A site where you can enjoy and be happy indefinitely. A region home to welcoming people and remarkable cultural diversity. My name is Jay-ar Pagtama Conde, and I am a third-year student at the Cagayan State University-Aparri Campus majoring in Bachelor of Science in Accounting Information System. Today, I’m going to share with you a touching tale about the tucked away charm of Camalaniugan, which is known for its catchphrase “CAMALANIUGAN: Where The Best Begins.” Here’s a look at how I become firmly rooted in and entwined with this location.

          I was born in Bolinao, Pangasinan, which most recognize to be a treasure trove because of its magnificent tourist attractions, but you know what? I always felt like there was a piece of me missing. That lattice was finally put together when my parents decided to move to CAGAYAN, the hometown of my mother.

          15 years later, this is the first time I had to explore the beauty of CAMALANIUGAN. I knew to myself that I will get the chance to travel places because a fun fact about me is that I have  a mole on my feet and that’s one superstitious belief I cling into because it’s from our ancestors.

         Nothing compares to seeing something delightful when you first wake up.The one I adore, my lovely Camalaniugan “Where The Best Begins”. Discovering the indigenous cultures, breathtaking traditions, and abundant natural beauty of Camalaniugan for me is one of the best things in my life. So ride with me in this experienced of mine.

Who would have imagined that I would step on  this subservient viewpoint? A site where you can enjoy and be happy indefinitely. A region home to welcoming people and remarkable cultural diversity. My name is Jay-ar Pagtama Conde, and I am a third-year student at the Cagayan State University-Aparri Campus majoring in Bachelor of Science in Accounting Information System. Today, I’m going to share with you a touching tale about the tucked away charm of Camalaniugan, which is known for its catchphrase “CAMALANIUGAN: Where The Best Begins.” Here’s a look at how I become firmly rooted in and entwined with this location.

          I was born in Bolinao, Pangasinan, which most recognize to be a treasure trove because of its magnificent tourist attractions, but you know what? I always felt like there was a piece of me missing. That lattice was finally put together when my parents decided to move to CAGAYAN, the hometown of my mother.

          15 years later, this is the first time I had to explore the beauty of CAMALANIUGAN. I knew to myself that I will get the chance to travel places because a fun fact about me is that I have  a mole on my feet and that’s one superstitious belief I cling into because it’s from our ancestors.

         Nothing compares to seeing something delightful when you first wake up.The one I adore, my lovely Camalaniugan “Where The Best Begins”. Discovering the indigenous cultures, breathtaking traditions, and abundant natural beauty of Camalaniugan for me is one of the best things in my life. So ride with me in this experienced of mine.

          The Spanish HORNO in Agusi, Camalaniugan, Cagayan is one of the best old locations and my go-to spot when I need to recharge. My eyes and heart genuinely captured by its distinctive brick design. A wonderful location for dates, weddings, and other special occasion photo shoots. I was astounded by its steep stairs as I gazed down over the Cagayan River’s beautiful waves and wafts.

          It’s now time to show people and nurture my faith as I explore the extremely historic San Jacinto De Polonia Parish, home to the Sancta Maria Bell, the Oldest Bell in the Far East, and the Animas de Purgatory. And did you know that this church has an old ruin church known as the Anguilla Church behind it?I felt the splendor of nature as I marched down on this place because it is surrounded by foliage where you can breathe fresh air and this place is my comfort zone because I was free to unravel the definitive version of myself as I propagate my propellers because the first time I saw this place I was awestruck by its tranquility and semblance, a very indus valley yet iconic place, so I started to build more nostalgia in this place. In addition, a bit of trivia: this church, which was erected in Cagayan is the 3rd church built in the province and now 180 years living.

          For everyone’s information, we Camalaniugenious commemorate the Ananat Festival on the sixteenth day of August to honor San Jacinto De Polonia, our town’s patron saint, and to honor one of our region’s most abundant crops. Water grass called ananat grows in our town’s western Dammang region. Our Dammang-based agta buddies are hand weaving these ananat. They produced items such as lampshades, rugs, banig, and many others. At Camalaniugan Public Market’s Pasalaubong Center, you may procure these commodities. Back in 2017, I was able to cross off one of my bucket directories when I was able to weave Ananat. I have the utmost respect for our dream weavers because of the patience and perseverance it takes for them to create such wonderful products. I think their efforts should be recognized not only locally but also universally.       

    If you believe that those are the only attractions in our town that you may see, you are mistaken because our Honorable Mayor Isidro Cabaddu recently opened the highly awaited SPORTS COMPLEX with Dancing Fountain next to Camalaniugan Municipal Hall.And time and time again, I was able to cross off one item from my travel to-do list as I watched the dancing fountain. Ever since I was a child, I’ve wanted to see the dancing fountain somewhere in Vigan or in Manila, so I was pleasantly surprised when I unearthed that I could do it up here in Camalaniugan.       

    In addition, the Catotoran to Mabanguc Connecting Bridge, which is expected to be among the Philippines’ longest bridges, is now under construction located at Catotoran Norte, Camalaniugan, Cagayan. And we anticipate seeing the full result and its splendor in the upcoming years. As a local who lives close to the Cagayan River, I am aware of how proud we should be of this achievements because it is a matter of pride for us Camalaniugenious to have a bridge lauded as one of the largest in the Philippines.

         And this trip wouldn’t be complete, of course, without food, so I’d highly implore heading and personally go to “THE JUVAL’S GRILL AND RESTAURANT” and try their renowned Pancit Batil Patong. You don’t need to travel to Tuguegarao to eat Pancit Batil Patong because JUVAL’S GRILL AND RESTAURANT will provide you the best Pancit Batil Patong ever since their dish is 100% authentic and original. In addition, they offer mouthwatering and appetizing dishes like adobo, dinuguan, grilled items, sisig, and many more. Based on my own experience, I must state that their food is the greatest and reasonably priced.  

        If you’re seeking for a spot to have fun and wear the bikini you got from an online store, I have the ideal location for you. One of my favorite leisure and entertainment spot here in Camalaniugan. Green Star Park is a relaxing spot where you may take groufies and TikTok videos while enjoying their spacious, clean pool.I can say with certainty that Green Star Park offers the best lodging you will ever find, I say this because I personally went through all of it, sure.

      Last but not least, this place wouldn’t be complete without its folks. The real wealth of Camalaniugan is unquestionably its settlers. This place is full of friendly, hardworking people, especially those who belong to the minority Agta Community in Dammang. They are the only group of diligent and friendly folks I have ever met. And I have to say that they represent the real riches of this town, our province, and our nation.

          Camalaniugan is undoubtedly sentimental and reminiscent. Its brilliance, aroma, splatters, and mist are unparalleled. I’m firmly established here. I have changed because of this place. It has prompted me to change as the games of the season, the monsoons, the downpours, the sun’s heat, and the photons do. Camalaniugan, you truly are the finest.