HOYOP-HOYOPAN CAVE
Aside from the bulging features of the Mayon Volcano, someplace in Albay lies a hidden cave filled with treasures. Fossils and stories from the past. This is the first time I’ve heard of Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave. At first, I was not sure if it is worth visiting but after exploring and learning from its dark features, I was very amazed at the treasures I have seen and heard inside the cave.
FROM WORLD WAR 2 TO MARTIAL LAW
Hoyop-hoyopan cave is located in a remote area in Camalig. Far from the bustling cities and towns of Albay. With its location, it is a good hiding spot. According to our guide, the cave served as a place of refuge in times of crisis. During World War 2, it became a place of refuge for Filipino soldiers/guerilla fighters. With the wounded and civilians, they hid there while the Japanese attacked and bombarded the areas a few kilometers away from the cave, not knowingly that the Filipinos are just hiding behind them. During the Martial Law Era, when there were curfews, the cave served as a party place which is why a concrete dance floor can be seen inside.
At the entrance of the cave, personnel and a guide greeted us and asked us to pay the fees. They didn’t offer helmets and lights but they told us lights from our phones are sufficient for our journey inside. Hoyop-hoyopan means “blow-blow” which is referred to the cool winds that blow through the cave. The cave features a lot of Stalactites and stalagmites that come in different forms. With your imagination, you can see images of the Virgin Mary, a Chicken Joy, and a hand. In the middle, a staircase will surprise you leading to the huge hall of the cave where bats rest during the day. As we go deeper, the pathway became narrower, and we need to squeeze our way. Some parts of the cave were already altered to cater to tourists for easy access but nonetheless, it still gives a natural and mysterious vibes.
BACK TO B.C.
We were also told that the cave served as a burial site, they found burial jars with bones dating back to ancient times. They also discovered that the cave is subterranean thousands of years ago, as there are fossilized coral reefs found there.
The tour ended with the exit showing the view of the Mayon Volcano. Our guide told us just a few kilometers from the volcano, there is also another cave that is also worth exploring that will be opened for tourists in 2024. From this tour, I am really excited to also visit that cave soon. This tour felt like finding a pile of treasure but instead of gold and gems, we discovered the rich history and natural wonders of Hoyop-Hoyopan Cave.
IF YOU WANT TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VISIT TO ALBAY, YOU SHOULD TRY THE ATV ADVENTURE NEAR MAYON VOLCANO.
TRAVEL GUIDE & TIPS
LOCATION:
- Hoyop-Hoyopan Access Road, Barangay Cotmon, Camalig, Albay, Philippines
HOW TO GET THERE:
By Public Transportation:
- From Legazpi, ride a jeepney bound for Camalig, Guinobatan, Ligao or Polangui.
- Get off in Camalig, then hire a motorbike to go to Hoyop-Hoyopan cave.
POWER PACK:
RATES AND FEES:
- Environmental Fee: ₱120 for the group
- Guide Fee: ₱300
- Parking Fee: ₱25
BOOK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS AND INSTANT CONFIRMATION: KLOOK: Hoyop-Hoyopan & Solong Cave Exploration Tour
ACCOMMODATIONS:
CHECK THESE DISCOUNTED/PROMO RATES FOR ACTIVITIES IN THE BICOL REGION:
- ATV Skydrive in Mt. Mayon, Albay
- Cagsawa Ruins Tour in Albay
- Whale Shark and Firefly Watching in Donsol, Sorsogon
- Albay Bicol Caves and Hills Exploration
- Ultimate Albay Full Day Tour with Mayon Skyline
CONNECT:
- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/p/Hoyop-Hoyopan-Cave-Cotmon
- Mobile Number: 0975 921 8544
NOTES:
- Open from 6:30 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. daily
- Do not touch the stalactites and stalagmites, our bodily fluids can destroy them.
- Bring a flashlight or you can use the flashlight from your phone
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
©CHASEJASE
