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Panoramic Shot of the amazing Lake Holon in Tboli, South Cotabato
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The mountains persisted in summoning my soul despite the countless times I dreaded it for its treacherous hills and its dangerous ravines. This time, I found myself in the deep jungles of South Cotabato's tribal municipality of T'boli, a land endowed with the gifts of nature and nurtured by the vibrant people that carried its name. In this town, simplicity is king, from its laid-back
poblacion to the peaceful
sitios. Life is slow here, which makes it all the more enticing. In this town also lies what could be considered as South Cotabato's prized gem—Lake Holon—which, despite its being serene and silent and relatively unknown, trumpets the moniker of the province as a prime destination for tourists possessing an excess appetite for adventure.
Centuries ago, the place where the lake is situated has become a witness to the rumblings of Mt. Parker, a stratovolcano that has last erupted in 1641. The eruption led to the formation of the Crater Lake, that became an abode for different creatures including the highly-celebrated tilapia. For two years in a row, Lake Holon—settled at 1,350 meters above sea level— earned the distinction as the cleanest lake in the Philippines.
The T'bolis protect it with highest regard, considering it as the gift from the Supreme Being. While allowing the public to marvel at the lake's unparalleled beauty, the tribe also sees to it that the lake will not be subject for abuse and destruction. The soft-speaking T'bolis, who undeniably bears the country's warmest smile, commit their life to maintain the sacredness and cleanliness of Holon.
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Holon is an image of serenity and peace from afar and at close range.
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In the waning days of this year’s blistering summer, I joined a number of travel bloggers from Davao and Manila to discover Lake Holon. From a distance or at close range, enjoying the beauty of the lake is sweet and satisfying. But getting to Holon is not easy as strolling in the park. One has to walk past through a thick canopy of forest trees, in a trail that will offer you different treats taking form of a cold stream, towering trees with really huge trunks, abaca, wild orchids and flowers or better yet, the company you’re with.
