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How to Get There?
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From the heart of Danao City, Cebu, in Barangay Poblacion, we went to Danao City Terminal and rode a tricycle to Barangay Dunggo-an, specifically to Republic Drydock. The tricycle drivers know the area well, so you won't get lost. If you have your own car, you can follow the driving directions from this website (just click here to see). Upon arrival at Republic Drydock, there are locals who will tell you where you can buy ferry tickets to Pingag, Isabel, Leyte.
The ferry ride from Danao City to Isabel, Leyte, took three hours. One we arrived in Isabel, there were tricycles already parked there. We rode one heading to Isabel Leyte Terminal, then, we transferred to a jeepney going to Palompon, Leyte.
The trip from Isabel to Palompon took 31 minutes. When we arrived at the Palompon terminal, we walked to the nearby Palompon Freedom Park.
A First Look at Palompon
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While walking around Palompon, I could tell it's definitely worth a visit. I noticed popular fast food chains, pharmacies, and convenience store. Because of this, I can say that it is also a perfect place to live because it's not highly urbanized but it has everything you need. In addition, there are many other tourist attractions here aside from the well-known Kalanggaman Island. There are also various waterfalls and spots for hikers to catch the sunrise or in the afternoon for a beautiful sunset.
Wandering through the Palompon Freedom Park
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When we arrived at the Palompon Freedom Park, I immediately noticed the street food stalls offering a variety of affordable food and drinks. One of my favorites to eat was the tempura, so I stopped at a stall and bought some. I was happy that they had many sauces to choose from. Because I love spicy food, I quickly chose the spicy sauce and put a lot of it to my tempura.
What I liked most about the tempura I ate was how it was cooked. It's fried just right—not overcooked, not underdone. I like it exactly, because I don't want it too crispy. So as I savored each bite, I could feel the deliciousness of the right mixture of cooked and spicy.
I didn't miss the opportunity to take a picture here at the park where the iconic "Palompon" sign is displayed . This area was clean and surrounded by huge trees that provide fresh air. That's why the near benches were perfect for relaxing or having peaceful moments with your family or with the love of your life.
Afterwards, my cousins and I then went to the part of the Plaza overlooking the sea. The view during sunset was beautiful. I also took pictures here, and I was really amazed because the view behind me was beautiful. The color of the sky and sea extremely matched the color of my blue top. The pictures turned out amazing, and I couldn't stop smiling. I'm just so happy I now got a glimpse of its hidden beauty.
Then, my cousins and I had dinner at the park. We bought soft drinks, barbeque, and hotdogs—and of course, we didn't forget the spicy sauce. While eating, we talked about what's happening in our lives now and reminiscing about our childhood memories. Our area was filled with laughter because of the stories, and I could say that I really miss being a kid.
When were young, we had many happy memories—no major problems or responsibilities, just thinking about playing. While talking, it's like we went back in time for a while. It's so nice to remember the simple life back then with the people close to your heart.
The view from our table was amazing. We could clearly see the sea and the boat going to Kalanggaman Island. The lights and music at the park during night added to the happy atmosphere. Additionally, the park has free WiFi, making it even more fun to visit. It's worth a visit.
A Glimpse to St. Francis Xavier Church
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After dinner, we went to the popular St. Francis Xavier Church, which is just near Palompon Freedom Park. It is an important destination as well in Palompon that is peaceful. As soon as I entered the gate, the first thing that appeared to me was the church that was bright at night because of its colorful lights. I was amazed at how big it was in person, it was much bigger than I expected.
One of the interesting facts about this church is that it was featured in the popular TV show in the Philippines, Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS). It featured the ceiling of the church painted with scenes such as the life of their patron saint, St. Francis Xavier, the Moro Siege of Palompon, and the life of Christ. It is a work that is truly remarkable and full of history.
Inside, we prayed for a while. The place is quiet and peaceful, perfect for a moment of reflection. After this, we headed to our Aunt's house in Palompon to rest. We were all feeling tired from the long travel from Danao City to Leyte as well as roaming around Palompon, but this day was so memorable.
In just one day, from Danao in the morning to Palompon, Leyte in the evening, there's so much happened. So for those of you here, dear Hivers, I highly recommend visiting and witness the beauty of Palompon. Palompon is a small municipality with a lot to offer— delicious and affordable food, church with beautifully painted ceiling, waterfalls, beaches, and more. It's an underrated but stunning destination that you must visit.
That's it for today's virtual tour of Palompon Freedom Park and St. Francis Xavier Church, everyone. I’d really appreciate it if you could upvote, comment, and share my blog. Thank you so much, Hivers and have a fabulous day ahead!
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