INTRODUCTION

 

This land of waterfalls is a captivating retreat at the southwest border of the Sierra Madre, known to hikers as Mt. Romelo. By some mistake that got perpetuated among hikers, the place also used to be called “Famy” after an adjacent town. Nestled in the town of Siniloan in the quiet, eastern side of Laguna province, it is as tropical as mountains can get. Easy trails (albeit oftentimes very muddy), taking just two hours to complete, lead to a wide campsite, and from there, one can explore several waterfalls.

 

Just below the campsite, accessible via a brief but steep trail, Buruwisan Falls descends majestically into a wide, clear catchbasin, veiling an enclave verdant with moss and ferns. At 180 ft, it is ideal for rappelling, and photography. Buruwisan Falls is named after a hardwood variety that used to grow on the banks of Romelo River.

 

Not far downstream are two other falls: the Old Buruwisan is the original reason why people used to visit Romelo; it is even higher than Buruwisan, except that it is difficult to access. Rappelling is one way to reach this elusive wonder.

 

Upstream, on the other hand, are Batya-Batya and Sampaloc falls. Batya-Batya is a two-level falls. At its second level, the water is deep, around 18 feet. Here, the attraction is the interesting formation of rocks and the natural pools. Further up is Sampaloc falls. This is another grand waterfalls, with its own unique cascade and also a sizeable catchbasin.

 

Throughout the climb, you may appreciate the highlands of Rizal-Laguna. To the northwest is Laguna Lake, and you can see Mt. Sembrano beside it.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the metro and take this short ride to another one of the Philippine's hidden treasures and unspoiled piece of beauty- the waterfalls of Siniloan, Laguna!