Dusk at Apo Sea Shore
e didn't stay long as it was getting dark. Our priority right now was to set camp or else the sand flies would enter our tents. We were welcomed by a couple of rangers who lead us to our campsite. The scenery at the camp was breathtaking. The dusk, the color of the clouds, and the long shadows of the rocks at the low tide of the sea was picture perfect. Our sumptuous dinner made the end of the day perfect. We were treated to a roasted chicken by fire, a home made Bicol Laing dish sided by a tasty batchoy. Later, the special Polvoron dessert was served. Now this is life!
Apo Island Lighthouse
I woke up early at 5am the next day and took a walk at the ranger station. Apo Reef is protected area under NIPAS (National Integrated Protected Area System) and is declared as a National Park. It is the ranger's job to keep everything in order in the island. The Ranger Station is a small building located at the center of the island, powered by solar energy. Before, there were computers there but the salty sea air rendered it useless. Even the water supply there is salty; they have to regularly ship supply of drinking water for the rangers to use. Long frequency signal is available however, for the ranger was listening to an AM station.
After breaking camp and a satisfying breakfast, we went off to explore the island. Our first stop was the lighthouse. Its architecture is somehow different from other lighthouses I've seen. Going up to its upper platform will reward you with an amazing 360 degree view of the island. After the mandatory photographs and poses we went to snorkel.
