Davao was a much deserved brief respite from our arduous journey coming from Lake Sebu and North Cotabato for Asik-asik Falls. It was a time to recharge and regroup for another exciting leg of Travel Mindanao. Bukidnon was next, the cool highland region of Mindanao was another destination I was looking forward to explore. Our first stop is the DDD Habitat Bukidnon in Baranggay Lorega, Kitaotao, a charming house on a hill that offered us warmth in Bukidnon’s coldest region.
From Davao to Kitaotao
Coming from a filling lunch at Greenwich NCCC Mall the group headed to the Davao Bus Terminal and rode a bus bound to Cagayan de Oro (CDO) but we’ll alight at Kitaotao Quarantine point. Fare was Php 270 for an aircon bus. The bus wasn’t full so we got a little nap time as we took the 2.5 to 3 hours journey. At some point my eyes were peeled at the sights despite the drizzle outside. It was wonderful to be up at the mountains again to see pine trees by the road.
House on a Hill
We met up with Myron, our contact for DDD Habitat Bukidnon. He led us to the guesthouse. Since it rained, the pathway was damp and at times muddy but I got excited when I saw the guesthouse. It was like a typical American colonial house reminiscent from the ones in Baguio, two-storey with a pseudo attic and a wide garden.
We were welcomed by two elderly caretaker couple. We excitedly went around the house to see the 3 spacious rooms available for guest (2 rooms on the second floor and one room at the ground floor), there’s a living room with a small TV, a kitchen area where guest can cook and beside it the shower and restroom area. This was really perfect for a group but they do accept visitors on a per room basis.
Day one in Bukidnon is all about getting settled in the area. I especially loved the cold weather in this part and the soothing sight of pine trees.
Essential Info
DDD Habitat Bukidnon is located at Barangay Lorega, Kitaotao Bukidnon. The shortest entry point is from Davao about 2-3 hours by bus. Ride a CDO bound and alight at the Quarantine in Lorega. Fare is Php 270 There’s a pathway behind the vendor stalls leading up the hill to the guest house. Cellular signal from Globe and Smart are available but internet data is weak. For food there are several eateries at the Quarantine stop and a number of stores so supplies are easy to get.
Click here for DDD Habitat Bukidnon rates and bookings.
Ferdz Decena is an award-winning travel photographer, writer and blogger. His works has found print in publications such as Singapore Airlines’s Silver Kris, Philippine Airlines’ Mabuhay, Cebu Pacific’s Smile and Seair InFlight. He has also lent his expertise to various organizations like the Oceana Philippines, Lopez Group Foundation, Save the Children and World Vision, contributing quality images for their marketing materials.
