concepcion, barotac nuevo, and ajuy trip!

Last January 30-31, our graduate class in Community-Based Coastal Resource Management, including some Community Development undergraduate students, had a field trip in coastal municipalities in iloilo. We rented a coaster and off we go!

First stop: Concepcion
We visited Baranggay Nipa where a marine protected area was established years ago. We listened to the baranggay officials as they narrate their story. The conservation efforts was generally successful because it increased the fisherfolk's catch ever since the MPA was established. The baranggay also have a program on family planning. More population will mean more mouths to feed, more mouths to feed will mean added pressure on the resources, this will lead to fisherfolks resulting to illegal means of fishing. We also visited Baranggay Polopiña. The baranggay still has good coral areas, however, some fisherfolks are already negative to the idea of setting up a marine protected area in their baranggay because the illegal fishers in their municipal waters are their local politicians also. Concepcion has a lot to offer to tourists, it is very accessible and the travelling time is only two hours. You can go island hopping, snorkeling, or simply lie in the sand and have a tan. There is only one hotel in mainland Concepcion, the proprietors are very friendly and helpful. Don't miss Concepcion's "tuyo". Really really good with fried rice and coffee.


Second stop: Barotac Nuevo
Barotac Nuevo is not a coastal baranggay but it gets it supply of seafood from its neighboring coastal municipalities like Conception and Ajuy. We went to the Aeta community in Sitio Nagpana, Brgy. Lipata. They have falls that you can visit. Just sit in those big rocks, rest your tired feet and enjoy the cool waters. There is no fixed entrance fee but you have to pay a donation fee. You are also encouraged to buy handicrafts and fruits to help the community. The Aeta community used to be discriminated by the local people. Now, they are slowly claiming their heritage. They hope to build a school that will teach the children their culture, arts, and language.


Third stop: Ajuy
I was really surprised to discover this hidden paradise. We went to Nasidman Island, just five minutes away from mainland Ajuy. The sand is white, perfect for beach bums like me. The island is small, the villagers rely on fishing. There is a beach for visitors, the entrance fee is only 30php. The island is small and we were able to see the whole of it. There are still patches of corals, brittle stars and mangrove area. The place is perfect if you want to get away from the stress of city life. There are cottages available for guests or you can bring a tent and camp on the beach. Thanks to Clark for showing me his hometown.

The day was concluded with a breathtaking sunset..

and I realized that anywhere you go is perfect as long as you can share the moment with the people you care about :)