I once asked God to bestow me with patience – to forgive people when they’re late, to slow down when others can’t keep up, to remain calm when things become a little inconvenient or delayed. And so He granted a life filled with traffics – of several stops and so many slowdowns. I used to rant a lot, blame the government for being such a slowpoke in making progress in this “developing country”. But with all the years spent being caught in traffic jams and rush hours, I’ve learned that ‘if you can’t beat them, join them’ – and might as well enjoy the ride. In a city whose heartbeat is so quick, maybe a little road traffic is what we need in order to keep up with life – to breath (no, not pollution), pause, and realize that some of God’s best works happen so slowly. Literally slow.
I rested my case and finally accepted that I won’t be able to join Glister and Idas on the first day of our Danasan Adventure. It was already four in the afternoon and the bus was not making any progress. So instead of getting anxious, I spent my time observing. I’ll never forget how the sky silently exploded into shades of pinks and lilacs, of oranges and reds; how the gentle rays reflected on the glass panels of the buildings created a stunning reflection of the city. But despite this glorious display, no one seemed to bother. Everyone felt anxious, like they’re running out of time.
It was already evening when I reached Danao. Luckily, I was able to hire a habal-habal driver who was also bound for Danasan. As it was located in the highlands of the city and some roads were not properly lighted, the journey went on a slow pace. I’ve been to Danasan several years ago, but given the night ride, the experience was totally different. We saw a snake and bayawak crossing the street, marveled at the fireflies along tree-canopied roads, and shared life stories along the way. I couldn’t thank Tatay enough for such a safe and memorable trip. We arrived in the ecopark exactly eight in the evening.
Glister and Idas, together with Junji and James were in the pool of Danasan Eco Adventure Park when I arrived. We then spent the rest of the night watching Happy Death Day and throwing nonsense jokes at each other before succumbing to sleep. There are a lot of activities to do in the adventure park, but I’m glad that the group was in not in a rush. We took an early morning walk to Danasan Peak to witness the alluring sunrise then went back to our rooms to continue sleeping. HAHA. After breakfast, we tried the other activities that they weren’t able to do.
Danasan Three-level waterfall (c) Dakilanglaagan
Skybike (c) Wanderingfeet
I know it’s a bit lousy to write about this experience more than a year after our trip to Danasan Eco Adventure Park . But honestly, I found it hard to write on such memorable adventure. It was only now that it made sense. Had I hurried to write back then, I’m sure it would be half-baked. It would be one of contracted articles I’ve written that I didn’t bother reading after publishing. And I don’t want that to happen here. I want to relieve those memories in Danasan Eco Adventure Park – as sharp as possible. So it had to wait. You see, there are so many things that will only make sense later on in our lives. You just have to wait for it. You just have to be a little more patient.
I hope this story reminds you that it’s okay to slow down, to take your time. To not rush life. As Maya Angelou says it: life is not measured by the number of breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath away. Make every moment matter.
TIP AND TRICKS in Danasan Eco Park:
- Danasan Ecopark is located at Barangay Danasan, Danao City. That’s approximately 2 – 4 hours away from the city depending on the traffic situation. You may either avail Danasan’s transportation package or navigate your way with your own vehicle.
- For book and reservation inquiries, you may visit their office in Parkmall or call (032) 239-5654/ 0927-301-3171. They accept walk-ins though, so no worries.
- Entrance fee is P50 and adventure activities range from P150 – P800. Please see rates below to be guided. They also offer packages to earn discounts and save a lot!
- Danasan Adventure Ecopark also offers overnight accommodation. See rates below.
Special thanks to Chasing Potatoes, Laag Sparkles, Asa nasad si James, and Wanderingfeet for this adventure. I hope to see you all again on trails!
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Dakilanglaagan 