Enchanted River

Enchanted River is a deep spring river on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines. It flows into the Philippine Sea and the Pacific Ocean at Barangay Talisay, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. It is found between the boundaries of Barangays of Talisay and Cambatong. As of today, no one has ever reached its bottom.

Geography

Hinatuan Bay, which is the habitat of various species of turtles, is located at its mouth. Its mouth also offers a safe anchorage against storms and typhoons.

Exploration

The first exploration to the underground cave of the Hinatuan Enchanted River was made by Alex Santos in 1999. The major exploration to the underground cave system started eleven years later when a group of three cave divers led by Dr. Alfonso Amores with team members Bernil Gastardo and Emgee Guillermo entered the cave in February 2010. The major exploration led to the discovery of a hidden underground cave opening at 30 meters depth. Succeeding expeditions have been made that led to the discovery of the underwater cave's chamber. During its sixth expedition on June 17, 2014, Dr. Amores perished after failing to exit the narrow entrance to the cave due to a cardiac arrest at 40-meter depth inside the narrow tunnel to the Mayor's Chamber of the underground cave in the Hinatuan Enchanted River.

Legends

The river's unusual colors and unexplored depths have inspired various local legends. One story tells of fairies that added the colors of sapphire and jade to the river to make its unique shade. Local fisher folk also report seeing fish in the river that cannot be caught through any means. According to locals, the river was called the Enchanted River because of the engkantos that dwell there. Their legends also say that the river is haunted by supernatural beings which act as its protectors.

The depth of the Enchanted River is still a mystery to many. Estimates range from 50-80 feet. The water source of the river is also unknown.

At 12 noon, swimming tourists are often required to stop swimming to give way to the feeding of fishes living in the river. The playing of the "Hymn of Hinatuan" accompanies this act, and soon after, the fishes come out.

Though there are cottages that were set up by the local government, the compund is closed to tourist every 5 pm.

The river is also rich in folklore and tales. Stories of mermaids and faires guarding the river are still popular nowadays.

Visitor Guide

There are many options how to get to the town of Hinatuan, depending on where you’re coming from. From Manila, you can catch a flight to Butuan City. From here, ride the bus heading to Davao City and alight at the town of San Francisco in Agusan del Sur. You can ride a van or bus to Bislig City, where it passes by the town of Hinatuan. Get to the famed Enchanted River through a habal-habal motorcycle.

If you’re coming from Davao City, take the bus to Bislig City (note: the bus signage going to Bislig is Mangagoy, the city’s busiest barangay). From Bislig, take the bus or van to Hinatuan, which is two hours away.

Hotline

Mobile: +63 917 257 6279

References

1. Wikipedia

2. Rappler

3. Inquirer

4. GMA Network