Map of Northern Samar
Together with the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), our purpose is to explore Eastern Visayas and made Northern Samar as our entry point landing at Catarman Airport.
It was my first time in Northern Samar and it was also my first propeller-type plane ride via Airphil Express. 🙂 I was very excited as what this part of the Visayas have to offer.
Discover Northern Samar
Catarman Airport is the usual provincial airport that you would expect but the people are very warm and welcoming. I didn’t feel like someone from the distant land of Manila.
With regards to sites, of particular interest is the group of islands on the tip of Northern Samar collectively called Biri Islands. It can be reached from land with the best routes via Lavezares or San Jose, I believe.
Sago and PHILTOA
Sago's First in Airphil Express Propeller Plane
Catarman Airport
Map of Northern Samar
We hopped on land transportation to Lavezares, or more specifically the Lavezares Public Market. Large fishes of sizes we rarely see are probably a common sight in this market. The vendors were all smiles distinguishing us as visitors; while proudly showing their catch.
The area also served as a port for small banca or vessels which can take you to different islands. For us, it is Biri-bound.
Lavezares Public Market
Lavezares Northern Samar
Lavezares Copra
Lavezares Beach / Port
Northern Samar's Lavezares
Small Manta Ray on his right hand
We then got on a boat for half an hour before reaching the main Biri Island. Upon touching land once again, we rode a habal-habal. It took us another half an hour to see the majestic Biri Rock Formation beyond a farm of young mangrove trees.
The Lavezares Boat Ride to Biri Island
DOT Officer Pointing to a Northern Samar Secret Surfing Spot
Btw, Sago was joined by the famous travel blogger Byahilo.com 🙂