By Len Marcelo Jingco
The main purpose of the trip was to take aerial photos of Lake Holon for the Tourism Office of the town of T’boli in South Cotabato.
Our ride, a 6-seater Cessna plane, took off from F. Bangoy International Airport at dawn. I felt so safe on a plane navigated by two seasoned pilots. Few minutes after, we were cruising above the sharp mountain ridges of Mt. Apo which was best highlighted by shadows created by the first light of the day. On the left window, I am witnessing the most dramatic scenery I have ever seen, the layered mountains of Davao Occidental during sunrise.
Upon passing by Mt. Matutum, we were dazzled by the sight of the clouds blanketing its peak and the amazing patterns of pineapple plantations below. Because we were enjoying the scenic view, we did not notice that we were about to land at Surallah airport near the town of T’boli. We landed there to fetch the town mayor and his staff to perform our main goal.
We were overwhelmed by the majestic view of Lake Holon, Lake Sebu and the fantastic sight of Mt. Parker, Mt. Matutum and Mt. Apo. At an altitude of 5000 feet, I was able to take a very unique shot of the three majestic mountains of Mindanao and an enigmatic lake in a single frame.
On our way back to Davao, we decided to fly through the other route to be able to see these less visited but paradise islands of Balut, Olanivan and Sarangani. It was a beautiful sight which rendered us speechless as we hovered over these islands. I’m so blessed to have the opportunity to take aerial photos of the jewels of Mindanao. It was a short trip, but its memories are long and lasting.
