Text and Photos by Jojie Alcantara

Waniban is an island surrounded by pristine blue waters just 15 minutes away from Cinco Masau Resort in Mati, Davao Oriental. The enchantment that Mati has created to the more adventurous backpackers and beach bums has brought this mystic Waniban into the limelight. It used to be just a common hideaway for us locals.

Surrounded by aquamarine waters that hypnotically turn deep blue, Waniban’s attraction is more than just its powdery white sands, sturdy mangroves, a glimpse of dolphins cavorting by, or the fact that you can cover the whole island on foot in less than an hour. One can suddenly step into some fantasy of owning the island to yourself for a day.

The island is equipped with cottages (at P350) and toilets for those staying overnight. For those who just want to explore and take a dip at the warm inviting turquoise waters, you pay P20.

Bancas are hired daily for picnics and island hopping in this islet paradise, plying the route at P2000 for a group of 10. A small banca can easily accommodate five to ten people, 15 if the boatman is reckless. The waves are moderate to calm on a sunny day across from Cinco Masau Resort, where one makes boat reservations.

In one of my regular visits, my guests were fellow photographers in Davao (FPS group) who had an enjoyable time swimming in its pool-like clear waters. Thanks to the Mayor Michelle Rabat’s efficient staff, we had a great island hopping tour with Lucho as our chaperone. Special thanks to Chief of staff Richard Villacorte and Tourism officer Chokie Indelible too.

To know more about Mati and its other beach attractions, visit http://www.mati.gov.ph, or call the Mati Municipal Office at (087) 811 2371 and look for Chokie or Lucio.

(Note: Published in Mabuhay Magazine, November issue)
* * * *