Climb Through Time at Bat-ongan Cave in Masbate

Masbate is full of secret spots, but if you’re looking for something offbeat and thrilling, Bat-ongan Cave in Mandaon should be on your list. Hindi lang ito basta kuweba—it’s a towering limestone monolith with a history, a view, and an adventure rolled into one. Kung gusto mong maghalo ang nature trip at konting rock climbing, ito na ‘yon.

Ano ang Bat-ongan Cave?

Bat-ongan Cave is a 150-foot limestone formation tucked in Mandaon, Masbate. Sa unang tingin pa lang, it looks like a molehill from afar, pero once you get closer, the towering rock walls and hidden chambers start to reveal themselves. Inside, you’ll find multi-chambered caves with stalactites, stalagmites, and even an underground river. May mga artifacts pa raw na nahukay dito, including ancient jar burials—kaya historical site din siya.

But the real thrill? The steep rock trail that leads all the way to the summit called “Lamesa.” Sobrang worth it ang pag-akyat. Once you reach the top, you’ll be treated to a 360-degree view of Masbate—rice fields below, and on clear days, Mount Mayon in the distance.

Mga Pwedeng Gawin sa Bat-ongan Cave

Kung trip mo ang nature at konting thrill, madami kang pwedeng gawin dito:

Cave exploration – Walk through the chambers with a local guide and see the rock formations up close.
Rock climbing – The climb to the summit is steep but rewarding, with vines and rocks as your footholds.
Sightseeing – Enjoy panoramic views of the Masbate countryside from the top.
Cultural immersion – Chat with locals near the entrance who share stories and offer guiding services.

Paano Pumunta sa Bat-ongan Cave?

Looking for directions on how to go to Bat-ongan Cave? Here’s a step-by-step travel guide:

From Masbate City to Mandaon:

By Van: Take a van from Masbate Fish Port (not the main port). Travel time is about 1 hour, fare ranges from ₱120–₱125.
By Jeep or Bus: Slower and cheaper option. Fare is around ₱90–₱100, but trips are less frequent.

Tell the driver to drop you at the Bat-ongan Cave jump-off point—a small road with signage, about 1.5 km from the highway.

From Highway to Cave Entrance:

You can either walk or hire a habal-habal (motorbike) for around ₱100 to bring you directly to the base of the cave.

Entrance Fees and Hours

Before you enter, don’t forget to register and pay the local fees:

Entrance Fee: ₱10 per person
Guide Fee: Around ₱150–₱250 depending on group size
Habal-Habal Ride: ₱100 (optional but helpful)

No strict opening hours, but it’s best to go early in the morning to avoid the heat during the climb.

Where to Eat Near Bat-ongan Cave

Mandaon Public Market Eateries – Try their local pancit or grilled fish. Around 10 minutes away.
Highway Carinderias – Budget-friendly food stops along the Masbate-Mandaon highway.

Where to Stay Near Bat-ongan Cave

GV Hotel Masbate – Located in Masbate City, ideal if you’re heading back after a day trip (approx. 1 hour away)
Ticao Island Resort – If you’re extending your trip, this resort is great for a beachside stay, accessible via Dimasalang or Monreal ports.

Other Nearby Attractions

Palani Beach – A long stretch of white sand beach in Balud, around 1.5 hours away.
Bugui Point Lighthouse – A Spanish-era lighthouse in Aroroy, about 2 hours from Mandaon.
Batian Islet – A small rocky islet great for quick photos or picnic stops, reachable via island hopping tours.

Tara Na!

Kung gusto mo ng nature escape na may konting thrill, Bat-ongan Cave is a solid pick. It’s the kind of place where you can climb through time—literally. May history, may adventure, at may view na hindi mo basta-basta makakalimutan.

Plan your visit soon and don’t forget to share this article with friends who love off-the-beaten-path trips!