Baler Diaries: The Ermita Hill

Edson, Jerico, Fredo and Paquito (The Car)

Panoramic Photo of Baler from Ermita Hill

When Aurora finally attained province hood during the presidency of Ferdinand E. Marcos, the province started to create it's own and unique name in the tourism industry of the Philippines. The town of Baler, as the capital of this province offers so many tourist destinations that you can choose from. These programs open so many opportunities for the local residence of this town. Baler is rich in history, culture and natural landscapes that attracts more visitors every year.

If you enjoyed the surfing lesson in Sabang beach and have a fine dine experience at Bay's Inn restaurant, there's more things to do in the town of Baler that needs to be rediscover.

Ermita Hill:

After that surfing experience at the Sabang beach, we had immediately started our trip by going to the Ermita Park.Ermita hill is located at Brgy. Zabali, Baler and covers an area of about two hectares. Ermita Hill is 6 kilometers away via the Kinalapan-Cemento road. It is about 10 minutes drive from the town proper. The place was so quiet and peaceful. The only thing you can hear was the splashes of the water coming from the ocean. Most of the Balerians and tourist like us, love to hang-out and have picnics in this area. The place has a large ground for outdoor activities and sheds to protect you from the direct heat from the sun. The best thing here is that you can use their facilities for free.

It's nice to be back in this lovely place... ehehe

Summer is the best time to visit this place. When the sky is clear and the sun is present, everything is visible in our naked eyes. From the top of the hill you may see the whole town of Baler. At the easternmost part you will be amazed by the outstanding view of the Pacific Ocean, Dima-dimalangat Islet, and Baler Fish Port.  We were amazed with these eye-catching views of Baler. It is a place where you can directly interact with nature.

Dima-Dimalangat Islet, View from the Hill

View of Baler Fish Port

Since it was my second time to be here, I asked Edson and Sir Jerico if they want to experience the 200+ steps, and they immediately replied with the yes!. This steps adds more exciting to our trip. With the help of our cameras and tripod we captured every moments of our trekking experience. 

More steps to go!

We paused for awhile and took some rest. The place was so very relaxing and the view as we go higher gives different scenic outlook of the places down the hill. I can feel the calmness of the place. Sarap talaga magbakasyon dito, nakakawala ng stress. For nature lover and adventurist, it is the right place for you.

At the Top of The Hill

White Cross awaits for you at the Top

At the end of this trail you will see this big white cross facing at the town of baler. The place was surrounded by trees that create a mini forest view and if you're luckily enough you will see some colorful birds and insects roaming around. Most of the visitors here, specially devoted catholic go here every Holy week. And also, some students and other religious groups conduct their retreat activities here. After some picture taking we decided to descend. 

Tromba Marina Statue

We also visited the Tromba Marina Statue that was found at the foot of the Hill. This wonderful marker reminds every Balerianos about the devastating Tsunami that happened on the 27th of December 1735, according to the Baler's History. This event destroyed and killed many people from the old town of Baler. The Angara family was among those families  that  survived in that event. Other families who survived were the Bihasa, Bitong, Carrasco, Lumasac, and Poblete. Hmmmm... very interesting! Now we know how important this place. Thanks to the local government of Baler, through their efforts and concerns about the place, they always keep the area clean and green. All the facilities around Ermita Hill are well maintained. Thank you Sir/Ma'am... 

Surfing???

It was really a great experience to be in a place that was surrounded by meaningful history and natural landscapes. Ermita Hill promotes good relation between the nature and the human.