Experiencing Dolphins

WE ARE so blessed here in the Philippines with the richness of our islands.  Most of us have probably never even seen all there is to see in our own country.  I know I have a long way to go and many trips to make before I can really say I have been around.

So recently, I went down south with my family to go dolphin watching near the Manjuyod Sand Bar in Bais Bay, Negros Oriental.  We took a 3-hour road trip from Bacolod City to Campuyo Beach, Bais City where we took the boat. 

Gabe and Ella ready for some dolphin action

We were advised to leave early so that we could catch the dolphins, so we got ready and we were on the boat before 8am.  It was the perfect day to be at sea as the water was very calm, looking almost like glass, and the clouds were covering the sun most of the time.

The boat ride was about 30 minutes from Campuyo Beach to the place where the dolphins were.  We stopped in the middle of the sea, waiting for the dolphins to show up.  My children and their cousins were standing in front of the boat, anxious to see the dolphins.

Gabe, Ella and their cousins anxiously waiting for the dolphins to come out

We had a few sightings in the distance here and there, but none that were exciting enough to be captured by our cameras.  My nephew Anton even said, “Is that all the dolphin watching there is?”  They were quite disappointed at first because this was the sole purpose of our trip.

A pod of dolphins showed up in the distance

After some time, we were brought to other areas where the dolphins swam closer to our boat.  It was such a treat for all of us, especially the children.  They swam playfully in front and beside our boat.  They came in groups of five to fifteen.  A couple of them even jumped and spun around as if putting on a show!

One of the very few shots that I captured of dolphins up close

Dolphins were swimming close to our boat

We witnessed a spinner dolphin putting on a show

It’s not a wonder why these marine mammals are well loved because their intelligence and playfulness are very endearing especially in close encounters like these.  It is definitely worth the trip and a great experience.  It makes one feel very thankful for nature and God’s beautiful creatures. But in as much as we appreciate them, we must remember that we also have the responsibility to protect them.

So whether it’s dolphin watching, whale watching or just swimming in fine sunny beaches, no doubt our country has so much to showcase. There’s still a lot out there to experience and discover. Let’s continue to explore because it definitely is more fun in the Philippines!

The kids taking a cool dip in the Manjuyod Sand Bar after dolphin watching 

(Published for Breathing Gratitude, Sun Star Lifestyle Section on May 29, 2014)