VISIT SANTA CRUZ | ISLAND HOPPING | PALAD

Maniwaya's Palad: Between Phenomenon and Destination

In 1994, the Filipina candidate to the Miss Universe competition was asked how many islands make up the Philippine archipelago. She replied with a provocative question: "High tide or low tide?" Those who already experienced the Palad Sandbar experience at that time would have known very well what then Ms. Philippines Charlene Gonzales was referring to in her quizzical response.

Stretching a little less than a kilometer in the middle of the waters between Maniwaya and Mongpong islands, Palad is a stunning mound of white and beige sand from centuries-old crushed corals that slowly emerges during the low tide before gradually being submerged again by the calming waves during the high tide.  

In the summer season this window of opportunity happens between ten in the morning until around noon and again between four to six in the early evening. But better to ask the locals first (particularly the fisherfolk) before scheduling an excursion into this unique phenomenon. 

HOW TO GET THERE? 

Because Palad is in the open sea (i.e. the municipal waters belonging to the jurisdiction of the Municipality of Santa Cruz, Marinduque), there are multiple ways of accessing the sandbar. 

Coming from Santa Cruz mainland: Via land transport (private or public tricycles) head to Buyabod Pier in Barangay Buyabod where watercraft transferring tourists to the islands of Polo, Maniwaya, and Mongpong are parked. Group travelers usually rent a transport vessel while individual tourists may join in vacant or available spots. 

Coming from Resorts in Maniwaya or Mongpong Islands. Tourists booked or staying in one of the resorts of Maniwaya or Mongpong Islands should inquire with their respective accommodations for schedules of visits to the sandbar. 

WHAT TO EXPECT?

During the peak tourist season (March to May) and due to the limited opportunity of the sandbar’s appearance, a trip to Palad can be a bit crowded but definitely still worth it. 

To make the visit hassle free, keep in mind the following reminders:

  • make sure that the watercraft transporting you is duly registered with the Santa Cruz Motorboat Association or the Municipal Tourism Office of Santa Cruz; 
  • make sure that the watercraft pilot or the trip organizer has paid the necessary fees (Package Tourism Ecological Fee which is the equivalent of the Environmental Fee as provided by the Santa Cruz Municipal Tourism Code) or that it is already included in the fare you are paying – barangay marshals deployed within the vicinity of Palad Sandbar can refuse your disembarkation if this is not yet complied 
  • do not ever litter or throw waste while traveling to and from or during your stay in the sandbar 
  • eating or bringing food/drinks into the sandbar is also strictly prohibited