BUBULUDTUA FALLS: Travel Guide & Useful Tips

Bubuludtua Falls is a stunning hidden gem in the heart of Maguindanao del Norte, specifically in Barira. Its name is a Maguindanaoan term that means “rainbow,” derived from the mist created by its powerful cascades. Although it is not as widely known as some other famous waterfalls in the Philippines, Bubuludtua Falls has gained popularity among those seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations. The area around the falls is relatively peaceful, making it an excellent spot for a quiet retreat.

As I step into the clearing, the roar of the waterfall overwhelms my senses—a thunderous symphony of nature’s power. Water plummets from dizzying heights, crashing down onto the rocks below with a force that shakes the ground beneath my feet. Mist rises like a shroud, enveloping me in a cool, damp embrace.

My clothes cling to my skin, soaked by the cascade’s spray, yet the cold breeze wraps around me like a lover’s touch—invigorating and electrifying. My breath catches in my throat, as if the very air around me is alive, rushing by in a primal dance. I stand frozen, caught between the warmth of the world and the chill of the mist, lost in the beauty of this moment, where I feel both insignificant and immense, swept away by nature’s indomitable force.

Not long ago, the path to Bubuludtua Falls would have been an impossibility, buried under the weight of a violent past. The land that now seems peaceful and untouched was once a battleground, where the roar of nature was drowned out by the deafening sound of gunfire. Rebels and government forces clashed relentlessly, turning the terrain into a hostile labyrinth of survival.

People spoke of several waterfalls in these lands in hushed tones, as if the beauty of the place were a myth—an illusion overshadowed by the constant threat of death. The very air was thick with tension, the land itself scarred by conflict, and anyone brave—or desperate—enough to venture close would find themselves fighting not just for the falls, but for their lives.

To witness Bubuludtua Falls back then would have been an act of defiance, a daring slip between the cracks of chaos. Yet now, standing here, it feels as though Bubuludtua Falls itself has reclaimed the land, washing away the bloodshed, and restoring a forgotten peace to a place once torn apart. It’s not just Bubuludtua Falls that has opened its doors, but the other hidden waterfalls in the mountain’s shadows as well. These cascades flow freely, symbols of the land’s renewal, each carrying its quiet triumph over the past, together forming a chorus of resilience and hope for the future.

Standing in front of Bubuludtua Falls, I am filled with a deep sense of joy, knowing that I am finally able to venture into these lands once distant from us, divided by religion and cultural differences. The barriers that once separated us seem to fade with each step as if the very waters of Bubuludtua Falls are washing away the hate that once clouded our hearts. What was once a chasm between our people is now being bridged, and in this shared moment of peace, I feel the weight of old divisions lift, leaving room for unity and understanding.

Finally, Bubuludtua Falls is no longer a mystery but a beautiful reminder of a new beginning for our land once divided. What was once hidden behind walls of fear and misunderstanding now stands as a symbol of healing and unity, a testament to the strength of resilience and the promise of a future where our differences are celebrated, not feared.

From Manila – Fly to Awang Airport in Cotabato City. There is no public transport plying the route to Bubuludtua Falls so the best option is to get to Parang/Simway/Lamsan and hire a motorcycle (habal-habal). The estimated budget would be ₱600 for a round-trip motorcycle. If you have a large group, consider renting a jeep or van. The rental rate typically ranges from ₱2000 to ₱3000, depending on your haggling skills.

From Davao – Take a bus from Ecoland Terminal to Parang/Simway/Lamsan, then hire a motorcycle (habal-habal) for a return trip costing ₱600 per person. If you’re driving your vehicle, take the Pigcawayan-Buldon-Barira road to Bubuludtua Falls. Simply follow Google Maps or Waze.

There is no accommodation near Bubuludtua Falls, so you will need to return to Cotabato City to find a place to stay. Depending on where you find yourself after visiting the falls, here are some suggestions.

• The entrance fee to Bubuludtua Falls is ₱50/head and you can stay for as long as you want. You will pay another entrance fee if you will stay in the resort and bathe in their swimming pool.
• After paying the fees, you will just need to drive a 500-meter distance down along a winding concrete road.  You will arrive at the end of the road, where you can park your vehicle. Bubuludtua Falls is accessible after a walk of less than 5 minutes.
• It is not advisable to get too close to the catch basin of Bubuludtua Falls because the powerful cascades can carry debris that may cause injury.
• There is a resort with a pool and cottages located on the same property as Bubuludtua Falls. Most visitors spend their time at the resort instead of visiting Bubuludtua Falls, so you will likely have the falls to yourself.
• The road from Pigcawayan to Bubuludtua Falls is concrete, but some sections have been damaged by landslides. It remains passable even for small vehicles.
• There is another waterfall called Binaan nearby that you can visit. Simply ask the locals for instructions or ask them to take you there. They likely will charge you ₱250 for the ride on a motorcycle. Unlike Bubuludtua Falls, Binaan Falls requires a bit of trekking on a wooden staircase.
• Locals speak Maguindanaoan. They can understand Tagalog better than Bisaya and Hiligaynon.
• I understand that the conflict has been resolved, but during my visit, locals frequently asked me if I was Catholic, which honestly made me uncomfortable. If you find yourself in a similar situation, just respond politely and act normally. They will likely stop asking you after that.
• There is no cellular service in this area. Cellular coverage disappears completely upon leaving Buldon.

There you have it, lovelies. That’s it for my visit to Bubuludtua Falls. I can’t wait to explore the other waterfalls in this area so stay tuned. To keep tabs on my adventure, just follow me on Facebook and Instagram. Until next time. Ciao!