Bakas, Norzagaray, Bulacan

It was lunch time when my cousins and I decided to go to Bakas River near My Grandmother’s House. We were rushing to be there because I need to go back in Manila in that day. That’s why, we’re not able to bring any food, just ourselves. It is Located in Barangay Matictic, Bakas River Resort is actually part of the Angat River. It is called Bakas, which means "footprint", because of the rock formations along its riverbank which resembles the footprint of a famous mythical character named Bernardo Carpio.

 It is already 4 in the afternoon when we arrived at the resort so I decided not to swim anymore. Even if it is already late, a lot of visitors are still arriving at the place.

We put our things on one of the vacant open huts that are lined up along the riverbank. One could rent an open hut for 150 pesos. But since we're just staying for awhile, one of the caretakers allowed us to use one for only 50 pesos

 The serenity of the place is very relaxing. Children and their guardians enjoyed playing and swimming around the shallow part, while some adults bask in to the excitement of swimming in the raging water rapids from the deep part of the river.      Groups of people enjoyed eating their freshly grilled food, while others spend their time singing along to the sound of their guitars.   I tried walking in to the shallow part of the river. The water is so clean that I can clearly see my feet underwater. Walking on the sand feels good on my feet too. The rock formations which resembles a large footprint can be seen from the other side of the river. Some people climb on top of the rocks to take pictures. I saw brave men dared to jump off of those rocks down to the strong current of the river.   A statue of the Virgin Mary can be seen on one part of the rock formation. Then there were also three statues of Jesus Christ a few steps away from the Virgin Mary. I wonder who built those statues and what do they signify. Unfortunately, I didn't have the chance to find information about it from the locals.    I also saw scribbles all over as I look closely on the rocks. Everyone should know about the costs of these vandalism. We can all give respect to this God given place simply by not damaging it. Cleaning the rock's surface and restoring it may also help promoting the tourism of the place.

This river is also known because of its dangerous strong currents. Visitors have to be extra careful while swimming in those areas. Warning signs can be seen on some parts of the river and lifeguards are also stationed within the vicinity.   Even though the place has grilling stations and sari-sari stores, we didn't find any stores where we can buy food. There is this man who sold us some lumpia but we didn't really find one that sold rice meals or anything like that. It would be a good idea to bring your own food before going to this place.   As the sun starts to set, its golden rays touched the green leafy trees and the blowing wind gets colder. I really appreciated the beauty of this place. Its tranquil scenery really took away my exhaustion from the whole adventure. After a while, we said goodbye to this peaceful place.Our whole Norzagaray adventure is a moment to remember.