This two-hour drive away from the metro gives such a breathtaking view that it may actually convince you to not leave its grounds. Malangaan Cave, a hidden gem located in Tukod, San Rafael, Bulacan, is a perfect place for people looking for unspoiled places near Manila. The cave is not yet commercialized and is also known for its spring water that you get to see before you get to the cave. According to the locals, the cave used to be the hiding place of guerrillas during World War II. Kids are the usual tour guides, and for this trip, we hired Kim Waren.
Here’s a tip: It’s easier to wander around the cave barefooted because it can be too slippery even with proper footwear. So if your backpack is already full and you are too lazy to carry your shoes with you, you can always tie them. 🙂
Okay, so I actually ripped my shorts after climbing this rock, so please do not ask why it would be perfectly proper and decent for a girl to wear a dress on a cave for the next photographs (well, it was supposed to be an attire for my self-portrait concepts).
The cave was amazing. It was breathtaking. We were already satisfied with the view that greeted us so we decided to stop there for two hours to take photos. Kim Waren told us that there’s a whole lot to see once we enter the cave. And hey, it was indeed true. The kid does not lie.
After the muddy walk and those little holes we need to fit ourselves into, we are finally greeted with this beautiful view.
Everything was worth it. I am sure it won’t be the last time I get to visit the place. The trip was so memorable; I cannot believe I learned so much from an 11 year old. If you choose to visit the place, do hire a tour guide. Please look for Kim Waren—he uses the money for school allowance.
There are no entrance fees required to enter the cave, but there’s a small amount for parking fee. There are many vandals but the view is still scenic. I really hope we learn the discipline to preserve the beauty of the place, though. Our country has so much to offer, but if we lack discipline, I fear that five years or ten years from now, places like this won’t be the same as it has always been.
How to get to Malangaan:
If you are commuting, Agila buses are the only buses going to Angat, Bulacan (nearest to Tukod). The terminal is located at Tutuban.
1. Ride Agila bus going to Angat, Bulacan. Fare is 80-90 Php.
2. From Angat, rent a tricycle to Tukod, San Rafael, Bulacan. Tell the driver to drop you off at Malangaan Cave. (You may want to arrange a deal with the driver to pick you up too, as there are no other ways to go back to Angat.)
It’s usually between 350 to 450 Php back and forth, depending on your haggling skills.
Getting to Malangaan Cave Via Car:
1. Take NLEX and exit 34 towards Balagtas.
2. Continue on to Plaridel Bypass road and turn right to General Alejo Santos highway.
3. Turn left to M. Valte Road.
4. Turn left at the first cross st. At Brgy. Pulo Road.
5. Turn right to Tukod Road (Look for the sign).
6. Straight ahead, in the town center of Brgy. Tukod.
7. You’ll see a gas station. Turn right there.
8. Malangaan.
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