To The Moon And Back

*shots of wawa dam by my husband

From the Philippines Insider website

The Wawa Dam flanked by limestone walls is a majestic site. The quiet river, the huge limestone rocks, the caves, and the tranquil scenery depict a mystical scene. It is like traveling back in time. The view of the magnificent gorge is awe-inspiring; no wonder a lot of people would love to have a try at rock climbing here.

Local legend has it that Bernardo Carpio, a figure in Philippine Mythology, was once lured into a trap here by the Spaniards. Employing the powers of a shaman, Bernardo Carpio, being a giant in one version, was trapped in between two rocks in the Wawa Dam site. As proof of which, it is said that his hands or feet have been imprinted on the rocks. Local lore also says that one of his teeth was found in one of the caves.

The Wawa Dam was constructed in 1909 by the Americans as a reservoir and pumping facility. It became a battlefield during the Japanese occupation. Many Japanese soldiers died here defending this holding point when the Americans retook the area. A marker was placed in one of the caves that anyone passing through the trail can see. It was placed in honor of these brave men.

One of the caves in the Wawa Dam site is historically significant. The Pamitnan cave is large enough so that it can be explored. It may take an hour for a group to explore the whole cave. In April 1895, it is said that the Philippine revolutionary group KKK (Kataastaasang Kagalanggalangang Katipunan ng mga anak ng bayan) took refuge here. Their first cry of freedom took place here in the cave.