Lake Holon is not just a natural wonder; it is also a cultural treasure.
For adventurers seeking more than breathtaking views, Lake Holon offers an unforgettable experience that seamlessly combines the beauty of nature with the vibrant culture of the T'boli people.
Nestled on the slopes of Mt. Melibengoy, also known as Mt. Parker, Lake Holon is a serene crater lake perched 1,341 meters above sea level. Spanning 304 hectares, it is celebrated as one of the cleanest inland water bodies in the Philippines. Its turquoise waters, framed by lush greenery, evoke a sense of peace and stillness that few places can match.
I had the privilege of climbing this sacred place during the Domestic Tourism Invitational Program Soccsksargen, organized by the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines.
Reaching Lake Holon is an adventure in itself. There are two trails to choose from: the Kule trail, ideal for seasoned hikers seeking a challenge, and the Salacafe trail, which is longer but gentler. Our group, composed of travel content creators and tour operators, opted for the Salacafe trail.
The adventure began at Guno Bong (or Gono Bong), a traditional T'boli home known as the "Big House." This wasn’t just a logistical stop, it was a warm introduction to T'boli culture.
From the very start, the experience blended nature and tradition. Here, we met our guides, led by the ever-enthusiastic Laiza. They were more than hiking experts; they were cultural ambassadors, sharing stories, rituals, and traditions that brought the landscape to life.
We began with an opening program featuring traditional T'boli dances. Before the trek, we did some warm-up exercises and learned to count in T’boli. Along the way, Laiza showed us plants and trees that inspired T'boli designs.
The Salacafe trail consists of five stations. The first station is a T'boli community, offering a glimpse into their daily life. Here, guests can also have coffee and purchase locally made souvenirs. The second station emphasizes environmental stewardship, serving as a tree-planting site. The third station, whimsically called the "kissing store," carries a charming legend that a kiss shared here could lead you to your soulmate. At the fourth station, we were rewarded with our first stunning view of the lake. The trail concludes at the fifth station, a serene lakeside campsite.
It took us about four hours to reach the campsite. The rain began after the fourth station and turned into a downpour just as we arrived at our destination.
Far from discouraging us, the rain added an ethereal quality to the landscape, making the lake appear even more magical. We gathered in one of the huts, sipping warm native coffee and sharing stories as we listened to the soothing rhythm of the rain. Although the weather compelled us to postpone some activities, such as the boat ride, it gave us a rare and cherished moment of connection and camaraderie.
While we bonded, Laiza and our guides prepared meals, pitched tents, and, when the rain subsided, organized a cultural presentation by a bonfire.
Under the stars, Laiza shared the legend of the 15 guardians of Lake Holon, mystical beings believed to protect the sacred waters and surrounding lands. Each guardian plays a specific role: Bulol Kolon grants permission to visitors, while Kutong Busaw, the chef, metaphorically “cooks” those who disrespect the lake.
The evening concluded with traditional dances and heartfelt reflections from each of us. By the time the fire dimmed, it felt as though we were no longer outsiders but part of a shared appreciation for this extraordinary place.
Laiza left us with a meaningful reminder: “You are not just tourists; you are tourists with a purpose.” Visiting Lake Holon isn’t just about enjoying its beauty. A portion of the fees collected goes toward scholarships for local students, giving them the opportunity to pursue education.
Tourism here is managed entirely by locals, from the guides and porters to the operators of horses and banca boats. This community-driven model ensures that the T'boli people directly benefit from tourism, supporting sustainable livelihoods while preserving their cultural heritage.
The next morning, we woke to the beautiful sound of hymns in T'boli, praising God. This was followed by a cheerful birthday song for the celebrants in our group and a welcome song for everyone.
Afterward, we enjoyed one of the most delicious camp breakfasts I’ve ever had.
Lake Holon isn’t just for climbers; it’s for anyone looking to reconnect with nature, culture, and themselves. Whether you’re drawn to the adventure, the stories, or simply the chance to breathe in the fresh mountain air, you’ll leave with more than just photos. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the harmony between people and the land they hold sacred.
