Want to get away from the bustling schedules and crowds? Lake Pinamaloy nata!
A quiet, freshwater lake at Don Carlos, Bukidnon, on the Mindanao island. Lake Pinamaloy is recognized for its peaceful waters and serves as a source of water for the town’s people. It covers over 60 hectares and is considered the province’s largest lake.
Locals take pride in its guitar-shaped design. A calm and shady atmosphere surrounded by mahogany trees is combined with activities such as strolling, riding, and even driving around the lake’s perimeter. It is frequently visited by both travelers and residents wishing to relax and take wonderful photographs, as well as to enjoy a picnic with family, friends, or significant others. The lake’s form is also a symbol of the municipality, which uses it as its local emblem and for tourist advertising.
In the olden times…
It was reported that during World War II, the region around the lake was the location of the Battle of Colgan Woods, one of Don Carlos’ fiercest battles. Hundreds of Japanese and American soldiers were allegedly killed in this combat, and the formerly deadly area has now become a calm sanctuary for people.
The legend of Lake Pinamaloy
The picturesque lake of Don Carlos, which resembles a guitar from above, was named after an old fairytale or fairy tale passed down from generation to generation.
According to legend, a married couple previously resided in a plain and wooded area of Bukidnon. The couple had yet to conceive a child, although they longed for one and prayed frequently. Then an elderly woman arrived and informed them that they will have a child shortly. However, the infant must never touch the earth, and after many months, the wife gave birth to a beautiful baby girl. The couple named the baby girl Pina. They offered the kid an abundance of life, with one exception: she was not allowed to touch the earth.
But one day, Pina walked on the ground. When she walked upon the land, it began to quake. Suddenly, pools of water emerged, and Pina disappeared. Her parents attempted to find her, crying out her name “Pina malooy ka” while the pair sobbed out pitifully for Pina.
The lake was later renamed “Pinamaloy”.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
RATES
Entrance fee: Php 25.00
Bike Rentals: Php 25.00
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Don Carlos, Bukidnon, Philippines
- By Commute: From Cagayan de Oro, ride a bus or van bound for Valencia City (Bukidnon), then from Valencia, transfer to a local bus or van going to Don Carlos. Travel time from CDO to Don Carlos is around 4-5 depending on traffic. Once in Don Carlos, take a tricycle or habal-habal which is just a few kilometers away from the town center.
- By Car: If you’d like a highland scenic road trip through Northern Mindanao then you can take the CDO-Dominorog Road then connect to the Maramag-Maradugao Road. This actually lets you pass through Talakag and Valencia City which gives you fantastic views of Bukidnon’s mountains and cultural landscapes. It is a well paved road but expect some sections as you climb into the highlands.
