“Maria or Cristina… who shall I choose? For I have loved them both?”
THE TWIN FALLS
Maria Cristina Falls is a twin falls in the City of Majestic Waterfalls, Iligan City, Lanao del Norte. The falls is not only known for its magnificence; the 98-meter falls is also one of the primary sources of electric power in Mindanao. The crystal-clear water cascades down from the serene Agus River, which flows gracefully from the summit of the expansive Lake Lanao, the largest lake in the region, adding to the breathtaking beauty of the landscape. Swimming in the falls is strictly prohibited, but you can still admire its beauty from afar.
THE LEGEND OF MARIA CRISTINA
According to local legends, there were once twins living in Iligan named Maria and Cristina. Both sisters fell in love with the same man, Prince Pedro Nanook. The man loved both of them, but he could not decide which sister to choose. Out of love for each other, the twins were willing to sacrifice their lives to give way for one another. After hearing the news of Maria’s decision, Cristina also took her life. The man buried the bodies of Maria and Cristina under the falls, and eventually, he decided that he would never get married. In honor of the twins he loved, he named the falls after them.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact Location: Maria Cristina Boundary Rd, Iligan City, Lanao del Norte
- By Commute: From Laguindingan Airport, Cagayan De Oro City, you can take a bus from Laguindingan to Iligan City, the bus arrives every 15 minutes (Rural Transit and Super 5) bus fare Php. 135.00 , the travel time from Laguindingan to Iligan may take 1 hour and 19 minutes depending on the traffic conditions.
- By Car: Traveling on a privately owned vehicle, from Cagayan De Oro to Iligan may take up an hour depending on the traffic conditions.
