MABUHAY MADAYAW!
What secret lies behind this island?
Was it an abandoned Japanese camp?
Was it a prison for executioners and corrupt politicians?
As I stepped onto the concrete bridge leading to the boat dock station, I saw a vast stretch of mangrove trees. Children were happily playing beneath them, accompanied by a cool breeze. When the boatman arrived, I didn't waste any time and asked him to take me across to discover what secret lies behind this island. I wasn't wearing a life vest, yet I felt no anxiety, as our boat reached the island's dock in just three minutes.
I was amazed by the white sand; the place looked like a paradise. I saw old vehicle tires filled with concrete lining the perimeter, serving as a barrier against strong waves. I went inside to find out what kind of facility had been built there. I discovered that this was not, in fact, an abandoned Japanese camp, a prison for condemned criminals, or—above all—a pirate hideout. It turned out to be the Passig Islet Aqua Eco-Park Resort here in Barangay Bato, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur.
The resort features a reception area, cottages, guest rooms, and a playground with basketball and volleyball courts, among other amenities. Visitors can also enjoy water activities such as kayaking, which costs ₱200 per hour. A concrete barrier is currently under construction to provide further protection against strong waves. The resort’s water supply originates from Barangay Bato and is channeled through high-density poly tubes, while electricity is supplied via overhead power cables strung along reinforced concrete poles.
Overnight stays are prohibited, and the site is open only from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is managed by the Local Government Unit (LGU) and Tourism Office of the Municipality of Sta. Cruz—led by Hon. Mayor Tata Sala—in collaboration with the Provincial Government Tourism Office. Passig Islet is not a floating rock; it is a physical island surrounded by seawater. Originally a natural sandbar formed by accumulated coral sand and crushed rock, it is not prone to sinking. However, in the event of a strong earthquake, large waves, or a typhoon, the Sta. Cruz LGU promptly evacuates tourists back to the mainland of Barangay Bato for their safety. After an hour of exploring, I noticed signs of approaching rain, so when the boatman arrived, I immediately boarded the boat to head back to the mainland and return to my point of origin.
You could be the next tourist to visit this incredible and amazing island!
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