JourneyingJames as a Copra Farmer in Marinduque

TO THE WHITE BEACH OF MONGPONG ISLAND

This is one of those moments that I don’t have ay idea where I am going. What I know is that Marinduquenos are the most hospitable Filipinos I met. Furthermore, I want to visit those places that are not frequented by tourists- so when I heard of this Mongpong island off the coast of the town of Sta. Cruz, Marinduque, I instantly grabbed the opportunity to see it for myself. Actually, the moment I heard that it boasts of white beach sand, I was 100% sure I’m going there.

Mongpong Island, virgin white beach, no beach resort in sight

So I boarded a banca that goes to Mongpong and found myself surounded with the locals of that small island. Like other provincial towns and villages, everyone knows each one. So I was there sitting just observing them, smiling to kids and somehow trying to listen to their conversations. I still don’t know where I will be spending the night in the island. What I knew is that I have a hammock in my backpack and I prayed that it will not rain.

THE ARRIVAL

And after 2 hours of scenic boat ride, I was welcomed by this beach port:

White beach port! How cool is that?

I was asked by my fellow passengers on where I am going? I said, I don’t know. Maybe I will go to the Brgy. Captain and ask if I could stay overnight near the baranggay hall, unfortunately the captain is in another island for a meeting. Glad I was approached by a guy named, Ronron. He volunteered to tour me first around the island. While we are walking to the other side of the beach, I asked him where he came from. He said he came from school and asked to be excused because he is going to help his father in copra farming.

Ronron and the makeshift oven where coconuts are cooked

*LIGHT BULB MOMENT!*

I said to myself, that since I still have lots of days during ISANGDAAN Journey, I can say ‘no’ to the white beach and ‘yes’ to learn a new ‘trade’ instead. I asked him if I could help him on his chores. Ronron was surprised but permitted me anyway. I told about him the challenge I am doing. Although hesitant, he then offered me to stay in their ‘bahay kubo.’ He was very conscious of their simple house. I said, I don’t mind, what I just need are two post or two coconut trees to hang my hammock.

After about 30 minutes of walking uphill, we reached their place and I was welcomed as if I was a family member. Given buko juice and asked to take a short rest. I said I want to learn how to make a copra.

While helping them gather the coconuts, sweaty but happy!

I also volunteered to fetch water because they don't have fresh water supply in their place. I learned how to ride and drive a carabao in the process.

Here’s the Copra Making 101 video:

I will be forever grateful to the De Luna family, adopting me for a night during the 29th day of my journey. I wish to be back there someday, with friends so they will somehow learn how it is to be a copra farmer.

Where is Mongpong Island, Sta. Cruz, Marinduque?

Marinduque Tourism Map, Mongpong island on the northeast.

How to get there?

There is a port in Sta. Cruz going to Mongpong island. Going there depends on the schedule or how many locals will board the boat. As of this writing there are two schedules: 8am and 10am, everyday. Be sure to be at the port an hour before.

James Wearing Four Different Hats- a series of some unforgettable moments during my #isangdaan journey.

Rice Terraces Farmer / Big Brother / Copra Farmer / Luxury Traveler

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This is post part of ISANG DAAN Journey. ISANG DAAN is a personal journey and challenge to backpack around the Philippines the cheapest way possible for 100 days.

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Days 1-50: ISANGDAAN Journey map. Days 51-100- ISANGDAAN Journey map.