The Panikian Lake - Occidental Mindoro
The 3rd class municipality of Sablayan in Occidental Mindoro is currently regaining its popularity in terms of world-class Tourism destinations. In recent years, the World Longest Island to Island Zipline open its door and became popular over time. Sablayan is also the home of the second (2nd) largest contagious coral reef in the world, the Apo Reef. Love beaches? Try to visit the Pandan Island Grande and you will surprise by its white sand coastline and crystal clear water.
Tired of soaking up with the Beach waters? Then, Sablayan has an alternative place for you, Panikian Lake. Located in Barangay San Agustin, it is about 10 kilometers or an almost 30-minute motorcycle ride from downtown. The lake is named after the Paniki or fruit bats that used to be their home before. The Old folks say that the fruit bats weighing a kilo before, but people hunt them for meat as a result of such disappearance.
Panikian Lake has the most beautiful sceneries and is very accessible of all lakes in Sablayan and considered as the best place for group picnics, canoeing, fishing, and bird watching. Most travelers from a neighboring town, just stop here to enjoy the breathtaking views and rest while making a food trip. There are cottages available in this place which gives visitors to relax and bond with natures and experience other activities
HOW TO GET THERE
The closest airport, if you’re traveling from outside Mindoro, is to reach the town of San Jose. Airline flight available for NAIA -3 and Clark bound for San Jose Airport (SJI). Then, a short tricycle ride going to Bus or Van Terminal bound for Sablayan, Mamburao or Abra de Ilog. It is 88 kilometers from San Airport or an estimated at least two (2) hours of normal ride from San Jose. Ask your driver to drop you off at Panikian Lake Entrance
TRAVEL NOTES
The entrance fee in Panikian Lake is FREE of charge, but all tourist should pay for the environmental fee that cost 55 pesos for Local tourist and; for those residing in Sablayan, just present your Identification Card to pay less as many 25 pesos. Tour guide fee amounting to P1,000 pesos but it is optional.