Omagieca Obo-ob Mangrove Garden — Attraction in Cebu

“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” – Lao Tzu

I landed in Cebu past midnight, took a small plane to Bantayan at dawn, and arrived by 8:00 AM—an experience I can only describe as a rollercoaster. Running on no sleep but full of excitement, I headed straight to my first stop: Obo-ob Mangrove Garden, famously known as Camp Sawi.

Bantayan Island, with its shifting tides and changing hues, is a paradise that belongs on a postcard. I thought my favorite place here would be the beaches of Santa Fe or The Ruins, given my love for swimming and rock formations. But to my surprise, it was Mangrove Garden that left the deepest mark on me.

Fully immersing myself with the mangroves and just observing how nature flows and the ecosystem comes together, was a surreal experience. More than the scenery, it was quiet realizations, and the peace that settled in as I wandered alone. If I had to pinpoint what made this place my favorite, perhaps it was the way I lived in the moment. I remember seeing how the sunlight reflected on the water and thinking, “Magical.”

A week prior, I had lunch with my boss at Fable Café, Kenneth Cobonpue’s showroom at BGC. Fort Bonifacio is arguably the most developed place in Manila. In the city, where technology and innovation reign, we see the example of the lengths of human innovation and creativity. Yet, in this simple, hand-built bamboo path, I felt the same ingenuity. It allowed us to admire nature without obstructing its flow, making us observers and immersers rather than disruptors. It was crafted with this experience in mind I thought.

Walking through Mangrove Garden felt like three thousand steps of self-reflection. Standing among the mangroves with knowledge of their role in our ecosystem, I truly felt the force of nature. From entering Camp Sawi to reaching Camp Wagi at the ocean’s edge, I realized how nature and solitude can be the best teachers.

The island wasn’t just a destination; it was a mirror, reflecting back everything I had been too distracted to notice before.

In the hush of solitude, I found something greater than beauty—a moment to simply exist, to...

There’s something profoundly grounding about being among mangroves. They don’t roar like waterfalls or sparkle like lagoons — instead, they whisper. They remind you that nature’s true beauty isn’t always loud or dramatic; sometimes it’s quiet, steady, and deeply essential. Mangroves are the lungs of the sea, the silent guardians of our shores — and here in Bantayan Island, Omagieca Obo-ob Mangrove Garden lets you walk right through that living heartbeat.

I’ve visited mangrove forests before — in Aloguinsan and Anda — but this one stands out. Managed by the OMAGIECA community, the place is lovingly maintained and creatively enhanced. Wooden signages, the famous “Camp Sawi” arch (a nod to the movie filmed here), art installations, and resting huts give the boardwalk a playful yet soulful character. The long bamboo path stretches deep into a lush, tunnel-like canopy reminiscent of Bilar’s man-made forest in Bohol. There is also a bamboo tower which rises above the green — climb it, and you’re rewarded with a sweeping view of the mangroves kissing the sea.

The air hums with the soft chatter of birds and the rustle of leaves. It’s not just a stroll — it’s meditation. Forty minutes here feels like therapy for the soul.

For just ₱50, you don’t just see a tourist spot — you witness a thriving ecosystem and a community that protects it. Whether you come for the views, the photos, or the peace, this place reminds you that the simplest things in nature often leave the...

A Romantic Retreat at Omagieca Obo-ob Mangrove Garden! During my visit to Bantayan last year, I had the pleasure of exploring the enchanting Omagieca Obo-ob Mangrove Garden. This place quickly became a favorite for my partner, who has a deep admiration for mangroves. It was her first time experiencing a walk-in bridges surrounded by these fascinating trees, and her excitement was contagious. As for me, I genuinely enjoyed the serene vibe of the place (no sarcasm intended!).

What made the visit even more special is that Omagieca Obo-ob Mangrove Garden served as the filming location for the movie "Camp Sawi." It has gained popularity as a must-visit spot for couples, symbolizing the success of their relationship. Many people have even chosen this picturesque setting to propose, with the trail leading to a sign that reads "Camp Wagi," meaning "camp of success." If she says yes, this becomes an unforgettable place filled with beautiful memories. So, if you're looking for a romantic and memorable experience in Bantayan, don't miss out on Omagieca Obo-ob Mangrove...