“Some places don’t just capture your attention—they demand your presence.”
The Call of Biri: More Than Just Rocks
“How far is Biri from here?” I asked casually, admiring a framed photo of the island’s iconic rock formations. “About two hours by jeep, boat, and motorcycle,” replied the staff.
Bam! “I’m going to Biri, Glen!”
My new friend Glen, in charge of my “smooth Samar talk and travel,” looked visibly concerned—but that didn’t stop me. And so began our offbeat journey into the rugged beauty of Biri Island, Northern Samar.
A Journey Fueled by Curiosity (and a Jeep Full of Chickens)
The next morning, Neth (a Taclobanon I convinced to tag along) and I found ourselves inside a jeepney filled with people, produce, and chickens tucked inside bayong bags. The ride was long, bumpy, and filled with frequent stops—but Samar’s locals made it lighter. Conversant, kind, and helpful, they negotiated our boat fare and made us feel right at home.
As a non-Waray speaker, I felt grateful to have Neth bridge the language gap—and even she had to ask for translations at times! It was a reminder that connection often transcends language.
Arriving in Biri: Smooth, Seamless, and Surreal
From the boat ride to the motorcycle lift to the tourism reception, everything in Biri was orderly, courteous, and genuinely welcoming. No haggle, no hustle. The guide even offered his slippers when I showed up in shoes—rookie mistake.
And then came the island itself. Biri floored the landscape photographer in me.
Rock Formations That Tell Stories
Biri is home to more than five clustered rock formations, three of which are accessible by foot during low tide. But the coast? It’s so much more. Mangroves, exposed reefs, tidepools, and marine life create a backdrop that shifts with every wave and ray of light.
The photo compositions are endless: sunrise over the rocks, sunset behind the waves, star trails in the midnight sky. I didn’t have my full landscape gear this time (thank you, 36-hour travel detour), but maybe that was a blessing. I was in full tourist mode, soaking it all in.
Island Life: Sun, Laughter, and Lessons
We roasted under the tropical sun—Neth gamely posing and clicking, despite the heat. “Ok lang doc!” she’d say with a laugh. The only resto near the formations served authentic island food, and the view alone was a feast.
Camping near the formations is prohibited for safety and conservation, but the island still lets you feel immersed. “Next time, I’m coming back fully prepared,” I promised myself.
Tips for Your Own Biri Rock Adventure
“How would you recommend going to Biri?” a friend asked.
“It depends on how you dream it,” I answered.
Here’s what I’ve learned:
- Do your research. Know the tides, times, and access points.
- Come early. Mornings offer the best light and cooler temps.
- Bring essentials. Umbrellas, sandals, swimwear, sun protection.
- Stay a day or two. Shoot sunrise, sunset, and night skies.
The rocks are more than scenery. They’re silent storytellers of nature and history—remnants of geological time and wartime strongholds.
Rock Your Way
Biri wasn’t on my itinerary. But it changed the way I travel. It reminded me that spontaneity, paired with presence, can offer the most unforgettable frames.
Even without the perfect gear, perfect schedule, or perfect plan—just being there was enough.
So if you’re already there and forgot everything I just said? Just rock it.
Gratitude
To the Northern Samar Medical Society for inviting me to speak in Catarman. To Glen, for being the dependable host and family man. And to Neth, my impromptu travel buddy—your kindness and curiosity made this side trip richer than expected.
Drop me a call when you’re around South Mindanao. I owe you one.
Filed under: Mindful Frames | Hiking and Trail Discovery — for those drawn to beauty, spontaneity, and the joy of discovering stories written in stone.
