In Tanay, there is a river that is probably not as popular as Daraitan or as visited as Batlag and Daranak Falls, but is equally worth a trip especially during Summer and the Holy Week. This is the Daong River whose water is an outflow of Daranak. Like most of the favorite tourist spots here in Tanay, Daong River is mostly unspoilt which gives visitors a feeling of being one with nature. You may want to take a trip there. As you do, plan to keep the river the way it is.

A Bit of History

The word daong is a Tagalog word meaning “dock.” Locals say the river was used as a docking area in the early times.

Daong River opened to the public in the early 70s. During that time, the water was very clear that people were drinking from it. Many species also abound in it. In 2003, concerned residents started collecting a minimum entrance fee to push through with the river’s development. At the start of this year, residents started offering cottages with a rental fee of 50 pesos for a day’s stay and 150 pesos for an overnight’s stay. There are at least 30 cottages scattered in three areas that you can choose from. There is also a small store at the other side of the river where, aside from food and drinks, a videoke machine is available.

People flock to Daong River in summer especially during the Holy Week where penitence is observed. Every year, crowds would observe the parade that begins in the river and ends in the town proper.

How to get there

From Tanay’s town proper, Daong River can be reached in 30 minutes through Sampaloc Road. If you are commuting, you can ask a tricycle to take you there. There is a parking fee of 10 pesos and an entrance fee of 20 pesos. Once you get there, you won’t see the river yet. You need to walk on dirt road and around 150 steps downhill to reach the river. This might seem tiring but you have to wait until you get there.

Enjoying Daong

Once you reach the river below, take heart. As you look around, you will realize that you are already bounded by the sky above, the uplands on the sides and the river below. You are now surrounded by nature. The river stretches as far as your eyes can see. As you walk into the water and stop by rocks that have created mini falls, take time to listen to the flowing water. The sound is so refreshing, it trickles in your ears. The splashes of the running river towards boulders and stones are inviting. Try listening with your eyes closed. Feel the water. It is warm under the sun. Concentrate on the air. It is cooling. Smell its freshness, virgin whiffs in their finest. Try to listen to the flipping leaves too. The crisp sound is a proof that you have nature and only nature as your backdrop. Let the shadows of trees in the rest area and the cottages cover your face. Walk, or rather swim, some more to explore the other end of the river. Let your body soak in the unsalted water. Trek the hillsides. Dance on the sanded and rocky trails. Enjoy and make the most of this experience.

While you are in the river, why don’t you reflect as well? Listen within. A change of location may take you back in proper perspective.

Your Safety First

Be wary, though. As every untouched entity, Daong River has its own set of cautions too. Locals would tell you of the river’s deep parts, around 20 feet, that must be avoided. Visitors are advised to watch out for each other, especially the children, and not to go too far away from their cottages.

It will be good to leave the river bringing with you all that you’ve brought and taken – both trash and memories. Consider those who will visit the river long after you have had the opportunity. Think of the equally refreshing time they will have in the river. As you ponder on these things, be in an attitude of awe and gratitude for one of a few untouched nature spots of the proud town of Tanay.