iArea code: (85)
Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)
TRIVIA Known as one of the oldest cities in the country, Butuan was the site of the first Easter Mass. One of many theories as to the source of it’s name is Datu Buntuan, a chieftain who ruled before the Spanish arrived
TOUCHDOWN From the airport, you can hire a taxi or a van to take you to the city proper. Once in the city, you do as the Butuan residents do and take the ubiquitous tricycle
BY DAY Visit the Banza Church ruins in Lilo, Brgy Banza. It is said that this was one of the most beautiful churches in the region before it was destroyed in the war
BY NIGHT Dine at Weegol’s, a Butuan favorite for chicken inasal. Also be sure to try the buko halo halo dessert. It has two branches, one on Montilla Blvd and one near the City Hall
SLEEP Affordable rooms and good amenities at Hotel Karaga. Provides airport transfers, has a business center and café. North Montilla Blvd, tel: (85) 341 5405, www.hotelkaraga.com
LOCAL LIFE
Mogie Talampas
environment/development professional
Best breakfast
Try Margie’s Kitchen for a delicious breakfast and yummy fresh baked goods
Best dinner
For dinner, Aling Cora (near Urios) and Suise Canal on Montilla Blvd is a sure bet
Best night out
Uncle Sam’s on the Diosdado Macapagal Bridge — eat the balut!
Best buys
Browse for the visual arts (paintings) of Bada Toralba, a local artist
Best souvenirs
Bracelets, necklaces and earrings at Madyaw Kadyaw or a Manobo costume
Must-do experience
During the Abangan Festival in August, take a boat ride along Agusan River
Must learn…
…that Butuan has 1,683 years of recorded history. It is the “Timber City of the South”
Insider’s tip
The third Sunday of January is Kahimunan Festival, Butuan’s fiesta in honor of Sto Nino
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