websaytko.com – raredog’s chronicle

One of the cool destinations to go this summer is to Daranak Falls – located in Tanay, Rizal, around 45kms coming from Sta Lucia East Grand Mall in Marcos Hiway via Antipolo – Teresa – Morong. You won’t miss the big sign that says “Welcome to Daranak Falls” that serve as its landmark. From there you still have to travel 2.5km to reach the place. Some rough section though, so just take it slow. Along the way you’ll see private farms, ranchette that utilize horse supplements, and the beautiful and serene forest of Tanay. Parking is P5 for motorcycles and P10 or P20 for other vehicles. Then there’s a P20 entrance fee at Daranak Falls and an additional P50 if you plan to go to Batlag Falls. (a steep walk for 5-8 minutes would bring you there)

I was able to go there unexpectedly as I became a ‘guest rider’ by a group called North Bay Riders. I first met Philip aka Menacespeed at the Shell Marcos Hiway waiting for other members of the group. I asked him if I can join their ride since the ride I was supposed to have with my neighbor didn’t push through. “Sure you can sir, we’ll be going for a fun ride (swim/picnic/anything goes) to Daranak Falls” said Philip. Minutes later his group arrived. He introduced me to their club president Andrew aka Drowth, then after a short chit-chat with some of them, we started our motorbikes and hit the road.

We have two stopovers. One is at the view deck of Garden Cotteges, and another is at Sampaloc,Tanay where we all ate the famous Bulalo Soup. That’s the time I’ve also met their member Peter aka GMSI. My idea was to tag along with them only until Marilaque since I was not ready for the swimming thang. However, since I haven’t been to Daranak yet, I guess I would join them and check-out the place.

One funny thing about this ride is that it somehow made me feel Holy Week is just around the corner. Why you might say? Because I feel like I’m riding with the Apostles. First there’s Philip, then Andrew, then Peter. Coincidence? Furthermore,  they are 12 riders, all in all whoa!  That makes me the 13th rider or Judas haha. I have to leave them early, or I might think of hanging myself on one of those grand Balete trees there lol.

They actually invited me to stay a bit longer for a dip and some nip. Even so, I declined since I have other plans to do that day. As a result, I rode solo all the way home.

It was fun, thrilling, and delightful joining the North Bay Riders even for just one ride, they indeed foster camaraderie and friendship. Thanks and c’yah next ride guys!