Wawa Dam: A local heritage gem
Do you want a complete break from the hustle and bustle of the city? Are you looking for a quick getaway where you don’t even need to travel far? Approximately an hour away from the metro, you can get your much-needed vacation in the hidden rustic sanctuary, Wawa Dam.
Located in the heart of Rodriguez (formerly Montalban), Rizal, Wawa Dam is a constructed gravity dam that lies between Mt. Pamitinan and Mt. Binacayan. The two mountains form a breathtaking sight that resembles a portal to the heavens, thus the name wawa, which means “entrance” in Dumagat.
A remnant of the past
Aside from being an outdoor destination, Wawa Dam has long been a local piece of history. Legend has it that a mythological giant hero named Bernardo Carpio held the two mountains apart with his mighty hands to keep them from clashing. Some versions claim that he was trapped in between and is still trying to break his chains to this day.
It was also historically used by the revolutionary leader Supremo Andres Bonifacio, who established the Katipunan’s secret headquarters in one of Pamitinan’s caves. It is where they declared independence from Spain, a year before the Philippine Revolution began. Until now, the cave still bears the Katipunan’s scribbled words: “Viva la Independencia.”
The dam started operating during the American occupation in 1909 to supply the water demands of Manila, but it was eventually abandoned when the Angat watershed system got completed in 1962. Nevertheless, Wawa was still acknowledged as an “Important Cultural Property” by the National Museum in 2019.
A timeless gem of a place
Tourists can now wander around the reservoir with the presence of ancient ruins side by side, including the gorge and its creeks.
Hikers and mountaineers frequently visit Wawa Dam as it is the jumping-off point for treks to either Mt. Pamitinan or Mt. Binacayan. It is also a perfect place to explore the extreme sport of rock climbing since there are a lot of huge limestone boulders in the stream. Not only that– different cycling groups often include Wawa Dam as a part of their route for mountain biking.
Families and a bunch of barkadas spend time in Wawa for sightseeing. In case they don’t want to swim or rent a cottage, they can take a boat ride to appreciate the full scenic view of the gorge. Locals also sell a variety of memorabilia other than fruits, drinks, and delicacies for visitors to infinitely reminisce the site.
Lastly, the majestic landscape of Wawa is such a delight for travel photographers and even photography enthusiasts. They can also immerse themselves with the people in the community to produce more meaningful photographs. Any photographer seeking to create art would benefit much from the picturesque dam.
See? History and nature are not the only things Wawa Dam has to offer. The real adventure also awaits! You’ll be surprised at how the place is always buzzing with a long list of activities. Just make sure to follow the safety health protocols before plunging into the fun!
How to get to Wawa Dam
If you travel by a private vehicle, the fastest route, despite the typical traffic, is through Commonwealth Ave. Take Payatas Road going to J.P Rizal St. in Rodriguez until you reach M.H Del Pilar St. There’s a parking lot at the entrance of Wawa Village where locals can look after your vehicle in any amount.
If you are in public transit, ride a UV Express van in front of Jollibee-Farmers, Cubao going to Rodriguez for a fare of 50 PHP. Your drop-off point will be in Luvers-Puregold San Rafael where you can take a tricycle to Wawa Village for 20 PHP.
You must walk for 5-10 minutes starting from the entrance to witness how the beauty of Wawa Dam unfolds right before your eyes.
Indeed, you can’t truly get enough for its splendor nurtures the soul. Start to feel the embrace of nature and history as you walk along the trails of Wawa Dam. This visual paradise will instill a sense of peace and freedom in you. I can tell you this because I’ve lived here.
