A Visit to the Town of Atimonan in
Quezon Province
by Jhaypee Guia on May 09, 2014
Photo by cris restan of flickr.com
The Mermaid (Serina ay) - Famous Landmark of Atimonan, Quezon
Atimonan, located in Quezon Province, is one of the most progressive towns
in the province, blessed with both natural and historical riches. It definitely
is one of the stops any adventurer should make if they make a trip south of
Luzon. Its attractions never fail to disappoint.
Overview
Atimonan Town is a first class municipality in the province of Quezon,
Philippines. It lies on the western shore of the province, 173 kilometers
southeast of Manila. Atimonan is bounded by the municipalities of Gumaca,
Plaridel, Pagbilao and Padre Burgos.
Today, Atimonan is a fast-growing town known for its cleanliness, beautiful
beaches, many historical and natural scenery and most of all warm and
peace-loving people.
Photo by cris restan of flickr.com
Origin of the Towns name
There are conflicting stories on how Atimonan got its name. Some concluded
that the name Atimonan originated from a tree known as Atimon alleged to
have been prevalent in the area and had reportedly served many uses to
the residents. These trees are now extinct and its non-existence could not
be accounted for.
Others say it came from the words atin muna, signifying a policy, unity of
feeling and sentiments among the residents that bolster their spirit in the
fight against their enemies during that time.
The most popular version is that it originated from the name of its founder,
Simeona Mangaba, known to her townspeople as Ate Monang. She was a
woman reputed to be of unquestionable leadership, which the people
regarded as their adoptive parent, leader and protector.
Ate Monang was the eldest sister of Francisco Mangaba, the first captain of
the town. She founded the town on February 4, 1608 along the banks of the
big Maling River, now known as the Atimonan River.
Photo by cris restan of flickr.com
Tourism
Bantakay Falls & Cave
Fresh and cold water gracefully cascades on top of beautifully carved rocks;
cave with underground water and naturally arranged stalagmites and
stalactites. Ideal for hiking and nature tripping.
Palanyag Cave
Ideal for nature lovers & cave exploration
Malusak Cave
Ideal for nature and cave exploration trips
Cueva Santa Cave
Ideal for nature and cave exploration trips
Tinandog Cave
Ideal for small group cave exploration
Lumiliay River Waterfalls
Ideal for picnic and outing
Kilait Lubi Falls
Ideal for picnic and outing
Quezon National Forest Park
A nature park, an ideal stopover of travelers after a winding ride at Zigzag
Road. Within the park is the large statue of the towns patron, Nuestra
Senora de los Angeles, and the parks lagoon and pavilion to dine, relax and
take pictures.
Pinagbanderahan
A monument located at the heart of Quezon National Forest Park; served as
a vantage point to view Mt. Banahaw Islands of Mindoro and Marinduque
and major towns of Quezon Province.
Iskong Bantay Observatory Tower
An observation and defense tower built to guard the town of Atimonan
against Moro pirates during raids in 1872.
Atimonan Roman Catholic Church
Built in 1683, the seat of the peoples culture and religion.
Sirena sa Lamon Bay
Legendary landmark, a favorite stop point of travelers.
Magsaysay Falls
A kilometer distance from the National Road, located at Brgy. Magsaysay,
consist of forest reserve area with waterfalls down the river stream.
Marulas Cave
This cave can be found at Barangay Tinandog, like the other caves in
Atimonan, this cave can be an exciting venue for nature-lovers.
Nilubugan Cave
Located at Barangay Sta. Catalina, this cave presents an exciting interior
and passageway. Its walls and ceiling made of sparkling white limestone
were formed into huge structures much like a chandelier.
