A man and a boy enjoying the wide expanse of sea and sky littered with virginal islets

A crack in one of the cliffs may be another cave

Traversing the sea between Pilar, Sorsogon and Masbate on a pumpboat instead of a fastcraft has its own rewards: on a fine day, the rugged coastlines of Ticao and its many islets offer clear views of stunning visuals. Wild seascapes that just overwhelm the senses.

Soaring and sharp ridges dotted with vegetation clinging on the sheer rockface can give a sense of awe. A pale yellow limestone cliff rising up from the waters is a wonder. There are several cracks on these rock walls and many caves can be seen, its gaping maw sending a spine tingling sensation of the hidden creatures, real or imagined, that it might harbor.

Hidden coves tempt a would be sun worshipper to spend a few hours in its white sandy beach accessible only through a motorized banca and give a sense of privacy to the visitor. And what about the wide expanse of blue sea and sky strewn with virginal islets that form a jaw-dropping scenery that stuns the senses? Smell and taste the saltiness of the air. Feast at the visual splendor. Hear the waves lapping wildly at the sandy shore or waves crashing and breaking on a rock. Feel the fresh and clean air touching your entire being and imprinting on your mind forever.

Then the humming sound of the motor driving the pumpboat shatters your imagination and bring you back to reality as the vessel approaches the urban landscape of Masbate City.

Stunning seascapes greet the traveler as one journeys between Pilar and Masbate. The massive island at the background is Ticao.

The yellowish limestone face contrasts greatly with the vegetation at the background.

Just one of several caves that can be found

Cycads and other vegetation grows at a very steep incline, almost 90 degrees off a rock face

A secluded white sand beach in one of the islets that dot the sea.

Estan Cabigas is a multiawarded blogger, freelance photographer and writer based in Makati City, the Philippines. A true blue Cebuano, he makes stunning images and meaningful photo stories. He has contributed to local and international publications including CNN Go, National Geographic Magazine, Geo (Germany), Sunday Times Magazine (London) and other publications.

To know more about him and his photography, visit estancabigas.com.