Voyage of the Balangay, Butuan's Pride

The 'Masawa Hong Butuan' (background) on her maiden voyage February 4 sailing together with 'Diwata ng Lahi'(foreground) along Butuan Bay enroute to Gingoog City. For easy identification, notice the blue stripes layag (sail) of Masawa Hong Butuan.(photos by Balangay Voyage)

The two Balangay's Diwata ng Lahi and Masawa Hong Butuan left Gingoog City Saturday morning (February 6, 2010), arrived safely at the port of Balingoan, Misamis Oriental before sundown.

Experiencing good weather condition, the Balangay's sailed at an average speed of 12 knots per hour.

However, unexpectedly one bayog (bamboo) suddenly broke of the mid-sails frame of Masawa Hong Butuan caused by strong winds.

A quick repair was made by the Balangay crew to Masawa Hong Butuan's mid-sail bayog upon reaching Balingoan port.

The Voyage of the Balangay continue sailing in the morning of February 7 enroute to the island province of Camiguin where they will spearhead a two-day activity before heading towards Cagayan de Oro City.

Pride of Butuan

kids on board Diwata ng Lahi while watching the launching of Masawa Hong Butuan


waving the Philippine flag, showing Butuan's pride. Balangay Team Leader Art Valdez encouraged Filipinos by saying 'Kaya ng Pinoy, while Butuanons proudly shouts 'Mahinang Hong mga Butuanon' as Butuan Global Forum, Inc led by its President Laurice Guillen and the Butuan Historical & Cultural Foundation with its President local historian Greg Hontiveros successfully made into realization the construction of the second Balangay christened Masawa Hong Butuan


whatever is the position and hardships, ready as always to cover the historic event


Bayanihan spirit, all in the name of Masawa Hong Butuan


made of Dungon Tree (yakal tree, Masawa Hong Butuan will mark another history putting Butuan in the limelight as she travels with Diwata ng Lahi on its epic Voyage to complete the Philippine mission and endeavors for the Southeast Asia.