Mindanao Advice

We went to the place through the Sasa wharf in the morning. We could ride one of the biggest LCTs, LCT Mae Wess 4, but since it got full before the van’s turn to get in, we just waited for LCT Nicole Superferry. It’s not as big as the Mae Wess, but after 10 minutes, we’re in Samal.

We arrived at the village 15 minutes from Camp Holiday Resort and Recreation. I was amazed at the smooth road condition. In the early phase of this development, tripping with buyers would take up to 20-30 minutes because the community road was so rough and uncomfortable. It was a smooth ride during my trip, and the roads inside the village were also extensive and of good quality.

Then I went to the View Deck and took a lot of pictures 🙂

I saw a billboard and the very first house built in Holiday Oceanview… it still looked as good as new.

I continued to check the place and the changes. This island (for spa amenities) was still non-existent when I started selling some years ago.

On the far left is the ongoing condotel development consisting of 3 buildings with 95 units. The estimated finished year is 2017. It will have a clubhouse, kiddie pool, adult pool, bridges, and other amenities. It is near the beach facing the Davao Gulf, just wow! As you can see, the one under construction is in the west wing.

The most controversial feature of HOV Samal is the yacht area, where a terrible incident happened, but the charm is still captivating. If only there were no mar in its reputation 🙁

I also looked at some of the Model Houses, and they now have studio units, 2-3 bedroom houses, and lot packages available for sale.

As we started to go home, I kept thinking about how the place became a hit among the media during the kidnapping incident, but at its calmest and most beautiful time, there was not much hype about it. I even received an email from a Japanese TV station asking permission to use one of my pics on my website for their news report. The incident made the place more known, I guess. According to HOV’s marketing manager, Ms. Malen Faune, the sales are steady. Of course, I am sad for the captives whose destiny is still unknown.

We passed by Camp Holiday again and checked it out a little bit:

Alas, we went on board the same barge…

Despite the warnings and fear, I have no regrets about going to Holiday Oceanview Samal. What waited for me were many improvements that I am happy to share.