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.