Nothing has brought us closer to nature than this pandemic has… We have discovered that there is a place we can run off to in our lowest times, breathe the freshest of air, the smell of the earth right after it rained, exhale away all our worries….
One of these kinds of places is at the heart of Baganihan in Buda (Bukidnon – Davao route). A wife and husband team has opened their place to the public. Their restaurant and camping grounds have been aptly named Campo Fuego, translated from Spanish to mean Campfire. Located about 7 to 10 minutes away from the Buda highway.
Din, retired from the corporate world after 22 years of service, is also working part-time as trainer in the Tourism Sector with qualification in Cookery and BPP in TESDA. She has been awarded as TESDA Idols last August 2021. While Mike, is currently working at PT Mayora / Kopiko Phils. Even with that on their plates, both are hands on and have not hired any staff.They are flawlessly executing the roles of Chef, Camp Crew, maintenance, server all with joy in their faces. Such an inspiration to me and the people they come in contact with. For Din and Mike, it is a life-long dream.
As I am writing this article, a family of ten are happily descending to their own escape, with a look of awe because of the view of the Kwagsik Waterfalls right at the site.
They have a flowing stream of natural spring water, where they grow their own Watercress, which they also serve to their customers, fresh farm-to-table goodness! Watercress which they supply to some bigger restaurants in Davao.
They have hosted Charcuterie sessions, wine, cheese and cold cuts. Your table dolled up, only at Campo Fuego can you see some fancy table setting in a rustic environment. If you can only see the hearts in my eyes!
You can rent the place for camping only, or camping with in-house food from their restaurant menu. There are exciting activities you can do in the area, falls trekking to Kwagsik Falls, river swimming, campfire, marshmallow and hotdog roasting, bird watching, exploring the woods, mountain hiking, most special of all is the stargazing…where you can gaze at the hundred of tiny stars you couldn’t normally see if you were in the city.
As you end your day in the dimming lights, you can no longer see the waterfalls, but you retire to its gentle sound, lulling you to sleep…
You can book the place via their FB page Campo Fuego by Dindin’s Rustic Kitchen. Cellphone number 0928-725-0524. Dindin Rustic Kitchen is also famous for their Lechon Belly, so flavorful, with herbs and spices from their own herb garden, roasted to perfection for 6 hours! I have already ordered it a number of times. Do order in advance, at least a day before!
Din and Mike, and the community of Baganihan dwellers have the vision of cultivating the lands to grow more organic and pesticide-free produce. Looking forward to sustainable-living and retiring in this serene, stress-free environment. Their labors are not in vain because groups have been constantly booking since July this year. Their personal passion and zest for this venture has paid off. Their endeavor is a driving force. Reminding me that even in the midst of chaos, they are still a lot of things you can do. By banking on your dreams…you can never go wrong.
