サンタルシア・フォールズ
清らかな滝の水に癒される
日本では、滝が発するマイナスイオンを浴びると癒し効果があると言われます。フィリピンにも美しい滝が全国に存在し、人々を魅了しています。前ページで紹介したケソン州ドロレスにあるマウント・バナハウのふもとにあるサンタルシア・フォールズもそんな滝の１つです。
聖週間の巡礼スポット
小さな村を抜け、川に続く267段の階段を降りると、豊かな緑とさわやかな川風が迎えてくれます。さらに進めば透明に澄んだ水がせせらぎ流れる川、そして木々の間から落ちる滝があります。このサンタルシア・フォールズは、万病を治し、困難に直面した心を癒して元気付ける奇跡の滝と言われています。特に聖週間には多くの人が訪れ、全身を洗い流して清めるように滝に打たれる姿が見られます。
奇跡を信じる、信じないにかかわらず、 サンタルシア・フォールズは滝の音が響く静寂の中、心の安らぎを得ることができるスポットなのです。
Sta. Lucia Falls
The Water that Heals
Healing, spiritual growth, and serenity are what you can expect when you visit the sacred Santa Lucia Falls located at the foot of Mt. Banahaw in the town of Dolores, Quezon. These miraculous waters are believed to have the power to heal any sickness and rejuvenate the spirit from life’s hardships, which is why it has become a famous spot not just as one of the mountain’s puestos but also by itself.
Going to the falls is only a short trek passing the small village leading to the stairs with 267 steps down the river. Scenic views of lush greenery will greet you with towering trees and the hum of the breeze. As you get closer, the sound of the river becomes more prominent until the crystal clear waters are revealed.
Just like other Puestos or holy spots in Mt. Banahaw, the Santa Lucia Falls is a popular destination to visit during Holy Week and for pilgrimages. People would often take a swim or stand under the showers of the cold, refreshing water and bask in its energy as they set their intentions. Even if you’re not a believer, there’s no doubt that it offers a serene experience of peace and tranquility.
Before pursuing the miracles of the Santa Lucia Falls, you must first give respect and gratitude, and know that the blessings of these waters are meant for the goodness of mankind.
Location: Santa Lucia Falls, Dolores, Quezon Province
