TACLOBAN CITY – Amid the challenges brought by the pandemic, a coastal community in Allen, Northern Samar, seized an opportunity to showcase their hidden gem to the world.

SUNSET in Barangay Cabacungan, Allen Northern Samar. (Buenos Diaz sa Caba)

In late 2020, Aljun Diaz, a 33-year-old lawyer, began to realize his dream of unveiling the beauty of their village, Barangay Cabacungan, to the public.

Diaz, the owner of Buenos Diaz sa Caba Beach House and Resto and a former youth leader, is one of the pioneers who spearheaded the transformation of their backyard into a thriving restaurant that also offers accommodations to tourists.

"I've been wanting to promote Caba, and that was the perfect time because Allen was open and accessible. People were contained and they wanted to go out," Diaz said.

Buenos Diaz started offering free tour packages around Caba and Imaga Beach. They even introduced water activities like paddle boarding with the assistance of a youth paddle-board club, aiming to familiarize locals with other water sports.

The community's initiative quickly gained momentum, attracting visitors eager to explore the untouched paradise of Caba.

With the power of social media, word spread, and soon, their establishment expanded to include nine cozy rooms for guests.

Encouraged by the positive response, other beachfront owners followed suit, supported by the local government unit's seed funding to set up cottages along the pristine shoreline.

"Someone just needed to start, then others followed, and the LGU also helped by giving P30,000 to be able to set up cottages for about 30 beachfront owners," he shared.

Located just nine kilometers from the town proper, Buenos Diaz now welcomes an average of 30 to 40 guests weekly, offering not just accommodation but also free-diving lessons led by certified instructors.

Diaz is happy in putting Caba on the map while emphasizing the importance of preserving their coastal treasures.

CABA Beach in Barangay Cabacungan, Northern Samar. (Buenos Diaz sa Caba)

Through initiatives like weekly beach cleanups and environmental fees, the community strives to protect its environment and educate fishermen on sustainable practices.

Balancing commercial growth with the preservation of its rural charm, the community of Caba aims to offer a unique experience while safeguarding its surroundings.

Despite the challenges of managing the influx of tourists, they remain committed to maintaining the authenticity and warmth that sets their village apart.

Diaz described the journey of Caba's transformation as a beautiful disaster – a testament to the resilience and unity of a community dedicated to preserving their piece of paradise for generations to come.

Allen Mayor Jose Arturo Suan noted that Caba Beach now contributes to the LGU's income aside from helping the local community.

They now receive an average of 1,000 tourists weekly.

"We are organizing them and letting them develop first. Since I assumed in 2019, we have a P2-million annual increase in revenue and have doubled our revenue to P19 million this year," he said.

He added that they have one of the longest seasons for longboard surfing in the country and conducts an international competition annually to promote the sport.