If you believe in Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, you’ll likely view monkeys as distant relatives, intriguing creatures with an uncanny connection to humanity.
And where better to connect with these playful beings than at Sitio Bulak, Oslob in Southern Cebu?
A Unique Wildlife Encounter
My journey to Oslob was a 3.5 to 4-hour drive from the bustling city, a trip that promised a unique wildlife encounter.
Sitio Bulak, a small woodland, serves as a sanctuary for a lively community of monkeys.
This place is aptly described as the “Encounter of the Unggoys in Oslob,” offering a charming interlude after the once-in-a-lifetime experience of swimming with whale sharks.
The Free-Living Monkeys of Oslob – A Playful Community
The monkeys residing here live freely, and they even make appearances when the local caretakers bring them food.
The Hagdan Oslob Monkey Protectors and Farmers Association (HOMPFA) is a dedicated group of volunteers entrusted with the noble responsibility of safeguarding these endearing creatures.
Moreover, they organize monkey-watching tours for curious visitors and guests.
A Day with the Monkeys – Observing Their Natural Behavior
One of the fascinating aspects of this monkey encounter is that you can easily spot these charming creatures from the national road.
Typically, the best time to catch a glimpse of them is in the early morning, around 6 a.m., when they are about 15 meters from the national road.
As the day progresses, around 10 a.m., they venture closer to the highway in search of food and interesting things to explore.
By noon, they retire to the trees for a well-deserved nap.
Conservation and Coexistence – Protecting Farmers’ Livelihoods
However, the significance of this monkey interaction goes beyond a mere natural tourist attraction. It serves as a solution to protect local farmers whose crops were once in danger from these cheeky monkeys.
These creatures, in their pursuit of sustenance, used to wreak havoc on the farmers’ crops.
In response to this challenge, HOMPFA petitioned the local government to allow tourists to feed the monkeys, thus deterring them from raiding the farmers’ fields.
It was a win-win solution that not only safeguarded the livelihoods of the local farmers but also provided an enchanting experience for visitors like me.
Conservation Efforts – Ensuring Safety for All
As a testament to their dedication, fences are now being erected to prevent the monkeys from straying further onto the highways.
This ensures the safety of both the monkeys and the visitors who come to appreciate their playful antics.
