By Remie Degoma

Travel with me to a quiet and mesmerizing town of Alfonso in Cavite. 

Nestled in the rolling hills of Cavite, Alfonso is a town that beckons with its cool breezes, verdant landscapes, and an air of timeless mystery. On the surface, it’s a place for quiet escapes—perfect for those seeking refuge from the frenetic pace of city life. But Alfonso is more than just a weekend getaway; it is a place brimming with culture, history, and stories that blur the line between reality and folklore.

One such tale has become part of Alfonso’s identity, whispered from one generation to the next: the myth of Ina ng Wawa—the Mother of the River. 

The Myth of Ina ng Wawa 

According to local lore, Ina ng Wawa was a benevolent river goddess who watched over the rivers that weave through Alfonso. She was said to possess unparalleled beauty and a heart full of compassion for the townsfolk, especially farmers who depended on the rivers for their livelihood. 

Legend has it that during a period of intense drought, the rivers in Alfonso dried up, leaving the land parched and the people desperate. The goddess, moved by their plight, appeared before the elders in a flowing white dress, her long hair cascading like waterfalls. She promised rain in exchange for the townspeople’s vow to care for nature and treat the rivers as sacred. True to her word, rains came the following day, reviving the rivers and saving the harvest. 

To honor her, a local tradition began: every December, Alfonso celebrates Wawahan, a festival where people gather by the river to offer flowers, light candles, and sing traditional songs. Though the younger generation might see it as a charming ritual, the elders believe it is a solemn pact to keep the rivers alive and pure. 

Walking Through Alfonso’s Lush Landscape 

Alfonso’s charm lies not just in its myth but in how the town’s natural beauty and culture intertwine. A visit here wouldn’t be complete without a stroll through its lush farms and forests. The crisp, pine-scented air is a reminder of why this place is often called the “Baguio of Cavite.”

One of the must-visit spots is the Balay Indang retreat center, a rustic sanctuary where time seems to slow down. Here, you can sit under towering acacia trees, sip a steaming cup of native hot chocolate, and let the echoes of the kulintang (a traditional instrument) soothe your soul. 

Then, there’s the Alfonso Public Market—a bustling hub of local life. Farmers sell freshly harvested fruits and vegetables, bakers showcase their warm pan de coco, and artisans display handwoven baskets and other crafts. Ask around, and you’ll hear snippets of the Ina ng Wawa myth woven into conversations, adding a touch of magic to even the most ordinary exchanges. 

Preserving Nature, Preserving the Myth 

For many locals, the story of Ina ng Wawa is not just a tale; it’s a call to action. Community leaders and environmental advocates in Alfonso have launched programs to rehabilitate their rivers, planting trees along riverbanks and organizing clean-up drives. 

As you walk along the pristine waters of the Kaytitinga Falls—a hidden gem in Alfonso—you might find yourself wondering if the goddess is still watching, her presence felt in the cool spray of the waterfall and the rhythmic murmur of the river. 

Human Stories in the Heart of Alfonso 

Amidst the myth and scenery are the people who make Alfonso what it is today. Take Mang Lino, an 80-year-old farmer who swears he saw Ina ng Wawa as a young boy. His weathered hands trace the outlines of a face he says he’ll never forget, his eyes lighting up as he recounts her ethereal presence. 

Or meet Aling Marites, who runs a small riverside café. She named it “Wawa’s Corner” in honor of the myth and serves the best kakanin (rice cakes) in town. “Every time it rains just when we need it most, I know she’s looking out for us,” she says with a knowing smile. 

Why Alfonso Deserves a Visit 

To visit Alfonso is to step into a world where history, nature, and mythology converge. It’s a place where every ripple in the river carries a story, and every breeze feels like a whisper from the past. Whether you’re seeking serenity, adventure, or a deeper connection to the world around you, Alfonso offers it all—wrapped in an enchanting tale that reminds us of the beauty in believing. So pack your bags and head to this charming town in Cavite. You might not see Ina ng Wawa herself, but in Alfonso’s rivers, forests, and warm community, you’ll feel her presence.