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Philippine Ostrich and Crocodile Farm e The farm, which began operations back in 1996, with 18 ostriches imported from Africa and Australia, is envisioned to become the main supplier of ostrich meat in the country. Today, it is home to around 700 of the massive, flightless birds, and has become one of Opol’s main educational and tourist destinations. If you’ve never been up close to these large birds, you’ll find they have a knack for rekindling your childlike wonder by their sheer size alone. The bigger ones (which I learned were merely in their early teens) were probably around seven feet tall, with a huge body, and long, muscular legs built for running. I would later learn that ostriches are the fastest animals over time, able to sustain speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour for about 30 minutes. So while they looked adorable while fenced in, I’m nearly certain I’d be petrified if one decided to chase after me. According to farm manager Julius Mugot, their female ostriches produce between 60 to 80 eggs a year. And because of the substantial population growth of the farm’s ostriches, they’ve become the predominant supplier of ostrich meat in MisOr, while also supplying restaurants and hotels nationwide.
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From the main highway in Opol, you can take a habal-habal (motorcycle) going to the Philippine Ostrich and Crocodile Farm. Fare is PhP30 (one way). Entrance is PhP30 for adults, PhP20 for students, PhP15 for children. You can purchase ostrich meat t at the farm for PhP1,100 per kilo. It is said the meat tastes closer to meat than chicken, and is lower in cholesterol, fat, and calories. Ostrich eggs, for decorative purposes, are also for sale – along with wallets r made from ostrich skin (starts at PhP1,300).
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For more information, contact the Farm Manager, Julius Mugot at (0917) 886-3495.
y The Macajaray Bay breeze made the fiercely blazing sun – apart from serving as a brush that painted the horizon with soothing shades of blue – matter not. It was noon in Opol, and time for the trip’s first lunch, and locals would point us in the direction of Panagatan Seafoods Restaurant. The gorgeous view of the bay and healthy selection of fresh seafood fare, have made the restaurant not only a local favorite, but also a must-try for anyone passing through Opol. Their Kinilaw Panagatan Style y (raw seafood, similar to ceviche - PhP205) is highly recommended
Panagatan Seafoods Restaurant is located along Opol Highway. It also has a branch in Centrio Mall, Cagayan de Oro. For more information, contact (0917) 713-1436 and (0922) 858-6071.