Pusan Point Travel Guide
Pusan Point – Where the Sun Shines First in the Philippines
Pusan Point – Caraga, Davao Oriental — Ever wondered where the first sunrise of the new millennium was spotted? It is in this place the rugged rocks meet the sea and howling winds – the place called Pusan Point. This geographical landmark is considered to be the easternmost point of the Philippines and is the place where the first sunrise of the new millennium was witnessed on the dawn of January 1, 2000.
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The historic event was marked by a cross, named the “Millennium Cross” seen at the edge of the cliff of Pusan Point overlooking the vast Pacific Ocean. It is believed that the day starts 8 minutes earlier than in Manila.
To complement your stay and visit at Pusan Point, there is a newly opened museum, the Mandaya Heritage Museum, inaugurated last May 2024. It showcases the rich culture and heritage of the Mandaya Tribe of Davao Oriental and how it thrived as a people of the province. The museum is open daily (not sure on weekends) from 0800 H to 1700 H.
Pusan Point Travel Guide
Wondering how to get to Pusan Point? Here is a simple travel guide for you.
(1) If you are coming from Mati City, ride a bus or van with “Cateel” or “Baganga” Signs. These vehicles will all pass through Barangay Santiago in Caraga municipality. Travel time is approximately 2 hours (van) and 2.5 hours (bus), and the fare is around ₱ 250 – 300 (van). I have not asked how much for a bus ride. If you are coming from Tagum City, travel time is approximately 4 hours; and if you are coming from Davao City, travel time is approximately 5 hours.
(2) Alight at Kuta Bridge in Barangay Santiago, Caraga. From there you can see motorcycles and tuktuks randomly parked in the village. You can ask the locals there if they are willing to bring you to Pusan Point. From Kuta bridge, the distance to Pusan Point is around 8 to 9 kilometers away, about a 15 to 20 minutes ride. Fare is negotiable, well for me, I paid my tuktuk / baobao driver ₱ 400 round trip as he also waited for me while I was touring around the area. Negotiate on the fare as much as possible, especially if you are going there as a group. It is also an advantage if you have a private vehicle.
@turistaboy 90+ days before Christmas and exploring where the sun first rises in the Philippines, the easternmost point – PUSAN POINT, CARAGA, DAVAO ORIENTAL! 🧭➡️ Pusan Point Travel Guide here 👉🏼 #TuristaBoy #DavaoTourism #Davao #DavaoRegion #DOTXI @Tourism Philippines
(3) Upon reaching Pusan Point, you first have to register at the Information booth and pay ₱ 50 entrance fee. The park opens every sunrise and closes around 1700 H. There are tour guides available to tour you around the park and in the museum.
(4) You can freely explore the area but the personnel always emphasize climbing at the cliff or rocky areas at your own risk as it is an open area and winds can be strong at times. There are sari-sari stores outside the gate of Pusan Point if you feel the need to eat and rest.
(5) Lastly, enjoy and brag that you have been to the Easternmost point of the Philippines!
We’re born to travel!
About Aldrick 'chiki' Agpaoa
