By the river Agusan I sat down and ate.....

If it wasn't for the brochure I got from Express Hardware, I woudn't have known that there is a hidden treasure 10 minues away from downtown Butuan just waiting to be discovered. It's not the complimentary drink coupon that comes with it that entices me. It is the thought that away from the hustles and bustles of the city, one could still find peace despite the chaos and carbon dioxide emission the city inevitably brings. I have also gotten tired of eating in conventional restos in Butuan and so I decided to head to the place that seems to await me.

For some of the locals, there's nothing about the Agusan River that excites and thrills them. Well, not anymore. Familiarity has kept people from appreciating the beauty that can be supposedly seen everyday. But most people dont know is that the river has a history worth rediscovering. To lead you to that path, there's a place to go: Riverside Grill and Marina.

Riverside Grill & Marina is an eco-tourism destination located in Barangay Pangabugan. It is the only waterside restaurant in the City, and features Salads, Stir-fry and the Best Burger on the Island. The "eat in the rough" style gives you a comforting and laid-back experience best shared with your family and friends. The best feature of the place is their freedom charter: "30’ open bow console vessel with full electronics, powered by 225hp 4-stroke Yamaha engine. It will take you to a guided river cruises, weddings, ocean trips, sunset cruises & more." The place is hailed as your information resource in the Butuan Region and of the Agusan River.

While sitting and eating a very delectable burger in the resto's waterside balcony, I gazed from a distance and realized how I am so much at peace contemplating the undulating fertile valleys that overspread with rich green and immense trees. I also took refuge in the vast river surrounding me that amidst its silence and calmness, it bears itself as a witness to the history that sprawls from the beginning of the17th century which features the zeitgeist of Spanish dwellers and missionary activities. All of which combine to form a picturesque landscape, a colorful history and a rich cultural heritage.