Bulata Pier: The Abandoned Port Facing Danjugan Island

History does not always survive in museums. Sometimes, it remains beside the sea—in rusted structures, weathered concrete, and a shoreline that once carried the sound of industry.

In Barangay Bulata, Cauayan, Negros Occidental, an old port stands as a reminder of a different era. Known locally as Bulata Pier or the Abandoned Port, the site was once part of the operations of the now-defunct Maricalum Mining Corporation. It served as a shipping point for copper exports and as an entry point for fuel needed by the mining operation. Copper was transported overseas, including to Japan and China.

At its busiest, this area was closely connected to the life of the mining community. Workers and families depended on the company, while vessels and cargo gave the coast a purpose beyond fishing and tourism. The old port was not simply a structure by the water—it was part of the economic heartbeat of the surrounding area.

But mining activity eventually declined. Maricalum Mining stopped its mining and milling operations in 2001 amid continuing losses, and its properties later changed hands through foreclosure proceedings.

With the industry gone, the port slowly fell silent.

Years of saltwater, wind, rain, and strong waves changed the place. Rust began to cover the remaining structures. Concrete surfaces became rough and worn. What was once a working industrial port gradually became a quiet coastal landmark, shaped by nature and time.

Today, Bulata Pier has found a different identity. It is a free public spot where local residents and visitors come to swim, take photos, hold family picnics, celebrate birthdays, or simply enjoy the sea breeze. The water is often clear, the coastline is framed by large rocks, and the view opens toward the famous Danjugan Island Marine Reserve—a protected island sanctuary located around three kilometers off the Bulata coast.

Bulata Pier is not a luxury resort, and that is part of its appeal. It is raw, open, and full of character. The contrast between its industrial past and its natural surroundings makes it one of the more unusual places to visit in Cauayan.

How to Get to Bulata Pier or Old Port

From Bacolod City

Go to the Ceres South Terminal and take a southbound bus heading to Hinoba-an or Sipalay via Cauayan. Tell the conductor you will get off at Remulyos, Barangay Bulata, Cauayan. The trip usually takes about four to five hours, depending on the bus route and stops.

From Remulyos, hire a tricycle or habal-habal motorcycle and tell the driver you are going to Bulata Pier or the old port. Local drivers commonly know the location. The pier is a few kilometers from the national highway.

From Dumaguete City

From the Dumaguete Ceres Bus Terminal, take a bus bound for Hinoba-an or Sipalay via Bayawan. Ask to be dropped at Remulyos, Bulata, then take a local tricycle or habal-habal to Bulata Pier. Travel time may take around four hours or more, depending on connections and road conditions.

For an affordable stay near Bulata Pier, Danjugan Island, and other Elihan attractions, visitors may consider Yena’s Inn, Elihan, Cauayan. For inquiries, contact 0945 479 4633.