WHO WILL SAVE THE MOUNTAINS?: A TREKKER'S SENTIMENT

A mountaineer is somebody who doesn’t only climb a mountain but also takes care of it. He doesn’t get drunk and breaks wine bottles at the mountain. He doesn’t take drugs in the mountain. He respects and loves the mountain. And he knows he doesn’t own the mountain.

Musuan Peak, the very first on the list of mountains I communed with, is a hiker friendly gentle slope south of Valencia City. It has been an instructional and research site for CMU students specializing in Biology, Entomology, Soils, Forestry and the like. The university has exerted much effort in rehabilitating and preserving its forest.

THE MOUNTAINS I HAVE COMMUNED WITH...

The Philippines is gifted with wonderful mountains scattered all over the archipelago. Some are active volcanoes while some are just beautiful landforms, but all should never be underestimated. A boy-out-door like me is so in love with the magical landscapes of this country. Mountains are my first love. And here is the list of the mountains I have communed with (chronologically ordered). Each is featured individually in this blog. Scroll down and take your pick...

Musuan Peak, Maramag, Bukidnon

Unknown to many, Mt. Musuan or Mt. Calayo in Musuan, Dologon, Maramag, Bukidnon is one of the active volcanoes in the Philippines. It is a lave dome and a tuff cone. Its friendly 646 meters elevation allows everyone (even kids) to enjoy the grand view of its surrounding lowlands.  

MT. PALAOPAO: DECEITFUL YET BREATHTAKING

Mt. Palaopao, another Bukidnon’s rocky mountain visible in the highway of Kisolon, Sumilao proudly stands 836 feet above sea level. The top was once forested while the sides contain several caves and rockshelters which were used as burial grounds during the early 19th century. Now, the mountain is another traditional site for a religious pilgrimage during Holy Week. Its grandiose form catches the eyes of every passers-by. Its scenery draws an avid photographer and an ordinary hiker; its challenging rocky walls allure an experienced mountaineer. But a lot more await an adventurer and nature lover.

DINAGAT ISLAND: AN ISLAND OF DAUNT AND FANTASY

The main island of Dinagat Province, Dinagat measures about 60 kms from north to south. It possesses splendid rock formations, white beaches, waterfalls, caves and bonsai forests perfect for thrill-seekers. The capital of San Jose is the headquarters of Philippine Benevolent Missionaries Association, Inc. (PBMA) founded by the late Ruben Ecleo.