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. 

BENGUET MUMMIES: A PERFECT "DAY OF THE DEAD" ENCOUNTER

Also known as Kabayan Mummies, Fire Mummies or Ibaloi Mummies, the mummies of Benguet are preserved in the caves of its grand mountains. These are said to be similar to the Inca Mummies of Peru. These were originally well-preserved in Timbak Cave, Bangao Cave, Tenongchol Cave, Naapay and Opdas by the ancient member of the Ibaloi Tribe (Igorot). 

Benguet Mummification, however, was discontinued during the Spanish era. In early 1900s, the mummies were rediscovered. Many were stolen then and later, recovered.

MT. CAPISTRANO: IT'S THE ROCKS THAT RULE

Mt. Capistrano is the most prominent among the small mountains visible in the highways of Malaybalay City. It humbly towers 609.6 meters above sea level. This lovely land form is crowned with magnificent steep, sharp rocks.

THE ENCHANTED MT. MAKILING

The inactive volcano in Laguna rises 1,090 meters ASL. It has no record of eruption. It is a home to diverse flora and fauna. It resembles to a form of a woman reclining. More interestingly, it is well known for the mythical Mariang Makiling.

The day after my twin climb to Mt. Batulao and Taal Volcano, I was again headed to summit this beautiful mountain. Unlike my other solo climbs this was truly a challenge to solo trekker like me. Yes, I trekked really solo. I had no guide.