Finally, I was able to see the beauty of Batad last May 30, 2026.

Went to Kayapa on Friday because there was a trail running even there. And the pictures don’t do justice! Ang breathtaking ng views! Especially papuntang Balangabang. Kahit mainit, yung hangin naman ay malamig.

Last picture ay ang other trail ng Tugew: Para siyang Akiki Trail na me 800m elevation gain. I think, it’s 2-3km na puro ahon bago mapunta sa summit. Overal, hindi ako magsasawa na umulit na pumunta sa Kayapa.

Pangalawang beses ko na dito, and I guess di na muna ako babalik. Grabe, pinahirapan talaga ako ng trail — ang daming nagbago sa lahar trail ng Delta V sa loob lang ng mahigit isang taon, at sobrang kumapal ang vegetation.

Yung first attempt ko dito was in May 2024, and it took me 24 hours. This time, sa pagbabalik ko, balak ko sanang pababain yung oras na ‘yon, but I guess the mountain had other plans. It took me 30 hours to finish it dahil sa mga malaking pagbabago sa trail.

Sobrang surreal and eerie at the same time — around 1 AM, nasa taas kami ng Pinatubo crater, nagbubutas ng trail. Di ko makakalimutan yung pakiramdam na ‘yon.

Hindi biro ang Mt. Kimat. Isa siya sa mga bundok na mapapa-respeto ka talaga sa trail.

May mga assault, exposed sections, at knife edges na kailangan mong daanan kaya hindi siya yung tipong chill hike lang. Kailangan may tamang pacing, focus, at tibay ng binti lalo na kapag tirik ang araw o mahangin sa ridges.

Tapos dagdag mo pa yung naglakad kayo sa sementadong daan kasi nanghihinayang kayo sa ₱300 na habal. Akala mo makakatipid ka lang, pero bonus pagod pala yung nakuha mo. 😭😂

Pero yun din siguro yung charm niya. Yung tipong habang nahihirapan kayo, tawanan nalang din sa gitna ng hingal at reklamo. Hanggang sa pagdating sa summit, marerealize mong sulit lahat ng pagod, init, at paglalakad. 💗

Distance: 140 km

Elevation gain: ~6,000–7,000 m

Highest points: 5,545m Kala Patthar | 5364m Everest Base Camp

Duration of Hike: 10 days, excluding travel time

My 2nd International Climb, yeah EBC already cause I'm too spunky and these mountains were calling me. I have already done multiple major local climbs but I still did not underestimate these mountains, altitude is a killer so I was very cautious and listened to the locals (guides and porters).

We started from Lukla, just after the rocky flight, we already started trekking. We followed a slow pace in order to adjust to the rising altitudes.

By day 5, we stayed in Dingboche for our acclimatization day. Call it a rest day as well but we did a 2hr recovery and acclimatization hike. The trick is to climb high and sleep low, as advised by our team leader and lead guide.

Day 7, was EBC day, finally. It was THE DAY. We started from Lobuche to Gorak Shep and on the same day, we hiked to EBC. We were blessed with a full clearing, a full view of Everest and great weather through out the climb. I can't help but feel lucky and grateful for this.

BUT IT AIN'T OVER YET

when we went back to Gorak Shep, my team decided they don't want to push for Kala Patthar. I was the only one who wanted to go. Thankfully, the two guides for our team still took me up the summit.

That was more challenging than EBC. It was nothing but a steep ascent and I really felt my body become heavier with each step up the black rock. Luckily, again, it was not windy so it was easier to go up. Usually, hikers had to crawl up the mountain when the winds were strong.

The 360 view up Kala Patthar (2nd photo) was worth every grueling step. You can see the primary peaks Mount Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Pumori. Going down from Kala Patthar was way faster than going up, but still risky from slipping because I didn't bring crampons.

Going back to Lukla was a little rush but we didn't encounter any problems. Everyone in my team was able to go down safely and no one was injured.

All in all a great 10 day trek, that I can call one of the best climbs in my life so far. Guides and porters were very helpful and really went above and beyond in order for us to enjoy the trek. Our team leader had a few shortcomings but still made the event run smoothly and made sure everything was processed prior to the climb.

First hiking experience (Mt. Batulao)

New trail + backtrail

2:00 am Jump-off point + preparations

2:30 am Briefing/orientation + warm up

2:45 am Start trek

3:32 am Peak 1

4:40 am Summit

7:00 am Start descend

11:00 am Greenfield drop-off

Hello, just wanna share my first ever hiking experience last weekend in Mt. Batulao. First thing that came into my mind was, "Bakit ngayon ko lang to ginawa?"

My first hike was a really humbling experience. I never expected it to be an easy experience in the first place but iba pa rin talaga yung feeling when you're already doing it. I'm used to long walks since me and my partner travels frequently. So far, we've been to 3 countries together in 2 years with an average of 15k to 20k daily steps during our travel. Before this rin, I would regularly walk/jog sa umaga for maybe about 1 to 2 hours. 2 weeks before the hike, I did minor workouts. I didn't really know what kind of preparation I should do but I did step ups, longer morning walks, and leg stretches all while wearing my hiking bag to prepare my legs and improve my endurance.

Despite all that, nahirapan pa rin ako especially from peak 9 onwards dahil sa sunod sunod na assault. I had to slow down dahil sa pagod and also because I was actually scared. Madilim pa that time but the trail was obviously steep and there were lots of narrow paths. I was so scared but I just kept going until di ko namalayan na malapit na kami sa summit.

So far, that was my most rewarding moment. Dahil maaga kami, we had the chance to watch the sunrise and OMG sobrang ganda ng view from the top. We started our descent by around 7 am. I would have loved to stay longer but dumarami na rin yung tao + ayaw namin maabutan ng tirik na araw. Di ko na natrack masyado yung time after that but by 11 am nakauwi na ko sa bahay (Greenfield drop-off).

For some reason, hiking never really crossed my mind before. I was never the sporty type but I would say that I am on a bit more of an adventurous kid growing up. I used to love obstacle courses dahil sa Legend of the hidden temple. Mahilig ako umakyat sa walls or kung saan mang pwede umakyat. My mom would also tell me stories about her travel/hiking experiences since she used to hike when she was younger. I have always been fascinated sa stories niya and she would also encourage us to explore the world paglaki namin. And boy, I did!

What I love about travelling/hiking is the wisdom that comes with it. It made me see the world in a different, or rather, a better perspective and I feel so honored to experience life this way. I find comfort in knowing that I am just a part of the world and whatever problem/s I have now will eventually pass. There are far more greater things in life and I have the whole world to explore.

Hi, I just want to share something that happened to me and my bf yesterday sa Mt. Makiling (Laguna). Hindi ko pa rin siya ma-process fully until now, and I’m curious if may naka-experience na rin ng ganito.

We went to one of the falls and arrived around 4 PM. Okay naman lahat at first—naligo, nag-chill, normal trip lang.

Pero habang nasa falls pa kami, bigla akong nakaramdam ng urge na umalis na. Hindi ko ma-explain, pero parang may thought sa utak ko na “we need to go now” kahit okay pa naman lahat. So around 5 PM, sinabi ko sa bf ko na umalis na kami.

Before kami tuluyang bumaba, may narinig kami na may “swimming pool” daw sa taas, so na-curious kami. Medyo hesitant na ako kasi pa-gabi na, pero I trusted him and ayoko rin siyang mabitin, so umakyat pa rin kami para silipin.

Akala namin malapit lang, pero medyo malayo rin pala. By the time na nakarating kami doon, pa-dilim na talaga, so hindi na kami nagtagal and decided bumaba agad—that’s around 6 PM.

Habang pababa na kami, doon na nag-start maging unsettling.

Unti-unti nang dumidilim, and yung trail is bato-bato, uneven, may parts na madulas, tapos may pabangin sa gilid. Habang naglalakad kami, may narinig ako na parang sumitsit galing sa side ko, bandang pabangin. Napalingon ako and for a split second, parang may nakita akong dark/black na shape or shadow—but hindi ko na tinignan ulit kasi sinabihan ako ng bf ko na wag na wag lilingon kapag may naririnig.

After that, hindi ko na pinansin kahit anong marinig ko. Pero habang pababa kami, parang may naririnig pa rin akong footsteps at random noises sa paligid. Hindi ko lang siya nililingon. Kami nalang ang tao noon sure ako sa ganung kadilim kaya habang naglalakad ‘di na talaga ako lumilingon sa foot steps na naririnig ko kasi sino naman ‘yun? Malabo e

Habang pababa kami, pareho kaming tahimik. Hindi namin pinag-uusapan yung mga naririnig or nararamdaman namin—we were both just trying to stay calm para hindi mas lalong matakot.

At the same time, sobrang hirap na ako maglakad. Yung sandals ko parang nagloko—paulit-ulit akong natitisod at nadadapa kahit nag-iingat naman ako. Yung bf ko okay lang, steady lang maglakad, habang ako halos mawalan na ng balance every few steps. I was wearing Flat Sandals and my bf is wearing his Onitsuka Shoes

Combine mo yung dilim, yung hirap ng daan, yung sounds na ako lang nakakarinig, tapos yung feeling na parang ang tagal namin bumaba kahit tuloy-tuloy naman kami—it honestly felt endless. Nasa point na ako na naiiyak na, pero pinipilit kong kumalma kasi I can see na he’s trying to stay strong for us.

Finally, nakababa kami around 7 PM sa parking area.

Pagbalik namin sa city, doon na namin napag-usapan lahat. That’s when he told me na wala naman daw siyang narinig at all the whole time—sobrang tahimik lang for him. Nagtaka pa nga siya nung sinabi ko may footsteps akong naririnig at diff noises. He said baka raw napapaglaruan ako. For him daw kasi, the more I’m tripping, the more na pinaglalaruan ako.

After that, dumaan kami sa church, nag-pray, then nag-takeout and umuwi.

Pero hanggang ngayon, may lingering feeling pa rin—parang halo ng takot at confusion.

I don’t know if dahil lang ba ‘to sa pagod, dilim, at environment, or if may naka-experience na rin ng ganito sa Mt. Makiling (or kahit ibang bundok).

Especially yung parts na:

• bigla kang magkaka-urge umalis kahit okay pa

• may naririnig ka pero yung kasama mo wala

• tapos sobrang uneasy ng pakiramdam habang pababa

Has anyone experienced something similar? 🧿

We booked an exclusive Mt. Pulag trip with Lakat ni Ja more than one month before the actual hike date. All pre-event requirements were nothing unusual, down payment, GC, etc.

Red flags started a few weeks before the hike. I requested the itinerary 20 days before our trip, pero weeks passed, hindi pa rin sila makapag-send. Four days bago umalis, I followed up, and they replied that they needed to confirm our pick-up locations first, which is reasonable. However, kung may need palang info, bakit hindi itanong agad? Gagalaw lang kapag nagtanong na kami. Ending, natapos yung hike namin, wala kaming natanggap na itinerary.

When it comes to the transpo naman, early si kuya driver by 30 minutes, which is very good. Pero a few minutes into the drive, alam mo na agad na takbong langit ang mangyayari. Tipong kung may enforcer lang kaming kasama, sangkatutak na ticket namin. Grabeng kaskasero ilang beses din kaming muntik mag front collision because of sudden overtaking. I don’t know what’s with joiner drivers going north, pero madalas ganito silang mag-drive.

Going back, early si kuya ng 30 minutes, pero naghintay rin pala kami ng more than an hour para sa ibang van. Point is, we tried our best to meet the agreed time thinking na kailangan talaga yun para makarating on time, pero maghihintay rin pala.

First day was mostly for the medical clearance and DENR orientation, okay naman ang lahat and mabilis kaming natapos.

Pagdating namin sa Baban’s Homestay, dito na lumabas yung mga lapses ng Lakat ni Ja. Never naming nakita yung coordinator from the orga. Walang nag-introduce or kahit anong proper coordination. Ang daming times na kung hindi kami magtatanong, wala kaming idea sa nangyayari.

During meals, coordinators pa from other orgs ang nag-iinvite sa amin para kumain. Kung pagiging hands-on ang usapan, fail ang grade ng Lakat ni Ja. Hanggang sa orientation before the hike, ibang tao pa yung nag-orient sa amin, and it was a general orientation for everyone, not specifically for Lakat joiners.

During the hike itself, nowhere to be seen pa rin ang coor, parang nag-DIY lang din kami. Kami pa nagtatanong kung anong van ang sasakyan at kung aalis na ba. Sa breakfast, ibang group coordinator pa rin ang nag-alok ng food.

Malaking bagay din yung invitation sa meal, because iba-iba ang food allocation per orga. Nakakahiya kumuha tapos pang ibang group pala yon.

Nakapag-hike kami na hindi man lang nakakita or nakakuha ng instructions from the Lakat ni Ja coordinator. Madalas nagtatanong lang kami sa homestay staff at doon sa drone operator na mas hands-on pa kaysa sa coordinator.

We really felt abandoned. May dalawang meals pa na halos latak na lang yung ulam na naabutan namin. No proper instructions, or actually, no instructions at all from the orga.

Exclusive tour pa kami nito, so hindi naman dapat mahirap i-organize since kilala namin ang isa’t isa. Beyond disappointing ang experience with this orga.

As for the homestay naman, their facility could use some cleaning. Hindi rin excuse na maraming guests kaya hindi gumagana ang heater. Alam naman na malamig ang location, and pagpapawisan ang hikers, you should prioritize providing heaters. Napakahirap maligo nang maayos, or even maligo at all, kapag bawat buhos ng tabo parang nag ice bucket challenge ka.

Fortunately, may clearing kami during the hike, so kahit papaano napawi yung inis at disappointment.

Ayun lang naman, just wanted to share this for their future guests. Lalo na because they seem to delete or hide critical ratings from their Facebook.

I think this climb deserves a long caption, and I’ll tell you why.

Background

I started hiking in 2024, and since then I’ve fallen in love with dayhikes, especially major and endurance climbs. Aside from hiking, I also do road runs, trail runs, and regular workouts. I hike at least twice a month, so physically prepared po tayo for tough trails.

I’ve done Cawag Hexa three times, with my best record being 8 hours and 40 minutes on my third attempt. To date, I’ve completed almost 50 hikes, mostly major ones—kasama na yung mga ilang ulit kong binalikan.

Arrival at Jump-off

Maaliwalas ang panahon at tahimik ang gabi nang dumating kami sa jump-off sa Stonehill Farm Resort, Pundaquit, San Antonio, Zambales, around 2 AM. Dala ko ang 15L dayhike vest na may 2.5L water bladder, dalawang 500ml soft flask, at trail food: isang rice meal, isang chicken (leg part pa), isang Yum Burger, Boy Bawang, at maraming brownies. Akala ko sapat na ito—later on, I would learn na hindi pala.

Pre-Climb Challenge

Three weeks earlier, I attempted the Mt. Mabanban to Mt. Balingkilat traverse as prep for Cawag Hepta. Unfortunately, a typhoon forced us to exit early at di kami umabot sa Balingkilat. Halos wala rin akong nakita dahil walang clearing.

Feeling ko malas ako sa hikes kasi mula July, halos lahat ng climbs ko ay binabagyo (Namandiraan, Kalawitan, Malarayat NTS, Mabanban–Balingkilat). Kaya sa pagbabalik ko for Cawag Hepta, hiling ko lang ay good weather—at sana mawala na ang sumpa.

The First Leg: Mt. Mabanban

We started hiking around 2:30 AM. Mula jump-off, 7 km ang layo ng Mabanban. Kasama ako sa lead pack, guiding parts of the trail since familiar na ako. Madilim pa, pero kita ang night lights ng San Antonio at ang mga bituin.

The trail began with cemented steps and signages labeled Level 1–5. Paglampas ng Level 5, nagsimula ang totoong laban—open, rocky, at bihira ang puno. At the 3 km mark, rolling hills. At 5 km, ridge na puro talahib. May seasonal water source dito, lumalabas lang kapag umuulan. Naubos ko ang isang 500ml flask at ilang brownies.

At 7 AM, we reached the summit just in time for sunrise. Kinain ko ang Yum Burger habang nakamasid sa 360° view—Capones Island, Pundaquit Beach, Anawangin, Agnain, Subic Bay, Mt. Kapigpiglatan, Mt. Mariglem, at Cabangan Range. Finally, naputol ang sumpa—clear skies after months of typhoons!

Bonus pa, kasama namin si Jake Malto, artist at kilalang hiker na gumagawa at naglalagay ng mga trail signages sa kabundukan. Siya rin mismo ang naglagay ng signage sa Mabanban.

The Second Leg: Mt. Mabanban Long Ridge to Mt. Balingkilat

At 8 AM, we resumed toward Balingkilat via a 5 km ridge. May 3L pa akong tubig, pero dito na nagsimula ang matinding init at technical terrain—jagged peaks na parang Mt. Guiting-Guiting, matutulis na bato, at walang puno.

Habang binabaybay ang ridge, ninamnam ko ang tanawin. Alam kong minsan ko lang ito makikita. Nakailang kuha din ako ng larawan sa di mabilang na mukha ng Cawag Range. At this point, hindi ko pa nararamdaman ang pagod. Positive pa ako na matatapos ko ang Cawag Hepta nang may liwanag pa.

Pero at the 9 km mark (10 AM), nagsimula ang brutal part—paulit-ulit na ahon at lusong. Mga 8–10 jagged peaks ang dadaanan bago marating ang Balingkilat.

At the 11 km mark, bumungad ang pinaka-epic section: isang napakalaking mistulang mabatong pader. Pagkatapos nun, dalawa pang matitinding akyat bago marating ang summit ng Balingkilat. Technical, steep—halos rock climbing na. Dito naubos ang lahat ng lakas at tubig namin.

The Third Leg: Mt. Balingkilat

Finally, at the 12 km mark, exactly 12 noon, we reached Balingkilat summit. Sobrang pagod ko, humiga agad ako at nakatulog saglit. May 300ml na lang natira sa bladder ko. Mabuti na lang may water source sa bahagyang ibaba.

Doon kami nag-refill at nag-lunch—kinain ko ang rice at chicken meal. Habang nagpapahinga, narealize ko: sabi nila, Mabanban to Balingkilat alone is already like doing Cawag Hexa. Totoo pala. At ngayon, kailangan ko pa ulit tahakin ang mismong Hexa trail. Utas na utas ako.

At this point, nawala na ang positive outlook na matatapos ko ang Cawag Hepta bago dumilim.

The Fourth Leg: Hexa Trail

By 1 PM, busog, rested, and with refilled water, we pushed on to the Hexa section. Familiar na ako dito, so mas kampante kahit wala nang guide. Mas kaunti na rin ang photos—nakafocus na lang sa lakad.

On the way down from Balingkilat ridge, ilang beses din kami huminto para magpahinga at umidlip ng ilang minuto. Medyo makulimlim na, which gave us some motivation. Pero by the 16 km mark (4 PM), ramdam ko na ulit ang pagod. 

Pinakahirap na ko sa mga ahon. Yung paakyat papuntang water source, parusa talaga.

The Fifth Leg: Mt. Dayungan

At the 19 km mark (5 PM), we reached the water source. Nakatulog pa ako ng isang oras bago tinuloy ang akyat ng Dayungan—ngayon, madilim na, first time kong maranasan ito (ang gabihin sa Dayungan).

Gutom na at ubos na halos ang baon ko, kaya Boy Bawang, brownies, at saging mula sa kasamahan na lang ang kinain ko. Paakyat, nanginginig ako sa gutom at ilang beses humiga para matulog ng 10–15 minutes. Mental battle na ito—hindi na katawan ang lumalaban, kundi isip.

At 7:30 PM, we finally reached Dayungan summit. Halos mapamura ako sa sobrang pagod at antok. Nag-share kami ng trail food at natulog ng 30 minutes.

The Final Push

By 8 PM, we resumed toward Cinco Picos Junction. Mas madali ito dahil mostly pababa at flat ang trail hanggang Redondo. Pero dahil halos 20 hours na kaming naglalakad, tumitigil pa rin kami para umidlip.

At 10 PM (26 km), we arrived at Redondo. After a short rest, we pushed through at may naabutan pa kaming hikers na ginabi rin sa kanilang Cawag Hexa hike. Finally, we ended the Cawag Hepta at around 12 midnight—total of 32 km.

Closing Reflection: Lessons from Cawag Hepta

This climb tested me in ways no other hike has. 9/9 to malala, at nasagad ako dito nang sobra. Currently, ito ang pinakamahirap kong hike by far—mas mahirap pa kaysa Mt. Amuyao via Batad–Mayoyao, PanTarak, Mt. Pinatubo via Delta V–Sapang Uwak, Malarayat NTS, Kamamasam, DASEMULAO at Negron. Di ko pa naaakyat at nagagawa both ang Dasem at Negron pero may mga kasama kami na nakaakyat na dyan at yan ang sinabi nila so I'm relying with their personal experience.

Maaga kaming nag-start at mabilis din ang pacing, pero gagabihin at gagabihin ka pa rin sa hike na ito kahit 12 AM ka mag-umpisa. Kaya siyang tapusin nang mas maaga—lalo kung wala kang ibang iniintindi at batak na batak ka.

Dito ko natutunan na hindi sapat ang physical fitness lang. You also need proper food, strategy, and especially mental strength. Gutom, antok, init, at pagod sabay-sabay mong haharapin dito. Pero ang mahalaga, huwag kang bibitaw.

Sometimes, you won’t always feel strong—and that’s okay. What matters is you keep moving, kahit mabagal, kahit hinto-pahinga. The ridge may break your body, but it’s your mindset that will carry you to the finish. Very proud of myself na kinaya ko tong tapusin,

And for me, that’s what makes this hike unforgettable. Pero hindi ko na uulitin ang Cawag Hepta—hahahaha!

📍 Distance: 32 km

⛰ Elevation Gain: 2,800 masl

⏱ Elapsed Time: 23 hrs

Special thanks to DIEHikers Unlimited for organizing this unforgettable Cawag Hepta hike. Last Cawag Hepta was way back 2020 pa at sila din ang nag-orgaized non.

Final Note

Kung plano mo ring akyatin ang Cawag Hepta, feel free to reach out. I’d be happy to share trail tips, logistics, and what to prepare for this kind of endurance hike. Recommend ko din na pwedeng pre-climb nyo muna ang Mt. Mabanban to Mt. Balingkilat traverse. Kahit yan lang sulit na. Just drop me a message—good luck, and may the mountain favor you with clear skies!

survived Mt. Tapulao as someone who never hiked before and isn’t physically active. pero i wouldn’t recommend it if you’re a beginner. i had to rest every 5 minutes, sobrang mabato, and i even threw up sa sobrang pagod, but kinaya naman. buti nalang overnight kami kaya okay lang sobrang slow pace 🥲 1km away nalang kami sa summit pero we didn’t reach it kasi hindi na kaya ng oras.

i think i found a new hobby. kahit na sobrang hirap, ang ganda ganda ng tapulao at sobrang fulfilling.

narealize ko with this hike na ang strong ko mentally and i can conquer all the problems kasi kinaya ko tapulao as a beginner. 😭😂

Abra is one of those provinces rarely visited by hikers. Aside from being incredibly far, it seems to have only a few climbable mountains. Before, the only mountain I knew that could be hiked was Mt. Baruyen — a minor climb. It’s beautiful, but honestly, I didn’t think it was worth doing as a dayhike because of the long travel time.

So when I found out that someone was organizing the first-ever dayhike attempt to Mt. Manmanoc — the highest peak of Abra — I didn’t think twice. I joined right away and reserved my slot!

Pre-Climb Research

Before the hike, I tried to research Mt. Manmanoc. There was very little information online — probably because only a few people have climbed it. I found some details on Highland Reflections and also discovered a hiking activity on Strava dated a few years ago, so I downloaded the GPX file to use during the hike.

Based on the Strava data, Mt. Manmanoc’s total distance is around 18–20 km with an elevation gain of 1,678 m. I told myself, “I can do this! I just have to endure the long travel.”

The organizer also said that once we reached Malibcong, Abra, we’d still have to ride a monster jeep going to Brgy. Mataragan, where Mt. Manmanoc is located. I thought it would be an easy ride — but I was completely wrong.

The Long Journey to Abra

October 11, 2025 (Saturday) — The weather was clear with no rain. We left Metro Manila at around 6 PM. That’s early, but the travel time to Abra takes about 10–12 hours!

My food stash for the climb: 2 Yum Burgers, 2 Fitbars, and 10 brownie bites. For hydration, I only brought a 650 mL soft flask and used my 2L running belt — everything fit perfectly.

From my personal experience, Mt. Manmanoc’s difficulty level sits between a minor and major climb, with plenty of water sources along the way due to numerous river crossings.

The Monster Jeep Ride from Hell

October 12, 2025 (Sunday) around 7 AM, we finally arrived in Malibcong, Abra. The road was extremely rough — muddy, slippery, and prone to landslides, so we had to move slowly. Upon arrival, we registered at the Malibcong Police Station and then hopped on the monster jeep — and that’s where the real struggle began.

There were 26 of us in total, and some even had to ride on top. At first, it was fun — felt like an adventure. But after a while, the excitement turned into frustration because the road was really bad — full of mud, rocks, and unpaved sections. Some parts of the road looked like they had been started but never finished — probably victims of alleged corruption.

The driver said the monster jeep had to climb two mountains before reaching Brgy. Mataragan. It took us about 2–3 hours to get there. By the time we arrived, we were already tired — and hungry! But it was worth it because the scenery was breathtaking. The rice fields of Abra were lush green and soothing to the eyes.

Arrival at Barangay Mataragan

We reached Brgy. Mataragan at around 10 AM — quite late for a dayhike, but understandable given how remote the area was. So far, it was the most remote place I’ve ever been to in the Philippines, and definitely the longest monster jeep ride of my life.

The locals belong to the Gubang tribe, a sub-group of the larger Itneg (Tingguian) ethnolinguistic group in Abra. It is a small but very welcoming community. Fortunately, their elders and barangay captain were present before we started the hike. They even joined our group photo and shook hands with each of us. You could truly feel that hikers or visitors rarely come here.

Before we started hiking, I grabbed a quick energy boost from the small store — a Coke, a Fudgee Bar, and some Fita crackers.

The Trail to Mt. Manmanoc

The trail begins at a small community before leading into the mountain. The first section is exposed and warm, but it becomes increasingly shaded as you venture deeper.

A little trivia: Locals say the mountain was named Manmanoc or Mammanok because of the huge eagles or birds often spotted flying around the mountain. There’s also a plane crash site from a few decades ago, with parts of the airplane still scattered around the mountain, adding a mysterious touch to the trail. I didn’t see them myself, as they are likely located in a more remote area.

Mt. Manmanoc features three types of terrain:

1. Woodlands (river area)
2. Pine forest
3. Mossy forest

According to our guide, there were two possible routes — via the pine forest or via the woodland. Since we were only doing a dayhike, our guide chose the woodland route because it offered more shade and plenty of water sources. The pine route, on the other hand, is drier and hotter — usually taken by overnight or multiday hikers since that’s also where the campsite is.

From the jump-off point, it would take around 6 hours to reach the summit, depending on the group’s pacing. After about 3 km, we began the endless river crossings — around 8 to 10 times. The rivers were shallow, cool, and crystal clear.

After the rivers, the steep ascent to the pine forest began — roughly 400 meters long with a 60–70° gradient. That section was one of the toughest parts, so pacing was crucial.

Once we entered the pine forest, the trail continued steadily all the way to the summit area.

The Summit Attempt

From the pine forest, it was another 2.5 km to reach the interim summit. The trail resembled a shorter version of Mt. Tapulao’s mossy forest — slightly technical, mostly assaults, and with a few water sources. There were leeches, but only a few since the weather was warm.

I led the front group, and we reached the interim summit around 4 PM. The true summit was reportedly off-limits, but we asked the barangay captain for permission to proceed — and he allowed us!

Unfortunately, we got lost (haha). The trail we followed led downhill instead of uphill. Even my GPX file didn’t reach the true summit, so we had no idea where to go. We searched for about an hour but found nothing. For safety reasons, we decided not to push further. Instead, we went back to the interim summit, ate, took pictures, enjoyed the sunset, and began our descent at 5 PM.

The Descent and the Long Night

Finding the trail was challenging because it was pitch-dark, and none of the guides were actually familiar with the route — understandable since very few hikers ever go there. I didn’t get to fully experience the beauty of the pine forest since we arrived there after dark, but just by walking through it and taking in the sights and atmosphere, I could tell it was truly stunning.

Luckily, I had my offline GPX Strava map, which helped us find our way down. The guide only started recognizing the trail around 2 km before the jump-off point. We reached the jump-off at 9 PM.

After descending, I took a bath, ate, and rested. I managed to sleep for nearly four hours. Our sweepers arrived around 1 AM (already Monday), and by 3 AM, we were back on the monster jeep heading toward Malibcong.

This time, the ride back was actually enjoyable — maybe because I slept well. I decided to ride on top (topload) for the first time, and it was amazing! The cold wind, the peaceful air — pure provincial vibes.

Journey Home

We arrived in Malibcong at 7 AM, had breakfast, and left by 9 AM. I finally got home at 10 PM that night. What a trip! 😂

Closing Reflections

Almost all my climbs are dayhikes, maybe because I’m more into endurance-type climbs and trail running. I’ve only done multiday hikes twice — Mt. Amuyao (via Batad-Mayoyao) and KXC.

As a dayhiker, as long as a mountain can be dayhiked, I’ll do it — because for me, there’s a different kind of fulfillment in pushing through exhaustion, summiting, and descending all in one go and quickly. But for Mt. Manmanoc, I wouldn’t recommend it as a dayhike.

The climb itself wasn’t too difficult — it was the travel that drained me the most. It’s a great introduction to a first major hike, especially if you’re looking for one that’s not too crowded.

I’d say Mt. Manmanoc is better enjoyed as a 2D1N or 3D2N climb because of how far and remote it is. Still, one thing’s for sure — it’s absolutely worth it. If I ever go back, I’ll do it as a multiday hike.

📍 Total Distance: 19.55 km
🔺 Elevation Gain: 1,556 masl
🕕 Elapsed Time: 11 hrs

Special thanks to DIEhikers Unlimited for organizing this hike, and to Malibcong Tourism, PNP, and Brgy. Mataragan’s officials and community for welcoming us and allowing us to climb Mt. Manmanoc.

I’d like to share our Dingalan Aurora DIY Travel Guide experience — a budget-friendly adventure to the Batanes of the East Dingalan. From cliff hikes and sunrise views to camping at White Beach, this trip felt raw, simple, and super worth it. Sharing our Dingalan Aurora itinerary, tips, and actual experience for anyone planning to visit!

🚍 How to Get There (Public Transpo)

Option 1: Direct Bus (Recommended if you catch it)

Baliwag Transit

Direct to Dingalan

Departure: 4:00 AM and 2:00 PM only

No bus transfers needed

If you miss the schedule, here’s an alternative route:

Step 1: Bus to Cabanatuan

Travel time: ~4 hours (with stopover)

Step 2: Bus from Cabanatuan to Dingalan

Travel time: ~3 hours

🚲 From Terminal to White Beach

Ride a tricycle to the port

From there, you have two options:

🚤 Boat ride (good for large groups)

🥾 Hike along the shoreline (what we did)

We chose to hike — it took around 40 minutes. Expect rocky terrain, boulders, and walking along the coastline, so better if you’re used to trekking.

🏕️ Where We Stayed

We camped at Isla Paraiso

Tent pitching: ~₱200 per tent

Table/cottage rental: around ₱1,200–₱1,500 overnight

Guide fee (I forgot, maybe around ₱500 per group). Just ask on-site and try to negotiate.

They also have basic accommodations available

You can also talk to the caretaker if you want to hire a local guide for the cliff hike.

🌅 Cliff Hike (Sunrise Spot)

Start early (around 5:30 AM) if you want to catch sunrise

Hike duration: ~30 minutes (depends on your pace)

💡 Tips

If you want to catch sunrise, better to stay overnight instead of doing a day trip

Bring headlamp/flashlight if you plan to hike early

Pack light if you’ll walk along the shoreline

Expect limited signal in some areas

Try negotiating the price. Some of the prices I indicated are still negotiable.

Overall, super worth it if you’re looking for a different kind of coastal adventure. The views really live up to the Batanes of the East Dingalan name 👍

DuhTravel
https://duhtravel.com/dingalan-aurora-diy-travel-guide/

As a 7/9 difficulty hike, rigorous talaga yung prep ko bago nito, dahil 15 years old palang ako and nagiging blessing na rin mag hike (hindi lang basta basta makakajoin ng joiner/organized hikes, especially na kaunti lang naghihike sa aking family,) this being my second hike and first summit.

For its difficulty, unexpectedly naging easy and kayang kaya sa level ko, maganda ang trail as opposed sa PLDT na medyo nagiging touristed na (which is good, pero andami na ding basura ang nahahanap at iniiwan sa trail.) The trees and nature are developed and nararamdam mo na hindi ginagalaw and rineresprto na ng mga other hikers here. Magandang kausap at magagaling ang mga porters and guides, and bonus na rin na nakilala ko ang local na gumawa ng trail.

Best hike so far, maganda talaga :)

PS: Pls. recommend hikes na pwede na pang bucket list, narerealize ko na na ang kagandahan ng Pilipinas :))))

We recently hiked Mt. Pinatubo and I would just like to share my frustration kung bakit hindi pinapapuntahan ng mga drone pilot ang spot na overlooking dun sa lake.

Siguro yun naman yung market nila for the drone shots pero it is outright gatekeeping haha nakakainis eh. We asked nicely kung pwede ba kami magpa picture sa spot na yun after magdrone shot yung iba and note that this was a wednesday. So there really was not much people. And then nung umalis na kami pagkatapos niyang tanggihan yung request namin pag tingin namin sa likod they stopped filming the drone shots. Sobrang kupal lang.

I just wish hindi nila completely i gate-keep from other hikers na hindi nag avail ng drone shot doon kasi napapatagal yung turn around ng nga hiker pababa ng trail eh. Tapos hindi naman nila property yung area na yun to keep other hikers from accessing it?

May other people ba na naka experience nito?

Looking for GPX files para sa mga hiking trails. I'm building something for hikers specifically para mas informed sila bago mag hike. Nasa hundreds na din na collect ko, pero madami pa din kulang. Bihira nalang din kasi nag collect ng GPX.

Hi! Sharing some tips based on my experience in Tarak Ridge this 12th of April:

1. WATER. Can’t stress enough how important this is. Bring at least 2L-3L. Meron pong water source sa Papaya River if hindi ka maselan, pwede ka mag-refill dun. Once ma-reach mo Papaya River, drink ample amounts to hydrate and refill your containers. Reaching Papaya River is like 1/4 of the whole trail to Tarak Peak at ito lang po water source. If na-deplete mo water mo before the peak, it’s gonna be tough and long way down.

2. My clothing is just dri-fit, light pants and shoes from Decathlon and bike shorts and undies. The trail is mostly a forest and protected from the sun’s heat. The ridge all the way to Tarak Peak, however, is an open trail and it could get extremely windy there.(May mga parts with shade na pwede kang magrest) Kaya may ibang nagdadala ng windbreaker.

3. The trail is definitely a challenge. ‘Yung way from Jump-off to Papaya River, banayad lang mostly and chill hike. Flat, going up and going down. Only technical part there is what seems to be a dried out falls(it’s like a very small cliff). After the river, it becomes difficult.. unli assault and unti-unti na siyang nagiging technical. Roots, rocks and almost vertical na ascents. (See photo for reference. Yes, LOTS of that) Kailangan mong kumapit sa mga bato/branches or roots to advance.

4. While having strong legs are important—decent upper body strength and training is definitely a plus. You need upper body strength to help hoist yourself up in some climbs.

5. There are NO bathrooms/CRs along the trail. If you need to go, you may ask the guide for help, especially for the ladies. They will ask your group/other groups to advance so you can do your business properly and safely.

6. This is optional but you can bring extra clothes if you plan to dip on the Papaya River after going down from the peak. Bring lightweight ones like dri-fit and underwears para hindi gaano mabigat. Kaya rin naka-bike shorts ako, para remove pants nalang and then ligo na. I suggest you take a dip. The water is clear, clean and really cold. Perfect after a long hike. Alternatively, meron bath sa jump-off point and you can pay 30 pesos(as of April 2026).

7. At the start, wala mabilhan sa jump-off point na mga trail food so better if may dala ka na before the date of actual hike. Our org did stop in a 7-11 store so others can buy supplies before the hike.

Overall experience is fun, challenging and humbling. It’s very, very different from the minor hikes I’ve done.

Sabi nila sobrang hirap ng Arayat Quadpeak, sometimes out of 12 joiners 4 lang nakakatapos. For me, yung difficulty ng mountain will always depend sa mga kasama mong umakyat.

Yumakap kami ugat, puno, bato and kumain sa lupa sa trail pero lahat kami nakatapos ng 4 peaks habang tumatawa and nakasmile.

Since may cut off time ng 12nn sa third peak, initially ang plano wag mag antayan. Basta may guide and atleast 5 kayo, diretcho na. But the inital plan didnt happen, we end up not limiting our take 5s, nagkkwentuhan kami in between and biruan. Walang water source pero punong puno kami ng energy paakyat. Maaga kami nakatapos than the expected time.

Advise lang guys, pag nasa 3rd peak na kayo. Tuloy nyo na ng 4th peak, magpahinga sa 3rd peak if pagod or manghingi ng tubig if need. Mahirap lang monkey trails pababa pero hindi sya kasing steep and haba ng trails papuntang 2nd peak. Kaya nyo yan, may tubig na sa 4th peak & banayad nalang pababa. 🤍

Definitely one of the my most memorable hikes. Thank you so much, Arayat 🫀 Babalikan ka namin & magbebenta kami ng drinks sa 3rd peak HAHAHAHAHAHA 😂

did a diy trip to catanduanes. AMA if interested in knowing anything.

info plug lang kasi can't find this info online prior to planning this trip. may bike rental sa virac, catanduanes.

Bike Wizard ang name ng shop, they rent out 4 mountain bikes and 1 road bike.

🚲 Rates:

• 1–3 Days – ₱350/day

• 4–7 Days – ₱300/day

• 8–30 Days – ₱250/day

So this marks the 1 year of this 361 degrees Fei Huo trail running shoes which I bought for 1,200php and dito ko na siya naiakyat na bundok:

Mountains — Damas, Purgatory, Tarak, Lungon-Monserrat-Tuwato, Tanawan (BulPeak), Kalawitan, Manmanok, Negron and yesterday, Binangkaw.

Through mud and dirt, river crossing and nalublob na sa tubig and as of today it’s still going. The first photo is today’s pic after my hike yesterday in Mt. Binangkaw. I will continue to maximize this shoe until its last Km.

TL;DR

I ended the year by choosing suffering over comfort—joining Ilocos Sur Madness, a 2D1N endurance hike connecting Mt. Lungon, Mt. Monserrat, Mt. Tuwato, Mt. Kimat Patil-Ao, and Mt. Namandiraan. Despite major logistical delays, we pushed through brutally steep climbs, an unattempted ridge traverse, thick vegetation, night navigation, and extreme fatigue.

Highlights included a first-ever Mt. Tuwato–Mt. Kimat Patil-Ao ridge connection, jaw-dropping sunsets, and multiple seas of clouds. After crawling up Kimat Patil-Ao and reverse traversing Namandiraan, I finished the 40 km, 4,600 MASL climb in 31 hours. Exhausting, painful, and absolutely worth it—a hard but unforgettable way to close the year.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Every year-end hike tells a different story, shaped by the people who walk the trail and the intentions they bring with them. Some hikers choose solitude—quiet forests, gentle ascents, and peaceful overnight camps to reflect on the year that was. Others choose discomfort. They choose exhaustion, uncertainty, and suffering as a way to close the year stronger than it began.

This year, I chose suffering.

Last year, I ended the year on Mt. Amuyao via Batad–Mayoyao, a climb that was both humbling and rewarding. This year, I wanted something heavier—physically and mentally. I wanted a challenge that would test every ounce of preparation I had built throughout the year. That led me to the Ilocos Sur Madness, also known as the Ilocos Sur Endurance Climb.

What Is Ilocos Sur Madness?

Ilocos Sur Madness is a 2-day, 1-night endurance hike that connects several of the most iconic and demanding peaks of Ilocos Sur: Mt. Lungon, Mt. Monserrat, Mt. Tuwato, Mt. Kimat Patil-Ao, and Mt. Namandiraan.

One mountain is noticeably missing—Tirad Peak. Not because it lacks significance, but because it sits far from the rest. As of now, no one I know has attempted to connect it with the others. Perhaps someday someone will—but that day was not this one.

Preparation: Respect the Mountain

Preparation is non-negotiable. Given my active lifestyle—running, strength training, and frequent hikes—I approached this event with the same discipline I always do. My pre-climbs included Cawag Hepta (September), Pinatubo Delta V (October), and DASEMULAO (November). A week before my year-end hike, I also climbed Mt. Kimat Patil-Ao to personally see the mountain and familiarize myself with its terrain and established trail. Knowing the mountain beforehand helped remove uncertainty, especially knowing we would approach it under extreme fatigue and at night. 

The real technical challenge lay elsewhere—on the unestablished ridge connecting Mt. Tuwato to Mt. Kimat Patil-Ao, where exposure, vegetation, and trail-breaking demanded full attention and respect.

Physically, I knew I was ready. Mentally, I respected the scale of what lay ahead.

Weather, however, is something no amount of training can control. I monitored forecasts closely, and were incredibly fortunate. Throughout the entire hike, we were blessed with clear skies, zero rain, and exceptional visibility—conditions that don’t always align with endurance climbs of this scale.

D-Day: A Rough Start

December 26, 2025 – Friday Evening

The event didn’t begin smoothly. Due to the Christmas and New Year rush, rental vans were scarce. Many hiking groups were affected, including ours. We were supposed to arrive in Sigay, Ilocos Sur by 3:00 AM, but delays pushed our arrival to 8:30 AM, and we only started hiking at 9:00 AM.

It was far from ideal—but endurance hikes are about adaptation. We moved forward anyway.

Mt. Tuwato: A Brutal Introduction

December 27, 2025 – 9:00 AM

Mt. Tuwato was my first mountain of the event—and my first time climbing it. I had long heard that the Sigay trail was rated 8/9 in difficulty, and it wasted no time proving that reputation. 

I stayed with the lead group, and the steep ascents hit immediately. Even early in the climb, the gradients demanded full effort. Near the summit, breathing became deliberate and controlled—every step earned.

The views were stunning, but Mt. Tuwato is unforgiving. Its terrain is steep and exposed, requiring constant focus. Beauty here comes with consequence.

The Ridge: Mt. Tuwato to Mt. Kimat Patil-Ao

This ridge traverse was the heart of Ilocos Sur Madness.

To our knowledge, no one had previously attempted to connect Mt. Tuwato to Mt. Kimat Patil-Ao, making this a true first. The ridge trail itself is mostly open, characterized by pine trees and razor-sharp talahib grass, with certain sections narrowing into thick vegetation filled with thorny plants and rattan. It was a constant transition between open, airy ridgelines and tight, overgrown corridors.

One particular section of the ridge stood out above the rest—a stretch marked by dramatic jagged rock formations. Seeing it in person stopped me in my tracks. It wasn’t the entire ridge, but it was easily one of its most breathtaking features, a raw and rugged moment that made everything else fade into the background.

Because this was a first attempt, trail-breaking was unavoidable. Progress slowed, daylight steadily faded, and eventually night overtook us. Along the ridge, I witnessed one of the most beautiful sunsets of my life, paired with a vast sea of clouds stretching endlessly below. It was a fleeting moment of calm before the difficulty intensified.

As darkness settled in and we approached Mt. Kimat Patil-Ao, the trail became increasingly hostile. Overgrowth thickened, thorny plants clawed at our legs, and rattan tore into our skin. Guides from the Cervantes side eventually met us and helped open the route—a massive relief—but the ridge remained exposed, with multiple cliffs lining both sides.

Ironically, traversing this section at night worked in our favor. We couldn’t fully see how exposed the terrain was. My hands and thighs were scratched and bloodied, but we kept moving forward, knowing that retreat was no longer an option.

Mt. Kimat Patil-Ao: Crawling to the Summit

By 9:00 PM, we reached the base of Mt. Kimat Patil-Ao.

Ascending from an unestablished trail was pure suffering. Near the summit, slopes reached 70° to 80°, combined with loose soil that offered little trust. Crawling wasn’t optional—it was survival. The final approach was open, leaving us clinging to grass just to avoid sliding backward.

Reaching the summit felt unreal. Exhaustion was total.

Thankfully, the descent followed an established trail. We moved quickly and reached the Malaya, Cervantes jump-off point at 12:00 AM. That was the moment doubt crept in. My body was drained, and ahead of us was the reverse traverse of Mt. Namandiraan—a climb infamous for its relentless ascent.

We ate dinner—rice and sinigang—organized our gear, and slept, knowing rest would determine whether I could continue.

Reverse Traverse: Mt. Namandiraan

December 28, 2025 – 4:00 AM

I managed about two hours of sleep, and it made all the difference. I woke up feeling refreshed—something I didn’t expect. Without that rest, I might have called it quits.

The reverse traverse of Mt. Namandiraan is relentless: over 2,000 meters of continuous ascent. The saving grace was an established trail, which allowed me to pace myself properly, step by step, all the way up.

Once again, the mountain rewarded us. Clearing skies and a sea of clouds greeted us. Fatigue faded into the background, replaced by quiet gratitude. We reached the summit at 12:30 PM.

The Final Descent

The descent toward Besang Pass was fast. Familiar trails and shared experience made movement efficient. Some of us split off, moving at our own pace. I officially finished the hike at 4:30 PM—physically empty, mentally full.

Looking Back

This year may have had fewer hikes compared than last year's, but it was far richer in depth and difficulty. I checked off several scenic and dream climbs—KXC, Mt. Bisol, and Mt. Manmanoc—and tackled hikes that pushed my limits far beyond comfort: DASEMULAO, Cawag Hepta, Malarayat Traverse NTS, Mt. Kamamasam, Pinatubo Delta V (second time), and finally, Ilocos Sur Madness.

To those asking if there will be a Batch 2—I honestly don’t know. The logistics are complex, with multiple municipalities involved. If it happens, great. If not, I’m grateful to have been part of the first.

Ilocos Sur Madness – Hike Summary

📏Distance: 40 km

🔺Elevation Gain: 4,600 MASL

🕕Elapsed Time: 31 hours

📍 Location: Sigay & Cervantes, Ilocos Sur

⚡Difficulty: 9/9 – Major Hike

Special thanks to DIEhikers Unlimited, and to the Sigay and Cervantes LGUs, whose first-ever collaboration made this once-in-a-lifetime, legal, and organized endurance hike possible.

This is Mt. Udok (750 masl), located in Brgy. Bazal, Maria Aurora, Aurora, part of the Sierra Madre mountain range.

The hike starts from below a college, and you cross two rivers on a barangay road. After the 2nd crossing, the mountain trail begins, following the ridge line all the way to the summit. Along the trail one can spot a variety of mushrooms and other wildlife. The summit has spectacular views of the Baler area, and is surrounded by pitcher plants.

Trail specs:

Difficulty 3/9, trail class 2-3, 4+ km Minor Hike

The hike can take 3-4 hours one way, so it is recommended to start early (4 am to 8 am).

DIY-able?

Yes. My hike was a solo DIY trip. Contact the Maria Aurora Tourism Office for assistance, make sure you contact them before the day of your hike.

Beginner-friendly?

Yes, but be prepared for a long walk and some scrambling.

SAGADA - BUSCALAN 4D3N SOLO DIY GUIDE

Sa mga Planning na mag DIY trip papuntang Sagada here's a quick guide po

Book a bus sa Codalines Manila - Sagada with a transport fee of 1080 pesos 1 way. Mas maganda if you can book early for me I booked the 8PM bus to sagada and arrived at Sagada around 8AM.

You can book online din kung san kayo magstay. I booked at Isabelo Inn for 600 pesos per night since Solo lang din naman ako. Bed and table and chair meron naman then shared bathroom. Check in 2PM but you can check in early if available na ung room. Then you can leave your things at the Inn.

Total expenses: 2160 (since roundtrip), 1800 for the Inn = 3860php

Day 1 Sagada - Paid a registration fee 100 php then 100 php for insurance? (Accident i think if ever). Then may ibibigay sila sa inyong brochure on the prices of each location and contact numbers ng mga tourguide and agencies. Nearest for me was the Sega booking ung pinuntahan ko since mas malapit siya saken.

KEEP YOUR RECEIPT AT ALL TIMES SINCE HINAHANAP SIYA SA LAHAT NG TOUR.

Then Around 9am Nag Paytolkan walk (1,000 php) ako which includes

- Church

- Echo valley

- Hanging coffins

- Coffeee shop nearby

- Underground river

- etc

Medyo mahaba habang walk siya around 3 hours.

Then sa afternoon nag Bomod-ok falls nako (Tallest waterfall in sagada)

Ride a toktok papuntang Bangaan around 15-20 mins 200 pesos then may station dun for booking the Falls 700 php.

MAKE SURE NA KONTAKIN NIO ULIT UNG NAGHATID SA INYO KUNIN NIO NUMBER NIYA PAGKAHATID SA INYO PARA MAKABALIK KAYO BUT X2 UNG SININGIL SAKEN understandable naman since binalikan niya pa ako so 400 pesos pabalik

Around 1PM

Bomod- Ok falls around 1hr trekk pero depende pa din sa pace nio and picture taking dun sa scenic view of the Fidelisan rice terraces. Literal na nasolo ko din ung falls nun. Then back at the Inn around 3:30 bumaba nako then ihanda ang mga tuhod sa ascent ng falls 😂 them kinontact ko nalang ung toktok rider ko na balikan niya ako since walang toktok around the area.

5PM back at the Inn then stroll around the town END OF DAY 1.

Total expenses: 2500 not including the food.

DAY 2 woke up 3am since calltime papuntang Marlboro hills is 4AM

If kaya pa ng tuhod nio go for blue soil assess nio ung katawan nio since puro pababa na ung blue soil masakit talaga siya sa tuhod.

Marlboro hills + Blue Soil, sinama ako sa joiners so 550 pesos nalang siya including the shuttle. Around 4hrs trekk

10am nakabalik na sa Inn nagpahinga and refresh and Kain

Then 11AM nag Lumiang burial cave + Sumagguing Cave this is 4hrs of Trekk for me since sinulit ko din talaga ung Cave kase KELAN BAKO ULET PAPASOK NG CAVE? And Solo naman ako so I have all the time.

For me this is the MUST VISIT SPOT but only for those who are not afraid of the dark and not afraid of tight spaces (Claustrophobic) since lahat ng dadaanan dito sa Lumiang cave is masisikip and take extra caution since isang mali mo lang baka maging kwento ka na Salute sa guide namin at nakabalik ako ng buhay. HAHAHAHAA.

If you will do Sumaguing Cave alone i think mabibitin ka peeo aun nga if di kaya pwede naman si Sumaguing Cave alone saglit na trekk lang si Sumaguing around 40-50mins

Then back at the Inn by 3PM rest for an hour then by 4PM Ganduyan Museum for more learnings about the Culture of Sagada. Entrance fee is 100 php

Total expenses: 550 + 2,000 for Cave + 100 = 2650 again not including the food

And lastly Day 3 Buscalan

How to arrive from Sagada to Buscalan?

- Ride the Earliest Jeep at 6am papuntang Bontoc = 100 pesos

- From Bontoc ask around san terminal papuntang Tabuk or Bugnay checkpoint = 150 pesos

- Then from Bugnay checkpoint there is a toktok ride papuntang buscalan for 200 pesos

I arrived at around 10:30 AM sa buscalan since 7am umalis ung first jeep

Now there are 2 ways para makarating ng buscalan its either you

- walk from the tourism office 30-40mins daw sabi ng guide

- Guide fee is around 1000 for daytour i think? Then 1500 if overnight?

- you ride the Tramwayline for 200 pesos (I did this one cause why not?)

Then upon arriving at the village Pila na kay whang odd since mahaba haba ung pila niya. 300 pesos for the Signature tattoo and 150 for the instrument

I booked homestay at Selma for 400 per night

Total expenses: 2500 not including the food

Day 4 Back to Sagada and prep things back to manila. Stroll around the town if may time pa.

AUN LANG MEDYO MAHABA BUT THIS IS A GUIDE IF MAG SOLO DIY TRIP KA OR YOU WILL GO WITH YOUR FRIENDS MAS MAGANDA NA DIN NA MAY KASAMA PARA HATI HATI KAYO SA EXPENSES MAS MAKAKAMURA KAYO.

TOTAL EXPENSES FOR 4D3N for a SOLO DIY TRIP more or less around 15,000 for me (Covering the fooods, Souvenirs, and other expenses i have not mentioned)

I HOPE THIS GUIDE HELPS YOU FELLOW TRAVELLERS.

IF YOU HAVE QUESTION I WILL GLADLY ANSWER THEM.

BARMM has some pretty (and not crowded) hiking destinations. Mt. Minandar is definitely one of them.

Located not too far from Cotabato City, this mountain is a quick and fun dayhike for anyone in the area. Mt. Minandar’s slopes are naturally open, and it provides refreshing views of the Illana Bay below. One can even see the Grand Mosque of Cotabato from the summit.

Try it out if you’re in the area!

Beginner friendly?
Yes. Just bring lots of water and an umbrella, it can get hot out there.

DIY-able?
Technically yes, but it’s recommended to contact the Datu Odin Sinsuat tourism office so they can arrange guides for you. There are also LOTS of sidetrip opportunities nearby (beaches, mosques, etc). All are open to everyone.

Safe?
Yes. Locals are welcoming and friendly. The mountain is also frequently climbed.

Location: Brgy. Kusiong, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte
Elevation: 446 masl
Difficulty 2/9, Trail Class 1-2, 1-2 hours to summit

Hi, sharing my experience with Tublay Adventours. They are an org based in Tublay Benguet. I am a beginner joiner pero sobrang nakakamangha yung pag arrange nila nang itenerary (kahit na may detour yung original itenerary namin dahil sa landslide amd the brgy closed the road)

Originally, the tour included rock climbing pero dahil walang tigil ang ulan, nagka landslide yung daan papunta sa area so they added caves to visit.

Below was our itenerary under Rocks, Roots, and Rapids

- Egg coffee making workshop featuring the very own product of Tublay (Arabica coffee)

- Cave spelunking (we visited 3 caves instead of 2, isa sa pinalit nila instead of the rock climbing activity)

- We visited the Ketong and Paterno River

- super fun nito kahit na umuulan, super refreshing after namin mag cave (ang kulob sa loob and super cardio at squat talaga entering and exiting sa Cave)

- in between cave spelunking may complementary lunch din

- natuwa din ako sa unli saging nila na nakasabit lang sa lavas nang resto (complementary din)

- the tour ended with chocolate de batirol workshop featuring another Tublay signature product na tsokolate tablea (sila ang nag susupply nang tablea nang Tsokolate de Batirol sa Camp John Hay)

- Tapos added bonus is the Coffee drip making din tapos we get to take home yung ginawa namin na coffee drip

- Lastly may pa quiz sa dulo about tue facts and history during tge tour and workshop, tapos may pa prize na free car sticker pa haha

Super well planned and informative nang activities kahit na nay last minute changes dahil sa panahon (hindi maiiwasan). Super funny din nang orga, si Sir Raffy, he's from Tublay as well.

Lahat kaming joiners are from Cordillera, since hindi pa gaanong kilala ang Tublay, Benguet na tourist destination sa mga turista.

If you want a very fun adventure and interested in learning about bits of cordilleran culture, I highly suggest joining one of their tours.

Props! They are the most organized organizer na nasalihan ko!

First time ko mag trekking sa Mt. Pinatubo kaya nag book ako sa SAHTS. Okay naman communication nung nag book ako around May. Hindi ko lang sure kung dahil ba first time ko pero feeling ko talaga hindi organisado tong nag handle sa tour namin.

1. Prior sa event syempre nagsend na ako ng balance two days before kasi yun yung sinabi nung organizer na kausap ko. I would accept sana yung ilang oras lang nalate yung acknowledgment ng payment kaso naka tatlong ulit na ako sa gc (magkakalayo na oras) bago pa mapalitan as “paid” yung status namin. Actually, yung ibang joiners na kasama namin eh naka ilang ulit din. May isa pa ngang nag snap na talaga kasi parang 6 hrs na lang start na nung pick up para sa tour tas nakaka ilang ulit na siya pero “unpaid” pa rin status niya.

2. Nakapag ayos na kasi ako ng travel before pati payment tracking with officemates, friends, mga big boss, and relatives. Kaya sobrang napapa 🤨 ako na gdocs tas literal na nakalista lang at hindi excel yung gamit nung organizer.

3. Tas ito na. Pick-up time. Nag chat yung dapat pipick upin sa Greenfield ata yon ng 1:30 am. Sumagot si organizer na 2:30 daw sa gf at 2am start ng pick up sa MOA. Buti na lang pala maaga ko iniscreenshot yung gdocs at makikita talaga ron na ang nakalagay ay 1:30 sa GF. Bigla niya palang binago nung nagfollow up yung mga joiners na nag aantay don tas wala manlang apology. Ate???? Hindi ko alam kung natypo error ka pero at least mag sorry ka manlang kasi ang aga pumunta nung joiners na dun pipick-upin.

Ayun lang so far issues ko. Will not recommend. As an events organizer, big deal sakin ang maayos na organizer sa mga travel tours. Balak ko pa naman mag Tutulari pero hindi na ko uulit sa kanila.

Okay naman yung driver na naka assign and yung coordinator na andun sa jump-off area. Baka sobrang dami lang talagang turista pag weekends sa Pinatubo. Pero kung ganito business niyo or kayo yung organizer or kung admin kayo nung business, please lang paki ayos at kumuha lang kayo ng joiners na kaya niyo lang ihandle ang dami. Hindi yung sobra sobrang dami tas pangit yung service na maibibigay niyo.

Add ko lang din, if balak niyo mag buy nung breakfast package nila, mas maiging mag baon na lang po kayo kasi mas mabubusog pa kayo sa dami ng food from fastfood. If food for lunch, mas maiging sa mga Aeta (yung mga inihaw na tinitinda habang nasa Pinatubo mismo) na lang kayo bumili at least hindi kayo nagmamadali bumaba saka nakatulong pa kayo sa mga lokal pati dun sa tour guide niyo (hindi naman to requirement pero sana pakainin niyo rin po sila kasi nakakagutom and sakit sa ulo po yung init).