PASKOokum 2018: Alibijaban Elementary School

" It's not about how much we give but how much love we put into giving."

                                                        -Mother Theresa-

We, the Skookum Mountaineers, wish to thank all those who have helped in making PASKOokum 2018 a meaningful event for the students at the Alibijaban Elementary School, in Alibijaban Island, San Andres, Quezon.

As our chosen community for the year, it is our actually our first time to hold Paskookum outside our usual tramping grounds. Nevertheless, we remained true to our advocacy of reaching out to communities in far-flung areas, with the aim of creating smiles and sharing our blessings.

On behalf of the children/students, parents and teachers at the Alibijaban Elementary School, we say our unending gratitude to the generosity of the following sponsors, many of whom have actually shared their blessings every Paskookum Outreach Climb that we have facilitated over the years:

GS Oil Field Solutions Ltd. Co.	Team E1	Celia Rocamora
Josephine Bautista	Tropang Kape	Alvin Fernandez
Marigil Santos	Romel Alcayde	Carol Saplala
Angelo Matthew Santos	Nancy	Joy David
Monette Beltran	Marvin Dineros	SKF Finance Team
Phil John Gil Wycoco	Tony Marquez	Nieda Galapon
Senen Quizon	Janice Loyola	Allan Pore and Family
Pam Quizon	Jude Penamora	Tenten Manaois and Family
BLGF, Department of Finance	Jun Limpin	Roy Dela Cruz and Family
Aissa Buno	Menard Martin	Dhan Osalla
Jackie Lou Chua	Kat Quiambao	Glen Beason
Sgt. Nina Del Rosario	Cha Jimenes Andres	Charmaine Sarmiento
Angel Adriana Druja	Dimple Marquez	Mabel Cantor Dumigpe
Bea Kendra Druja	Melai Marquez	Jaime Octavo Joson Jr.
Sofia Ester Letaba	Marc Taruc	Divine Garduque
Lara Gwyneth Dagdag	Randell Llige	Johna Pascual
Aloha Nietes Valdez	Sie Nna	Stours
RJ Santiago	Paul Vincent Elima	Badfrog
Xenia Andres	Alexis Penamora	Kris Techico
Studio West	Carrie May Rosales	Eileen Dy
Sharon Mendez	Cunanan-Guerrero Family	Sunshine Caralde
Lucho Boom Boom	Eric Angeles and Friends

We also acknowledge the invaluable efforts and contributions of our volunteers who participated and joined us for #Paskookum2018. Your help, much less, your presence during the program itself boosted our confidence. Thank you for believing in our advocacy, for believing in us.

Paula Xenia M. Andres	Freddie Ignacio	Yannah Marrela Posecion
Domingo Arambulo Jr.	Jaime Octavo Joson Jr.	Dhan Osalla
Glean Beason	Janice Loyola	Harry Robles
Kurt Zion Calura	Antonio Marquez	Brian Dwight Samson
Sigrid Alanis Calura	Tony Marquez Jr.	Leonard Mack Samson
Roy Dela Cruz	Chino Marquez	Rome Tongohan

Again, we hope that each and eveyone of us c share happiness. As what we always say, there is a Skookum in each and everyone of us.

Allan Calura              Bette Quiocho          Bryan Bognot           Isagani Dagdag    
Jaime De Leon           Lennon Vic Del Socorro           Oliver Gil Beltran

Mt. Daguldol + Ambon-Ambon Falls + Laiya Beach

“Hiking is a bit like life:
The journey only requires you to put one foot in front of the other…again and again and again.
And if you allow yourself the opportunity to be present throughout the entirety of the trek,
you will witness beauty every step of the way,
not just at the summit”

As our plan to go on an extended hike up North failed to materialize, we decided to go down South for a dayhike. So we decided to drive all the way to San Juan, Batangas and climb Mt. Daguldol. It was practically a drive of about three (3) hours from Quezon City to the quaint Sitio Biga in Hugom, San Juan, Batangas.

While we were paying the registration fees and securing our local guide for the hike, we were forewarned by the locals that there seems to be brewing problem among the local guides. According to our guide, a guide from the Lobo (the summit and campsite is supposedly within the jurisdiction of the town of Lobo) was prevented from leading a group of hikers the past weekend owing to the fact that he was drunks at that time. Trouble erupted among them since those from Lobo claimed (which is supposedly true) that a guide from San Juan (the jumpoff is within the jurisdiction of the town of San Juan) was allegedly previously allowed to act as such even though such guide was similarly intoxicated at that time.

Laiban Quatro - Mt. Lubo, Mt. Ngusong Kabayo traverse to Tangwa Peak + (Laiban Falls)

"Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go."
                                                                                          - T.S. Eliot 

Since we were badly in need for a tune-up climb for our upcoming climb in Akiki, and having no idea to go, we decided to join an organized climb for a change. After threshing out the details from Kagawad, we were in no time up and about to tramp in the newest hiking hotbed in Tanay, Rizal, the Laiban Quatro.

Mt. Ngusong Kabayo

Upon arriving at Sitio Mayagay, our vehicle went straight to and parked at the basketball court. We then transferred to the monster jeep that will take us to Brgy. Laiban. As we were at least fifty (50) in the group, a good number of participants decided to topload. It was one cold and bumpy ride to Laiban since the usual morning mists were accompanied a drizzle. After forty minutes and nine (9) river crossings, we finally arrived at the Brgy. Hall in Laiban.

Laiban Brgy. Hall

Surprisingly, there are already a lot of hikers (one big group handled by an organizer) taking time to register. As for us, we just waited for our turn and decided to sit on the wooden benches in the makeshift stalls just opposite the Brgy. Hall. After we have logged-in, we were led to the house of Kagawad to re-group and for some to drink coffee and eat breakfast.

Sign in front of Kagawad Toto's home

It was already 0540H when we left the house of Kagawad. At the Brgy. Hall, we had a briefing as to what we are going to expect during the hike. After a short prayer, we settled ourselves into smaller groups (there are four of us in our group). And at 0555H, we were off and commenced hiking.

From the main road in Laiban, we backtrailed for about a hundred meters, turned right toward, and followed a footpath in between residential houses until we ascended into the mountain trail. As rain poured throughout the previous night, it was already one muddy and slippery climb from that point on. As we were told, our first stop would be Mt. Lubo, then proceed to Mt. Ngusong Kabayo, traverse to Tangwa Peak, and then take the backtrail to Mt. Lubo before turning left for the descent towards the famed four (4) waterfalls of Laiban.

Maysawa Circuit - Mt. Sa Pari traverse to Mt. Binutasan, traverse to Maysawa Falls / Sapa

“Walk away quietly in any direction and taste the freedom of the mountaineer.” 

                                                                                                                  ― John Muir

After months of not having a hike, we were choosing whether to climb Pico de Loro (before it eventually closes its trails for the meantime), or to climb one of the newest traipsing trails of Southern Sierra Madre. Obviously, taking into consideration the expected foot traffic, we opted to go for the latter and hike up the now famous Maysawa Circuit.

Welcome to Maysawa Circuit

Maysawa Circuit is referred as such by reason of two things. First, it is located within Sitio Maysawa (pronounced as "May Sawa", interpreted in English as "There is a Python."). Second, it is a Circuit because its series of trails offers climbing a number of peaks and mountains namely, Mt. Sa Pari and Mt. Binutasan.

The appellation Mt. Sa Pari ("owned by the priest" when interpreted in English) was derived from the fact that the adjoining lands in the mountain was supposedly previously owned by a priest. On the other hand, Mt. Binutasan was christened as such since this is supposedly where a road going to the adjoining Brgy. Sto. Niño was made. In the vernacular, according to our guide (Ryan), "binutas ang bundok para gunmawa ng daan".

A faint Mt. Irid (left) and Mt. Tukduang Banoi (right)

From LRT-2 Cubao Station, we traversed Aurora Boulevard, and went on our usual route up to Masinag and Cogeo in Antipolo City via the Marifanta / MariLaQue Highway. Owing to the fact that we have previously hiked up Mt. Paliparan, we are now familiar where to register in Cuyambay. Hence, upon seeing a number of vehicles parked on the left side of the road (just before the junction going to Cuyambay Proper), we immediately recognized the place as the trailhead to Maysawa Circuit.

Nonetheless, as it is mandatory for hikers to first register and secure a guide at the Barangay Hall, we continued towards Brgy. Cuyambay Proper. (Hopefully, a satellite office / registration area will be established at the Maysawa JOP so that hikers will no longer be required to go to Cuyambay).

When we arrived, the Brgy. Hall is teeming with activity. As a considerable number of hikers have just registered and were busy preparing their gears (supposedly to climb Mt. Paliparan or Nagpatong Rock), groups of hikers continue to arrive. Obvious signs that Cuyambay has etched its own mark in the world of mountaineering / hiking. The local guide assigned to assist us during the climb is Ryan.

It was already a few ticks after 0700H when we left the trailhead / Maysawa Junction and started hiking. We hopped on the trail giddily, as we were enthusiastic to be back hiking. Hence, we politely declined the offer of riding the habal-habal. As we followed the dirt path, we snaked through the residential area and eventually passed by the makeshift basketball court. Then we reached the concrete part of the road, which according to Ryan, signifies that we are now nearing the rest house of a famous actor / actress. The end of the pavement ends at the habal-habal station, which incidentally is where patrons of the habal-habal are drop. Propitiously, the road / trail continued to dip, and to our amazement (as lady luck may have smiled to us), the sea of clouds were still prominent at that time.

Mt. Batulao - New Trail to Old Trail Traverse (Solohike)

"Great things are done when men and mountains meet."

                                 - William Blake -

Mt. Batulao has been known in the mountaineering circle as one of the better climbs near Metro Manila. It offers a challenging hike that offers a lot of rewards to aspiring hikers that would wish to practice some technical facets of climbing. Hence, it is not uncommon for mountaineers to have their baptism of fire in this mountain.

This popularity of Mt. Batulao has reared its ugly head. Controversies and issues regarding registrations and rules on climbing and guides resulted to climbers shying away from tramping in this hub of Philippine mountaineering.

Previously, in any given holiday or weekend, hikers would come in droves, 300 hikers tramping on its picturesque peaks and ridges would be an understatement. Foot traffic at the roped segments is comparable to EDSA and the summit is jam-packed at any given time of the day. But now, according to the local that I talked to, a lucky day would mean about a hundred or so hikers passing through the registration areas. I admit, I am one of those who were disenchanted and eventually became indifferent to climbing this popular tramping ground because of the so many issues that supposedly cropped up from the personal interests of some people.

Mt. Paliparan - Traverse to Tuoy + Tungtong Falls (where the kites roam free)

"Unless we are willing to encourage our children to reconnect with and appreciate the natural world. We can't expect them to help protect and care for it."

                                                                                    - David Suzuki

The town of Tanay in the province of  Rizal is fast becoming a mountaineering/hiking hotbed. Proof of this is the emergence of new tramping grounds in the area.

The newest addition to the growing list of mountains in Tanay is Mt. Paliparan (meaning "airport" or "from where things are flown"). Situated in quaint Brgy. Cuyambay, Mt. Paliparan was christened as such since this is supposed to be the place where people belonging to the Dumagat Tribe fly kites, either for fun or for wagers. According to our guide Mang Carling, aside from bragging rights, bets in the kite fighting usually involve a sack of rice, kamote, and other agricultural products.

Mt. Paliparan...taken from the ridge leading to Tuoy

Another view of Mt. Paliparan

Mt. Paliparan...photo taken from Tuoy

Mt. Paliparan Summit

After more than an hour of travel from Quezon City, we finally arrived in Brgy. Cuyambay, Tanay, Rizal. As we tried to ask a lady who just bought something from a store for directions in going to the Brgy. Hall of Cuyambay, a man suddenly appeared and inquired if we intend to climb Mt. Paliparan, The man was no other than Kuya Inso, also referred to as Sir Inso by our guide. He then conducted a brief lecture regarding what to expect during the hike, including the climbing conditions and the places of special interests along the trail.

We were greeted by this view of Mt. Batolusong

Subsequent to paying the registration and environmental fees, we waited for the arrival of Mang Carling, the guide who was assigned to us for the day. It was 0745H when we left the trailhead (Brgy. Hall) for another day of adventure.

Maynoba Circuit - Mt. Maynoba + Mt. Cayabu + 8 waterfalls

“We were not pioneers ourselves, but we journeyed over old trails that were new to us, and with hearts open. Who shall distinguish?”

                                                         ― J. Monroe Thorington, The Glittering Mountains of Canada: A Record of                                                                           Exploration and Pioneer Ascents in the Canadian Rockies, 1914-1924

A new tramping ground has recently been launched in Tanay, Rizal. Dubbed as Maynoba Circuit, it was formally opened last March 22, 2016. And this early, I am sure that the Maynoba Circuit will soon be in the bucket list of mountaineers, hikers, climbers, and weekend warriors.

Mt. Maynoba

Mt. Maynoba / Mt. Cayabu

Climbing the Maynoba Circuit would entail climbing Mt. Maynoba and Mt. Cayabu. But the added bonus of having a chance to take a dip in any, if not all of the 8 waterfalls that may be found along the trail surely makes this climb undeniably enticing to everyone.

Having overslept (because I again dozed off after acknowledging the alarm that I have set), it was already 0545H when I arrived at the McDonald’s in Marco Highway to fetch my best hiking buddy (Gani). And after buying some of our needed provisions at a convenience store in Cogeo, we went straight to finding Brgy. Cayabu (Tanay, Rizal).

It was already 0720H when we arrived at Mar-ning’s Resort, the jump-off point for the Maynoba Circuit. After paying the registration fees and securing our local guide for the day, we started hiking at 0745H. Thinking that what we are going to climb is the mountain opposite the resort, we were actually surprised when our guide led us towards the back of the resort.

Welcome to Mar-Nings Farm and Resort

Swimming pool

We initially hiked on rice paddies (one can actually survey the course of the hike here) until we reached the dirt path that eventually led to the “bamboo gate”. We then reached the bohoan at 0800H. While the initial terrain is mainly ascending, there are also some rolling parts that may serve as a breather for the harder climbs ahead.

Pico de Loro / Mt. Palay-Palay - Tramping Advisory (Temporary closure of the Monolith)

***Please note that there are claims (still unverified) that the Monolith is still open since it is supposedly outside the jurisdiction of Cavite, and that one only needs to sign a waiver in case a hiker/climber wishes to scale the Monolith (as of March 23, 2016).




Pico de Loro is one of the most popular climbs in the entire Philippines. Aside from the challenging trails and magnificent views at the summit, it's Monolith is really one of a kind attraction. As such, climbing the Monolith has become a personal rite of passage to the daring.

The Monolith on the left....the Summit on the Right.

On the other hand, this popularity has likewise become Pico de Loro's curse. As the number of climbers scaling it has dramatically increased in recent years, considerable changes along the trail leading to its Summit, much less, the trail leading to the Monolith became more and more obvious.

The Monolith taken from the Summit

In this regard, the DENR-PENRO in Cavite issued an order temporarily barring mountaineers / hikers / climbers from climbing the Pico de Loro's Monolith starting March 15, 2016. The DENR-PENRo Cavite cited the supposed erosion of land and loss of vegetation at the base of the Monolith in issuing the directive.


Mountaineers / hikers / climbers, please be advised accordingly. Let us help the mountain heal itself.

***credits to the owner of this photo that I got from the net

Tramping Advisory 013

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Pico de Loro / Mt. Palay-Palay (Temporary Closure of Monolith)

Manabu Peak - Mataas na Bundok

"He that plants trees loves others besides himself."
- Thomas Fuller -

Manabu Peak is one of the more popular minor climbs that is relevantly close to Metro Manila. Most enjoy its dense forest cover, the interesting flora and fauna within its range, and the wonderful views that it offers. Of course, who would ever forget the free civet coffee of Mang Tino and Mang Pirying. There are really a lot of reasons that climbers continue to flock and climb Manabu.


Arriving at the trail head, we changed gears and prepared to climb. Holding the seedling that we purchased at the registration area in one, we were so eager to trailblaze again.

Engr's seedling

The initial part of the trail is similar to the approach in Mt. Sembrano and Mt. Romelo. Subsequent to the preliminary plunge and ascent, we passed by agricultural  crops and some orchards as we slowly went deeper into the forest and reach the Stations of the Manabu Loop (Yes, the trail is a loop that is comprised by a number of Stations).

The rolling terrain went on until we finally arrived at Station 3 where we briefly stopped for some photo ops. Here, we also had to cross the brook. As the forest in the Malipunyo Range (where Manabu is located) is really one of the more impressive ones in the entire Philippines, it is not surprising that the flora and fauna in the area is really remarkable.

At the Station 3

Onwards, we passed by farmlands and even had to stoop down at one point in order to get pass by steel wires that resemble a clothesline, which I supposed is being used by the locals as a trellis for their vegetable crops.We decided to have our first rest stop at Station 4. This is where the loop trail merges. The trail on the left leads directly to the Grotto (Station 8) and is relatively an easier ascent towards the summit. On the other hand, while the conventional trail on the right is the steeper assault, it nonetheless leads to Station 5, where Mang Tino and Mang Pirying shall gamely offer a free taste of civet coffee to hikers.

Mt. Mamara: a newly-opened mountain in Daraitan

“You don't need to climb a mountain to know that it's high.” 

                                                                            ― Paulo Coelho, Aleph

Nestled within a river valley in the Southern Sierra Madre is a paradise known as Barangay Daraitan, which lies within the boundaries of Tanay, Rizal. What was previously a haven for illegal loggers, has now become a sanctuary for mountaineers, hikers, weekend warriors, and casual tourists that ceaselessly flock to the place especially during holidays and weekends. So, as our first hike for 2016, we finally decided to hike in Daraitan.

Mt. Mamara...taken somewhere along the Tinipak River

Mt. Mamara...as seen a few meters from the jump off point

Fly high...Skookum jump

As our plan to hire a van did not materialize, we decided to just meet at the designated stop for jeepneys bound for Tanay opposite the Shangri-la Plaza Mall along Shaw Boulevard in Mandaluyong City. It was already 0445H when we boarded a jeepney, hoping that we are still within the 300 hikers to summit in a day quota that was recently imposed in Barangay Daraitan. We ultimately arrived at the Tanay Public Market at 0610H together with at least 12 hikers that flagged the jeepney somewhere in Cainta and Pasig.

Mt. Daraitan - Tramping Advisory (300 hikers)

As part of the efforts in regulating the influx of mountaineers, occasional hikers, weekend warriors, and tourist, the local leaders of Brgy. Daraitan in Tanay, Rizal, have implemented the rule that starting  January 30, 2016, only 300 hikers per day shall be allowed access into the summit of Mt. Daraitan.

While this rule is also subject to certain adjustments, as chance summiteers may take the risk of waiting for the possibility of being allowed to proceed to the summit once the condition of the foot traffic there improves, there are other alternative activities that are available for those who will not be included in the daily quota. These include the Maytuntong Cave, enjoy the cool and clear waters of the Tinipak River, or hike up to the summit of the recently-opened Mt. Marara.

So in case you wish to go to the summit, make adjustments to your schedule and go there as early as possible.

Happy Hiking! Seize the trails!



Tramping Advisory 009

001.031.016

Mt. Daraitan - 300 Hikers to Summit

Mt. Sembrano - Manggahan Falls & Pililla Windmills

After months of shelving carefully laden plans in the past, we eventually decided to summit Mt. Sembrano. Hence, I had to fetch my climb buddy (Gani) along Ortigas Ave (near Robinsons Galleria) at 0530H.

Mt. Sembrano's South Summit....taken from the North Summit

Fortunately, we were able to find our way to the Barangay Hall of Malaya, Pililla, Rizal (where we eventually parked Jaff). After signing our names in the log book and paying the mandatory registration fee, we continued towards the trailhead leading to the summit of Mt. Sembrano which is just 100 meters, more or less, from the Barangay Hall (2^nd street after the Flying V gas station). It was already 0755 when we commenced hiking.



Brgy. Hall / Registration Center

The hike began from the highway as the concrete road started to become steep, this would actually be the start of the never-ending assault until the summit (Yes, the climb is mostly uphill, maybe 85% thereof.). We made our way through the residential area until the pavement gave way to the “Rocky Road”.

It's a cloudy day in Mt. Sembrano



The Rocky Road begins where the concrete road ends.

Although there are still residential houses along the Rocky Road, it actually signified that we are nearing the edge of the forest. We then encountered the 1^st split and took the trail on the right. We likewise crossed a brook thereafter. There are trail signs along the way except at the junction where the trail on the right leads down to the river (this is actually the old trail). Here, you must take the trail on the left since the old trail has already been closed due to landslide.

Mt. Romelo - Buruwisan Falls + Lanzones Falls

 

Although considered as one of the more famous climbs for mountaineering newbies, Mt. Romelo is better known for its waterfalls, namely: Buruwisan Falls, Lanzones Falls, Sampaloc Falls, Sapang Labo Falls, Batya-Batya Falls, Old Buruwisan, and Twin Falls (some say there is an 8th, "Diwata Falls, but I failed to verify this with the locals) that continue to serve as its crowd-drawers throughout the year.

Located in quaint Siniloan, Laguna, Mt. Romelo (although some fondly refer to it as Mt. Famy in reference to the adjoining town of Famy, Laguna) is regarded as a fun climb at 240 MASL. Nevertheless, climbing it would not be that fun and challenging unless one is ready to get wet and dirty because of its muddy horse trails (yes, even during summer).

While some would recommend hiking Mt. Romelo at summertime because it would mean less mud on the trail, hiking during the rainy season  however would be ideal for those who would want to see any of its seven (7) waterfalls at their best and mightiest.

With all these in mind, my former officemates collectively known as P@Akyat together with my best climbing buddy (and his boxing trainer) went on a dayhike within the so-called Waterfalls Sanctuary of Eastern Laguna. While most in our group went to the Raymond Bus Terminal in Legarda (Sampaloc, Manila) at 0400H, three (3) of us decided to just wait for and hail the bus along Ortigas Avenue near Robinsons Galleria. Needless to say, the bus that will take us to Siniloan encountered some delays as it was already 0615H when the bus left the station. Fifteen (15) minutes later, we were lucky to be on board as the driver refused to stop at the gas station where we were waiting (because there was already a traffic enforcer at the intersection at that time). Hence, we had no choice but to jaywalk and run for the bus like crazy (in the middle of Ortigas and Meralco Avenue intersection).

It was 0850H when bus had a brief stop-over somewhere in the town of Mabitac, Laguna. The bus continued its trip after fifteen (15) minutes and we arrived at the junction after 10 minutes. We finally arrived at the jumpoff (opposite the KTri Restaurant) five minutes later (0920H).

After buying snacks and food for lunch at KTri, we proceeded towards and arrived at the Registration Area after a 5-10 minute walk from the highway. We paid the mandatory registration fees and after some pleasantries, we started hiking at 0945H.

The sign...on the left side of the highway

We passed by this mini dam at the residential area

Going to the jumpoff...there is a Dragonfruit Plantation on the left side of the road

The Registration Area

From the Registration Area, we passed through the hanging bridge and made our way through a number of houses and eventually entered the forest as the trail became steeper. We inched our way until we reached a clearing (It was one of the parts of the trail where there are no forest cover). The view of some parts of Laguna and Rizal were spectacular as the rustic scene of the countryside is really something to behold. We again entered the forest until we finally arrived at the 1st Station (Hut) at 1025H.

Mt. Parawagan (Traverse) - A mountain in Wawa that deserves a second look

Since the Wawa Dam area became a significant tramping ground of mountaineers and occasional hikers, it is now very easy to see pictures of the twin mountains Mt. Binacayan and Mt. Pamitinan, including their so-called big brother, Mt. Haponang Banoi, and the more distant Mt. Ayaas.

Without much of a surprise, left in the shadows of these mountaineering gems is Mt. Parawagan, the mountain on the southwestern portion of the Wawa Dam. Because of the established dirt road that meander on its slopes, it does not really attract a lot of hikers and mountaineers to summit it. Nevertheless, it has remained a favorite for mountain bikers and trail runners.

 

Mt. Parawagan....photo taken while in Mt. Binacayan

Mt. Parawagan....view from Mt. Pamitinan

In the same fashion as Sir Edmund Hillary had declared upon scaling Mt. Everest, we decided to go and climb Mt. Parawagan just because "it is there".

At the jump-off in Wawa, we paid the mandatory registration fee of P2.00. Although the trail is actually an established dirt road, we were still required to secure the services of a local guide. Hence, we had no choice but to comply.

Climbing in Tanay, Rizal? - Read This....

The Tanay Tourism Office recently issued a list of guidelines that climbers / hikers / mountaineers should comply. This was posted on the Facebook page of Tanay Tourism and has caused a stir because of the controversial requirement of submitting a medical certificate as proof of one's physical fitness.

Mt. Batolusong's Rangyas Peak and Mapatag Plateau

As copied verbatim from the post in Tanay Tourism Facebook page, the mandatory requirements before climbing include:

"REQUIREMENTS FOR MOUNTAIN CLIMBING/MOUNTAINEERS:
1. Permit/clearance to climb from the municipality of Tanay (and the concerned barangay);

 2. Email your request to climb to jeffpino@gmail.com and/or jeffpino@yahoo.com (please address your letter to Hon. Rafael A. Tanjuatco, attention to Engr. Carlos E. Inofre, Environment Officer, and Mr. Jeffrey M. Pino, Tourism Officer ;

 3. List of persons participating the climb, with complete address and contact numbers and copy of ID's s...hould be provided/attached to the letter;

4. Itinerary of the activity should be attached to the letter/email;

5. Climbing gear and paraphernalia must be provided by the mountaineer;

6. Medical certificate from a competent physician, certifying that the mountaineer is physically fit and medically fit to do such activity must be presented to Tanay Tourism or Barangay Chairman before the mountain climbing activity. No medical certificate – no climb. Medical certificate may also be secured from the Rural Health Unit of Tanay or Barangay Sampaloc;

7. Must register at Barangay Hall, attend a short briefing and orientation, pay required fees, and tour guide assignment;

8. Must comply with the municipality’s ordinance on plastic/styro ban;

9. No alcoholic beverage is to be consumed during the mountain climbing activity;

10. Local tour guide is a MUST;

For further info/inquiry please contact 0917.5229024 / 0936.2284173 / 7361059 or 0998.9881590"


While I believe that the local tourism office only has the best of interests in setting the aforementioned mandatory requirements, submitting a medical certificate as proof of physical fitness will make a lot of mountaineers shy away from climbing in Tanay, Rizal. Among the popular climbs in the area are Mt. Irid, Mt. Batolusong, and Mt. Daraitan.

Filipinos are known for their aversion of going to the doctor since many view it as an added and unnecessary expense. Also most mountaineers are actually trying to enjoy the outdoors while  possibly having the least spending. And whatever happened to the good old waiver? Isn't the waiver also a declaration that one is fit enough to climb mountains? And I remember, we had to sign a waiver when we climbed Mt. Batolusong twice earlier this year. Just my two cents though.

In view of the foregoing, mountaineers and occasional hikers should be aware of the rules that are being implemented in Tanay and coordinate with the authorities prior to their scheduled climb.

*There are claims that hikers without medical certificates are allowed to proceed as long as they sign a waiver at the jumpoff

Tramping Advisory 002
Medical Certificate - Tanay, Rizal

Mt. Ayaas - Wawa Dam traverse to Mascap

To climb or not to climb is not the question that we are to answer. Instead we were at that time asking ourselves, where to now? This is what actually transpired when we climbed Mt. Ayaas, a mountain situated in the up-and-coming mountaineering hotbed, that is Rodriguez (Montalban), Rizal.

Mt. Ayaas taken from the Bulakan Tree

 Days prior to the planned hike we were endlessly trying to contact Emman, the guide extraordinaire when it comes to the mountains of Montalban, and with supposed contact for our fallback climb being likewise unreachable, we surprisingly have nowhere to go.

Making our way towards the Wawa Dam

It was already 0445H when I was able to fetch the Engineer at our usual meeting place (Mcdonald’s Eton Centris). With a dilemma of having nowhere to climb, we made a last ditch effort of contacting Emman. Providentially, the other line rang. And from then, Emman told us to meet him at the DENR in Sitio Wawa at 0700H. Consequently, we found ourselves buying for additional supplies and eating our favorite breakfast every climb (Jollibee Corned Beef Meal weehee…”nasa Mcdo na nag-Jollibee pa”.). In that regard, it was already 0545H when we left Timog Avenue, Quezon City for Wawa Dam.

Although we took easy on the gas, we arrived in Wawa still 30 minutes early. Thus, we decided to park at the Multi-Purpose Hall in the hope getting additional sleep. But we were roused by a knock in the front passenger seat window by a smiling man, who turned out to be Emman, our guide for the day.

Mt. Batolusong - Mapatag Plateau, Rangyas Peak traverse to Kay-Ibon Falls

As a practice climb for our hike up Mt. Pulag, I decided to go back to the mountain that I last climbed. But now, I was with my former officemates (and two potential mountaineers) Marco and Cathy.

Mt. Batolusong

It was already 0450H when I was able to fetch them at the LRT2 Cubao Station (McDonalds Gateway Mall). We then continued eastward going to Cogeo. Upon reaching Cogeo, we decided to eat breakfast at an eatery near the junction. We also bought additional provisions here.

As I was already familiar with the way going to Brgy. San Andres, we were able to reach the Brgy. Hall at 0715H. Again, it was Mang Tony who welcomed us and he recognized me from my past climb a couple of weeks ago. I immediately asked him if the "Bangkaan Falls" is already open, unfortunately he said that work still has to be done at the falls before they can finally open it for hikers.

It was so nice chatting with Mang Tony and he offered the perfect idea for us to do the traverse to Kay-Ibon Falls and just hire a tricycle who will wait for us on a pre-agreed time at Marcos highway (Kay-ibon Trail). Finally, we can do the traverse. We paid the P20.00 registration fee at the Barangay Hall, and were then introduced to our very jovial and efficient guide (Wenny).

It was 0815 when we left the Barangay Hall and pushed our way to the trailhead up the Duhatan Ridge. We reached the stairway to the assault to Duhatan at 0830H. While resting, we had some photo-ops and even talked about the trees in the area.

We also took brief rest along the trail, until we reached the 1st water source at 0855H. Here, we met some locals who unfortunately were kaingeros. According to Wennie, the kaingeros plant brown rice which they actually sell at about P90.00 per kilo. While they burn mostly the portions that are planted with cogon and boho, Wennie mentioned that starting next year, the DENR will ultimately prohibit kaingin farming within the area of Mt. Batolusong, and forest rangers will be deployed to guard the mountain and the seedlings that they aim to plant there. (Sigh...1 year is a long way to go.)

Mt. Batolusong - Duhatan Ridge; Mapatag Plateau; Rangyas Peak; and Sangab Cave

Just located within the fringe of Eastern Metro Manila, Mt. Batolusong has slowly gained a well-deserved prominence in the mountaineering circles. Conveniently located in Tanay, Rizal, Mt. Batolusong is actually part of the South-Western portion of the Sierra Madre Mountain Range.

Mt. Batolusong's Rangyas Peak...taken from Mapatag Plateau

Mt. Batolusong...just before the landslide

Itching to go on a hike despite their busy schedules, Skookums Oliver and Gani decided to go on a dayhike last March 29, 2015. Since the other Skookums were not available at that time (Skookum Allan was in Mt. Pulag for one of our Open Climbs this summer), we hiking buddies searched for a new tramping ground close to the metropolis. As we were already scheduled later in the day to watch one of the highly-anticipated movie sequels of summer,  we chose to scale Mt. Batolusong.

On board Goldie (one of our usual service vehicles), we left Cubao at 0515H and followed Aurora Boulevard to the East, going straight to Marcos Highway in Antipolo. After buying breakfast at Jollibee (located on the opposite corner of the intersection where Sta. Lucia Mall and Robinsons Metro East is located), we continued towards and went past Cogeo. As we reached the outskirts of Antipolo, we gained more altitude and passed by a number of highland resorts and subdivisions such as the Boso-Boso, Palo Alto and Garden Cottage. A few hundred meters after Kilometer Post 51, we arrived at "Batangasan Junction", which leads to Barangay San Andres.

Pico de Loro - New Rules implemented by the PAMB (No Overnight Camping Allowed)

As one of the most popular climbs here in the Philippines, Pico de Loro/Mt. Palay-Palay has indeed suffered a lot. From the improper disposal of garbage, especially in Camp 2, to the vandalism of the monolith and the degradation of the sloping trail leading to the summit, the concerned government offices has finally decided to act to at least preserve and protect this national treasure.

"The Parrot's Beak"

"The Monolith" is Pico de Loro's greatest attraction

In its meeting on March 27, 2014, the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) has resolved to strictly implement the following rules in Pico de Loro / Mt. Palay-Palay starting March 28, 2015:

     1. Visit time is from 4:00am to 3:00pm only. Strictly no overnight stay in Camp Site 2.

     2. Strictly no collection of wildlife.

     3. Minimize noise. Keep in mind that each wildlife has its own activity and need not to be disturbed. All musical instruments are not allowed.

     4. Leave no trace. Anything brought up should be brought down.

     5. Do not vandalize.

     6. Strictly no cooking inside the Protected Area, only prepared food is allowed.

     7. Strictly no drinking of alcoholic beverages inside the Protected Area.

     8. No smoking.

The aforementioned rules were duly noted and approved by Engr. Rolinio P. Pozas, the PENRO of Cavite and concurrent Protected Area Superintendent.


Other Links related to this post:

Pico de Loro - New Trail / DENR Trail
Pico de Loro - Scaling the Parrot's Beak

Tramping Advisory 001

Pico de Loro - New Trail / DENR Trail

As the Skookum Mountaineers officially turned One, I made sure that our group should at least have a hike/climb last January 31. And since my fellow Skookums were either held back by their respective schedules or personal commitments, I was forced to do a solo-climb instead.

While I would always prefer to be with my best climb buddies (of course that includes my wife) rather than doing it solo, I'd say that hiking alone also has its advantages. Nevertheless, I'd make a separate post concerning this topic once I get more ideas and experience on the matter.

As it was my first time to climb solo, I decided to just limit my options to the mountains that I am most familiar with. And it was not until after I was able to drive-thru the Jollibee branch in nearby Tomas Morato (for my breakfast) that I finally decided to head to Pico de Loro.

Pico de Loro remains to be one of the most popular climbs in the Philippines

The Monolith

My 1st mountain for 2015

Held by traffic at the EPZA area just after the Cavitex, I arrived at the jumpoff at around 0730H. Just as I expected, there are already a lot mountaineers heading to the trail head, and of course, the ever-increasing number of weekend warriors who also try to have a piece of their own adventure. I parked Jaff on the shoulder of the highway and immediately put on my gears. I paid the mandatory registration fee of P25.00 and then went on to do some stretching. At 0810, I said a brief prayer and then started to hike/run.

Oh how I missed the eerie silence of the forest, which was intermittently broken by chirping birds, the sound of crickets/cicadas and the rustling of leaves caused by the cool mountain breeze.