-
Mount Kitanglad In One Day: That Thing Called Adventure
Can you hike Mount Kitanglad in one day? That question kept playing in my mind like a catchy tune, days before I faced this behemoth in Bukidnon. With an elevation of 2,899 meters above sea level, the 4th highest mountain in the Philippines is not an easy day hike. Sure, there have been many brave souls and strong hikers who climbed Mount Kitanglad in just one day. And truthfully, the trail isn’t as technically challenging as some of the tallest mountains in the Philippines. But can I do it? Can a restless insomniac and a not-so-young man with a lot of emotional baggage, injuries, and limited preparation, climb this mountain…
-
Mount Amuyao: The Infinite Stairway To Heaven
Why the hell do I do it? Why scale a mountain that promises agony and infinite gut-wrenching possibilities? And why lace up my hiking shoes, carry a hefty backpack, and drag myself up a behemoth like Mount Amuyao? Here’s the deal: Every ruthless, giant mountain I’ve faced serves a buffet of above-average pain and uneasy moments. I’ve dealt with twisted ankles, aching knees, cuts, bruises, cramps, dehydration, and blisters that look like props from a horror movie. Yet, I push on and invite all the agony. Why keep pushing through the grimacing and wincing? Am I a masochist? Why do hikers like me willingly sign up for a world of…
-
Mount Pulag: Chasing The Awe-Inspiring Sunrise
Sunrises are a symbol of rebirth, mystery, and new beginnings. An unstoppable force of nature, sunrise is also comforting, giving us a feeling that our problems are small and temporary. And in Mount Pulag National Park, a magical sunrise gave me hope in a world that badly needs a dose of optimism. Even at our darkest hour, I always believe the sun will rise again. To me, the return of light after hours of darkness represents hope. And the awe-inspiring sunrise in Mount Pulag brought a dash of hope to a new day filled with mystery and surprises. Furthermore, it symbolizes a new beginning for me and an opportunity to…
