Atop the Highest Mountain in the Philippines

"Literally the 'grandfather' of all mountains, Mt. Apo is a volcano that has never blown its top and at 2,954 meters is the highest peak in the Philippines. Local tribes believe deities reside near the summit and worship it as a sacred mountain. Situated in the island of Mindanao, Mt. Apo, the highest mountain in the Philippines and Southeast Asia's second highest. Known to the natives as kingdom of the mountain god, Apo Sandawa". ~words from Riza, a co-mountaineer

Conquering the highest peak in the country, I had the the beautiful escape of my life. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that I could climb this mighty mountain. Thanks to nature for providing me the gift.  I'll definitely go back there.

Mt. Apo Traverse Climb. September 8-12, 2010.

Backpacking Southern Antique

After so many discussions of where to go next, my girl and I headed to the southern part of Antique. Armed with our camping gears and little information about the place, we’ve  finally reached our destination after waiting for a bus that never arrived. We took a dip at the hot springs of Siraan and explored the nearby marine- protected Nogas Island.

Siraan Hot Springs and Nogas Island, Anini-y, Antique

Mount Talinis Trekkers' Shindig

Entry point: Brgy. Bediao, Dauin
Exit point: Brgy. Apolong, Valencia City
LLA: 1903 MASL

I consider Mt Talinis as one of the most beautiful mountains in the Philippines. The vegetations are lush and abundant and the trail is not hard. It is a mountain ideal for a no hassle climb. Mt Talinis is the second highest mountain in Negros, next only to the lofty Kanlaon.

ITINERARY
Bediao-Apolong route from Dumaguete City

Day 1
0600 From Dumaguete, take Ceres minibus to Dauin
0700 Get off at plaza; arrange habal-habal to Geothermal Site, Bediao
0730 ETA jumpoff. Start trek
1200 ETA Lake Yagumgyum.
1330 Trek to Lake Nailig
1600 ETA Lake Nailig; set up camp
1800 Dinner / socials

Day 2
0500 Talinis summit assault
0700 ETA summit
0730 Head back to Nailig campsite
0900 Start descent
1200 ETA Sulfuric River
1500 ETA Casaroro Falls; sidetrip
1900 Back in Dumaguete

My climbing companions this time were Hajji, Lester, Shiela, Danlee,and Lynel.


Nov 27-30, 2009 Mt Talinis, Dumaguete, Negros Oriental