Mt. Halcon

I thought it would stay a dream forever but thanks to my friends in mountaineering for making it a reality.  Mt. Halcon has always been on top of my (and I guess on every mountaineer's list) list of dream mountains to climb in the country.  However it was only lately that the mountain has opened its doors to mountaineers anew.  When a friend invited me to join an event, I did not think twice.  It's now or never.

Ms. Terry spearheaded the team from the booking of the climb to providing the needed documentation requirements to arranging our transportation means in Mindoro to securing our permit. Our group, composed of ten energetic individuals ( 8 of them I met in mountaineering, 1 a classmate in college, and Ms. Terry whom I met for the first time) are all excited to test and try the toughness of Mt. Halcon.

Located in Baco, Oriental Mindoro and standing at around 2,586 masl, Mt. Halcon is highly regarded as one of the most difficult mountains to climb in the country.  Adequate preparation before the climb is a must.  Now I can attest that yes, it is indeed tough and should never be attempted without preparation.  It took our group 3 days to complete the climb via Bayanan jump-off.

Day 1 (Dulangan Campsite)

After dropping by at the LGU of Baco (mandatory) to get our permit and settle the necessary fees, we proceeded to the jump-off at Bayanan where our guide and porters are waiting.  Our group opted to get three porter/guides ( 7:1 is the ratio per their rules) and each to carry  a maximum of 15 kls.  When every one was ready, we started the trek at exactly 8 in the morning.  The sun was up and it was a clear day.

                                                        sunrise over Mt. Halcon's summit                               (c) Chris Villapando

We started with a pacing everyone can catch up with.  As we progressed however, the lack of wind and the heat became factors that we made many rest stops along the trail.  After an hour of trekking, we passed by the 2nd Mangyan village.  By 11 in the morning, we reached a stream (water source) and decided to take our early lunch.  We then take an hour rest and decided to go by 1 pm.

As agreed, we continued the trek by 1 pm and our target is to reach and camp at Dulangan Camp site (Camp 2).  After an hour of trekking, thick rain clouds began to form.  Later on, we began hearing thunder storms.  Minutes later, heavy rain poured down on the mountain and on us.  Soaking wet, we did not stop and continued the trek.  Surprisingly, aggressive blood leeches (limatik) which is said to have a high  population in Halcon did not show its presence.

Nothing interesting about the trail nor great views until we reached the point overlooking Aplaya campsite (camp 1).  On that point, we had a full glimpse of the mountain and its thick forest and enjoyed taking photos.  The rain has stop when we reached the area.  From that view deck overlooking Aplaya to Aplya to Dulangan river was one the beautiful parts of the trail.  The area after Aplya with all the trees was reminiscent of Mt. Kanlaon's "Garden of Widow" except that trees are taller.

                                                              nearing Amplaya campsite                                       (c) Ivan Cultura

A little past 4 pm, we reached Dulangan river.  A big river with boulders and water so clear.  All of us took a dip but no body lasted long as the water was so cold.  We proceeded to the campsite up stream which was 15 minutes away .  We set up our tents and prepared our dinner.  Fried pork chops, hotdogs, corn soup, and rice filled our hungry stomach.  And we called it a night.  No socials!

                                                    Dulangan River                                              (c) Ivan Cultura

Day 2 (Summit Campsite)

We woke up to a beautiful morning, pretty much like the day before.  After a quick breakfast, we continued our trek past 8 am.  This time, the trail involved a series of steep ascents under dense jungle.  Along the trail, we encountered climbers on their way down.  There were also climbers who camped at Aplaya that passed by us.  At around 11 am, we reached the last water source and decided to eat our lunch.

                                          one of the rest stops                                        (c) Chris Villapando

By 1 pm, we continued the trek.  The trail seemed to be an endless ascents and again just like the day before, there was a heavy down pour.  It was heavy that our guide decided that we camp at the first campsite which was about 30-45 minutes away from the summit.  The campsite had trees that served as shield from fierce winds unlike the campsite in the summit which was open. It was around 5 pm, when we arrived at the campsite. We managed to set up our tents before another heavy down pour ensued which drenched our tents.

Fortunately the rain stopped after less than an hour of continues pouring.  However, the challenge was to sleep on a wet tent on a cold night.  I wasn't able to get a good sleep that night. I can feel the cold biting my feet.  My tentmate was also chilling.  All of us woke up early the next day safe and sound though.  Thanks God!

Day 3 (Summit Assault and Descent to Jump-off)

We agreed for a 4 am call time for the summit assault.  However, it was so cold outside that no one managed to get out the tent on the agreed time.  It was 30 minutes later, when we started getting out our tents.  On a cold dawn, we head our way to the summit hoping for a good clearing.

                                                     the wooden ladder                                           (c) Chris Villapando

Minutes after we left the campsite, the darkness faded and the surroundings slowly brightened up revealing the vast Halcon's wilderness, the nearby mountain ranges, and even the distant mountains of Mts. Cristobal, Banahaw, Pinagbanderahan, and Lobo.  The trail to the summit, I would say was another beautiful part of the entire trail.  From our campsite we trekked under a forest reminiscent to that of Tapulao's mossy forest before emerging into an open part of the trail with terrain reminiscent to that of Mt. Apo before finally negotiating the "knife edge" a part of the trail which Halcon is known for and after a few meters was the very summit.

We made it all to the summit! After all those afternoon rains, we're lucky to had a very good clearing.  A beautiful sunrise on a very clear morning greeted all of us. Overwhelmed, we had all our cameras working instantly capturing our alluring moments with the splendid view offered by Halcon.  Standing on the summit, I was just so thankful for the experience.  We stayed for almost 2 hours in the summit.

                                               Mt. Halcon's Knife Edge                                      (c) Ivan Cultura

Back in the campsite, we had our quick breakfast before starting our descent.  We decided to push all the way to the jump off to have time for a side trip. Our descent was fast and smooth making it to Dulungan campsite before 12 noon.  We stopped at the campsite to regroup and to had our lunch.  By 2 pm, we continued our descent, however, heavy rained poured after crossing the Dulangan river.  The downpour was heavy that it created a waterfall in one of the gullies directly flowing into the steep part of the trail which we're hesitant to cross at first.  We had to put our rope as security before all of us we're able to cross. Other streams that we passed by also had swelling waters.  Reaching Aplaya we witnessed how beautiful Halcon even after a heavy downpour.  Multiple waterfalls can be seen from the mountain's gorges.  It was a sight to behold.  Simply stunning!  

                                                                  our group at the summit                                (c) Ivan Cultura

It was on our way down that the leeches showed its presence.  I got bitten twice while my other companions had bites as many as 20.  They seemed to be everywhere and since it was already dim, noticing them with naked eyes was a challenge.  We arrived at the jump-off past 8 pm, bloodied.

The descent from the summit all the way to the jump-off was long.  It would have been less tiring had we stayed one more night in Aplaya, however we had to stick to our itinerary opting for an overnight camp by the beach.

The climb experience would be one that I'll always remember not just because it was Halcon but for some other (personal )reason.  As always, I'm grateful to share the experience with people having the same passion.  No climb is ever hard with stories, jokes, and laughter shared while on the trail.          
  

Expenses:

Transportation:
     1.  Cubao - Batangas (Jam Bus, two-way)  -  350  
     2.   RORO - Batangas Port - Calapan Port, two way ) - 380
     3.  Terminal Ticket (Batangas Port) - 30
     4.  Terminal Ticket (Calapan Port) - 20
     5.  Jeepney Rental (Calapan - Jump Off - Calapan) (3500/10 pax) - 350   

Climb Fees:
     1.   Permit - 350
     2.  Guide/Porter fee (500*3 days*3 guide/porter/10 pax) - 450

*  food expenses excluded
                     

   



 

        

Salomon Trail Run 2015. A sweet revenge.

Joining the event last year was a humbling experience for me.  I experienced my first ever DNF in running.  I was able to finish the 32K run though, but 30 minutes beyond the 7 hours cut-off time. While on our way home that day, I tried to think what have gone wrong. In my mind, I had two things.  

First.  I lacked the right amount of training.   Honestly, I was just banking on my mountaineering experience and a number of road runs.  I was new to the sport having joined a single event.   It was finishing the Love a Tree Trail Run 2014, under 32K distance category, that gave me the confidence to register for Salomon Trail Run 2014.  I was so wrong into thinking that because I was able to finish the former, I will also be able to finish within the cut-off time the latter.   I failed to consider that each event is unique and has its own level of difficulty.  Prior to the event, I was only doing jogs (not even consistent) on flat and cement roads when what is better is to actually train on trails.  

the elusive medal

Second.  I failed to study the event, location, and the trail.  Come race day, I was clueless of what to expect trail-wise.  I was again so wrong into thinking that the trail would be just like my first trail run.  I was caught off-guard of the series of steep ascents and descents.  I was not prepared for the intense heat.  I was not expecting to run on the sand.  All these, I could have prepared myself have I done a research.  It was only after, that I learned that it was already the second staging of the event on the same location (Hamilo Coast, Nasugbu) and that Salomon trail run is known and has a reputation of giving its runners a hard challenge, that Salomon trail run is not a walk in the park.

Realizing all these, somehow eased my mind.  DNF happens.  A runner should not be discouraged but be motivated to train harder.  It was for me a learning experience.   I promised to come back this year more prepared and ready to take on the challenge.   

This year, the event was held on a new location at the Anvaya Cove, Morong, Bataan.  Again, the event was well attended with many of the elite Filipino trail runners present.  I was also happy to see some of my friends in running and mountaineering joining the event.  Some, their first time.  

friend Rosalyn, Adrian,& Javee                     (c) Javee

Trail-wise.  If I have to compare, the trail of Anvaya Cove was less challenging than that of Hamilo Coast.  Runners would not end up whining about a series of steep ascents and descents because the Anvaya trail was mild on it.  The numerous river crossings was annoying though but a relief when we started to feel the intense heat of the sun.  The 3 kilometers shoreline was another annoying part of the trail.  How can someone run with speed on rocks and boulders and sand.  But it is part of the Salamon challenge that runners have to endure.  This is not to underestimate, but if I have to rate the Anvaya trail from the scale of 1 to 10, 10 being the highest, I would give 7.  It is still challenging especially for runners who came unprepared.   However, as compared last year, this year's percentage of finisher was high.

                  reaching the finish line          (c) RP

As usual I stated slow.   Normally I recover from sore legs after about 5 kilometers of running.  However, last Saturday it lingered for a while.  It was only after 8 kilometers that sore legs was gone.  Recovering, my pacing improved catching up with some runners.  The first few kilometers of the trail was a combination of cement road, dirt road, and farmlands.  My game plan was to spent at least 11 minutes per kilometer so that I still have a buffer of 1 hour.  After 2 hours of running,  I have covered more or less 15 kilometers of the route and was averaging 8 minutes per kilometer.  I was pretty well on my game plan.  During the first two river crossings, I was removing my trail shoes.  I was afraid that I might get leg cramps and blisters while running on wet shoes.  However, later on I found it time consuming and decided not to remove it anymore.  Thank God! No blisters nor leg cramps the entire run. 

After 4 hours of running, I was down to the last 8 kilometers of the route.  The 3 kilometers of this was a shoreline.   This was the part of the trail where I spent much time.  I can hardly ran on rocks, boulders, and sand. I think I spent almost an hour on this part.  It was big relief when I was able to get to the other end of the shoreline, a kilometer away from the finish line.  Exhausted, I still managed to run on a very slow pacing.  After a total of 5 hours and 40 minutes of running I  reached the end of the route.  I felt redemption.  


What have I done right to finish the run within the cut-off time this time around?  Well, I trained not just on road but on trail as well.  I study the route through available information online though no actual recon.  I devised a game plan and followed it.  Lastly, I was determined on my goal to finish it.

Congratulations to all finishers especially to all my friends.  I'd like to thank and acknowledge some dear friends, my fellow codErunners Adrian and Rosalyn who trained with me.  Lastly, thank you to the people behind Salomon Trail Run 2015 for another challenging trail running event. Until next year!

my running and mountaineering friends                                   (c) Ella

           

KOTM 2015: OST (Old Spanish Trail) 50K

At first I was hesitant.  It would be a back to back trail run with only a week to rest and recover.  I haven't tried this so I'm afraid of the consequences.  However, my friend Nerissa was diligent in persuading me into joining the event.  Come last day of registration, I found myself enlisting.

OST (Old Spanish Trail) 50 is an ultra trail running event organized by Frontrunner Magazine.  This is my first time to join the three year old event held annually in the wilderness of Kayapa, Nueva Viscaya.  I have been to the place once as part of my preparation for the Coldillera Mountain Marathon.  I did a run on the trail going to Mt. Ugo which is part of the 50 kilometer route.  Though that was just 1/3 of the route,  but judging the trail, I can sense that it would be a very challenging run with a cut-off time of 14 hours.

with Nerissa, Rosalyn & Ma'am Joyce during the race briefing

We arrived in Kayapa a day before the event just in time for the race kit distribution and the race briefing.  With me are friends Nerissa, Rosalyn, and Ma'am Joyce who would also be running in the event.  Present in the race briefing were familiar faces in the ultra running scene in the country.  I was excited to run and share the trail with them.  As the race director continued to discuss what to expect on the trail, I can't help but wonder how will I perform.   There was a mix feelings of nervousness and excitement in me.

The run started at exactly 4 am the next day.  My game plan was to start slow, improve my pacing every 10 kilometers and give it my all on the last 15 kilometers (I was able to execute these except for the giving my all. =)).  Coming from a mountain marathon a week before, my leg muscles have not fully recovered yet.  Though I did some stretching before the run started, I decided to just walk the first 30 minutes to further prepare my leg muscles and my entire body.   The first few kilometers of the route were mostly gradual ascents anyway, so breast walking is just proper.

Other runners started to overtake me and I didn't mind.  To me, 50K is a long distance. Rushing in the beginning is nonsense when towards the end I'll struggle.  I didn't want that to happen to me so I focused on my game plan.  Start slow, get the pacing I'm used to, and sustain towards the end.  I joined the event not to compete anyway, but to enjoy the trail of Kayapa.  I was not expecting a podium finish but just to make it within the cut-off time.

So the first 30 minutes was just all walking for me.  It was a cold dawn with the sky still dotted with stars.  I was even lucky to spot a meteorite not just once but twice.   By the time that we reached kilometer 7, the eastern skies were in crimson and gold.  Minutes later the sun slowly rises and it was beautiful!  I stopped to snapped a photo of it.  After two hours, I reached the first aid station at Bundao.  Water, energy drink, and fresh bananas were available.  I stayed for a while to re-hydrate and refuel. 

the beautiful sunrise

As I continued, I can't help but be mesmerized by the beautiful sunrise.  Just by watching it, I was energized (I believed other runners too).  Many times, I stopped on the trail to take pictures of the view and as well as the runners.  Temporarily I forgot about how unkind the first few kilometers of the trail.  Realizing to take advantage of the time when the sun's heat was not yet a factor, I tried to speed up.  I wanted to reach the second aid station before it gets hot.  

A little past 8 in the morning I reached the second aid station at Domolpos.  Hungry, I enjoyed the spanish bread available at the station.  I think I consumed two before I headed to Mt. Ugo.  The aid station at that point of the trail was a big help because what lies ahead was one of the most challenging parts - the assault to the summit of Mt. Ugo (2,170 masl).  I did the 2 kilometer assault full of excitement because on my first attempt 2 months before the event, I got lost and did not make it to the top.

The trail from the second aid station all the way to the top of Mt. Ugo was approximately 5 kilometers, properly marked with ribbons, and very picturesque.  Pine trees are everywhere.  The view was breathtaking and so was the trail going up.  I made several stops to catch my breath.  I did not see a single runner running his way up.  Reaching the summit at around 9 am I was exhausted.  I lost my interest to take a selfie with the Mt. Ugo marker. Now I felt that my Mt. Ugo experience is incomplete having no photo with the marker.

runners on their way to Mt. Ugo's summit

After resting for several minutes at the summit, I started my way down.  At first I had a good descent until I reached to the part where I had to cross a wooden fence.  When I was about to leap my right leg, I suffered a cramp.  It was just approximately 22 kilometers and I had a long way to go.  Getting a leg cramp at that early made me worry.  Good thing I had with me a  camphor oil.  I applied a little of it to my leg and did a massage.  I rested for several minutes until the pain subsided.  I also added a hydrite solution to my trail water.  I guessed both worked as I did not get leg cramp anymore until the end.

By 10 am I was already on "Old Spanish Trail" (from where the event was named).  An 11 kilometer trail winding on the side of the mountains.  I enjoyed running on that part because aside from having a beautiful view, the trail was runner friendly(mostly downhill).  However, I had to be extra cautious because to my right was a deep ravine. One wrong move and I could be in serious trouble.  Also, another factor at this point was the intense mid-day sun.  Slowly I progressed until I reached kilometer 35 and the third aid station at Kayapa Proper market.  I arrived at around 11 am, an hour ahead of the first cut-off time of 8 hours.

The intense heat of the sun exhausted me that when I saw the aid station I felt relief.  At the aid station a hot chicken-macaroni soup was being served.  There were also water melon, turnips, crackers, and chocolates.  We were told during the race briefing to refuel upon getting to aid station 3.  So I did what the race director told.  I asked for the soup, water melon, and turnip.  I also took the opportunity to pour water to my body and head. I also made sure to refill my hydration pack before leaving.  I rested for about 30 minutes.

runners at amelong labeng

Continuing, the next part of the trail turned out to be the hardest part of the route.  It was a long and steady assault to Amelong Labeng (at high noon!).  Now I understand why the race director told the runners to refuel at kilometer 35.  I was so exhausted at this part that most of the time, I felt like setting down.  Adding to the challenge was the intense heat of the sun.  This was the point that I asked the question I always asks myself when I'm physically and mentally tired during long runs.  That one question that is "Why am I doing this?".   And then a couple of thoughts, mostly negative, entered my mind.  Like not finishing the run, questions on my training and preparation, a clamor for long rest, a craving for something cold and refreshing, a promise to myself that this would be my last run, etc.  But then I tried to battle it out with happy thoughts, those marathons and long runs I was able to finish, the finisher shirt and the medal, etc.  All these I went through during those almost 2 hours assault of Amelong Labeng.  Yes, it took me that long.

my medal and token 

While struggling physically and mentally, slowly I made it to the top.  When I did, I thought it was already over, but to my dismay, the tower (we're told at the briefing that a cellular tower was atop of the mountain) was on another mountain!  Yes, after that long steep ascent, there will be another ascent.  My legs were already heavy and the intense heat was slowing me down.  I struggled yet another to get past that one last mountain where the tower was located.  I did but on a very slow pace.  The good thing was after the second summit, it was all going down. 

By 3:30 pm, I saw myself arriving at the finish line to the cheers of spectators, organizers and other finishers.   After more than 11 hours of walking, running, and struggling I made it to the finish line safe and sound.  It was but again another proud moment for me.  And I guess I will be eating my own words because my heart says yes to the same event next year. =)    

I'd like to thank the event organizer, Frontrunner Magazine headed by the Race Director sir Jhonnel Mendoza for staging the event.  It's a kind of event trail runners would hate and love.  Some would love the view and the trail.  Some will hate the trail.  To me OST50 is one of the most challenging and satisfying trail running event I ever joined.  Yes, I loved it!

      

with the race director sir Jhonnel Medoza

    

Coldillera Mountain Marathon 2015

Last weekend, March 22, 2015, I had the opportunity to join a mountain marathon organized by Coldillera Conservation Trust (CCT).  Considered the highest trail marathon in the Philippines and in East Asia with 60% of the route at 2000 meter above sea level.  The route also passes three provinces namely Benguet, Ifugao, and Nueva Viscaya and three ecosystems, pine, mossy oak, and alphine grassland.  

It was a well attended trail running event with many of the elite and famous faces in trail running present.  A considerable number of foreign runners joined too.  Two categories, the 11K and 42K were participated in by runners.  I ran in the 42K category together with friends Adrian, Rosalyn, and Javee.  

We arrived at Badabak Bokod, Benguet before noon of March 21.  Runners must already be there a day before for the race kit distribution and race briefing.  The briefing is scheduled at 4 in the afternoon so after eating our lunch, we took the opportunity to rest.  The race director JP Alipio, conducted the briefing. It went smooth and he was clear on all points that runners should remember about the run.  I could see on everyone's face the excitement for the big event the next day. With the sun setting, a group photo op ended the briefing.  A free dinner followed after. 

  

Gun start of 42K                                     (c) Ms. Pepsi

Gun start for 42K category was at 4:30 am.  I have to wear a long sleeves technical shirt on top of my dri-fit shirt to combat the low temperature.  On the go signal of the race director, all 42K runners of about 200 were set off the trail of Mt. Pulag.  There are those who started strong, while there others who started slow.  I have always been in the latter.  In the first few kilometers I ran but on the gradual assault to camp 1, mostly I walked.  Breathing is really a challenge in the high altitude, so I was listening to my body until I was able to adjust.  By break of dawn, I was already approaching camp 2 and by the time that I get to the top of the radio tower it was no longer dim.  The sea of clouds to which Mt. Pulag is known for greeted the runners.  I was awed! It was beautiful!  

From the peaks of Mt. Pulag, runners have to go down to the mossy forest, another beautiful part of the route.  I guess this is the part of the trail where I had my fastest pacing.  It's because the trail aside from being wide and covered with trees, is mostly going down.  One would really love running in this kind of terrain.  After more than 3 hours of running, I arrived to Danggo, the lowest point of the trail, the first food station and the halfway of the route, blooded.  While on a stiff descent, I unintentionally held on to the bush on the side of the trail.  My right pointing finger was cut by a blade like leaf.  A medic nursed my cut while I was resting and eating my trail foods.  

I think I stayed a little bit long in Danggo that my momentum died.  Resuming, I had to walk and it has been walking for almost the entire second half of the route.  The second half was a contrast to the first half of the route.  It is mostly uphill in different degrees.  This is where I started to get leg cramps and stiff muscles.  This is where stronger runners, male, female, young, old, started to overtake me one by one.  I lost count how many of them.  

I tried to eat and re-hydrate when I get to the second food station at Balete.  I was praying for more energy to sustain me until the end.  As I continued the journey, I tried to run but after about four steps I grasped for breath.  Alone in the trail exhausted is mentally torturing.  A lot of things are going into my head even the thought of not finishing the run.  I tried to think of beautiful things and happy memories hoping to forget all the body pains.  It worked momentarily but not for long.  

On a snail pace I progress until an acquaintance named Osnay caught up with me.  We agreed to pace each other.  At that moment I learned to appreciate the importance of a pacer or a companion especially on the last few kilometers of a long run.  Together we walk, run, and rest if we felt the need until we get to the last water station.  We are down to the last seven kilometers of the route. It is in this point that I gained my second wind.  

proud finisher =)                    (c) sir Nik

The last two kilometers is a climb back to Badabak.  I expect it to be hard, surprisingly, it is just moderate.  After the climb, I emerged into the path leading to the finish line.  It was a big relief!  Finally, after more than 8 hours it will be all over.  Arriving to the finish line with the crowd cheering on is one of the nicest feelings.  The entire route is one of the toughest so far, and I couldn't be more proud of myself finishing it. All of us were able to complete the route with Adrian arriving first, then me, Rosalyn, and Javee.   I finished 62nd out of 192 finishers.  



Lastly, I would like to commend the race organizers headed by its race director JP Alipio for a well organized event.  Everything is well taken cared, from the runners, to the trails, to the local community. Kudos!  I'm looking forward to the next edition of this event.

As always, to God be the glory.  I'm thankful that except for the minor cut, no other untoward incidents of serious concern happen. Moral support extended by friends and teammates are well appreciated too.   
                  
      

Bantayan and Malapascua Islands

This trip to Northern Cebu's charming islands of Bantayan and Malapascua is a variation from my usual knee-pounding activities of mountain climbing and running.  A much needed variation that helped my body relax and recover.  A variation that gave me a little peace of mind. A variation I enjoyed from the start until the end.  

In this trip are my outdoor buddies Rosalyn and Adrian with the latter planning everything.  Together we made the most out of the very short time we had for the trip.

Bantayan Island

An island located on the western side of the northern tip of Cebu.  This is the biggest island of the Bantayan group and administratively divided into three towns namely Sta. Fe, Bantayan, and Madridejos.  Popular to both local and foreign tourists because of its good beaches.  We had a nice swim at the Ogtong Cave Resort and walk at the sugar beach.  While most beach resorts and beach activities are in the the town of Sta. Fe, touring the other towns of the island is also worth a try.  On a motorbike we visited the century old church, Carlito's fried and roasted chicken house and the heritage houses of Bantayan and chased the sunset over Madridejos baywalk.       

Getting there

From Cebu North Terminal, AC and Non-AC buses are plying the route Cebu-Hagnaya Port. Fare is 160 for AC bus and 135 for Non-AC bus.  Travel time is approximately 3 hours.  Bus leaves as early as 3:30 am with the last trip at 5:00 pm daily.  From Hagnaya port in San Remigio a public ferry is servicing the transportation need of the island.  It will take an hour ferry ride for 170 pesos plus 10 pesos terminal fee.  Entry point is at Sta. Fe.  The ferry departs Hagnaya port as early as 7 am and the last trip at 5 pm everyday.          


Accommodation

In Sta. Fe where the most resorts are concentrated, there are a wide range of choices for budget travelers  and for those willing to spend for comfort.  Beach front, non-beach front, fan and fancy rooms are available.  We stayed in an AC twin bed room at Sta. Fe Beach Club for 1800 a day.  The booking at Sta. Fe Beach Club, gave us a free entrance to Ogtong Cave Resort.  Both resorts are owned by a single person.

Sta. Fe Beach Club
Alice Beach, Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island
Contact #: +63-32-4389090/+63-32-4389107
http://www.stafebeach.com/



Getting around Bantayan

Motorbikes and bicycles for rent are available on most resorts.  We rented a motorbike for 250 a day. This gave us the opportunity to roam around the island.   Motorcycle and motorbikes are the main mode of transportation in the island.  There are also multicabs plying Sta. Fe - Bantayan and Bantayan - Madridejos but on a limited trips a day.   

Food

Most resorts serve meals for their guests from breakfast to dinner.  However, those in tight budget may find this a bit pricey just like in our case.  We opted to look for other options in the poblacion.  There, we find an eatery by the road that is affordable and delicious.  

Going out

Public ferry leaves from Sta. Fe as early 6 am with the last trip at 4:30 pm everyday. Fare is 170 pesos plus 10 pesos terminal fee.  Most resorts offer free transfer to the port.   


Malapascua Island

I had the opportunity to visit Malapascua when I was just starting to explore the country. The trip was one of my very first.  I was awed and instantly fell in love with its beauty then.  I can vividly remember how emerald green its waters, how quite the island, how beautiful the coconut trees lining up on its coasts, how white the sand in Bounty beach.   To me, Malapascua is a tropical paradise.   That was five years ago!  When I learned that it's going to be included in our itinerary, I can't hide my excitement. I've been yearning to go back to this island I once loved! 

It's a gloomy afternoon when we arrived in Malapascua.  So much has changed from five years ago. There is a proliferation of resorts, dive shops and households.  The island was not also sparred from the wrath of typhoon Haiyan.  Only few of the beautiful coconut trees lining on the coast remain standing.  Though efforts exerted to replace them, but it will take years before another beautiful coconut trees.   However it's good to know that tourism is very much alive.   Local and foreign tourist flock the island.  

After finding an accommodation and taking our late lunch, we wasted no time and indulged in our activity for the afternoon.  We go for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping.  I wasn't able to do these during my first visit.  Diving has to remain in the list due to budget constraint.  The cliff jumping was a surprise to me.  I did not expect it to be 32 feet high(accdg. to our boatman) .   Upon seeing how high it is, my confidence level dwindled to its lowest.  When we get to the top it's more scary.   Honestly, I think of not jumping and just go down. Thankfully, after a couple of minutes I mustered the courage.  With my knees shaking, I jumped, and into the water I plunged.  I resurfaced after a few seconds and realized I did it and I'm alive!  All of the three of us jumped.  It was an experience I'll surely not forget.   

We did not catch the sunrise the next day.  We wake up late, perhaps due to the long ride and the activities we had the day before.  It was a sunny day.   An ideal day for another snorkeling and swimming but we had to leave the island.  Watching the sunlight beams into the white sand and emerald green waters, I realized that Malapascua is still a paradise.  It is still beautiful.  It has not lost its charm and appeal to me.  I still love it!  

Getting there from Bantayan Island

From the port of Hagnaya, ride a bus going to Cebu City and alight at  the junction of Cebu North Hagnaya Wharf Road and Bogo-Curva-Medellin-Daanbantayan-Maya Road. Landmark is Staroil Gas Station.  Fare is 10 pesos for non-aircon bus.  Ride another bus with Maya signboard.  Fare is 35 for non-AC bus and travel time is approximately an hour and a half.  The last stop of the bus will be the port.  From the port of Maya, public boats are available.  Boat ride is an hour and fare is 100 pesos plus 20 pesos for small boat ride during low-tide.  Boat departs from Maya as early as 6:30 am and the last boat trip to the island is 3 pm.  If by chance you were not able to catch the last trip, you can charter a boat for 1000-2000 pesos depending on your haggling skills.  


Accommodation

There are a number of resorts in the island offering accommodation on a wide range of choices depending on your budget.  For budget travelers like us, we opted to stay on a P600/night fan room good for two at BB's guesthouse.  The owner was kind not to charge an extra fee for an extra person.




Activities in the island

Malapascua is known for diving but it's not the only the activity in the island.  One can go swimming, snorkeling, cliff jumping, sunrise and sunset viewing, strolling, and sun bathing.  We did snorkeling and cliff jumping and charged P400/head for boat rental.

Food

There are a number of restaurants in the island offering varieties of food choices.  In our stay, we usually eat at Ging-Gings restaurant.  Nothing especial about their food but so far the cheapest in the island.  Main dish starts at P60.

Going out from the island

Public boat departs from the island as early as 7 am.  Boat fare is P100 plus P20 small boat ride during low-tide.

  







              




  

My 2014

Year 2014 has been another great year for my outdoors.  It was an action packed year filled with adventures, excitement, and happiness.  I had been to different places, done many firsts, met and gained new friends, crossed out a number from my bucket list.  To sum up, I had 20 climbs, ran 293 kilometers, done 1 solo backpacking, 2 beach trips, 1 adventure race, and a number of food trips and cultural immersions.  Though I haven't blog about most of these, but looking back, here are my top eleven most memorable adventures of 2014.

1.  Mt. Kinabalu
I always thought it is expensive to climb Mt. Kinalabu until I found out that a dayhike is possible and permitted.  A one day climb would mean less climb expenses as there is no need to stay overnight at the overpriced guesthouse above.  After learning all these, without second thought, I booked a flight to Kota Kinabalu.  Joined by my friend Adrian, we found ourselves on a fine late morning of September 2014 at Mt. Kinabalu park's visitor information center convincing and begging the park's officials for a dayhike to no avail.  It turned out a blessing in disguise however, as the weather would turn out awful every afternoon during our stay.  Luckily, even though we settled for the two day climb we still spent less than expected.  Thanks to the newly built Lamaine guesthouse!  Climbing Kinabalu is easier said than done.  While the trail is wide and established, the elevation gain and the thinning air poised a challenge.  The biting cold on day 2 added more challenge to the summit assault.  All pain and hardships however are worth it.  The mountain is beautiful and the view at the top is simply breathtaking.  At 4,035 meters above sea level, Mt. Kinabalu is so far the highest mountain i ever climbed.

at the summit

2.  Mt. Rinjani
I never heard of Mt. Rinjani before until a glitch in the ticketing system of an airline led me to this beautiful active volcano, standing at 3,726 masl in the island of Lombok, Indonesia.  Together with friends Ian, Annalene, Rosalyn, and Adrian we embarked on a guided/$105 worth/all provided three days climb, May of 2014.  Over all, I enjoyed the experience from the trek on the sorrow hills, to the cold night at the Pelawangan base camp, to reaching the summit, to the camping at the crater lake, to the hot-spring bath, to my companions, to the unlimited coffee and tea!  If there was a tough challenge the entire climb poised that was the summit assault on day 2.    The trail leading to the summit is a loose gravel, so loose that for every 3 steps, 2 is forward and 1 is backward. It was exhausting and frustrating at the same time.   Adding to the challenge was the freezing dawn temperature.  But with sheer determination, we made it all to the summit!

at the summit

3.  El Nido
Each time I hear good reviews and see beautiful pictures of El Nido, my desire to visit this place just continue to grow.  Actually,  this is on top of my list of the places in the country that I want to visit. When finally I had the opportunity last Nov. 2014, I did not think twice.  From one lagoon to another lagoon, from a hidden beach to another secret beach, from one island to another island, from a waterfall to a twin beach to the top of a limestone cliff.  El Nido is a place where my dream of a paradise became a reality.  It was just beautiful!  The trip was even more memorable co'z I was with someone so dear to me.  

at Matinloc viewdeck

4.  Soleus Trail Valley 50K Challenge
Doubt and fear always prevail every time I entertained a thought of an ultra run. I have ran a number of marathons but never an ultra marathon.   July of 2014, I finally mustered the courage and took my running a notch higher by joining this event.  My 50 kilometers journey from the starting to the finish line was never easy.  Running through the fields of Nuvali under the unforgiving heat of the sun almost had me giving up.  Luckily, my guardian angels never left my side that day.  I had strength barely enough to sustained me to the finish line.  It was a nice feeling finishing the run but the experience had me thinking if I'll do it ever again.    

towards the finish line      (C) RP

5.  Solo Backpacking Tawi-Tawi 
The country's southernmost province and an off-the-beaten track for travelers.  Peace and security concerns are what holding back most travelers and tourists from visiting this province rich in culture, tradition and natural resources.  I'm not afraid of going there but I didn't expect it to happen anytime soon.  August last year, I found myself on a plane bound for Tawi-Tawi confident and with no trace of fear.  With excitement, I toured Tawi-tawi's capital and neighboring towns on a motorcycle and on my second day I hiked on it's sacred mountain, Bud Bongao.   I met some locals and they were all friendly and even generous to offer me durian which I gladly accepted but didn't like the taste.  During my two-day stay, never did I feel unsafe being alone.  In fact, I enjoyed the experience from sunrise to sunset! I'm hoping to go back to do island hopping.    

Tawi-tawi's Provincial Capitol

6.  D2K
I've been into mountaineering for more than two years already but I have never tried climbing solo. Some accounts of people who did a solo dayhike on D2K got me interested in doing the same.  It took a while though before I finally decided.  I'm fully aware that the two mountains are among the country's highest.  Physical and mental preparations must be considered. Banking on my running and mountaineering experiences, I tried the D2K traverse dayhike, Sept. of last year.  It was easier said than done.  While the mountains were beautiful its trail were challenging.  I couldn't be more proud however, upon finishing it.  It was worth all the long travel, cramps, and exhaustion.   

the mossy forest

7.  Milo Marathon
As I mentioned above, I have ran a number of marathons last year but what made Milo marathon memorable from the rests was that I clocked my personal best at 5hrs. and 19 mins.  In all of my marathons this is my strongest finish so far.  

approaching the finish line  (C) PHOTO-OPS

8.  Mt. Bulusan
When I was just starting out in mountaineering, Mt. Bulusan was one of my dream mountains.  I would often read accounts of those who made it there and would ended up full of eagerness and excitement.  Came the first oppurtunity June of 2013, but unfortunately a series of bad luck prevented me.  When I arrived at the bus station, it was already empty. I ended up in a coffee shop lonely.  Came another chance June of last year.  This time around I see to it that I'm not gonna be left behind.  I filed a vacation leave the day before and left for Sorsogon ahead of the group.  Our climb was blessed with good weather most especially during our summit assault.  We had a good clearing that we even saw Mayon volcano from a distant.  I would like to commend the admin of Bulusan natural park for a very organized climb from the permit processing, to the climb proper, to the post climb activities.  My Mt. Bulusan experience was one of the bests.

at the crater summit

9.  Mt. Kanlaon
On a valentines day last year, joined by my college classmate Ronie, we embarked on a climb at Mt. Kanlaon, an active volcano and Visayas highest mountain.  Accompanied by a cool guide famously known as "Kuya Boy", together with traversed the Guintubdan-Wasay trails.  The mountain from its rivers, to its crater summit, to its mossy forest, to its lagoons, to its century old trees, and to its rolling hills is certainly one of the best climbs in the country.  

at the crater summit

10.  Lost at Pico de loro to Marami
 We came back armed with a new strategy, a supposedly correct trail map we downloaded from an account of a mountaineer who did the traverse, a GPS, and tons of courage.  But these artillery of ours were not enough, mother nature tricked and denied us.  We got a glimpse of Mt. Marami our final stop, after a long trekking and bushwhacking, but we can't seemed to find the right trail despite the aid of the map and the GPS.  The many trails were complicated and confusing. Time running out, we had to backtrack to Mt. Pico until we ran out of battery and the night fell on us.  We were lost!   We continue to scoured the forest hoping to find the right trail to no avail.  Worried and also to conserve our energy, we decided to end our search by 9 pm if the trail will still be elusive.   An hour and a half to go before 9 pm, we continued our walk until we came by an open area and what seemed to be a campsite.  I was able to recognized it and I was certain that it was the Palay-palay campsite. From there, I already knew the way out.  We're all thankful that we did not sleep under the trees with empty stomach that night. That very day of November 2014, Rosalyn, Adrian, and myself were humbled and reminded of a lesson to never under estimate a mountain.  

in one of the rest stops

11.  The long road to Fang-od
Before the year ended, my friend Adrian invited me to visit Fang-od,  Joined by friends Rosalyn and Sherelyn, together we journeyed the long road to Buskalan, Kalinga.  Apo Fang-od is said to be the oldest and last surviving hand-tap tattoo artist in Cordillera. Obviously the reason why we will be visiting her is to get a tattoo.   I really don't have any intention of getting one.  All I wanted was to visit Kalinga.  While on the trip enjoying the beautiful sceneries, I think about the idea over and over but still ended up undecided. When we reached Buskalan and when I finally saw her I changed my mind.  The realization that she is not just another tattoo artist helped me decide.  In her work is a culture and tradition passed on from generation to another generation.  And if it's true that she is the last surviving hand-tap tattoo artist, it would be an honor to be inked by her.    

Apo Fang-od in action

I'm looking forward for another action packed 2015!  I'll still have a lot to cross-out from my bucket list.  I still have a lot of dream mountains to climb.  I'll still have a lot places I'd like to go to.  I'll still wanna run. I'll still have a lot of things that I want to try and experience.  I'm all for happiness, excitement, and fun.  While I'll still can, my adventures will continue!  Join me?!