The Philippines, a Mountaineer’s Haven

By MANILA BULLETIN ONLINE September 14, 2010, 8:57pm




The Philippines is blessed with so many natural wonders, ranging from different species of plants and land and water animals to scenic destinations. So when one gets so stressed out due to urban life’s hustle and bustle, one of the most suggested activities to unwind is to go nature tripping.
One good example of this is mountaineering. It provides adventure to thrill-seeking individuals and it is a great way to be one with nature. The Philippines has 29 known mountains, making it truly a mountaineer’s haven.
Here are five of the most famous Philippine mountaineering destinations.
Mt. Apo – Located in the province of North Cotabato, it is considered as the highest mountain in the country with an elevation of 2,954 meters. It has an area of 72,796 hectares of tropical forest. It houses rivers and waterfalls and rare plant and animal species. The best time to climb Mt. Apo is during summer.
Mt. Pulag – It is the second highest peak in the country with an elevation of 2,922 meters. It is located in the Cordillera area and is considered as one of the national parks in the country. However, unlike Mt. Apo, it does not have many trees.
Mt. Kanla-on – Found on the Negros Island, Kanla-on is the highest peak in the Visayas. Its elevation is 2,435 meters. A huge number of people, including spiritualists, visit Kanla-on during the Holy Week.
Mt. Halcon – Halcon is considered as the most hazardous mountain to climb in the country. It is found in Baco, Oriental Mindoro and has an elevation of 2,582 meters. This mountain features a mossy forest and rocky ridges.
Mt. Guiting-Guiting – Guiting-Guiting is another tough mountain to climb. It has an elevation of 2,058 meters and is situated in Sibuyan Island, Romblon. Only tough climbers can take on this mountain. Getting to its peak requires rock climbing.
Mountaineering is a good activity, but it requires physical strength and good thinking. For those who want to start on this, here are a few tips.
Be physically prepared. Since this is a physical activity, one must do a lot of workout routines, like walking with weights, running, stair climbing, push-ups, and indoor climbing. 
Get trained, know the fundamentals, and have the essential skills. Some of these include climbing techniques, basic rope management, useful climbing knots, and basic wilderness survival.
Be equipped. Your climbing kit should have climbing rope, stiff-soled over-the-ankle boots, warm clothing, energy food and drinks, survival gear, crampons for traction, a helmet, among others. You can purchase these at a climbing shop.
One thing that a mountaineer must keep in mind is to always have a partner during the activity.