Pinoy Mountaineer

Presenting the First Annual Climb for Amputees! Mt. Batulao on Nov. 28...Everyone's invited!

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 09:25:00 +0000

How can a minor climb be a major achievement?

PinoyMountaineer.com in cooperation with the Mu Sigma Phi Fraternity in celebration of its Service Month are holding the First Annual Amputees' Climb with the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine of PGH. Amputees will be attempting to scale Mt. Batulao on November 28 and we hope that mountaineers will be at hand to assist them. Everyone is invited!

Climbers will assemble at Evercrest on that day. It's up to you if you want to stay overnight but the activity is just one day. This will be a dayhike; the registration fee is P250 inclusive of entrance fee, ID, and souvenir shirt.

If amputees can climb a mountain, what else can they do? And if mountaineers can help them climb a mountain, what else can we do to help them? This climb is all about empowerment - a symbolic act as well as a fun climb. Share the joy of mountaineering with our handicapped brethren and fellow climbers in the momentous climb. By joining the First Annual Climb for Amputees, we can all turn this minor climb into a major achievement. Together, we can reach the top!

For reservations, contact Mau Mauricio, Climb Coordinator, at info@pinoymountaineer.com.

Gear Review: Merrell Waterpro Maipo

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 03:49:00 +0000

For my latest climb up Mt. Tres Marias in Biliran Island in the Leyte-Samar area, I got to try the Merrell Waterpro Maipo - the latest version of the Waterpro. Having already tested the Waterpro line with my loyal Ultrasport pair that has carried me to over 30 mountains, I easily felt familiar with the feel of my new shoe.

The drawback for using water shoes in the mountains are weak flanks that leave the lateral sides of your feet unprotected especially in uneven or rocky surfaces. An improvement of the Maipo is what I perceive to be a stronger mesh on the sides which addresses this concern quite well.

The lightweightness of the shoe allows one to negotiate river trails with more dextrous feet - an ability I found useful as we leapt from rock to rock across some of the rivers. A bulkier Merrell or a boot might reduce the finer motions that are needed for such movements. Also, its size affords enough space for the shoe compartment of my backpack to contain an extra pair of sandals.

Water shoes do away with the concept of waterproofing - in fact, it tries to work with water, admitting it freely but at the same time letting go just as easily - making it easier to dry. At the same time, the weight of the shoes doesn't change much even when it's soaked. An upgrade of the Maipo is an antimicrobial property that prevents molds and other organisms to grow if it's moist - thus making a freely-wet shoe an even more plausible option for many mountains.

In Mt. Tres Marias, we crossed a lot of streams and passed by numerous waterfalls. In river crossings there are two options: either just wade in the waters or try leaping from rock to rock, keeping yourself dry. The Maipo supported both options: if you decide go get wet then so be it, you can be sure that it's the same old shoe when you emerge from the waters. And if you decide to try the more adventurous option of "leapfrogging", the Vibram sole and good grip can support this as well. Indeed I felt great being able to survive my jumps unscathed.

So having survived a baptism of water and earth, having joined me up a new mountain, I think I have found a new partner in the trails. Retaining the Waterpro line's and adding on new features of its own (reinforced mesh, new design, and antimicrobial powers), the Merrell Waterpro Maipo is my light hiking shoes of choice and I hope that my future experiences will continue to affirm it.

Hiking matters #72: Leyte-Samar Adventure: Mt. Tres Marias in Biliran Island

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:29:00 +0000

TACLOBAN CITY, LEYTE - For my 20th climb of the year I flew here with fellow Visayan Voyager Lalaine Hablado and Bakun Trio companion Darms del Rosario to visit the veritable Mt. Tres Marias in Biliran - the highest mountain in the island and the second highest in Region XIII (Eastern Visayas) next to Alto Peak. Held in folklore to be the dwelling-place of snakes and spirits, Mt. Tres Marias is avoided by locals and barely-explored by mountaineers, but the few who have reached it speak highly of its numerous waterfalls and enchanting mossy forest. We came upon the invitation of adventurer Jhoc Nalda and his family, mountaineers all, and generous hosts indeed!

The climb almost never happened, however. Our excitement was literally doused by rains and strong winds. Typhoon Santi's arrival cancelled our deprature from Manila early Saturday morning, and instead of seeing greener grounds, Lalaine's newly-minted REI tent had to settle for concrete jungle as we pitched it on NAIA Terminal 3 while waiting for the long queue for rebooking. Fortunately, after six hours we had our flight rebooked for the same flight the next day.

When we finally arrived early Sunday morning, there was no sign of storm; it was a good day with open skies. We remembered the Visayan Voyage days of bright summer; perfect weather. Our hosts fetched us at the airport and gave a hearty breakfast of kilawin, lapu-lapu, and other fresh seafood. Then we set off to do the climb.

The road trip to Biliran took three hours - passing by the towns of Palo, Leyte, and others. Along the way we were joined by Mabel, Jhoc's girlfriend, who happened to be a Loyola Mountaineer. After a quick grocery stop at Naval, the capital town of Biliran, we headed to the jumpoff: Brgy. Siatao, Almeria. Rene Galleros, author of the trails, guided us. Saka Ta Bay - "Let's Climb!" says the sign at the jumpoff - a reminder that we were in Waray territory, and the diversity of Philippine languages always makes good anecdotes. Here young ones are affectionately called 'pangga' and the guys would joke about the meaning of 'sili'.

The trails were benign. Jhoc's description, "It's like Kanlaon's Guintudban Trail but with a lot of waterfalls" was very accurate. The waterfalls were amazing and seemingly climactic: starting with mere trickles and culminating with the grand Ulan-Ulan Falls where we took a lot of pictures and the Nomads' Falls where we took a plunge in the natural cold waters. Crossing the rivers was a challenge, however, leaping from rock to rock on a heavy pack. Fortunately my new Merrells did not fail me in this department (I will write a gear review soon).

After the waterfalls, we entered a forest very much like that of Kanlaon. We night-trekked for a good two hours. True to myths, the mountain is a snake sanctuary. We saw two snakes that evening, and more the next day. The first day of trekking ended at the Aeta Campsite, ~940 MASL where we spent the night.

The next day, we took it easy, leaving at 0730H for the summit assault. It took around 2 hours, and on the way the forest turns mystically mossy - with all the trappings of a Lord of the Rings scene. The faunal and floral ensemble were amazing: green vipers, tree frogs, various beetles, and sightings of eagles. At the summit one is offered a view of the historic Leyte Gulf, as well as the seas surrounding the junction of Leyte-Samar. If not for the cloud cover we would also have seen Masbate - accessible by pumpboat from Northern Biliran. Like in Tabayoc, you have to climb the dwarf trees to get a view at the summit. The elevation was an impressive 1315 MASL.

On the way down Rene took us to an easier trail, avoiding the waterfalls for an easier, river-free descent. Instead of being a dull trek, our interest was no less aroused, this time by the unique fauna that we saw along the trail. I will not dare speculate on the uniqueness of our discoveries, but suffice to say the biodiversity of Mt. Tres Marias is really amazing; even more amazing is the fact that it. But very alarming was what we saw in the trails: fallen trees; trails wrecked by carabaos used to haul the logs. Indeed, illegal logging is threatening to destroy this paradise!

By 1630H we were back at the jumpoff. After a quick tidying up we headed to a swimming pool with natural spring water in Biliran, then again, the long drive back to Tacloban. But our energetic hosts still managed to take us to the must-sees of Leyte-Samar: we drove through San Juanico Bridge, the longest bridge in the country, reaching Sta. Rita in Eastern Samar. We also visited the Leyte Landing site where Gen. Douglas MacArthur declared, "I have returned!" in August. Aside from the childhood days of Imelda Romualdez-Marcos, another memory the elderly Waray folk recall is that of the momentous Leyte landing. Finally, we had a late-night dinner at Cafe Zaragoza in downtown Tacloban City. The bulalo was excellent!

As for the numerous other adventure possibilities in Leyte-Samar including Alto Peak, they will have to wait till the next time. I am just glad to reflect and look back to a great weekend. Three new provinces, one new mountain for PinoyMountaineer.com, new discoveries, and of course, new friends. Many many thanks to the Nalda family for an awesome weekend!

Mijan Pizarro and Bukidnon Mountaineers to attempt Dulang-Dulang-Kitanglad-Maagnaw Triple Traverse!

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 06:35:00 +0000

Maverick Mindanao explorer Mijan Pizarro - one of the authorities in Northern Mindanao trekking particularly in the Kitanglad Range - has asked me to announce that he and his group, the Bukidnon Mountaineering Club, will attempt an unprecedented continuous Triple Traverse of the three of the Ten Highest Mountains in the Philippines - Dulang-Dulang, Kitanglad, and Maagnaw.

Mijan Pizarro (shown in picture with the blogger) together with Johann Jangulan of the Team T-Rex have done extensive explorations of the Kitanglad Range in the past, with many of their climbs being first ascents of those mountains. He has also guided many mountaineers from Luzon in various Mindanao mountains. I met him in May 2007 when my friend Siena and I did the Dulang-Dulang Kitanglad Traverse with CARE-Iligan and other mountaineers. Mijan was our guide.

The Triple Traverse will run from November 9-14, 2009 and will count as Mijan's birthday climb. The explorer is turning 23 on November 14. The Bukidnon Mountaineering Club is inviting interested parties to join this grand adventure. If you are interested you may email Mijan at mchljnpiz@yahoo.com.ph or contact him at 09186352729.

Hiking matters #71: Bakun Trio Day 3 - Mt. Tenglawan

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 11:30:00 +0000

After writing about Batanes and the incredible climb of Di'nem Island, let me complete my account of my Bakun Trio adventure with PALMC. To recap, we had finished Lubo (a wet but nonetheless successful climb) and Kabunian (a dry and very scenic climb) and my index finger injury somehow managed to heal. A subgroup led by team leader Ojie and the guys from Lufthansa camped in Lubo and saw beautiful views from its summit at sunrise, then rested the whole day while we did Kabunian. But for Tenglawan we were all reunited.

We left very early, for Tenglawan is the longest hike of the three. Especially since we are climbing from Poblacion, instead of the the more convenient route from Brgy. Sinacbat. Just like in Kabunian, we had to descend from the Poblacion plateau down to the valleys, pass through a hanging bridge, and go up some mildly elevated, well-established trails. It first led to a village, Sitio Beyeng, which sits on the east side of the mountain. As we approached it, to our right was a breathtaking view of a cascade of waterfalls descending through green fields and slopes.

Then the trail plateaus; a rough road that connects Sitio Beyeng with Brgy. Sinacbat is used until you have to make the left turn for the mountain. The rough road is almost Ugo-like in terms of scenery, but it is short-lived. Instead of a straightforward ascent, however, we had to go down some unremarkable shrubland until finally the ascent begins. Here the environment once again becomes "Cordillera-like", and pines re-emerge; and with them the beautiful floral repertoire that unfortunately we weren't able to appreciate due to worsening weather.

By noontime we stopped by a dead creek where we had lunch. At this point even the guides seemed confused as to where the trail is. This is of course one of the cons of climbing off-season. But ultimately the found the trail - it led straight up and even though it was already raining we persisted, until we finally reached the summit of Tenglawan after more than 6 hours of climbing. At about 1940 MASL the promised views of Ilocos and Benguet - including Tirad Pass, the Bakun mountains and even Mt. Osdung signalling the Halsema - were obstructed by clouds. The only sight we could see was the faint blur of that rocky peak with a cross that serves as the landmark of Tenglawan.

Even so, we were thrilled for we've completed the formidable Bakun Trio. Three days, three mountains - it's really a must-try Cordillera challenge. As if to bid us farewell, as we night-trekked the ascent back to the Poblacion plateau, thousands of fireflies lit the trees, creating a fantastic sight. In concert, the fireflies pulsated with their lights - as if the entire universe of stars twinkled as one. Our summit views may have been rained down, but such a surprisingly magical scene with the countless fireflies remind me that in mountaineering, you never know what epiphany each adventure will bring.

Thus ended our Bakun Trio trip. Again I thank the Philippine Airlines Mountaineering Club for accommodating me in this unforgettable adventure. I not only gained three mountains, but new friends that I will always look forward to meet again in the trails.

PinoyMountaineer on ANC's Shop Talk today

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 10:41:00 +0000

I was one of the guests of today's Shop Talk hosted by Pia Hontiveros in ABS-CBN News Channel. The live interview aired from 1500-1600H. Other guests included Ms. Gina Lopez who promoted the Philippine International Marathon and Tristan Choa who spoke about Yoga and the 2009 Philippine Yoga Asana Championship.

Basically, I gave an overview of mountain climbing and the outdoors, as well as future events that we are planning. I haven't posted about it yet but we are planning a climb sometime late November in which we are inviting volunteer mountaineers to accompany amputees and persons with disability in climbing a mountain! This is in cooperation with the Mu Sigma Phi Fraternity and we'll post details later. Also, we are planning the 2nd PinoyMountaineer Annual Charity Climb to be held in February next year.

You can still catch the Shop Talk episode as it will be replayed later tonight from 0000-0100H Philippine time. Thank you to all the mountaineers who expressed support for our efforts and activities and I hope you can join our climbs in the future!

Events for October-November: Catanduanes, Lake Holon, Apo sembreak climb, Kibungan, Batad and Mindanao forum at Malindang

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 10:15:00 +0000

1. GREENCAT, a Catanduanes-based mountaineering club is organizing an event entitled "Preserving Catanduanes island (Mt. Pacogon to Mt. Pacotal), an activity of the Federation of Bicol Mountaineers, Inc. (FBMI) on October 22-25, 2009. Expenses are as follows: Registration fee: P 300; Transportation: TAbaco-San Andres P200 San andres to base camp P25(Capitol Ground) For inquiries: contact GREENCAT _MOC@yahoogroups.com; rodrigueza.baba97@yahoo.com; Mobile: 09295315259, 09079546392.

2. The Muncipality of T'boli, South Cotabato and Dolelfil Mountaineers are holding "Octrek: Clean the Trails; Trek for Tree" - a clean-up hike of the beautiful Lake Holon in T'boli, South Cotabato on October 24-25, 2009. For details contact Dolefil Mountaineers @ 09187277853

3. In light of the recent typhoons I'm not sure if this will push through, the 2nd Kibungan Invitation Climb is planned from October 31 - November 2, 2009. I hope the Halsema Highway will be repaired by then and this climb can also be a sort of relief operation / mission for mountaineers, depending on the situation. At any rate I hope the organizers led by the Municipal Office of Kibugan will update us. Their contact numbers: Kolbel 09059206276 and Brenilyn at 09267360485.

4. Mt. Apo Sembreak Climb is an activity launched by PinoyMountaineer.com in cooperation with mountaineers from Davao del Sur to be held from October 30 to Nov. 2, 2009. Because of the recent typhoons, the Climb Secretariat told me that there were many participants who backed out so there are still slots open in this climb. For more information email info@pinoymountaineer.com or contact Daniel at 09228261292.

5. The Batad Kadangyan Lodges Project Semestral Break 2009 Fundraising Hike on 28-30 October 2009 is a chance to visit the scenic Ifugao side of a Mt. Amuyao traverse - including the villages of Cambulo and Batad, Tappiyah Falls, and of course the beautiful Batad Rice Terraces. PhP 5,500.00, inclusive of roundtrip transportation, eight meals, 3D 2N group accommodation in native huts, two hikes, and one massage. Reservations must be confirmed with a deposit of 2000 pesos (BPI SA # 3889033079; Raymond A. Macapagal; San Juan S&L Branch). For more information: www.batadkadangyanlodges.multiply.com

6. Themed "The Reunion", the 15th Mindanao Forum and Climb will be held in Oroquieta City, Misamis Occidental and will showcase Mt. Malindang from November 27-30, 2009. This event is hosted by Marimax Adventure Outdoors (MAO) in cooperation with CARE-Iligan and HIGHERGROUND of Davao. Highlights of the event include a climb up the North Peak of Mt. Malindang and a chance to see Lake Duminagat and interact with the Subanon Tribe with their rituals. Contact person: Omar “Marimax” Mira: 09075192581; 09267669480.

So there -- a lot of upcoming hikes this season!

Email your open climbs and events to info@pinoymountaineer.com if you want them to be posted in the website (emailing however does not guarantee posting). Unless otherwise specified, the above climbs are not associated with PinoyMountaineer.com so for inquiries, please email the respective contact persons for each event.

Hiking matters #70: More on Batanes / SEAIR, BCTA relief operations

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 10:02:00 +0000

Aside from the incredible experience of exploring Di'nem Island, Tito William (president of the Batanes Mountaineers) also led me to the Nakamaya Burial Grounds to see the stone boat-shaped burial site of ancient Ivatans. It was a thirty-minute trek and at the end you can see the ruins as well as a nice view of Batan's northern coast. Truly there is so much to see in Batanes, and for the first time I was able to sample fresh delicacies such as raw tanigue and lightly-boiled octopus which served as pulutan. Again, thanks to the Antonios and the Batanes Mountaineers.

While I was in Batanes, I also covered a relief operation by Southeast Asian Airlines (SEAIR) and Batanes Cultural Travel Agency (BCTA). In response to the food shortage in the province, these groups mobilized to bring much-needed commodities to the island province. (Food supplies declined at an alarming rate when Typhoon “Pepeng” stopped cargo planes and ships from delivering provisions to the island. SEAIR and BCTA, in cooperation with the provincial governor of Batanes and Ateneo Professional Schools, is launching special cargo flights carrying relief packs containing rice, canned goods, powdered milk, sugar, noodles and biscuits.)

“SEAIR added flights to transport much-needed supplies to our northernmost province,” said Avelino Zapanta, SEAIR president. SEAIR and BCTA are helping some of the 1,772 families in Batanes affected by the typhoon and the shortage of food due to suspension of cargo ship deliveries. This is composed of 311 families from Uyugan, 214 from Itbud, 122 from Imnajbu, 149 from Ivana, 64 from Mahatao, 162 from Basco, 320 from Sabtang and 430 from Itbayat. The airline also announced that it will continue accepting donations for Typhoon Ondoy flood victims as well as aid for the Batanes food shortage until October 16.

Zapanta said contributions in kind or in cash will be accepted and duly acknowledged by SEAIR from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Mondays to Saturdays. The following venues receiving donations are: SEAIR ticketing office, Room 202 Lao' Center Building, 1000 Arnaiz Avenue (formerly Pasay Road) corner Makati Avenue, Makati City; SEAIR Domestic Airport office, Terminal 1, NAIA, Pasay City; SEAIR Cebu office, Door # 3 YMCA Building Jones Avenue, Cebu City; SEAIR SM Clark, Unit 166 SM City CSEZ, Clarkfield, Pampanga; and SEAIR Caticlan, Caticlan Airport. For more information on how you can help, please contact SEAIR Call Center at 849-0100. SEAIR and BCTA, in cooperation with Jay-J's Inasal, are also participating in a food distribution program to provide thousands of flood victims in Marikina and Tanay, Rizal with fresh hot meals.

Picture courtesy of Sir William Antonio and Batanes Mountaineers

Hiking matters #69: The mountain island of Di'nem - the ultimate Batanes adventure!

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 17:42:00 +0000

In an incredible and unforgettable experience, this past weekend I joined the Batanes Mountaineers in their exploration climb of Di'nem Island in Itbayat, Batanes - the northernmost municipality in the Philippines. This mountain island is virtually unexplored and is known only to the Ivatan fishermen who go the island to hunt for tatus or the coconut crab. I came upon the invitation of William Antonio - founder of the Batanes Mountaineers and a most generous host and with the support of SEAIR.

On October 11, 2009 we set out for Di'nem Island from the Basco port. The waves were still rough but we were joining Ivatan fishermen who were extremely skilled in boat navigation. They were familiar faces to me as we had already spend the other night in 'socials' with tanigue sashimi and raw octopus as pulutan! Our craft was an open boat fashioned in the traditional Ivatan style but beefed up with a 16-hp. engine. We would be heading north-northwest for 3 hours in open sea.

The boat ride itself was very excting. I know it was a very rare privilege because no one really goes to Di'nem and to go there requires a lot of fuel and navigational skills. Steadily but suspensefully we crossed the waters that had waves they said reached 15-20 ft.! Even some Ivatan guys would take Bonamine before setting out! Fortunately my vestibular system did not fail me. Gradually the faint image of Di'nem appeared, and it grew larger and larger. Yet the strength of the waves was such that the entire mountain island would disappear from view.

Finally we approached; the forested rocky contour of the island became evident. The island was a mountain and the mountain was an island: there was no coast to speak of and the boat could not even land. Instead, we had to swim to shore before we start trekking! The fishermen found a natural harbor for us but even then the waves were still rough and I nearly got my head bumped on a big stone when one giant wave suddenly crashed as I was nearing the shore.

After a quick fix we started trekking. It was all rock at first! I remembered Guiting-Guiting, but at least in G2 the rocks were mostly stable. In Di'nem island, just like in Indiana Jones, the 'trail' would collapse as soon as you step on it. And you have to be alert always because rocks would fall upon you anytime. And you couldn't even rest because if you do, fiery red ants would quickly strike.

The steepness of the mountain island reminded me of Pan de Azucar during the Visayan Voyage. The edible stem of an herb that nourished us in Pan de Azucar was also found in Di'nem. But at least Pan de Azucar has been climbed before and we finished in 3 hours. With Di'nem we had no prior experience - not even the elevation was known and after three hours we were still slowly inching up the dense jungle. At times our guides had to fashion ropes out of vines to support our precarious ascent.

Finally at 1500H we reached the peak area. We were a few dozen meters short of the highest point but we didn't want to hack our way up since the views were the same and we were running out of time. Night trekking is one thing, but night sailing is another (as I would discover later on). Besides the idea of swimming in open sea at night kinda scared me. So after documenting our successful climb we headed back.

The descent was much faster - after all the trail has been somewhat cleared. I took time to appreciate the unique views that Di'nem offered: Right in front of us stood Itbayat Island - the largest coral island in the world and the northernmost inhabited island in the Philippines. On its coral plateau rose Mt. Riposed (WNW).

By 1700H we were back in shore. Of course the 'climb' isn't over yet - we still had to swim our way towards the boat. Fortunately the waters were calmer. Before swimming we partook of raw urchin (uni sashimi) . Sushi is one of my favorite foods and uni is one of my favorite sushi. But I never got it so fresh and raw: while eating its entrails its feelers were still moving! A great feeling of relief came to me when we finally got back on the boat.

Yet - as if the whole day weren't enough - sailing a night was a new experience altogether. Watching the , relying on the stars and lighthouses for navigation, partaking of a meal while on a boat . And Sir William pointed to me glittering objects besides us: the "fireflies of the sea" - the first time I've ever seen them. Astig!

Finally, by 2030H we arrived back in Basco. The lights at the port welcomed us warmly; and looking back (as I still do), I am greatly overwhelmed. It was my third time in Batanes but this one stands as my ultimate Batanes experience. The hospitality and the warmth of my hosts and the great adventure they shared with me are great treasures that are as glorious and memorable as travel and adventure can ever get.

The blogger (profusely) thanks Sir William Antonio and his family and the Batanes Mountaineers for warmly accommodating him in Basco, Batanes and inviting him in their Di'nem exploration on October 11, 2009.

Gear review: Optic Nerve Flatstock sunglasses - great for hiking!

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 17:01:00 +0000

Recently I had the opportunity to try out Optic Nerve, a sports eyewear company that was recently launched in the Philippines. What I checked out was the Optic Nerve Flatstock Photoglare. The first thing I noticed is that it was very lightweight compared to its counterparts. (Sometimes I even forget that I'm wearing it!) Also, the design is sleek but not as boisterous as the futuresque Oakleys.

Moreover, Optic Nerve boasts of a modern lens that actually adjusts the 'shade' depending on the weather conditions! This technology is perfect for Philippine and other tropical mountains where you'll have to enter the dark jungle only to emerge into an open summit.

It's also 100% polarized, protecting the wearer from UV rays that, as I discussed in a previous article, has harmful effects not only to the skin but to the eyes. In other words, it is has good style, great functionality, at very reasonable prices (PHP2800-4900). Definitely worth it.

Optic Nerve is available at (1) Runnr (Bonifacio Global City) (2) Second Wind (Quezon City) (3) Knobbies (Quezon City) and (4) Gran Trail (Makati).

Essay: After the floods and above the clouds, a golden view

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 06:46:00 +0000

BASCO, BATANES - Days after the onslaught of Typhoons 'Ondoy' and 'Pepeng', I am here in the 'Land of Winds' upon the kind invitation of the Batanes Mountaineers and their president and most generous host William Antonio and with the support of SEAIR. The powerful Dornier aircraft dispelled any doubts that our flight would be delayed, and we cruised steadily amid the improving weather in Luzon. By the time we landed in Basco, the weather was beautiful.

The sights along the way, however, were saddening. Rivers were swollen and muddy, with the sea absorbing mud and silt. From the sky, one can can see the extent of damage that Typhoons 'Ondoy' and 'Pepeng' had wrought. Just yesterday I posted about Mt. Pulag and other Cordillera mountains being inaccessible due to landslides that have disrupted transportation.

There was however, one uplifting sight I saw along the way. As our plane flew past the Cordillera mountains, I happened to look from the window, and lo and beyond: Mt. Pulag! Our dear Mt. Pulag - its summit giving off a golden, radiant glow, ever majestic. The roads to Pulag may be closed, but the mountain itself is there, enduring and ever-beautiful, a testament to the strong Filipino spirit that will see us through whatever adversity we face.

Quickly I grabbed my camera and captured the splendid sight - the first time I saw Pulag from above. After the floods and above the clouds, I have faith that a golden view awaits all of us.

Partial list of mountains affected by Typhoons 'Ondoy' and 'Pepeng'

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 11:39:00 +0000

UPDATE (10/19/09): Roads to Mt. Pulag and Tabayoc now open; most mountains back to normal.

Based on our personal correspondences and news reports, the following mountains are currently affected (damaged trails, devastated communities, OR impeded access) I am currently on community immersion in San Juan, Batangas and I only have sporadic internet access. Please help me with information by commenting on this post.

DISCLAIMER: These tidbits go only to the best of my knowledge. Most are second-hand information and should at best be advisory. I hope this helps:

Mt. Batulao - okay but muddy
Mt. Romelo - okay but muddy
Mt. Arayat - flooded slopes
Mountains in Tarlac
Bakun Trio - Halsema still unstable
Mt. Pinatubo - still under repair yung trail

Please be guided accordingly.

PS: Fortunately, we have not received news of any mountaineering-related accidents during the onslaught and aftermath of Typhoons 'Ondoy' and 'Pepeng'.

Hiking matters #68: Bakun Trio Day 2 - Sacred Mt. Kabunian

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 22:14:00 +0000

My alarmed sounded at 1730H on September 20, 2009. My immediate action was to check my injured left index finger. There's no swelling! I tried moving it, and although there's still a little pain, it is tolerable. Looks like there's no fracture. I thanked God for the reprieve. I was also graeful that I was able to apply the RICE principles: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Later on my climbmates Mayan and Sir Ding would attest that I managed to sleep with my left hand raised! As for "rest" - well - sorry - but I have to climb two more mountains! (As a precaution I wore glvoes to protected the affected area)

So I prepared for Mt. Kabunian. It is actually the most famous of the Bakun Trio, named after the highest deity in the mythology of the Kankaney, Kabunian. Born of the Skyworld, this Ifugao god was held to be the father of lesser gods and mankind. The mountain called Kabunian is a testament to his august being, and it was a revered place; a pilgrimage site in ages past.

Eager to have a headstart we began our climb at around 0730H. Instead of the anticipated ascent, however, we were in for an initial, steep descent. Bakun Poblacion after all sits on a plateau in itself - at 1150 MASL and we headed down to Lun-oy Valley, 950 MASL, before gaining elevation again. Very soon the familiar Cordillera environment of pines and open trails emerged: a welcome change after the dense and wet woodlands of Lubo. Tenglawan loomed high and majestic in front of us (NE) while Mt. Lubo formed the imaginary triangle (SE). The views were expansive and we could look down the meandering Bakun river, ever-nourished by the countless waterfalls.

Amazingly the trails were well-maintained. Our guide explained that the trail has been used since Pre-Hispanic times as a trade route that enabled the Igorots from Mountain Province, Benuget, and Ifugao to go to Ilocos by way of Kayapa village and buy much-needed salt and other commodities not found in the mountains. They also took wild boar with them. One such trader was named Takdag Camsit. Unfortunately while he was crossing the trail just before the summit of Kabunian, his wild boar went amok, pulling his master with him -- to their demise. The hill (1475 MASL) has since been named after the poor trader, and it is the steepest part of the trail, supported with ropes and railings, to prevent another such accident to happen.

After crossing Takdag Camsit, we passed by a scenic, precarious steel hanging bridge, connecting the hill to the final rise of Kabunian. The views here are breathtaking. As you approach the summit, we came upon another noteworthy sight - wooden coffins that clung on the side of the summit's walls. In olden days, there were more of these wooden coffins in Kabunian. Perhaps they thought that by being buried in the holy mountain they could partake of the supposed divinity of the place.

Finally the trail bifurcates, with the westward path leading to Brgy. Kayapa (not to be confused with Kayapa of Mt. Ugo) and ultimately to Tagudin, Ilocos Sur. The northward part brings you to the final hundred meters of the trail - and then the summit. Although the clouds have set in by the time we arrived there, it is still a very nice place with cool breezes, pines, and spacious grounds that can easily be turned into a campsite. My happiness in reaching the summit was heightened by the fact that just several hours ago, I thought I may have to pack my bags and abort my participtation. I thanked God for giving me a second summit. Whereas the other day was hectic, post-fatigue, rainy, and ; this climb was relaxing, sunny, safe, and beautiful. At the summit of Mt. Kabunian I wrote: "This is as good as a Cordillera dayhike can get."

Yet Tenglawan - the most difficult of the three - still awaited us the next day. On the way back, with its giant presence looming over us, I wondered what lay in store for us in its slopes.

PinoyMountaineer.com thanks Philippine Airlines Mountaineering Club (PALMC) for accommodating the blogger in their Bakun Trio climb last September 19-21, 2009.

Hiking matters #67: Bakun Trio Day 1: Mt. Lubo

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 20:29:00 +0000

The Bakun Trio adventure typically involves three dayhikes in a row - a very exciting and convenient prospect. Some hikers however would argue for a more "hardcore" adventure that involves camping in any of the mountains. The advantages of camping, aside from the "extra challenge", are nice views in the early morning. On the other hand when you do a dayhike, you'll arrive at the peaks by late morning at the earliest -- missing the window of usually very clear daybreak skies. Still, it is the recommended option especially if you have limited time and if you want to make sure that you'll hit all three mountains in one visit. Also, it much better to have socials in the barangay hall with its facilities (stove, shower room, sleeping quarters). Interacting with the locals (especially the curious kids) is also a nice thing to do.

The most logical first mountain to climb in Bakun is Mt. Lubo, the highest mountain in Bakun Poblacion at over 2000 MASL (Mt. Osdung at 2500+ is technically the highest in Bakun but it's not accessible from the town proper). If you follow the road map from Baguio, the initial barangay you'll reach in Bakun is Brgy. Dada followed by Brgy. Poblacion. In between these two barangays stands Mt. Lubo. Although possible to perform a traverse from Brgy. Dada down to Poblacion, the more advisable option is to carry your things to the Poblacion first before hiking up Lubo with light packs. When I joined the PALMC climb, some of the guys decided to camp in Lubo while the rest of us decided to just do a dayhike.

Unfortunately it was already quite late when we started our trek - around 1330H. Although we were able to leave Baguio as scheduled, the road to Bakun was under construction and we were forced to prematurely start our trekking by negotiating by foot the remaining distance of unfinished road. Even so the weather was good and we were optimistic that we can finish our first mountain easily.

From the barangay hall, we walked SE, entering a mix of forest and upland farmlands with our guide Max. My groupmates were the dynamic duo of Mayan and Maynard, as well as the energetic PALMC president, Sir Ding. What amazed us initially were the near and distant waterfalls you'll pass along the way. Precariously hanging steel bridges connect the trails. After 1.5-2 hours of climbing the trees will give way to pines and grassland slopes. Amazingly, there are sections of the mountain close to the peak that are actually inhabited! You will reaach a plateau that affords expansive views (unfortunately it was already late and cloudy when we arrived). Then finally, the summit of Lubo will loom - a pyramidal peak that sits above the plateau. Despite our progress, however, time was fast running and the weather was turning for the worse. Coming from the hospital environment without rest and having to take that arduous trek made and I was surprised that my legs started cramping in the final 200 meters of the trek.

I scrambed to take some raisins (high in potassium, sodium) and took in a lot of water. Slowly but surely we reached the peak by 1630H after 3 hours of trekking. Welcoming us at 2000 MASL were a family of goats. Desperate for salt they began licking our feet and perhaps wishing that we could spare some food for them! Unfortunately we couldn't oblige. Unfortuntately too there wasn't much view at the top. But still, one down, two to go, and it's very soon it's time to go: we didn't want to spend too much time night trekking and it was already raining.

At this time my legs have recovered. But, while crossing of the slippery parts, I slipped and my left index finger hit a rock! At first I couldn't move it. Fearful of a fracture, I immediately immbolized it with some Leukoplast. All the more did I hurry back to base. Upon arriving I quickly examined myself to see if it was indeed a fracture. The hallmarks of a fracture include (1) limitation of range of motion both active and passive; (2) gross deformities; and (3) intense pain and tenderness. Fortunately I had none of (2) but I had a bit of (1) and (3).

My decision? To observe first and decide early the next day. Meanwhile I bought all the ice candies in one of the sari-sari stores and applied them to my injury. I Hope for the best! The PALMC guys tried to cheer me up and I wasn't really in sunken spirits, buoyed by the success of our Lubo climb. At the worst case at least I saw Bakun and did one mountain.

So I struggled to sleep on that night with my left hand raised and my mind worried about the possible outcomes tomorrow: I would have to wake up at 0530H the next day and make the fateful decision: either to pack my bags and take the only trip in the next two days for Baguio City, or to join the second climb. Having come all the way I prayed that it would be the latter.

PinoyMountaineer.com thanks Philippine Airlines Mountaineering Club (PALMC) for accommodating the blogger in their Bakun Trio climb last September 19-21, 2009.

SEAIR opens doors to more outdoor and travel destinations

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 08:54:00 +0000

In anticipation of the increased tourist traffic during the holiday season, Southeast Asian Airlines (SEAIR) is reopening its paradise-to-paradise routes from Puerto Princesa, Palawan to Boracay (Caticlan) and vice versa effective October 16, 2009. Flights are scheduled every Tuesday and Friday. SEAIR is also restoring its Manila – El Nido, Palawan - Manila routes starting November 18, 2009, with flights every Wednesday and Sunday. Tickets can now be purchased for Puerto Princesa and El Nido flights.

SEAIR has announced that it will increase flights to Basco, Batanes from four times weekly to daily starting October 12, 2009. This is the staging-off point for Mt. Iraya, Mt. Matarem and other mountaineering destinations that we will soon post about in PinoyMountaineer.com in cooperation with Batanes Mounatineers.

The airline will also increase flights to Caticlan to up to 32 flights per day effective October 15, 2009 and onwards. Presently, SEAIR has up to 27 flights a day to this famed beach destination.

SEAIR is currently the only airline flying direct to Caticlan and Batanes. SEAIR’s fleet of DO328’s and LET410’s have proven very good performance in short runways. “Our aircraft, the Dornier 328 and LET L-410, are both capable of Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL). They are aerodynamically designed in a way that it is capable of landing and taking off in about 750 meters with full pay load. These aircraft are the most appropriate for small runways where bigger commercial airplanes cannot land,” said Avelino Zapanta, SEAIR president.

Boracay and Palawan have been ranked among Asia’s top ten vacation hotspots. Boracay is well-known for its powdery white sands and crystal clear waters. Palawan is rated by the National Geographic Traveler Magazine as the best island destination in Southeast Asia and the 13th in the world for its "incredibly beautiful natural seascapes and landscapes". It is called the "last frontier of Philippine mountaineering" and is home to highly technical and challenging climbs such as Mt. Mantalingajan, Mt. Victoria, and Cleopatra's Needle.

SEAIR is the nation's second-oldest airline and has flown almost 3 million passengers to local destinations including Cebu, Tablas (Romblon), Clark, Zamboanga, Jolo, and Tawi-tawi.

Fly SEAIR and rediscover the joy of flight - speed, convenience, personalized Service! Go to www.FlySeair.com for the best deals or call SEAIR Manila at (+632) 8490100 and SEAIR Cebu at (+6332) 2549337 to 38 for more information.

Vote for PinoyMountaineer.com in the Chikka Reader's Choice Award!

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 23:40:00 +0000

I would like to request our readers and the mountaineering community to support PinoyMountaineer.com in a reader's choice contest sponsored by Chikka and Philippine Blog Awards 2009. Thanks to your patronage and contributions, once again we are a finalist in the Philippine Blog Awards and we've been nominated for this special award.

There are two ways to vote for PinoyMountaineer. One is by clicking this link and voting online. (Online voting = 1 vote). The other is by simply texting CHIKKARC L11 to 2929. Vote via sms will start September 29, 2009 to October 7, 2009. SMS voting = 2 votes per SMS sent (each SMS vote costs PHP 2.50)

Thank you very much!

Gideon

Mountaineers' relief operation for Typhoon Ondoy victims at San Mateo on Oct 10: Call for volunteers

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 08:54:00 +0000

Update: This event has been moved to October 10, 2009. Will post more details as soon as the organizers update me.

This October 3 (Saturday) Filipino Mountaineers Inc. will deploy to San Mateo and Tanay Rizal to respond to the victims of Typhoon Ondoy. The respondents will be bringing a truck of mobile kitchen, a fire truck, and convoy of vehicles to distribute water, clothing, relief goods and cooked food to the affected community and specific evacuation areas. The convoy will also clean the evacuation facility to prevent an outbreak and sanitize the area as well. Volunteers from different mountaineering groups are on stand by as they await deployment from Fimo Inc. Command Center in Quezon City.

As Filipino Mountaineers Unite once again, we call on all Freedom Climbers to help and volunteer for Saturday’s operation. We also like to invite our fellow mountaineers to HELP…DONATE…SERVE and bring the spirit of Bayanihan to our target location.

We also appeal & encourage friends & fellow mountaineers to donate the following:
· Rice
· Biscuits / Skyflakes / Bread
· Any ready to eat food
· T-shirts
· Vehicles for transportation (preferably 4x4 truck)
· Cleaning materials
· Medicines

TO DONATE OR VOLUNTEER, PLEASE CONTACT THE FOLLOWING:
09267009892 / JADE (PNMS)
09215317248 / EDWIN (MSOC)
09193155783 / JOD (HAPPY CAMPERS)
09178286623 / ENRIQUE (GREEN LIFE ICON)

Mountaineers as volunteers: what we can do to help

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 22:26:00 +0000

This week, the mountaineering community joins the rest of the nation in helping those who have suffered from last weekend's Typhoon Ondoy. I know that many mountaineering clubs are planning relief efforts, missions, and other activities to help those in evacuation centers and areas that are still affected by the flood. Personally, I will be joining our Community Medicine unit in PGH will be in Cainta, Rizal this Friday to offer free medical services to the flood victims.

A lot of people are still asking: what can we do to help? If your mountaineering club or group is organizing an activity this coming weekend, please let us know. PinoyMountaineer.com will post a list of upcoming volunteer events tomorrow for everyone's information. Instead of climbing this weekend (with a new storm brewing) - I think it's a better idea to sign up in one of these.

Weather advisory: Defer, exercise caution in planning climbs this weekend

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:44:00 +0000

images and data courtesy of Weather Underground

Based on latest projections on tropical weather by Weather Underground, I would like to alert the mountaineering community with the possibility of TWO storms coming our way this coming weekend. Though we cannot be sure at this point whether these disturbances will actually materialize (sana naman hindi), I hope everyone will be vigilant and if you have definite climbing plans, do monitor the weather using advisories from PAGASA, the AccuWeather boxes beneath each itinerary in PinoyMountaineer, as well as Weather Underground.

Climbs involving river crossings and bodies of water should be avoided, particularly those which are classified "High risk". While climbing, Those with barometer watches can also put them to good use. Though not exactly very accurate, a sudden decrease in air pressure should raise some alarm. Also, though climbing in high-risk areas. Ropes are highly recommended.

TROPICAL DEPRESSION 'NINETEEN'

TROPICAL DEPRESSION 'EIGHTEEN'

Hiking matters #66: A prayer while stuck in SLEX

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 12:48:00 +0000

SOUTH EXPRESSWAY - I'm stuck here right now; I'm supposed to be on my way to PGH to take up my post in the Emergency Room but things did not go as planned. Good thing I decided to stop by Caltex and store up on food and drinks. And thankfully my laptop has battery so I keep myself abreast of the situation. The unprecedented flooding in NCR due to Typhoon Ondoy is truly a calamity and it is when the floods have subsided that we will be able to assess what happened.

Meanwhile, I pray for safety for mountaineers who are climbing this weekend. Weather was still good yesterday and the amount of rainfall today was not predictable. Hopefully, wherever they are they will find shelter, security, and a safe way home. And to all Filipino mountaineers, I hope and pray that you and your families are in good hands tonight. If there's anything we can do to help, let us know. Meanwhile, mahaba-haba pa ang byahe ko. Ingat tayong lahat!

Invitation to Ilocos #5: The first expedition to Mt. Sicapoo - the highest peak in Ilocos!

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 08:31:00 +0000

PinoyMountaineer presents "Invitation to Ilocos", featuring the newly-documented mountaineering destinations of Ilocandia. This column is by Agnes Fidelis Gloria-Pinzon, PinoyMountaineer correspondent for Northern Luzon and the One Degree Mountaineering Group.

The team’s June expedition to Mt. Sicapoo, Ilocos Norte’s highest peak, ended in mild disappointment. While we were thrilled over having explored the never trekked trails of Solsona’s mountain ranges, discovered the truly breathtaking summit views of Mt. Simagaysay and Mt. Timarid and crossed the angry waters of Gasgas River, time constraints barred us from climbing the towering height of the “majestic Mt. Sicapoo”. The group vowed to return and seek the mountain’s assent to finally scale its slopes. It was just a matter of when and how long. We knew we had to let the peak of the rainy season pass and the 3 day original itinerary also proved short so we would need to prepare for a 4 day climb. An additional day meant another B-L-D cycle, and thus more food, more fuel, more clothes – in short a heavier pack. We also planned for a Gasgas river entry and in anticipation of the rigors of the crossing, we needed to bring 30 meters of rope.

Finding a 4 day window from work and family demands proved more difficult than physically preparing for a grueling 7/9 climb! When the date was finally set – September 11 to 14 - only four members signed up (3 from the original party).

Doc Gideon’s account ended in Saulay junction, the peak after Mt. Timarid where we turned left to descend to Saulay creek that led towards Gasgas River and home. We needed to reconnoiter the leg of the climb beyond the junction all the way to Mt. Sicapoo. Since we planned for a river entry to cut trekking time, so much of the climb depended on weather. After we registered with the Solsona PNP and met our guides, Tata Emilio and Mang Cristobal, we happily learned that the river was shallow despite the previous night’s rain. This meant that we could push through with our river entry plan. From lessons gleaned from the first attempt, we decided to bring rope this time and brush up on some basic rope skills for the more perilous crossings of Gasgas river. We thus started the trek with very high hopes, buoyed by the clear blue skies. Since we were still on familiar ground, we did excellent time, reaching the Saulay river camp only after 5 hours of river crossing and lunch by the riverside. The rains started however just as we were negotiating the last two crossings and the water rose faster than expected. Just before reaching camp, I slipped and hit my face square on a boulder which was fortunately underneath the surface.

We decided to camp by the river once more and just make the push up to the junction by early morning since the rains were upon us. We endured a night of heavy rain and the expected mosquitoes but we awoke to a clearer day. We left the Saulay river camp at 6:30 but not before our guides caught wild eel with finger-thick earthworms we caught in camp! We reached the junction three hours later and from that point, everything was new territory once more. We traversed Mt. Saulay, which we learned was 1240 masl, onto a ridge called “narabaw nga danum” (shallow water) where we had lunch. From that point, we can look up at the steep slopes of Mt. Bubuos (1251 masl) and behind it, Mt. BalBalite (1292 masl) which were a challenge to climb because of its sharp inclines. But the view here is absolutely beautiful – the whole magnificent verdant range can be seen! After four hours, we finally reach Mt. Pakpako at 1680 masl, whose summit is a sprawling pine forest plateau. We made our way down and to the side to have more cover from the fierce winds in the summit. This was our camp for the night and the logical jump off for a Mt. Sicapoo summit assault. The guides refused to push on to Mt. Sicapoo because of the thick fog and they further inform us that the trail ended here as only a handful of hunters have gone beyond this point. We would have to make our way through thick undergrowth and vegetation, depending on our guides for direction and the fog could get us lost. We ended day 2 in very high spirits, we were finally near our illustrious highest peak! The rains came heavy and strong that night though, with wind that foretold a brewing storm.

We awoke before dawn and with our fears come true – the rains from the previous night had not stopped and worse, the wind has picked up serious strength. Our guides were tentative about making the push so we decided to wait out a few more hours and see what daylight would bring. Sunrise was hazy, almost completely covered by the thick, black clouds that lined the mountaintops. But the sun was there! And it was a good enough sign to do what we’ve come so far to accomplish. So we pushed, just as it got light and though we were not loaded, the climb was arduous and grueling as we made our way up and over another peak, Mt. Matalidong (1685 masl). Covered in algae and moss the forest was thick and almost impenetrable. Our guides had a tough time making out the way and hacking through the tangled bush in freezing winds and rain. After three hours in the forest, we were all soaked to the skin and shivering in the cold and the guides tell us that we were lost! We could hear the winds above us, roaring with the steady downpour and we wondered with heavy hearts if we would yet again fail to assault the slopes of Mt. Sicapoo. Still we pushed on, our guides doing their best to clear a path despite numbing fingers and limbs with the teeth-chattering cold. After another hour, one of the guides shouts out in surprised jubilance. In the absence of a trail, we had gone north which led us straight to Mt. Sicapoo instead of a route that the guide remembered which would have taken us to another side of the mountain. We were absolutely ecstatic and congratulated each other profusely as we climbed trees to get a better view! We were on the mountain’s top but our guides tell us that the trail is so dense and thick that it would take hours to get through to the highest peak which was a few hundred meters away. The wind was picking up by the minute and we suspected that a storm has indeed developed. That and our shivering state prompted us to decide to turn around and descend. We’ve reached the elusive mountain and that would have to be enough triumph for this climb.

Reluctantly we made our way down, on a running descent, taking the four hour trek in two hours. When we reached camp, we find out that there was really a storm up over Ilocos Norte. We decide against our original plan of striking camp and heading for Solsona via Mts. Timarid-Simagaysay. Our guides also advised us to sit out the storm and just head back the next day, hopefully in clearer weather. So we wait out the storm inside our tents, wet but euphoric over our feat!

On day 4, we leave the Mt. Pakpako campsite at 7:30 am and head for Solsona. We were anticipating a 10 hour trek at the very least and though we had doubts at the back of our minds that we would make it before dark, our guides were confident that what we took two days to trek last June, could be compressed to a day. Just before lunch though, a member of the team trips and slightly sprains his ankle, slowing down our pace. We reached Mt. Simagaysay 10 hours and from there we could see the plateau and home! But it takes us another 6 hours to reach the bridge as our steady pace dwindled to snail’s trudge as night overcame us (which got us lost for a good hour!) and we ran out of water. At 11:00 pm, four days after we set off, we finally touchdown in Solsona!

Checking our trail by GPS against Google topo maps a few days later, we learned that we reached 2218 masl and that Mt. Sicapoo peaks at 2338 masl – a 700 meter lateral distance to our right and a 120 vertical meters above us. On a post-climb assessment though, the team realized that we have indeed fulfilled our objectives of doing a reconnaissance trek from Saulay onwards and forging a trail through Mt. Sicapoo. While the last 120 meters up its summit still beckons, it would have to wait this time…yet again.

It seems that our pursuit of Mt. Sicapoo’s summit will continue to test our wills, try our hearts and remind us that to climb is a privilege; a rare opportunity to rise above what we think we are capable of to the point of almost breaking, of almost giving up – until we are finally rewarded with that fleeting view of creation from almost near heaven. Sir Cecil, Gideon… are you free for a reunion climb?

Camp Recipes by Fish: Chicken Tikka Massala

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 08:17:00 +0000

by Chef Louie Lee Castro (UPM)

Starting June 2009, Chef Louie Lee "Fish" Castro of the UP Mountaineers will give us practical tips and zesty recipes for an outdoor culinary experience!

Chicken is everybody’s favorite. Being the most popular meat in the world, it is frequently prepared as food in innumerable ways.

Popular as it is, chicken has also become a favorite meal in the outdoors since it is believed to be easily digested. From the simple fried chicken that we usually prepare during our elementary camp-out days, variations on how we could pack chicken and creatively prepare it on-site have widely increased. The chicken in massala sauce is a fit example.

Popularized in Britan, the Massala is a combination of spices, used mainly in Southeast Asian cuisines. It can either be combination of dried spices, or a paste made from a mixture of spices and other ingredients. Massala is used extensively in Indian cuisine to add spice and flavor.

Chicken Tikka Massala

INGREDIENTS
500g chicken breast fillet
Breading
50g curry powder
50g garlic powder

Sauce
30ml corn oil
30g fine chopped onion
30g minced garlic
20g chopped ginger
20g chicken powder
60ml tomato puree
50ml tikka massala paste
200 ml water

AT HOME
Mix curry powder and garlic powder. Bread the chicken and store in chiller.

ON-CAMP
To prepare the sauce, heat oil then sauté onion, garlic, and ginger. Add tomato puree and tikka massala paste. Sauté for 5 minutes, add water and simmer until sauce reduced to half.

After preparing the sauce, pan fry the breaded chicken, cook until it turns to bright orange in color. Top the massala sauce. Vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus and cauliflower, can be added as preferred. Serve it steaming hot.

Mt. Apo Sembreak Climb 2009: Last call for participants

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 05:26:00 +0000

Reservations/Registration is still ongoing for the climb from October 30 to November 2! The Climb Fee of P5,000 will cover all the necessary fees, guides, and transportation from Davao to the jump-off and back; as well as orientation and training sessions in Manila, including a training climb and a commemorative climb shirt. We are giving participants to liberty to book their own flights, so they can easily allow for sidetrips and a customized, prolonged stay in Davao. To sign-up for the climb and to get more details, email Daniel at info@pinoymountaineer.com or contact him at 09228261292.

Hiking matters #65: Bakun Trio, Bravo!

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 18:23:00 +0000

BAKUN, BENGUET - A sense of fulfillment and relief comes to me after having completed the 'Bakun Trio': Mts. Lubo, Kabunian, and Tenglawan. Three days of climbing and the arduous ride here is difficult to pull through and yet it did, thanks to the group which I joined here: the veritable PALMC. In a nutshell: Lubo was dense, Kabunian stately and majestic, and Tenglawan long and challenging.

Truth be told, I'm actually usually reluctant to join open climbs. There's always the apprehension that the itinerary may not be to your hiking; your pace may not be in-sync with the group; they may not like you and you may not like them; your food preferences may not match; they may be more concerned about socials than summitting - and so on and so forth. And yet, if and once you overcome these apprehensions, joining open climbs has the reward of meeting new people with different personalities, each sharing your passion of mountain climbing. Of course with the PALMC and their other guests I experienced more of the rewards and I'll always be thankful to their club members led by their president Ding and the expedition leader Ojie.

Tomorrow we're leaving Bakun and I'll sorely miss this place. I've come to know the store vendors who supplied us with Fit n' Right; the midwife Susan, our guides Max, Nabi; the friendly kagawads and of course the Brgy. Captain - all very nice and hospitable people.

And then of course, the place! The Poblacion sits on a plateau, surrounded by valleys which in turn are surrounded by green, pine-laden mountains, and believe it or not everywhere you look there are waterfalls, majestically running their course down the valleys, nourishing the terraces and literally, through hydroelectric plants (em)powering the people. This place - Bakun - is truly enchanting and it will require a thoughtful reminiscence to grasp it completely.

Meanwhile I look forward to the sinigang na bangus that Mayan and Maynard are preparing. After our draining Tenglawan climb today, we were craving for a unique meal and thankfully the only fresh seafood in town has not been bought by the time we arrived back at around 1845H.

But what of the climbs and the mountains? Maybe I'll use the next blog posts in writing about them in detail. For now I will content myself to say, as if in encore: Bakun Trio, Bravo!

Hiking matters #64: Now in Baguio after Bakun Trio!

glasco@gmail.com (gideon) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 10:59:00 +0000

BAGUIO CITY - Once again I am in Baguio after a climb, but this time around it wasn't just one climb, but three: the Trio of Lubo, Kabunian, and Tenglawan in the unbelievably beautiful town of Bakun, Benguet! I made a blog entry from Bakun last night and will post it tomorrow when I arrive in Manila. This post is just to let you know that I'm still here and the reason why the comments piled up and left unmoderated is because I was on expedition mode.

When I'm in Baguio I always make it a point to meet with old friends, get some strawberry shake, and feast in Pizza Volante, venue of many a celebration past: Mt. Tabayoc, the Pulag Charity Climb, Mt. Ugo.

God was really merciful and He blessed us with perfect weather most of them time. In particular, I thank Him for healing my finger that nearly got fractured on the way down from Mt. Lubo. I was bracing for the worst: having to forego Kabunian and Tenglawan and take the jeep back to Baguio. But thankfully the finger somehow improved and on morning of Day 2 I was back on track.

Thanks to the PALMC guys led by their president Ding Cailipan and expedition leader Ojie Padilla, Jr. for these climbs which I really enjoyed. Getting to Bakun was hard enough and doing all three climbs, uprooted from my medical training, is really quite a challenge for a weekend so I think I'm gonna have some nice sleep on the bus that leaves in 15 minutes.