Anawangin Cove

San Antonio, Zambales

Pinto Art Museum

Antipolo, Rizal

Mt. Maculot

Cuenca, Batangas

Mt. Pulag

Kabayan, Benguet

Sabang Beach

Baler, Aurora

July 23, 2014

Mountain and Sea at La Luz Beach Resort

Mountain and Sea at La Luz Beach Resort

Laiya, Batangas

La Luz Beach Resort is just one out of the many beach resorts available in San Juan's long coastline. What sets it apart are it's open cottages, being an animal-friendly resort, wide snorkeling area just off the shore, and a resort that's close to a mountain's starting trail, Mt Daguldul.

The sand isn't fine as Boracay, not even close to those of Coron's. However, the color of the sand is comparable to those just mentioned.

If you do not know how to swim, I would suggest wearing a lifevest as the sand beneath the waters are very coarse. The sea floor can suddenly go deep, as how we, Filipinos normally call it as "biglang lalim."

Directions

The resort is accessible via a private ride for an approximately 3 to 3.5 hours of drive via SLEX – Star Toll Way – Ibaan – Rosario – San Juan, Batangas.

Taking a public transport is also amenable. From Pasay, take a bus bound for Lipa City, then take a jeepney ride going to San Juan. From it's last stop, take a trike going to La Luz in Brgy. Hugom.

Rates

La Luz's rates were reasonable, despite being there during a peak season. The trip was paid for by the company I was working in, but I had the privilege and organize the small team event allowing me to note all the expenses availed for the day trip.

 Left: the way to Mt. Daguldul. Right: Open cottege

La Luz's day trip package was among the cheapest there is after carefully calling in a number of resorts. The day trip package was prized at P900 per head, which included a buffet lunch, afternoon snacks, entrance fee, and the use of the resort facilities (beach chairs, cabanas, volleyball, restrooms and dining pavilion). Pets are even allowed in the resort but will require a fee of P450 per pet per day.

 Left: Rock formation nearby. Right: Beach volleyball

Things to Note:

  • Day trips require reservation, hence walk-ins are not allowed.
  • Day trips are from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM only
  • Bottled drinks such as sodas, alcoholic, beverages and other refreshments are subject to a corkage fee, same with meals, except for chips.

Overnight Stay at La Luz

Updated 2014 rates for each air-conditioned room per night:

Standard         3360 max 6 people 2 Semi-double beds
Junior Premier 3360 max 4 people 1 Queen Size bed
Premier           4500 max 6 people 2 Semi and 1 Double bed
Premier Loft 5520 max 10 people 5 Semi and 1 Double bed
Annex             3360 max 4 people 2 Semi Double Beds
Annex Loft 4950 max 12 people 5 Semi and 1 Double bed

* Check-in time is at 1:00 PM and checkout time is at 11:00 AM.

In addition, all guests are required to avail of the P1350 food package per person for an overnight stay. It includes the following:
  • Lunch upon arrival
  • Afternoon snack
  • Dinner
  • Breakfast the following day before checkout 
All of La Luz's meals are served buffet style with a minimum of four dishes per meal. Lunch and Dinner comes with Rice, Chicken, Pork/beef/Fish, Vegetables, Soup, and Dessert. Juice and purified drinking water are provided, with all meals served with the famous Batangas Coffee.

Right: The Resort's front desk. Right: Buffet serving area.

Additional meal prices are as follows:
  • Breakfast - P250
  • Lunch - P450
  • Afternoon Snack - P150
  • Dinner - P500.
The meals for children 5 and below are free, while kids 6 to 8 years old are charged 50% of the food package, but will still count for the room accommodations.


Source: La Luz Beach Resort

Also worth mentioning is that their restrooms/shower rooms are clean and well maintained. In fact, staff are station at these area, cleans and mops the floor every now and then. Since the resort is quite large, employees are equipped with radios to communicate with their co-workers. Despite being there during the peak season, the staff were extremely friendly and always had a smile on their faces.

Contact Details:

0927 805-3484
0915 298-9960
0998 338-7111


~ CBT


July 17, 2014

An Infographic Guide to Mt Naguiling

Thinking out of the box and looking to cater to those people who view the pictures of the trip, more than reading the whole article has inspired me to create this infographics just for you, my fellow outdoor trippers!

An Infographic Guide to Mt Naguiling

Updated: July 2014

Mt. Naguiling or Mt. Nagiling is believed to be the highest peak among the Lobo-San Juan Mountain Range. It is not a popular hiking destination, and it has only been recently that a handful of brave souls attempted and successfully reached it's summit.


Although, the infographics herein shows a brief summary, it is still advised to check out the full details and special concerns for this trip HERE.

~ CBT

June 6, 2014

Mount Apo: Kapatagan - Kidapawan Itinerary

A Guide to Hiking Mt. Apo

Jump-Off: Kapatagan, Brgy. Mainit, Digos
Exit point: Lake Agco, Kidapawan City
MASL: 2956 meters
Ascent: 2 days (6-8 hours / day) / Descend: 12 hours
Specs: Major Climb, Difficulty 7/9

Mt Apo with a dry Lake Venado on the foreground.

Mt. Apo is most famously known as the highest mountain in the Philippines. It stands 2956 meters above sea level and is home to many unique plants and animal species, most notable of which is the Philippine Eagle. It has 4 major trails: Kapatagan and Sibulan, Sta. Cruz in Davao Del Sur, and Kidapawan and Magpet Trail in North Cotabato.

Assault via Kapatagan Trail

The Kapatagan Trail features farmlands which is an open trail starting from the jump-off, and is approximately 2 hours of hike before entering the covers of the mountain's forest. Upon entering the forest, the goal is to reach either one of the 2 campsites: Godi-Godi campsite, which is the most preferred campsite due to it's large flat area; and the Baroring campsite, a small patch of flat land in the middle of the forest. Reaching either campsites marks the end of the first day's trek towards the summit of Mount Apo.
"Since our group started late in the morning, our first night in the mountains led us to camp at Baroring. The nights in Mt. Apo may not be as cold as Mt. Pulag, however, the weather can still bring about hypothermia if not appropriately prepared and dressed."
Godi-Godi Campsite

The next feature of Kapatagan Trail will take you to the scenic Boulder trail, where huge piles of rocks are stacked on top of each other which leads you to a unique view of one of Mt. Apo's Sulfur vents. The volcanic features of the mountain are most prominent here in this trail, and is one of the sights to behold in this adventure. Strong winds can fan the smoke from the sulfur vent making it difficult to breathe and/or to keep one's eyes open.

mt-apo-sulfer-vent

Boulder trail and Sulfer vent

After a steep ascent on the boulders, leads to a plateau dubbed as the "white sand" due to the area being covered with beach-like sand that is white in color. One last assault, and this will finally take you to the crater of Mt. Apo, and just a few minutes to the summit.

apo-white-sand
At White Sand 


mt-apo-craterapo-crater

The Crater of Mt. Apo 



A Fog laden summit at Mt. Apo.

Descending via Kidapawan Trail

Upon reaching the summit, there are 2 options to camp for the night. One is approximately 10 minutes away from the summit which is known as the "Summit Camp". The name maybe daunting, but the campsite is more being on the "shoulder" of the summit where the mountain walls protects the camp from strong winds. The other option is continuing the traverse from the summit all the way to Lake Venado.

 At the Summit Camp
"Despite our trek being slowed down by downpours, we were able to successful reach the summit safe and sound. Though, thick clouds were present at the time and were not graced to view the surrounding areas, we are never the less, very thankful to have reach the peak without injuries, to have seen what we had saw, and to have experienced an adventure, not everyone is keen on taking."
Lake Venado is an ideal camping area due its vast grass lands. It also houses a sari-sari store where provisions such as cooked local delicacies and sodas are being sold for a hefty price. From Lake Venado, the trail splits to the now closed Mainit Trail, where one passes close enough for a glimpse of the Mainit waterfalls. It was named as such due to its warm waters being mixed with hot sulfur. This Trail is permanently closed due to the dangers of landslides, however, some still passes through it especially if pressed for time. The Mainit Trail also  features 9 river crossings and is shorter by approximately 1 hour compared to the Koong Trail, which is currently the main trail to and from Lake Venado to Lake Agco. Kidapawan Trail highlights Lake Venado, mossy forest, and river crossings.

lake-venado-mt-apo
A view of Lake Venado

 One of the many heart stopping river crossings;
And the huge bamboo bridge that marks the end of the adventure.

ITINERARY

Day 0:

0300 PM - ETD Davao to Digos
0430 PM - ETA Digos City and proceed to Kapatagan
0530 PM - ETA Kapatagan to Brgy. Mainit, Jump-off
0630 PM - ETA Brgy.Mainit

Day1:

0600 AM - Wake-up Call / Breakfast
0800 AM - Start trek
1130 AM - ETA Upper Sabwang / Lunch
1230 PM - Resume Trek to Baroring
0130 PM - ETA Baroring to Godi-Godi campsite
0330 PM - ETA Godi-Godi / Set-Up Camp
0600 PM - Prepare Dinner and Socials

Day 2:

0500 AM - Wake-up Call
0600 AM - Breakfast and Pack Lunch / Break Camp
0800 AM - Start trek to Boulders
1200 NN - ETA Boulders / Lunch
0100 PM - Resume Trek
0300 PM - ETA White Sand
0400 PM - ETA Mt. Apo Crater
0430 PM - ETA Mt. Apo Summit
0500 PM - ETA Summit Camp / Set-Up Camp
0600 PM - Prepare Dinner and Socials

Day 3:

0500 AM - Wake-up Call
0600 AM - Breakfast and Pack Lunch / Break Camp
0800 AM - Start Trek to Lake venado
1100 AM - ETA Lake venado / Lunch
1200 NN - Resume Trek via Koong Trail
0500 PM - ETA Lake Agco at Mahomanoy Mountain Resort

Optional Side Trip: Davao City and Samal Island

EXPENSES

Our estimated cost of our trip per head were more or less 3500 PHP for a DIY. Since we were not too familiar with the area, we opted to get a guide to assist us with the trip. Keeping in mind each and every one's safety and security was the most important aspect of our trips, and having contingencies through a trusted and recommended guide would definitely matter in dire situations.

Mt. Apo Trip: 3500 PHP (Includes Entry and Exit fees: 500 php each equating to 1000 PHP per head)
Guide: 800 PHP / day
* Porter: 500 PHP / day
Lake Agco Expenses:
Entrance: 35 PHP
Tent Space: 25 PHP
* Entrance to Lake Agco: 10 PHP
* Optional

SPECIAL CONCERNS


  • Transportation (One of the reasons we opted for a coordinator, as it would save us time and effort.)
    • Jeepney that goes to Kapatagan can be found at the SM Ecoland Terminal.
  • Mobile signal in between hikes are intermittent
  • Prepare accordingly for cold nights and ensure to pack rain gears.
  • Water sources are available. Confirm with your guide to ensure that you and your group are  well supplied and adequately hydrated.
  • From Lake Agco, you may take a Habal-habal going to Digos which costs approximately 100 PHP each.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Special Thanks to Angeline Tan for the organization and planning of the trip, Bal AcuƱa for the reliable guideship and in assisting with the needed requirements, The porters and the team for the photos, videos, the companionship and the memorable experience.

Guide Contact: Bal AcuƱa - +63 9081911580


Trip date: May 22 - 24, 2014







~ CBT


May 31, 2014

Zamboanga and Tawi-Tawi: A Journey to the South

Zamboanga and Tawi-Tawi: A Journey to the South

By A. Tan

Day 1: Zamboanga, The City of Flowers

Mindanao, most especially Zamboanga and Tawi-Tawi, is not a popular destination for domestic and foreign tourists. Because of chaos and other “not-so-good” news in some parts of Mindanao, the entire Island was affected, hence became an unpopular destination. Zamboanga City is the capital of Zamboanga Province, and Tawi-Tawi is an Island province of the Philippines located in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) in which will be replaced by the Bangsamoro by 2016. Tawi-Tawi is an hour away from Zamboanga by plane and 5 hours away by boat to Sabah, Malaysia and a few hours away from Turtle Island.

Our journey started by flying to Zamboanga City last August 24, 2013. Yes, it was 2 weeks before the Zamboanga Siege orchestrated by Nur Misuari. And we were so lucky not to experience that chaos that contributed to the poor image of Mindanao.

We arrived in Zamboanga by 1:15 in the afternoon and had lunch at the office together with the branch staff. Since we were still waiting for our other two companions, we went to the popular shopping place called “Barter” to buy pasalubong. Most of the products that they sell are from Malaysia. Since I forgot to bring slippers with me, I ended up purchasing one there.


After our short shopping spree, our Boss brought us to Lantaka Hotel. They said that before Abu Sayyaf started terrorizing the region through kidnapping, Lantaka Hotel is one of the most popular places in the city of Zamboanga. Many international tourists stayed in this hotel. The port of the boat and vessels going to Basilan and other nearby places are located at the back of the said hotel. They even showed us the mountain that they now dubbed as “United Nations” since this mountain is where the terrorist group bring their victims, of all races and walks of life.

Unfortunately, the flight of our two companions was delayed for almost three hours so we just headed to Paseo Del Mar, the popular park in Zamboanga City to grab something to eat and drank some ice cold beers while watching the sunset. Since, there was a curfew in place in the area, we just continued our never-ending-game of waiting for our two companions at Kape Zambo, one of the coffee shops/bar that you will find in the city. They had local bands playing that night and also served my all time favorite “Cali”. Finally, our two companions arrived at around 9:00 in the evening and headed back to our hotel to rest in preparation for our early flight to Tawi-Tawi the following morning.

Day 2: A First Glance of Tawi-Tawi

Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airline only has one morning flight to Tawi-Tawi from Zamboanga City. Although other means of transportation to reach Tawi-Tawi is by Ferry from Zamboanga ports, it is not advisable due to security issues in the area. Seeing uniformed men with their long Rifles doing rounds within the airport premises are a normal sight in the area.

We arrived at Sanga-Sanga airport by past 7:00 in the morning. We were fetched by Kuya Renel and friends. One of the most admirable traits that I notice when we were at the airport is the Tausug Men embracing and kissing each other on both cheeks. It is said that this is a sign of gratitude and friendship in their culture.

I must admit that I initially got scared visiting the area. However, when we started traveling and hearing stories about the place, I got easily relaxed and felt at home.

We stayed at Almari Beach Resort with the majestic view of Bongao Peak (Bud Bongao) and the ocean with a perfect sunset view on the other side. After a short nap, we went to attend a ritual of a Tausug brother and sisters. I learned that the housewife prepared a feast to remember the 7th day from the day of the death of his husband, which was part of the tradition of our Muslim brothers in remembrance of their loved ones who recently passed away. They prepared different dishes and one of the best and unique delicacies that I tasted was “Talimaitum” which was a bit similar to a “beef papaitan”.

Riding in a private van, we roam around Tawi-Tawi. We visited the provincial capitol, the Mindanao State University Tawi-Tawi campus where we were warmly welcomed by their chancellor. We then visited the featured tree with a lot of bats living on it. We also went to the Old Chinese Port or Pier, the first port used by Chinese, Arabs and Filipinos to trade during the  Pre-Spanish period. After which, visited the public Market to buy food and other stuff needed for our three day stay in the province.

We ended the day by attending Catholic mass in the only Catholic Church in Tawi-Tawi. We rode a tricycle from the town back to the resort we were staying in to prepare for our seafood feast.

DAY 3: Bud Bongo and Simun’ul Island, Tawi-Tawi

Bud Bongao is one of the destinations in Tawi-tawi so we didn’t miss the chance to climb the sacred mountain. It took us an hour and 30 minutes to reach the summit and enjoyed the beautiful scenery of Tawi-Tawi.

After our majestic experience hiking the majestic Bud Bongao or Bongao Peak, we headed straight to the port to visit Simun’ul Island which houses the oldest mosque in the country. Using the speed boat together with our Military security and other friends, we headed to Simun’ul Island. After an hour we reached Simon’ UL Island, we were greeted by the local bystanders at the port of Simun’ul, the first thing that we saw are the stilt houses on the island. We went straight to visit the oldest mosque called “Sheik Makhdum”. It was built by Arab trader Sheik Makhdum Karin in 1380 and it is the first introduction of Islam in the country. At the side of the mosque are the Muslim children who were learning Arabic language, because they believe that a real Muslim should know how to read the Koran in Arabic. We also visited the tomb of Sheik Makhdum, the founder of Islam in the Philippines.

At Sheik Makhdum, First Mosque in the Philippines
 

And to experience the pristine islands of Tawi-tawi, we docked in one of the islands in the province and enjoyed its clear blue water, swimming and snorkeling in the seas of this wonderful province.



 Snorkeling in the Clear blue waters of Tawi-Tawi


The last activity of the day was to attend the Muslim ritual of one of the son of our hosts, they prepared a table full of seafood, liquors and good company. We eventually went back to our hotel with a happy tummy.

 Lobsters, sea mantis, squid, tuna and a lot more were served that night.

Last Day: Home Bound

We woke up early to prepare for our early flight back to Zamboanga City, with all the fresh seafood we could carry, and with such good memories of Tawi-Tawi. We made a promise to go back soon and try to visit Sabah or Turtle Island.

Since we still had time before our flight back to Manila, we went back to Barter to purchase additional pasalubong and tried the famous “Satti” at Andy’s Satti. Satti is a beef or chicken on a stick dip in a curry sauce. A bit spicy, it is served with sticky rice. This food is unique to our Muslim brothers and sisters and they usually have this during breakfast.

How to Get to these Places and Some Additional Information


  • Take advantage of Piso fares by Cebu Pacific if you are on a budget travel. Although Philippine Airline and Cebu Pacific have a regular trip to Zamboanga and tawi-tawi.
  • There are available taxis and Jeepneys that goes around the city. But if you are on a budget, take advantage of jeepneys and tricycle. Zamoanga City is a small city, just ask someone from the area on how to get to places and they will surely give you directions. Although the people speaks “Chavacano”, majority of the population also speaks in Tagalog, as well as in English.
  • The only transportation available in Tawi-Tawi is via tricycle. If you want to roam around the place, you can rent a van or rent a tricycle. Tawi-Tawi is a small town and the people there are accommodating. You just have to show your smile and they will gladly assist you.
  • Please take note of the curfew in Tawi-Tawi. Establishments close as early as 6:00 in the evening so make sure to purchase all the supplies you need. It is not advisable to roam around the town at night because of some security issues.
  • Catholic churches and chapels as well as other places of worship are present in Tawi-Tawi. Catholic churches holds 2 masses only. One in the morning and one in the afternoon.
  • Visitors should be sensitive to the culture of the people, make sure that you wear appropriate attire at all times.



April 30, 2014

Mt Tapulao: Poor Man's Pulag

Mt Tapulao Palauig, Zambales

Jump-off: Sitio Dampay, Brgy. Dampay-Salaza, Palauig
Days required / Hours to summit: 1-2 days / 6-12 hours
Specs: Major Climb, Difficulty 6/9
MASL: 2037

Mt. Tapulao stands at 2037 MASL and is the highest peak among the Zambales Mountains which includes the famous Mt. Pinatubo. It is also known as the High Peak, but is most commonly known to mountaineers as the Poor Man's Pulag due to it's pine trees and chilly weather, similar to that of Mt. Pulag in Benguet.

Mt. Tapulao is located in Palauig, Zambales and it's seemingly endless trail of stones are due to a previous chromite mining operation. To date, you can still see tracks of heavy equipment, embedded in some parts of the trail. Having said that, the trails are wide and open, making hikers directly exposed to the heat of the sun. Only after going past the 10 KM point, is where the weather starts to cool, and the scenery begins to gradually change.

Panoramic image of one of the scenic trails in Mt. Tapulao

The trek from the jump-off to the summit is an 18 KM hike with about 85-90% being inclined. It becomes even more difficult on a rainy day as the water flows freely trough the wide trail creating deep puddles of mud, with some trails opening up to a shallow crevice. Stone markers are set up every 2 KM which allows you to pinpoint your distance to the summit and back.

Mt. Tapulao's trail is not at all confusing. From the jump-off, you'll be passing by a few houses and then veering right on to the mining road which marks the start of the trail. The only fork you'll encounter next is close to the 6 KM point where a road to the left goes to PAGPAI campsite and nursery (See first photo below). Take the road straight ahead, keeping right, and in a few meters, you'll reach the first water source.

 The sudden downpour spared us from the heat,
but created an obstacle of muddy trails and slippery rocks.


Notes

  • Jump-off and registration is from the Dampay resettlement area in Brgy. Salaza in Palauig
  • Water Sources are located in the 6 KM, 10 KM and at 16KM points.
    • The water source at the 16 KM point is located at the Bunker Houses, which is approximately another 300 meters of trek from camp site 2.
  • Bunker houses can be used if you are hiking in a group of 1-3 persons only. However, it is not advisable to camp at the bunker house during bad weather as the foundations of this bunkers are no longer trustworthy.
 Water source signage at the site of the old mining bunker houses.

 An old that's rusty and forgotten.

Getting to Tapulao

  • Take the night trip of Victory Liner to Sta Cruz, Zambales. approximate cost for a one way trip is 350 pesos.
  • Ask the driver to drop you off at Dampay-Salaza. From the main road, you will get off on a rough road to your right. This road is located in the opposite side of a power pylon. So look for a power pylon to the left, opposite a dirt road to the right. Tricyles usually await hikers on this dirt road.
  • Take a 45 minute tricycle ride towards the jump-off. That should be approximately cost 200-250 pesos.
  • For the return trip, make sure to ask the trike driver to pick you up at the jump-off. From jump-off to Iba bus terminal will cost approximately 300-400 pesos.
* Ensure that you're able to take note of the bus schedule for the return trip to prevent delays.


Left: Heaps of Chromites are left abandoned since the cessation of the 
mining operations in Mt. Tapulao. Right: Sunset at Mt. Tapulao

Tapulao Itinerary

Day 0

11:00 PM - ETD Sta. Cruz-bound Victory Liner bus from Caloocan terminal.
+: Alternatively, Iba-bound buses are also possible, however, will require you to take a trike from the terminal up to the jump-off, instead of taking the trike from Dampay-Salaza.

Day 1

03:30 AM - ETA Dampay-Salaza. Arrange for tricycle to jump-off.
0:500 AM - ETA jump-off point. Register at the Welcome Center, start trek.
0:900 AM - ETA first water source
12:00 NN - ETA second water source. Lunch
05:30 PM - ETA ‘Bunker’, set up camp at campsite of choice
06:00 PM - Dinner, socials

* you may extend climbing time indefinitely as night trek is possible

Day 2

05:10 AM - Start trek to summit
06:00 AM - ETA summit
06:30 AM - Back to campsite
07:30 AM - Breakfast, break camp
08:30 AM - Start descent
12:00 NN - ETA second water source. Lunch
02:00 PM - ETA first water source
05:00 PM - Back at jump-off point. Take tricycle back to Iba
06:00 PM - Take bus to Manila
11:00 PM - ETA Manila

Expenses

  • Bus: 2-way - Approx. 700 PHP
  • Trike from Dampay Salaza: 1-way - Approx. 200-250 PHP / 3-4 pax
    • +: Trike from Iba Bus Terminal: 1-way - Approx. 400-450 PHP / 3-4 pax 
  • Registration Fee: 30 PHP
  • Guide: 700 PHP


Special Concerns

  • During the day, the open trails can leave one prone to sunburn and other heat related concerns. On the other hand, nights at Mt Tapulao can be very cold, therefore one should pack accordingly.
  • During wet weather, limatik or forest leeches abound especially near the streams along the way.
  • Pack light as much as you can. The trail is long and can take approximately 10 hours going up, and about half the time going down.
  • Mt. Tapulao is a test of patience and endurance. Ensure that you are physically and mentally ready before taking the challenge!

~ City Boy Tripper



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