The LNT Principle

Leave No Trace or simply "LNT" is a principle that promotes responsible outdoor ethics which helps in the conservation of environment. The non-profit organization known also as Leave No Trace exists to educate people about the recreational impact on nature as well as to prevent and minimize such impacts.

The Leave No Trace Seven Principles are also available for various environments and activities.

Plan Ahead and Prepare

• Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you'll visit.
• Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies.
• Schedule your trip to avoid times of high use.
• Visit in small groups when possible. Consider splitting larger groups into smaller groups.
• Repackage food to minimize waste.
• Use a map and compass to eliminate the use of marking paint, rock cairns or flagging.

 

Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

• Durable surfaces include established trails and campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow.
• Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200 feet from lakes and streams.
• Good campsites are found, not made. Altering a site is not necessary.
  • In popular areas:
    • Concentrate use on existing trails and campsites.
    • Walk single file in the middle of the trail, even when wet or muddy.
    • Keep campsites small. Focus activity in areas where vegetation is absent.
    • In pristine areas:
    • Disperse use to prevent the creation of campsites and trails.
    • Avoid places where impacts are just beginning.

 

Dispose of Waste Properly

• Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover food and litter.
• Deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, camp and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished.
• Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.
• To wash yourself or your dishes, carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter strained dishwater.

 

Leave What You Find

• Preserve the past: examine, but do not touch cultural or historic structures and artifacts.
• Leave rocks, plants and other natural objects as you find them.
• Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species.
• Do not build structures, furniture, or dig trenches.

 

Minimize Campfire Impacts

• Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the backcountry. Use a lightweight stove for cooking and enjoy a candle lantern for light.
• Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires.
• Keep fires small. Only use sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand.
• Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool ashes.

 

Respect Wildlife

• Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them.
• Never feed animals. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors, and exposes them to predators and other dangers.
• Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely.
• Control pets at all times, or leave them at home.
• Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating, nesting, raising young, or winter.

 

Be Considerate of Other Visitors

• Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience.
• Be courteous. Yield to other users on the trail.
• Step to the downhill side of the trail when encountering pack stock.
• Take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors.
• Let nature's sounds prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises.

Copyright:

The member-driven Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics teaches people how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly. This copyrighted information has been reprinted with permission from the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics: www.LNT.org


Source: www.LNT.org

"Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing

but footprints, Kill nothing but time."

~ City Boy Tripper

Read More

Mt. Naguiling Mountain Exploration

Major Jump-off: Brgy. Jaybanga, Lobo Batangas
MASL: Balatikan Campsite: Approx. 500+, Summit Approx. 1007+
Days required / Hours to summit: 1 to 2 Days / 6 - 7
Specs: Major Climb, Difficulty: 6/9
Updated: July 2014

The town of Lobo, Batangas is an emerging potential destination for tourists, mountaineers and outdoor lovers. The mountain ranges that surrounds this town offers an attractive environment to people visiting the place. The mountains in Lobo such as Mt. Banoi, Bangkalan and Patong Peak have been pursued many times by different mountaineering groups and are now some of the most favorite hiking destinations in the Lobo. However, there are still mountain peaks that are yet to be explored and are equally suitable for hikers and campers alike. One of these is Mt. Naguiling. The name “Naguiling” or “Nagiling” had been used since the olden days because of its grinding trail feature. Some locals called it Mt. Lobo in general and “Tilos” (Tuktok) when referring to the mossy summit. Previously, the team of students led by Prof. Anacleto "Sir Clet" M. Caringal of Batangas State University climbed the said mountain countless times from 2001-2007 for some forest vegetation research. In 2009-2010, some UST students did the same to study pitcher plants in the mossy summit. According to Sir Clet many experienced and non-experienced climbers attempted to reach the summit of Mt. Naguiling but only ended up only in Mt. Daguldol in San Juan Batangas.

Mt. Naguiling is part of the Lobo-San Juan Mountains (LSJM) which is situated near the border of two Batangas towns: Lobo and San Juan. This hidden beauty is also considered by the local residence as the highest peak in the coastal province of Batangas approx. 1007+ MASL. It is particularly located at Barangay Jaybanga, Lobo Batangas which is accessible via Lipa-Rosario Batangas and Balagtas-Lobo Poblacion routes. The Lipa-Rosario route is found to be the easier one being 2 to 2 hours and 30 minutes of travel time starting from Lipa City, and it is directly accessible riding the local jeepneys in the location. On the other hand, choosing the Balagtas-Lobo Poblacion route will lead you to an additional 1 hour of travel through the Nagtoctoc Road. Friendly tricycle drivers from Lobo Poblacion may be willing to cross the river in Curba, Brgy. Nagtaluntong to directly drop visitors at the said boundary.

Left: Jeep terminal to Calantas, Antipolo and Jaybanga in front of Girder hardware store.

Right: Our Tarpaulins being displayed at the jump-off at Brgy. Jaybanga.

Nagtoctoc Road: During our first exploration of Mt. Naguiling, we used the Nagtoctoc Road which was at that time closed and was in the process of being cemented. We were fortunate enough to hitch a ride from one of the construction trucks passing by. As of this writing, the Nagtoctoc Road is now open and well-paved for automobiles to utilize. Most of the vehicles that pass through this newly built road are private vehicles and any public transportation that ply this route are limited.

Jump-Off at Brgy. Jaybanga: The view from the jump-off point is equally wondrous as you will see green rice fields all around, and the Jaybanga’s Rice Terraces in which the locals are quite proud of. Visiting the rice terraces is also a good opportunity to get a panoramic view of the Lobo-San Juan Mountains. The rice terraces will only take about 10 minutes by foot from the main jump-off.

Jaybanga Rice Terraces with Mt. Naguiling and Lobo-San Juan Mountain Range

Trail to Summit: The trek up the mountain officially commences at a spot near the house of Brgy. Chairman Romeo Delen. His house also serves as temporary base and resting place for folks visiting the area. The first part of the trail is perfect for warm up. Within an hour of trekking, the last landmark is the house of one of the official guides, Kuya Allan Magnaye. Here you can rest, restock on water before proceeding to the "Bukohan" where guides can grab fresh bukos for you and your group for free, and finally the campsite known as "Balatikan". While on this trail, you will be rewarded by beautiful views of Batangas, Laguna, and Quezon mountains; Mt. Maculot, Mt. Banoi, Mt. Makiling, Mt. Banahaw and Mt. Cristobal.

Left: Pitcher Plant Right: Wild Orchids 

Balatikan Campsite: Balatikan is derived from the word “balatik”. A hunter’s trap used before for hunting wild boars. The campsite can hold about 6-8 tents, however, most of the area are sloped, where some can
be too inclined for one to get a good nights rest.

Left: Balatikan Campsite. Right: A scenic180º view at Balatikan Bato

On a clear day, one can see Mt. Malipunyo Range, Imoc Hill, Mt. Kalisungan, Mt. Atimla, Mt. Maculot, Mt. Makiling, Mt. Banahaw, Mt. Cristobal and Mt. Banoi and a closer view of Mt. Naguiling when looking at the opposite direction are visible at the campsite particularly at “Balatikan Bato”, a cliff near the campsite that is a perfect vantage point of Batangas and it's surrounding area.

Left: Guides hacking through dense vegetation. Right: Burrow holes

Tilos / Summit Assault: "Tilos" is a local term for the mountain peak. The summit assault takes about 4 to 5 hours from Balatikan Campsite and it is best to start the trek early morning. Mt. Naguiling is gifted with rich bushes and trees, comparable to Mt. Makiling. It is also a good opportunity to observe the flora and fauna along the way as you will see interesting colonies of ferns, orchids, moss and pitcher plants. Monkeys, snakes, forest snails or "bayuko", turtle, hawks, kalaw, wild boar and many more also thrive in this mountain and it's forest. Their is just so much life in Mt. Naguiling that the Brgy. Jaybanga proudly takes credit for due to their governance being able to successfully thwart illegal logging activities in the area long ago.

Left: Inabutan forest. Right: The best patch of clearing we can get at the summit

There is no clearing at the summit. From the campsite to "Inabutan", a patch of flat land in the middle of the forest with a log in the middle of the trail, we had to go up and under, and hack our way through towards the peak. A peak without a view may be disappointing to some, but the uniqueness of Mt. Naguiling's peak is like no other since the peak allows you to stand mostly on entangled tree roots, earth, plants and leaves that has matted altogether to form that patch of land, allowing us, hikers to feel cautious on where we step, and a little paranoid as to what lurks beneath the footing we were standing on.

Densely vegetated even at the summit.

Traverse / Sidetrip: An additional feature of Mt. Naguiling is the traverse trail from Balatikan Peak to Sitio
Bagong Pook. Just take the trail facing Mt. Banoi. It is a more scenic route, but steeper with an incline of about 50-60 degrees of slope that is exposed to sunlight compared to the trail of Sitio Manggahan. It is advisable to take this for the descent. After an 1 hour on the trail down, you will be rewarded by very refreshing water of  their Mini-Falls; with a nice pool where you can swim and relax. After bathing, the trek going back to the jump-off is almost a walk in the park for about 30 minutes as the trek would be mostly on flat lands and pastures.

ITINERARY

Option 1: Via Lipa-Rosario, Batangas

Day 1

0630 AM - Assembly Buendia Taft
0700 AM - ETD to Lipa City
0900 AM - ETA Lipa City / Take Jeep to Rosario
1000 AM - ETA Rosario / Purchase supplies / Early Lunch
1200 NN - ETD Jeep to Brgy. Jaybanga, terminal located at Girder Hardware store
0200 PM - ETA Jaybanga / Look for Brgy Capt. Romeo Delen / Register / Get Guide
0230 PM - Visit Jaybanga’s Rice Terraces
0300 PM - Start Trek
0330 PM - ETA Sitio Manggahan
0430 PM - Bukohan
0600 PM - ETA Balatikan Camp Site / Set Camp / Prepare Dinner
0730 PM - Dinner

Day 2

0500 AM - Wakeup call / Prepare breakfast
0530 AM - Breakfast
0600 AM - Prepare for Summit
0630 AM - Start ascend to Summit
0730 AM - ETA Inabutan Forest
0930 AM - ETA Summit
1030 AM - Start descent to campsite
1130 AM - Lunch along the trail
0100 PM - ETA Campsite / Breakcamp
0200 PM - Start descend via Sitio Manggahan or Traverse Trail to Mini-Falls (suggested)
0330 PM - ETA Jaybanga / wash up
0500 PM - ETD Exit to Rosario-Lipa Batangas
0700 PM - ETA Rosario
0730 PM - ETA Lipa / Board bus to Manila
1000 PM - ETA Manila

OPTION 1 EXPENSES

Jam bus liner to Lipa: P124 / PAX - One way
Jeep from Lipa to Rosario: P25 / PAX - One way
Jeep from Rosario to Brngy. Jaybanga: P85 / PAX - One way
Registration: P20
Guide: P400 per guide

*Chartered Jeep one way (c/o Chairman Delen): P2000 to Rosario - This is done in the event that there are no more rides going back to Rosario.

Option 2: Via Balagtas-Lobo Poblacion (Curba, Brgy. Nagtaluntong / Nagtoctoc Road) 

Day 1

0430 Assembly Buendia Taft
0500 AM - ETD to Balagtas
0630 AM - ETA Balagtas / Take Jeep to Lobo Terminal and Proceed to Poblacion
0800 AM - ETA Poblacion / Buy supplies / Breakfast / Register at PNP / Take trike to Curba
0830 AM - ETA Curba / Register at Army Detachment via charted Jeep and proceed to Nagtoctoc Road
0900 AM - Start trek / Visit Tulay na busog (optional)
0910 AM - ETA Tulay na busog / back trail to boundary
1000 AM - Resume ride via Nagtoctoc via chartered jeepney
1100 AM - ETA Jaybanga / Look for Brgy Capt. Romeo Delen / Register
1200 NN - Lunch
0130 PM - Visit Jaybanga's Rice Terraces
0200 PM - Start Trek
0300 PM - ETA Bukohan
0500 PM - ETA Balatikan Camp Site / Set Camp / Sunset Viewing
0600 PM - Prepare Dinner
0700 PM - Dinner

Day 2

0500 AM - Wakeup call / Prepare breakfast
0530 AM - Breakfast
0600 AM - Prepare for Summit
0630 AM - Start ascend to Summit
0730 AM - ETA Inabutan Forest
0930 AM - ETA Summit
1030 AM - Start descent to campsite
1130 AM - Lunch along the trail
0100 PM - ETA Campsite / Breakcamp
0200 PM - Start descend via Sitio Manggahan or Traverse Trail to Mini-Falls (suggested)
0330 PM - ETA Jaybanga / wash up
0500 PM - ETD Exit to Rosario-Lipa Batangas
0700 PM - ETA Rosario
0730 PM - ETA Lipa / Board bus to Manila
1000 PM - ETA Manila

OPTION 2 EXPENSES

Bus to Balagtas: P157 / PAX - One way
Jeep going to Lobo jeep terminal - P10
Jeep to Lobo Poblacion - P54
Trike to Nagtoctoc Road - P40
Take a public ride from Nagtoctoc Road to Jaybanga: This route is currently unverified as public transports are limited as of this time.
Registration: P20
Guide: P400 per guide

Or simply charter a jeep - approx P3000-4000

*Chartered Jeep one way (c/o Chairman Delen): P2000 to Rosario - This is done in the event that you initially did not charter a jeep, and if there are no more rides going back to Rosario.

A short video clip of how the summit looks like.

TRANSPORTATION CONCERNS

• The Rosario-Jaybanga jeep leaves only once the seats/cargo are full, therefore you may want to consider the number of participants up to 10 to fill up the ride the soonest, or charter one. For renting a jeep, you may contact kuya Andoy Balmes at 09295536232.
• Last trip of buses from Lipa back to Manila is 9 PM, so make sure to be back in Lipa before the said time. If you happen to miss the trip, either wait until 4 AM, or ride a bus to Calamba, then Calamba to Manila, as the terminal there runs 24 hours.

SPECIAL CONCERNS

• There are water sources in Mt. Naguiling and one that's off the trail, less than an hour from the Balatikan campsite. Guide's can fetch water early in the morning to restock, and be used for cooking/cleaning and for hydration. Bringing 3-4 L of water is still advised.
• Intermittent mobile coverage
• The path to the summit is densely forested and thorny plants abound, therefore wearing gloves is strongly suggested.
• Strong winds prevail in the campsite and can be chilly at night except for the summer months.
• Adhere to trail formation accordingly as some trails can be confusing as expected for a mountain that's not being frequently hiked.
• Adhere to the LNT principles.
• As the first official mountain hikers to get an approval from the Brgy. Chairman to trek Mt. Naguiling, we have agreed to dispose wastes outside their baranggay as well. Adhere to this accordingly!

CONTACTS

Brgy. Jaybanga Chairman:
Romeo Delen - 09293159513 / 093027666986 / 09177575186.

Guides:
Kuya Freddie Dilay and JR Dilay - 09123158600 / 09193763311
Kuya Allan Magnaye and Alvin Magnaye - 09488572737

Jeepney Rent:
Andoy Balmes - 09295536232

Guides from L-R: Kuya Alvin, Allan and Freddie

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We are thankful to all the people who helped us to make this exploratory climb happen especially to Prof.Anacleto M. Caringal of Batangas State University, Sir Romeo Delen Chairman of Brgy. Jaybanga Lobo, Batangas and to our guides: Allan Magnaye, Alvin Magnaye, Freddie Dilay and JR Dilay”.

Post Script: We the climbers from All-Top Mountaineering Society (AMSOC), Bundokerong Walang Grupo (TEAM BUWAG) and Walang Atrasan Sa Akyatang Kabundukan (WASAK OUTDOORS) did a successful Exploration Climb at Mt. Naguiling Lobo, Batangas last February 16-17, 2013 (1st Visit), May 18-19, 2013 (2nd Visit) and February 15-16, 2014 (3rd Visit).

~ City Boy Tripper

Co-author:
Sir Ramon Gayas Jr.

AKA: Sermontaineer

Read More

Baler - A Guide to the Land of the Golden Sunrise

Baler Itinerary and Accommodation

Baler, the capital of Aurora is one of the prime surfing destinations in the Philippines. It faces the Pacific Ocean in the east and surrounded by the Sierra Madre mountain range. The long Grey sanded coastline of Sabang beach is one of the most famous and most visited surfing areas in the province. Numerous hotels, inns and lodges has popped up in the area that rooms are mostly in abundance allowing prices to be at a minimum.

Baler is also known as "The Land of the Golden Sunrise". Historically, the province is home to the Political clan of the Angaras.
They were one of just 5 families who survived a phenomenal tidal wave that wiped out the entire coastal town of Baler on that fateful day of December 27, 1735. A monument at the foot of Ermita Hill has since been erected to commemorate this event.

The months from October to February bring in the large waves for beginner surfers to learn the basics with relative safety from scratches, since most of the beach is sandy- bottomed. Undertows, which are helpful to surfers and dangerous for non-swimmers, do occur in certain areas. Besides, who would even take a swim with such high waves smashing this sandy beach?

How To Get To Baler

The Bus Ride:

Genesis Transport Service, whose terminal is located in Cubao, is the only bus company that goes directly from Manila to Baler. Their trips to the province offer a regular air-conditioned bus at P450  and a business class bus they call the "Joy Bus" at P700, in which reservations are required.

The Joy Bus of Genesis Transport are scheduled to depart every 12 AM and 2 AM. On the other hand, the regular buses depart every hour from 1 AM to 8 AM

Genesis Contact Number:  (02) 709-0803 or (02) 421-1425

After The Long Ride:

After getting off at the terminal, you'll have to take a trike to Sabang Beach which is the main transportation in the province. From the Genesis Bus Terminal, it would only take about 10 minutes to get to Sabang.

Via Private Transport:

Take the North Expressway and take the SCTEX. Exit via LaPaz, Tarlac toll gate. Continue on the Santa Rosa - Tarlac Road until you reach Cabanatuan City.

View Larger Map

Once in Cabanatuan City, use the Rizal - Bongabon - Auraora Road. leading to the Pantabangan - Canili - Basal - Baler Road. This highway is cemented and cuts the travel time shorter than the old rough road route of Bongabon - San Luis - Baler.

Lodging

There are a number of places to stay at Sabang Beach. From high end down to the budget-friendly. My trip to Baler led me to stay at Elaine's MM Lodge Inn in which costed us only P1000 for an overnight stay in a decent 1 bedroom air-conditioned room. Fan rooms are priced at P700.

• Elaine's MM Lodge Inn: +639108440452

Other Lodgings at Sabang in Alphabetical Order:

• Aliya Surf Camp and Resort
• Contact Number :+639399390929
• Email: info@aliyasurfcamp.com

• Amco Beach Resort
• Contact Number: +63921-4117671 / +6323303515
• Facebook Page

• Amihan-Aplaya Lodge
• Contact Number: +639186328566 / +639184263268

• Bahia de Baler
• Contact Number: +639089827064 / +639087320672
• Email: reservations@bahiadebaler.com

• Bay’s Inn
• Contact Number: +639189266697 / +639089823509
• Email: baysinnbaler@gmail.com
• Facebook Page

• Bayler View Hotel
• Contact Number: +639192863105 /+639273638735
• Email: baylerviewhotel@yahoo.com
• Facebook Page

• Cocohut Lodge
• Contact Number: +6342-2094341

• Costa Pacifica
• Contact Number: (02) 576 4555
• Email: inquiry@costapacificaraintree.com
• Facebook Page

• Desiree’s Lodge
• Contact Number: +639204800978 / +639217518490

• Isla Virgina Resort
• Contact Number: +63919-8653703 / +63920-7550467
• Facebook Page

• Kahea’s Lodge
• Contact Number: +63920-8689477 / +63921-5480823 / +63920-7102634

• Little Girl’s Surfers Lodge (Sabang)
• Contact Number: +63907-7041186 / +63918-6859449

• Mel’s Nest Lodge
• Contact Number: +63920-5245004

• Oasis of Baler Resort
• Contact Number: +63920-4606866/+63918-6676749 / +63919-4749116

• Pacific Waves Inn
• Contact Number: +63917-8950276 / +63-5143020
• Email: marvinlee12@gmail.com
• Facebook Page

• Sea Breeze Lodge
• Contact Number: +63915-3225994

• Secret Spot
• Contact Number: +639434898188 / +639284531777
• Facebook Page

• Trezzo Inn
• Contact Number: (+63) 927-894-7232 / (+63) 920-567-8153 / (+63) 916-255-6025

Places To See

There are a lot of places to see and visit in Aurora. Having said that, an itinerary of 2 or 3 days would definitely not be enough.

• Ditumabo Falls (Mother Falls), Quezon’s Resthouse, Aurora House, Diguisit or Digisit beach, Digisit Falls, Anaio Islets, Dimadimalangat Islet, Dinadiawan Beach, Dicasalarin Cove, Baler catholic church, Cunayan Falls, Lamao Caves, Paltic Falls, Dibut Bay, Likso lukso beach, Borlongan beach, Museo de Baler, Century-old Balete Tree (Millenium Tree)

• Hike the mountains of Mt. Udok, Mt. Anacuao, Mt. Pamazam-pazam, and Mt. Maaling-Alin

 Left: Museo de Baler Right: Doña Aurora House

 Left: Caunayan Falls. Center: Baler Catholic Church. Right: Surfing at Sabang Beach 

A Monument remembering the Tidal wave

that wiped out the entire town of Baler

on December 21, 1735

Itinerary

My stay in the province was more on getting to know the place and learning the basics of surfing, therefore my IT was more focused onto that.

Day 1:

0200 AM - ETD to Baler via Genesis Joy Bus
0800 AM - ETA Baler, Genesis Bus Terminal

0815 AM - Trike to Sabang Beach
0830 AM - Check-in at lodging and rest
0930 AM - Breakfast and explore the area
1100 AM - Take a trike to Museo de Baler
1230 PM - Lunch
0115 PM - Trike Doña Aurora House and explore
0200 PM - Visit Baler Catholic Church that is  just across Doña Aurora House
0230 PM - Trike back to lodging and rest
0330 PM - Surf
0445 PM - Wash up
0530 PM - Prepare for dinner
0600 PM - Dinner

Day 2:

0500 AM - Wake up and prep up
0530 AM - View the sunrise
0600 AM - Breakfast
0700 AM - Prepare for places to visit on a chartered trike
0800 AM - Trike to Ermita Hill and Cross
0830 AM - Arrive at Ermita Hill and explore
1000 AM - Visit the Millennium Tree (One huge Balete tree)
1100 AM - Lunch
1230 PM - Trike to Caunayan Falls
0145 PM - ETA Caunayan Falls, explore and swim
0315 PM - ETD back to lodging
0400 PM - ETA from Caunayan Falls, and go for another round of surfing
0500 PM - Wash up
0600 PM - Dinner

Day 3:

0730 AM - Wake up call and prep up
0800 AM - Breakfast
0900 AM - Shop for pasalubong
1030 AM - Back to lodging and pack up
1130 AM - Check out and trike to Genesis bus terminal
1145 AM - Lunch
0100 AM - ETD back to Manila
0700 PM - Manila

Must Try

Surfing
Almost all of the resorts offer surf training and board rentals in addition to a number of stand-alone surfing services around the area. The standard rate is P350 per hour for a surfing training and board usage. If you already know how to surf, (then you probably wouldn't need this article since I would assume that you've been to Baler a number of times more than I) renting the surf boards would range from P200 per hour, P400 for half a day, and P800 for a whole day's usage.

Suggested: Freedom Surf School

Dinner at Costa Pacifica
At first, my companion and I thought that the mean was expensive, so we opted for a breakfast at the said place. However on our second night, we happen to go out later than usual for dinner, and their were already a lot of people dining in at the usual restaurants. Being hungry as we were, we finally decided to just have dinner at Costa Pacifica and readied our credit cards. Unfortunately, to this day, we forgot the name of the meals that we ordered, but if my memory served me right, we ordered kinilaw na bangus, nilagang baboy served in coconut shell and and another meal. I remembered eating there, and was just in so much delight eating that luckily, I only forgot to take note of what I ate, and not my name.

Our dinner costed us only less than P1000 which was such a surprise for such a tasty meals. Perhaps it was an introductory price since at the time of our visit, Costa Pacifica was a fairly new luxury hotel competing in the area.

Climbing the Millennium Tree
The Century-Old Balete tree is one of the most iconic in Baler. It stands about 30 feet in height and has stood in its place for more than a century. It is so huge that one can even go inside the tree and climb it with the assistance of a guide. Only donations are requested for appreciating this one of a kind gift of nature.

Base Expense

Genesis bus (one way): Joybus P700 / Regular P450 

Elaine's MM Lodging Inn (per night): Air-con P1000 / Fan P700

Surfing: P350 for 1 hour

One time Dinner at Costa Pacifica: P1000

Chartered Trike - P600

* Information are as of November, 2013. Note that the prices may have changed since.

Special Concerns

• Good mobile service for all service providers
• The nearest ATM I found was Landbank which is about 15 minutes away from Sabang Beach via trike.
• There are two routes going back to Manila, one is via Pantabangan, while the other is via Bongabon in which takes about 7-8 hours of travel due to the road being uncemented. It is best to ask the Genesis bus personnel for the trip back home as soon as you arrive in order to adjust your itinerary accordingly.

Acknowledgement

I would like to thank Nanay Bella and friends of the Akbayan Party List for taking the time to take us around and show us their beautiful and peaceful province, and most especially to Angie, for giving me the encouragement to surf in which I am now into.

This trip has made me fall in love with Aurora, and I will definitely be coming back to see more of you.

~ City Boy Tripper

Read More

Mt. Daraitan, Tinipak River and Cave

Mt. Daraitan, Tinipak River and Tinipak Cave

Tanay, Rizal / Gen. Nakar, Quezon
Major jump-off: Brgy. Daraitan Tanay, Rizal
Summit: Unverified
Estimated days and hours to explore: 1-2 days / Summit: 3-4 hrs, Tinipak river-cave: 2-3 hrs
Specs: Minor climb, Difficulty 3/9, Trail class 3-4
Features: community, river, rock formations, cave, tropical forest, fauna and flora, scenic views, exploratory

Background
A very promising outdoor destination which offers different and exciting adventures is the hidden paradise located in Tanay, Rizal known as Barangay Daraitan. It is usually visited for swimming, camping, caving, spelunking, rappelling, rock-climbing and hiking since early 2005. It is said that the cleanest body of water in Region IV is found here, and it is also one of the reasons as to why Daraitan has gained fame as a perfect weekend getaway. Due to the number of activities that one can do here, a lot of tourists and outdoor enthusiasts has been going back particularly during the summer season, and many now considers it as one of the must-visit destinations in the Province of Rizal. Daraitan is also marveled for its natural wonders called
Tinipak River and Tinipak Cave. The Tinipak River offers crystal clear water with several natural hot springs,
colorful stones beneath the surface, amazing rock formations and giant sized marbles. On the other hand,
Tinipak Cave, posses’ unique features of subterranean river combined with exciting challenges of rock bouldering, river crossing and spelunking. Moreover, the potential exploratory spots in the river and caves, and the fantastic views waiting at the brush summit of Mt. Daraitan makes it more attractive. Another good thing about Daraitan is that the vicinity has an organized tour guiding system. This means that tourists/visitors will be guided accordingly while exploring the area.


Tinipak River

Similar to Mt. Sembrano and Daranak Falls, Daraitan is also accessible from Tanay Market which is within 1 ½ hour of travel. The entrance to its community has a wooden bridge where people and vehicles can cross, however, this was recently damaged by floods. As of July, 2013, local residence temporarily uses small boats to cross the river. Upon entering in the community, take note that there are two roads that separate the barangay hall from the jump-off point. The left road leads to the barangay hall while the right one leads to the community, which is the main jump-off point. Visitors usually start trekking at the entrance especially climbers, however, in the interest of time, taking a tricycle ride from the entrance may be desirable.

There are four different trails that must be remembered in exploring Daraitan: The Rock Boulder and Bagbagan for tinipak adventures and the Lilindigan and Cablao (Gen. Nakar Quezon) for the summit of Mt. Daraitan. Those trails are accessible through straightforward main trail of Daraitan. The initial highlight of the trail is the Tinipak River and the natural sound of its current. Next is the “Tinipak Creek” that serves as water source, formerly known as “Tinipak Falls”, before it was ruined by Typhoon Ondoy in 2009. However, its waters are still fresh and abundant still flowing down into the main river. Continuing this trail leads to a private cottage, which is already around 40 minutes away from the main jump-off. The trails up to the summit offers diversity of environment which includes clean and pleasant streams, community, pastoral land, orchard, farmland, grassy land and tropical forest. Interestingly, for cavers, there is an additional caving challenge in one rarely explored “deep cave” which can be found along the trail towards the summit.This can be explored with a rappelling equipment and of course a guide.

Summit
The summit assault possess challenge of 70 to 80 degree trail that literally requires the use of both arms and legs to ascend, as well as to pass through and over logs and crags. The last trail fork before the summit leads to two different viewing decks, in which rightward leads to Tungtungang Bato/Peak 1 and the leftward one goes to Tungtungang Bato/Peak 2 or the summit itself. There are a lot of interesting sights which are very noticeable at the viewing decks especially on a clear day. In fact, the “River System” below that look like a zigzag road is seen from Peak 1 and some nearby highlands completing the beautiful spectacle from this standpoint. While on Peak 2, the Sea of Quezon Province can be seen from a distance. Depending on the weather, there is also a possibility of witnessing a breathtaking view of the “Sea of Clouds”. Perhaps this is the most surprising moment in Mt. Daraitan that provides priceless experience for mountaineers.

Suggested Itineraries

• Day Hike: Summit via Lilindigan Trail + Tinipak river-cave

0300 ETD to Tanay Market from Shaw Blvd via Private Transportation
0430 ETA Tanay Market / Buy Supplies
0500 Take Tricycle or Jeep rent to Daraitan
0630 ETA Daraitan / Boat Ride / Take Tricycle to Brgy. Hall
0650 ETA Brgy. Hall / Register and Get Guide / Proceed to jump-off point
0700 Start Trek (mail trail)
0740 ETA Tinipak Creek-Cottage-River / continue trekking via main trail
0750 ETA Boundary to Bagbagan Trail / continue trekking via main trail
0800 ETA Trail head of Lilindigan / Take Lilindigan (Left Trail)
0840 ETA Last Nipa Hut / Last Water Source (near mango trees)
0850 ETA Dalanghitaan
0900 ETA Talahiban / Take left trail for summit assault
1000 ETA Batong Lagusan
1030 ETA Trail Fork to Summit (Right Trail for Bato Peak 1) and (Left for Bato Peak 2)
1130 Start descent / lunch along the trail
1330 ETA Main Trail
1340 ETA Boundary to Bagbagan trail / Take Bagbagan and river cross to tinipak cave
1440 ETA Tinipak cave / swimming and cave exploration
1540 Backtrack / river cross and take rock boulders going to main trail
1720 ETA Jump-off / Rest and wash / Take Tricycle to Brgy. Hall / Log out / Proceed for boat ride
1800 ETD to Tanay Market
1930 ETD to Shaw Blvrd
2130 ETA Shaw Blvrd

• Day Hike: Summit via Cablao Trail + Tinipak river-cave 

0300 ETD to Tanay Market from Shaw Blvd via Private Transportation
0430 ETA Tanay Market / Buy Supplies
0500 Take Tricycle or Jeep rent to Daraitan
0630 ETA Daraitan / Boat Ride / Take Tricycle to Brgy. Hall
0650 ETA Brgy. Daraitan / Register and Get Guide / Proceed to jump-off point
0700 Start Trek (Mail Trail)
0740 Tinipak Creek-Cottage-River / continue trekking via main trail
0750 ETA Boundary to Bagbagan Trail / continue trekking via main trail
0800 ETA Trail head of Lilindigan / continue trekking via main trail
0845 ETA Cemented stair
0900 ETA Cablao Elementary School
1100 ETA Trail Fork to Summit (Right Trail for Bato Peak 1) and (Left for Bato Peak 2) / Lunch
1230 Start descent
1400 ETA Cablao Elementary School / Resume descent
1430 ETA Trail head of Lilindigan Trail / continue trekking via main trail
1440 Boundary to Bagbagan trail / Take Bagbagan and river cross to tinipak cave
1540 Tinipak cave / swimming and cave exploration
1640 Backtrack / river cross and take rock boulders going to main trail
1820 ETA Jump-off / Rest and wash / Take tricycle to Brgy. Hall / Log out / Proceed for boat ride
1900 ETD to Tanay Market
2030 ETD to Shaw Blvd
2230 ETA Shaw Blvd

• Overnight: Tinipak river-cave + Light pack Summit assault via  Lilindigan Trail

Day 1
0500 ETD to Tanay Market from Shaw Blvd Jeep Terminal
0630 ETA Tanay Market / Buy Supplies
0700 Take Tricycle or Jeep rent to Daraitan
0830 ETA Daraitan / Boat Ride / Take Tricycle to Brgy. Hall
0850 ETA Brgy. Hall / Register and Get Guide / Proceed to jump-off point
0900 Start Trek (mail trail)
0940 ETA Tinipak Creek-Cottage-River / set camp / early lunch
1130 Take rock boulders and river cross to tinipak cave
1230 ETA Tinipak cave / swimming and cave exploration
1500 Backtrack to Tinipak cottage
1600 Back to Tinipak cottage / rest and continue swimming / prepare for dinner
1900 Dinner / Socials
2200 Lights out

Day 2
0500 Wake-up call / breakfast / prepare for summit assault
0640 Start trek (main trail)
0650 ETA Boundary to Bagbagan Trail / continue trekking via main trail
0700 ETA Trail head of Lilindigan / Take Lilindigan (Left Trail)
0740 ETA Last Nipa Hut / Last Water Source (near mango trees)
0750 ETA Dalanghitaan
0800 ETA Talahiban / Take left trail for summit assault
0900 ETA Batong Lagusan
0930 ETA Trail Fork to Summit (Right Trail for Bato Peak 1) and (Left for Bato Peak 2)
1030 Start descent
1210 Back to Main Trail
1230 ETA Tinipak Cottage-River / rest / lunch / swimming
1500 Break camp
1530 Headback to jump-off
1610 Jump-off / Rest and wash / Take Tricycle to Brgy. Hall / Log out / Proceed for boat ride
1700 ETD to Tanay Market
1830 ETD to Shaw Blvd
2030 ETA Shaw Blvd

• Overnight: Tinipak river-cave + Light pack Summit assault via  Cablao Trail

Day 1
0500 ETD to Tanay Market from Shaw Blvd Jeep Terminal
0630 ETA Tanay Market / Buy Supplies
0700 Take Tricycle or Jeep rent to Daraitan
0830 ETA Daraitan / Boat Ride / Take Tricycle to Brgy. Hall
0850 ETA Brgy. Hall / Register and Get Guide / Proceed to jump-off point
0900 Start Trek (mail trail)
0940 ETA Tinipak Creek-Cottage-River / set camp / early lunch
1130 Take rock boulders and river cross to tinipak cave
1230 ETA Tinipak cave / swimming and cave exploration
1500 Backtrack to Tinipak cottage
1600 Back to Tinipak cottage / rest and continue swimming / prepare for dinner
1900 Dinner / Socials
2100 Lights out 

Day 2
0400 Wake-up call / breakfast / prepare packed lunch / prepare for summit assault
0640 Start trekking (main trail)
0650 ETA Boundary to Bagbagan Trail / continuous trek via main trail
0700 ETA Trail head of Lilindigan / continuous trek via via main trail
0745 ETA Cemented stair
0800 ETA Cablao Elementary School / Resume Trekking
1000 ETA Trail Fork to Summit (Right Trail for Bato Peak 1) and (Left for Bato Peak 2)
1100 Start descent / Lunch along the trail
1300 ETA Cablao Elementary School / Resume descent
1330 ETA Trail head of Lilindigan / continue trekking via main trail
1340 Boundary Trail to Bagbagan / continue trekking via main trail
1350 Tinipak Cottage-River / rest / snack / swimming
1500 Break camp
1530 Headback to jump-off
1610 Jump-off / Rest and wash / Take Tricycle to Brgy. Hall / Log out / Proceed for boat ride
1700 ETD to Tanay Market
1830 ETD to Shaw Blvd
2030 ETA Shaw Blvd

Special Concerns

• There is a Military detachment prior to the entrance of Brgy. Daraitan
• Rizal and the Sierra Madre range are known to have NPA activities, therefore registration and taking a guide with you is required.
• As much as possible, do not talk of insurgencies and like in all hiking areas, do not wear fatigues, or any items that could mistaken you as a military or NPA personnel.
• Overnight camping is usually done in a place called Tinipak campsite/Bagbagan campsite. However, beware of possible flash floods during rainy season. Hence, camping near the cottage near the Tinipak Creek, or overnight staying at the cottage itself is much safer.
• Network coverage is intermittent
• Peak 1 and Peak 2 are the final destinations of the trek. There is no reported cases of an accidents as of July, 2013, but climbers are still advised to give careful attention when visiting these places to ensure safety. The peak 1 can accommodate 6 to 8 persons and 8 to 10 persons for peak 2. Limit the numbers of participants accordingly.

Expenses

Jeepney from Shaw Blvd. to Tanay Market (First trip between 5 to 6AM): P53
From Tanay Market, you may rent a Jeepney or take a trike to Daraitan. Trike: P40
Guide: P500 - day hike, P750 - overnight
*Optional rent of Cottage: P300




Post script: The article was created by my co-mountaineer, Sir Ramon Gayas Jr. The hike was a side trip from an outreach program by Paragon, a non-profit organization, hosted by another co-mountaineer, Xian Pitargue for the school children of Cablao Elementary School.

As of July 2013

~ City Boy Tripper

Read More

Burot Beach - Calatagan Batangas

Searching for a quick getaway to the beach but on a tight budget? Fear not, for a beach known as Burot Beach could be the one you may want to consider going to.

Burot Beach is a decent place to go to if you're looking for a swim in the coastal waters without the costly travel expenses. The place may not be as amazing as the beaches in Zambales such as Anawangin Cove, but it does give you that much needed fun and relaxation with friends and/or love ones, and just simply enjoy your time under the sun. The beach features a beige colored sand, that's almost close to white, and are grainy in terms of texture. The rock formations abound the area and are definitely great for photo shoots. The long coast line gives you the chance to run around, play Frisbee, and a lot more. Island hop is also an option, in which cost an average of
P100 per person. Sun set viewing at Burot beach is also an anticipated event that one should definitely
include in his/her itinerary.

According to locals, Burot Beach is privately owned surprisingly by Henry Sy. It is approximately 3-4 hour travel from Metro Manila, via bus or van to Calatagan, and takes about 15 minutes to get to the beach itself via trike. If you are in need of supplies, the local market is just a few meters from the terminal, so you can get your cooking needs after getting off.



GETTING TO BUROT BEACH

Note that the vans going to Calatagan are located in the street which is right between Metro Point Mall and Kabayan Hotel near the MRT Taft station. I would personally recommend this as the travel time would be much quicker as compared to a bus ride. But if you do opt for the latter, the Buses that ply Calatagan are the Celyrosa bus lines located at the Coastal Mall Grand Terminal.

ITINERARY

Day 1

1015 AM - Meet up at Chowking beside Metro Point Mall (Edsa-Taft)
1100 AM - ETD Van via Calatagan
0230 PM - ETA Calatagan Terminal
0230 PM - Get a trike and Purchase supplies at the local market
0315 PM - ETA Burot Beach
0500 PM - Prepare for dinner / Wait and watch for sunset
0600 PM - Dinner

Day 2

0630 AM - Wake up call/Prepare breakfast
0700 AM - Breakfast
1030 AM - Wash up and break camp
1145 AM - ETD back to Calatagan Terminal
1200 PM - Lunch at Calatagan poblacion
0100 PM - ETD to Manila
0500 PM - ETA Manila

EXPENSES
Bus: P160 (approx) per person / Van: P180 per person
Trike: P50 per person
Beach Entrance: Day trip - P60 / Overnight - P120
*Cottage: Covered - P500 / Table only / P200

SPECIAL CONCERNS

• There are reported theft in the area, hence, always secure your valuables at all times.
• Sea urchins are a lot in the area. Always try to keep an eye on where you step.
• Dogs are plentiful and at times roam in packs. Though they are not aggressive, they do pry on food lying around unattended.
• Tents are used for overnight stay. The care takers do rent dome type tents for a price. However, by personal preference, advise to bring your own.
• It may get noisy as most of the people visiting the place are from the city who came in with there cars. Sometimes, these people would play loud music via there automobile's stereo.

Sea Urchins. Lots of Sea Urchins!

One huge starfish

CONTACTS

Before we got off the van we were riding in from Pasay to Calatagan, the driver of the van asked us if we already had a trike to ride in and offered us his cousin's services for P50 per person which was totally reasonable. Our trike driver that day was Kuya Gerald and he was accommodating enough to orient us on the location and what not (After safely dropping you off at Burot Beach, ensure that you get him to pick you up the next day).

Kuya Gerald: 0923 625 4570
Van Driver: 0905 585 6450

The entrance to Burot Beach

 Burot Beach Coastline

Left: Camped out. Right: Low tide

~ City Boy Tripper

Read More

When Dogs Mourn - Loyalty and Love

We have heard many stories of owners mourning for their deceased dogs. Unknown to many, our pets, despite being unable to speak out what they feel, their action shows sorrow and can feel exactly the same way as we do in the event of a loved one passing.

Sometimes, we take our four legged buddies for granted. When we all have our lives to live and opportunities to choose, our dogs barely has anything to wish for, other than dog treats. In exchange for unconditional love and loyalty, their only wish is you, their master, to love, hold, talk and care for them as much as you can for they know that they can only be with you for a decade or so.

Below are a few videos that show how dogs truly are, a man's best friend.

Police Dog Bids Farewell to Partner

A heartbreaking photo from the funeral of Kentucky K9 officer Jason Ellis is proof of the incredible bond between police dogs and their partners.

The 33-year-old officer was killed in a suspected ambush on Saturday and laid to rest soon after, according to the Lexington Herald-Leader. Ellis' canine partner, Figo, who worked with him to find drugs and illegal substances, kept a vigil beside his casket. - Huffington Post

Fallen Navy Seal's Dog Stays By Master's Side at Funeral

The dog of fallen Navy SEAL Officer Jon Tumilson refused to leave his owner's casket at the officer's funeral earlier this week, Animal Planet reported. 

Tumilson's cousin Lisa Pembleton captured the loyal pup, Hawkeye, resting alongside Tumilson's casket at the Rockford, Iowa ceremony. - Huffington Post

Italian Dog Finds Comfort In Church

All of us has experienced a loss of a pet. But there are those times when a pet losses an owner. And that's what happened to Tommy.

Tommy is a 7 year old German Shepherd living in San Donaci, Italy. He was adopted as a stray by a woman named Maria. The two were very close and Tommy would accompany her on errands and when she went to church. Maria died 2 months ago and Tommy showed up without anyone bringing him to the funeral. That wasn't the end of it. Tommy is so fiercely loyal to Maria that everyday when the church bells chime, Tommy goes to mass.

It's a bitter sweet story and it made us think of some other incredible stories of dogs refusing to leave the side of their owners and friends even if it means putting themselves in harms way. They are remarkable and inspiring animals.

Chinese Dog Refuses to Leave Dead Owner's Grave

A dog in China who was the only companion to a single resident has refused to leave him even after his death.

Lao Pan, 68, recently passed away in the village of Panjiatun.

His dog was found later at his grave, refusing to leave even after seven days without food.

We have also witnessed dogs, mourning for their own canine friends. But burying their own kind is an act rarely been seen and understood.

Stray Dog Discovers a Dead Puppy and Painstakingly Buries It In Front of Stunned Onlookers

The dog came across the dead puppy in a ditch somewhere in Middle East. It is unclear whether she was a grieving mother or a kindhearted stranger. She spends three minutes making sure corpse is completely covered, then unceremoniously turns around and silently walks away. In a heart-rending act of animal kindness, a stray dog steps in where no human would and buries a dead puppy by the side of a road.

Onlookers watched in awe as the mongrel circled and sniffed the lifeless pup after finding it in a ditch where it had been left to rot in the midday sun.

But rather than leave it to scavengers, who would inevitably have torn it limb from limb, she spent more than three minutes gently raking sand over the corpse with her snout with extraordinary care.

But there were no sermons, ceremony or quiet reflection at this impromptu canine burial service... not even a bark.

Once she is happy that the puppy's body is entirely covered, the black-and-white dog simply turns around and walks silently away.

It was an extraordinary act of respect rarely seen in the animal kingdom and is sure melt hearts across the world.

In light of our relationship with canines, according to scientists, the relationship between dogs and humans could have endured for tens of thousands of years, perhaps 15,000 to 30,000 years ago. This might explain why us humans can easily love dogs, and vice versa, and how painful it is to lose them just like how it was in the documentary called Last Minutes of Oden. Perhaps over the course of time, this mutual affection has greatly evolved, and has deeply embedded iteslf in both species' DNA.


Disclaimer: Rights of the videos go to their respective owners.

~ City Boy Tripper

Read More

Mt. Talamitam

Jump-off point: Sitio Bayabasan, Brgy. Aga, Nasugbu (KM. 83)
Summit: 630 MASL, Days required/ Hours to summit: 1 day / 1.5-2.5 hours
Specs: Minor climb, Difficulty 3/9, Trail class 1-3 with steep assault

Mt. Talamitam is a mountain in Nasugbu, Batangas rising to about 630 meters above sea level. It is often
called the "sister mountain", or the "twin mountain" of Mt Batulao, partly due to the close proximity between the two mountains, and because both can be hiked in tandem in a single itinerary, as a "twin dayhike".

Mt. Talamitam was my first real mountain hike. It is named after the Talamitam trees that used to be plentiful in the area. Now, the mountain is close to barren, although recent efforts are being done to help bring back its former ecosystem such as tree planting activities. Mt Talamitam offers a river cross, a hike through upland farms, and a 60 degree assault, which marks the final stretch towards it's peak. Once at the summit, the mountain boasts of a 360 degree view of Batangas allowing one to see Mt. Batulao (SE), Tagaytay (NE), the towns of Nasugbu, Calatagan and other nearby towns.

Left: Mt Batulao as seen from the summit.

Right: 360° At the peak

The beginning of the hike starts at the end of a road, a descent to the Talamitam river. From here, a semi-assault through tree covered slopes will lead trough the upland farms. There are numerous trails along the way where most of them leads to the plateau and farmlands. It is easier to just follow whichever trail leads to the peak. Just remember which trail you've used to avoid confusion.

A river cross now marks the start of the trek.

The bamboo bridge has since been damaged.

Directions and Significant hours

• Bus ride (Nasugbu): 3
  - Take the bus at Coastal Mall bus terminal and get off at KM. 83 at Sitio Bayabasan, Brgy. Aga
• Hiking hours: 2.5

Itinerary

0600 ETD Coastal Mall bus terminal to Nasugbu, Batangas
0900 ETA Registration area at Sitio Bayabasan, Brgy. Aga (KM. 83)
0930 Start trek
1130 Arrival at summit, prepare for lunch
0130 Start descent
0300 Back at registration area, wash up
0400 ETD Manila
0700 ETA Manila

*Optional Side trip to Tagaytay - adjust the time accordingly. It is best to depart Manila by 4AM.

Expenses

Bus: Manila - Sitio Bayabasan (KM. 83): P124 one way / person
Registration - P25 / person
Guide (mandatory) - P350-400 / day

Special Concerns

• The trail is easy and can be completed in 1.5 to 2.5 hours, however it can be very exhausting if the sun is high up due to the minimal tree cover
• Stock up on water as there are no water source in Mt. Talamitam.
• There are several trails near the peak. Remember to take note of the trail you have used to get to the summit.
• Mobile signal is present all through out the hike.
• It can be very hot especially during summer, hence proper preparation is advised.
• Expect to see cows. Some curious, some aggressive (usually with a newborn calf), hence try to keep your distance.

Contact Information
Ted Calimag, Care taker, can be reached at +639477118513

Post script: My ascent to Mt Talamitam did not require us to have a guide at the time as the mandatory guide was only implemented in the last quarter of 2012. The implementation was in response to the fatal incident at Mt. Batulao.

Mt. Talamitam as seen from the jump-off

~ City Boy Tripper

Read More