kung hei fat choi Taal

I came across an event from team PUSH IT going up to Taal Volcano. I've seen Taal Volcano for a number of times but have never seen its crater lake. Then, I immediately have myself listed for the event. And thus my research about Taal began.

"Taal Volcano is a complex volcano located on the island of Luzon in the Philippines.[1] It is the second most active volcano in the Philippines with 33 historical eruptions. All of these eruptions are concentrated on Volcano Island, an island near the middle of Taal Lake. The lake partially fills Taal Caldera, which was formed by prehistoric eruptions between 140,000 and 5,380 BP.[2] Viewed from Tagaytay Ridge, Taal Volcano and Lake presents one of the most picturesque and attractive views in the Philippines.[3] It is located about 50 km (31 mi) south of the capital of the country, the city of Manila.

The volcano had several violent eruptions in the past causing loss of life in the island and the populated areas surrounding the lake, with the death toll estimated at around 5,000 to 6,000. Because of its proximity to populated areas and its eruptive history, the volcano was designated a Decade Volcano, worthy of close study to prevent future natural disasters. All volcanoes of the Philippines are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire."( EXCERPTS FROM WIKI - FULL ARTICLE HERE  )"

An active volcano? Seriously ??  One of the most active and potentially destructive volcanoes in the Philippines, WOW! It can be a first-class thrill, it adds more excitement to me to successfully conquer taal crater.

I always say that hiking is a fun, calm, serene, educational and contemplative experience. But most of the time, hiking is about the thrill, reaching new and death-defying heights make life more exciting. And with what Taal volcano has to offer, SURELY there is plenty opportunity to test my limits.

02/19/2015

​Wake up at 2 am with excitement of climbing an active volcano.

6 AM

I meet the rest of the group (17 heads to be exact) - a heavy breakfast at Volet's Gotohan, then a 20 mins ride going to Tagaytay, then from "rotonda" you'll pass by a downward slope drive, a steep road with a width just good for two cars and with blind curves everywhere.  Scary? Dangerous?  Well, not really, Sir Geno is really good in driving (thanks so much for the ride sir).

This is it!  I was in! But is this what was I in for? Hmmm....

By the way i have some confessions to tell, all the while i have this belief that taal volcano and its only crater is the one seen from tagaytay ridge, and from history textbooks or classroom lectures and from images that we receive from television and stories wayback childhood days are mostly MISCONCEPTIONS. Sir Geno told us that what was usually referred to as Taal Volcano, as seen from Tagaytay IS NOT really Taal volcano nor its crater. Probably the most common misconception about Taal Volcano is the volcano itself. Shockingly, when I was told where Taal volcano really is i was in disbelief. The cone shape crater i've known is not Taal volcano, it is just one of its old crater named Binintiang Malaki, one of the 47 craters found on Taal Volcano Island. Taal Volcano is actually the "big" island beside it. This is why taal is referred to as "the island on a lake in an island on a lake in an island". Sorry but you can't see the actual crater from Tagaytay Ridge.

8 AM

Arrived at San Roque's Resort for some last minute preparation, then proceeded immediately to PhilVolcs observatory for an educational briefing about Taal volcano. Visiting the observatory is part of our IT to get to know Taal Volcano first from the resident volcanologists monitoring the behavior of this dreaded volcano ( Again thanks to Sir Geno who made the arrangement, by the way he works for PHILVOLCS ). At the observatory photo exhibits and documentaries about volcanoes are shown. It is a great introduction for taal and is the best place to go to get up close and get educated with the beautiful but dangerous volcano. By the way the resident volcanologist inform us that the volcano is on alert level one. Terrified? Worried ? NO!! in fact it added more thrill! I know it feels daunting and terrifying hiking taal and the idea of it erupting anytime but HEY When you force yourself to face any fear-inducing adventure, your self-esteem goes up, and your self-respect increases. You will eventually reach a point where you are not afraid of anything. Anyways PHILVOLCS give us a go signal, so why waste this opportunity?

After a quick educational visit at PHIVOLCS OBSERVATORY  we head back to the resort for final briefing before the trip begins. We met our guides and our boatmen  and there is a buzz between the group as we are doing last minute checks of all our packs. Yehey! Then a 30-minute boat ride take us to Barangay Alas As which is the starting point of our trek to the crater.

After the smooth boat ride we finally reach Alas As, we were assisted by some local kids going off the boat. From the community our 1 hour trek going to the crater started.

The trail is not too steep, but it is too dusty. The dust were so unbearable so i highly suggest to bring a face mask - good thing i have mine- Stopping along the way regularly for drinks and photo opportunities is a MUST. I also recommend to bring an umbrella with you, its a big help especially when the sun is out.

After almost 1 hour we reached the part where taal crater is visible - few minutes of rest - and 15 more minutes descent to the crater - we finally reached our destination. Nothing compares seeing the crater up close in its entire splendor.

Reaching the crater felt quiet surreal, i'm inside an active volcano now! even though Taal has not erupted for over 38 years i could not help but think to myself "imagine if it did now". Now I understand why Taal Volcano is a volcano within a lake within a volcano.

I was surprised to see how big the crater was - and the big advantage with the Alas As trail is that you get to explore the crater and we were able to dip into its water - some actually swim - The Crater Lake is high in sulfuric content and is known to have medicinal properties, and it is good for swimming - which my legs were grateful for it.

The first 15 minutes at the crater was pleasant, but few more minutes later it becomes slightly drizzly. Then the sky cleared up just in time for our traverse to Mt. Tabaro. Depending on your pace, the traverse to Mt Tabaro can take 1 – 2 hours. If it were not for the prior outings and extreme fatigue this would be little more than a walk in a park.

The thrill of climbing a volcano is incomparable and trekkers doing it in Taal are rewarded with some of the most spectacular views. Playing a huge role in history and in the daily life of the people, especially near the crater, these volcanoes can be deadly and remain fascinating objects that will continue to attract hikers.

Patar-Bolinao in less than 48 hours

I love Bolinao, especially PATAR. I know it’s not the most usual destination, but there is just something about Patar that I can’t get enough of. Patar could take days to explore properly, but if you only have less than 48 hours to take a look around, here’s how I suggest you spend your time.

10 PM : Take a direct trip to Bolinao from Victory Liner(Cubao) or Five Star Bus(Pasay). Manila to Bolinao is approximately 6 to 7 hours travel time. The main transportation in Patar, Bolinao is tricycles. 

5 am : A quick breakfast at Adora's

Located at the back of St. James Church. Nothing is really fancy here, it even looks like a small canteen but food is cheap and definitely affordable. Indulge in a typical breakfast at adora's - and watch life go by as the town slowly wakes up. 

The day was tiring but definitely worth it!

Into the rocky mountains of Cuyambay

It's been a long time from my last blog entry, but now I have a good reason to write again.

My fascination with rock climbing started when a friend invited me to a small indoor rock climbing gym in New Manila wayback 2001, my only complaint that time was that my hands were pretty sore afterwards, but they say the more that you do it, the less pain you'll endure with your hands. I never imagine that one day I will try an outdoor rock climbing experience, after my Lioness and rhino rock formation experience I definitely look forward for more. 

Does outdoor rock climbing gets any better??  Answer is a BIG YES!

Go Rock Climbing. You may think that rock climbing appeals to only a few expertly-trained adventurers, but in fact there is a range of peaks to choose from, and not all are as demanding as the others. 

So after having a break from the outdoors, I, Jackie ( my travel/adventure/kumare/climb buddy) and Kap Omeng is back on the road ready to attack the province of Rizal.

02/08/2015

There is really no day wasted on a visit to Tanay, Rizal, you can chose from a variety of activities. From Fallsineering, Spelunking, Mountaineering or any adrenaline pumping activites. Choosing your destination to explore is sometimes the only option when there is a time limit while in Tanay. 

The Pinagpatong Rock is Cuyambay’s answer to Masungi’s Rock formation, but on a much smaller but tougher scale.

Upon reaching barangay Cuyambay, our first stop is to secure permit at their barangay hall. From highway to the Barangay Hall, you have the option to take a habal-habal ride or walking to a concrete pavement. We opt for a 20 minutes walk going to Barangay Hall to enjoy the views. The walk was really pretty, some hillside farms and just pure greenery everywhere. 

After securing our permit, together with our guide Kuya Molong the trek begin. Before reaching the rock formation a 25 minutes leisurely walk to a private farm will be consumed. The climb to the rock will officially start after passing the tree planting site. Starting the ascend to the top you will pass by a forested area. This area comprises of 50% bamboo tress and 50% trees. It is very very hot that day, too much, but at least there's no rain.

After almost an hour of strenuous climbing we finally reach the part that separate the two peaks of Pinagpatong rock formation. Going to the two peaks is not so modified for accessibility, and it added to its natural and tougher appeal.

The view from the highest point is amazing. It was really an odd and amazing rock form to see.  The scenery was stunning, and the weather was perfect , it was lovely to see blue skies and some fluffy clouds.

The rugged rock formation which tower above the highlands are every climber’s fascination. This type of landscape is also spotted with valleys and escarpments which all together form an exhilarating experience to all climbers.

Unknown to many, Pinagpatong Rock formation is not really part of the Masungi Rock Formation, and Pinagpatong has two destinctive peaks, the highest peak were named after some huge rock were like piled, it brought out a very pleasant perspective on the limestone formations. 

It was very atmospheric exploring Pinagpatong rock formation. The huge rocks was beautiful and very appropriately named.

Overall this was a very enjoyable trip, tiring but well worth it. Thanks jakie and Kap Omeng. See you on the road again.

Scrambling at lioness back and rhinoceros rock

The new calendar year is here.  I have a clean, fresh start.  Now what shall I do with it?

Since fear of heights is something I have always wanted to overcome, I have been throwing myself into rock climbing adventures.

If I'm going to take advantage of this New Year to start something new, I need to make sure I'm starting the right things.

And to ring in the new year right, my favorite first ascent for 2015 is Scrambling at lioness back and rhinoceros rock.

Finally! I made it to the lioness back again and rhinoceros rock all at the same day. This has been a dream destination for quite some time now, and I finally found time to make the trip out there.

I am taking you to this unplanned trip of mine to face my fears. A journey to check the ability to act in spite of fears. I know It takes emotional strength to accept an invitation to do something when your brain is screaming with fears. But for people like me who really want to push their limits should consider trying their hand at one of Bulacan's most adrenaline pumping activities: rock climbing.

With nothing but myself and my pair of flip flops I left my place without any permission and without clues of my destination.

It was an easy travel to the Jump off. 

For our first climb, we did the Lioness Back. The landscape is abundant with gorgeous scenery and challenging terrain. There were very young children climbing next to us on the rocks, some serve as a guide to other climbers.

When we arrived at the top, there were many climbers alike taking pictures so we need to wait for our turn to finally reach the Lion's back. 

It is amazing to be back at Lion's Rocks again. 

The scenery didn’t hurt either. What did hurt was my legs, with bruises left and right from the sharp and pointed rocks.

When I reached the top, my legs were shaking and I was out of breathe, but I felt on top of the world, and well, I kind of was.

The second climb which is at Rhino rock was a little scary, and when I stepped back to look at it, knowing that I will be climbing straight up. I said to myself what the heck I had gotten myself into.

The supreme challenge for me was to  be able to find adequate handholds and footholds, balance myself in a safety positions, and move from one point to the next without falling. Rock climbing involves strength, control and skills.  As I went up to the top, it got more difficult as there were thin cracks with sharp and pointed rocks to grab/hold of,by this time something worse happened, i experience severe muscle cramp, imagine hanging at the top and you are in pain. I felt like crying.

However, I knew I did n’t want to back out, so I continued going up. I’ve never felt more accomplished than I did when I finally pulled myself to the top.

Though it seemed like an eternity, it only took me about thirty minutes to reach the top.

The climb itself was breathtaking, but expectations were exceeded as we completed the massive rock formations. 

If you love rock scrambling and you love adrenaline rush in extreme adventures, you need to put lioness back and rhinoceros rock on your bucket list.

At the end of the day i was very exhausted but very pleased and satisfied, i’d met some great people, thanks yhanee (specially for the pix) and aris, i also met Sir Mikko again after a long time and had a very enjoyable time.

Itinerary Details

Description: Challenge yourself with a day of rock scrambling and experience an epic view from the top of the rock formation

Where: lioness back and rhinoceros rock

How long: half-day

Level of difficulty: difficult

 While on my way home, I reflected upon the earlier events and it all just felt quite surreal. Had I really climbed and completed that rock formation today? Indeed I did, and now I have the photos to prove it. 

My 2014 Journey

As I reflect on 2014 in its last few hours, I am filled to the brim with gratitude.

Today’s entry is a round up of everything, everywhere I went in 2014, along with a few lessons and comments. There were some rough times this year, that's to be sure, but it’s not just about looking back, it is also a time for me to look forward and think about my life and the journey i created.

First and foremost, I want to thank everyone who takes the time to read my stories and journeys. And to my family , wife, kids, and friends for being a part of my journey. I hope it inform and inspire you to get out and see the world.

So here it is, some of my highlights from 2014. May 2015 bring as much joy, excitement, fulfillment and peace to everyone. I hope to see the world Soon...

*A memorable climb to Mt. Maranat with my high school classmates. You can read the full story here. A climb where lifelong friendships were rekindle, love for travel and nature,and a lifetime’s worth of memories were made.Thank you 4-1 for joining me in this journey , your simply the best.

*A historic journey to the province of nueva ecija. My special thanks to Anne, Kap Isko and jackie for being a part of this journey. You can read my story here and here.

*I accomplished my biggest goal of the year, to travel and explore Cagayan province. I was able to Explore Palaui again and its enchanting beauty. You can read my full story here.

*I completed Maktrav with my cousin Reynald and some new friends. You can read my full story here.

*The opportunity to visit the old churches within the metro to give thanks for this amazing year. You can read my story here.

*A chance to revisit cawag and finally completed Cinco picos traverse.You can read my story here.

*Experience the feel of adrenaline rush in extreme adventures in one day. Rock scrambling and spelunking in Bulacan. You can read my story here.

*I faced the challenge of completing the Bakun Trio in Poblacion, Benguet before the year end. You can read my story here.

I climb 11 mountains and 4 waterfalls

... I visited 13 century old churches

...I visited 14 provinces

...I enjoy 8 beautiful beaches

... I gain more friends

It’s so nice to be able to look back on a great year with fond memories and a big smile.

  I am thankful, grateful, and truly blessed to have received all that I have this year.  There is really nothing to complain about.

I’m filled with gratitude to my family, to my health and to my experiences. Therefore, I’m going to indulge in reviewing what went well in 2014 and not let the year slip away without some reflection of what i learned in 2014. 

Chronicles of Bakun Trio : Day 3 Mt. Kabunian

3:30 AM 

It seemed like I had only slept for 2 hours when i hear the alarm, it was around 3:30 am. I was a bit hesitant to get up. It was still moderately dark, but, I then prepared myself and my gears. Even though it was TOO COLD, i can sense that the weather is perfect — with stars in the sky. Thankfully we were treated to our last breakfast in Bakun. I felt extremely fortunate and grateful for this experience.

After enjoying a delicious breakfast our trek gently started. I was a bit nervous this time because I cant ignore the pain anymore.

The first part is all cemented stairs, with concrete handrail, not as easy as it sounds, the descent was extremely steep, and the fatigue after days of trekking makes it one of the hardest part.

The trail descends steeply downward so I need to walk slowly and under control as my sore legs and aching stomach continuously battling the pain. 

An hour into the trek i felt an extreme pain in my stomach, then my mind started to regret the decision of going up for this third day. I feel my peripheral vision go black as I take my next step, then I chose to stop and take some rest. 

Every now and then I would stop and look around me. But, the golden colors of the dawn and an astonishing sun rising are reflected beautifully on mountain ranges. The scenery was breath-taking, and the views of Bakun range made it all worth it. So i'd still continue.

We crossed a few bridges, then we enter a peaceful forested area for the remainder of the descent, and then started the steep and long ascent to the first waiting shed. My legs were beginning to suffer from the hard uphill trek, the uphill is too steep that made each step forward a challenge.

After crossing the 4th hanging bridge the step is very steep and slippery at times, from this point onwards the terrain becomes more challenging. I could also see the hidden side of the mountain range from this part. 

7 Am 

I reached the first waiting shed and water station. The weather this time was simply fantastic, It was bright sunny day with beautiful clouds in the sky.

After  roughly 15 minutes of break from this station our group started the trek again. This time we are totally left behind, and i was already struggling to keep up with my own pace.  And not to mention the sun was out, the blazing and relentless heat from the scorching sun started at this point, unfortunately there's no trees at this part where you can seek some shade.

While there are steep ascents like in Mt Lobo and Mt Tenglawan, there are periods of a leisurely walk as well. And despite its technical status on some part of the trail, In certain parts, a skimpy trail had been carved into the side of the mountain, one mistake and you will fall to your death, no ropes are required , handrails was installed, but it isn’t a trek to be taken lightly. 

After crossing the ridge, facing the summit, an ascending slope with steep steps were carved into the mountain with handrails on both side for support. From here the views is already amazing, and the reason why i was so eager to climb Mt Kabunian is now visible to my eyes. As soon as i reached the higher part all I could think about was stopping. I couldn’t go on anymore. I sat down and dropped my bag, very exhausted. I told Sir Karl and Sir Donne that I'm done. I'm satisfied, i've seen my purpose. I'm not going to the summit. Seeing the other group approaching he summit, I told them that they can go on and i can just wait for them and rest at this part, but they are not leaving without me. At this moment I am doubting myself very much, and i'm feeling disconnected. I find that I doubt myself the most when I'm comparing what I'm doing with what other people are doing. I know its wrong, but hey one of the reason i wanted to climb bakun is because of this part of the trail in Mt kabunian. I know , better views of the surroundings and breathtaking scenery is waiting at the summit. And, I would have stopped this trek earlier if I'm not completing this trek. Eventually after 30 minutes the discussion ended right then and there, sir karl and sir donne will not summit without me, my decision was made, I'm climbing the last summit. I decided to be brave and continued the assault to the summit. I would never regret my choice.

In no time we started the trek again. My Head is down and focused on the ground as it was too much to look on into the distance ahead. As I got closer, I got more and more tired. But luckily i have Sir Karl and Sir Donne and our lady guide with me who is very helpful so i was very eager to finish the climb this time. After crossing the last hanging bridge, some rocky paths is needed to carefully complete. And before reaching its summit you will pass through the side of the huge rocky side of kabunian which used to be a burial grounds, hence the presence of box coffins can be seen from the trail.

In less than 30 minutes we reached the last water station. I have no idea how I got the courage to continue, but with every step I take, I was chanting to myself “it’s ok, your almost there".

The views couldn’t get any better as we start the final assault, i stopped frequently to take in the beauty and the fresh air of that morning. Finally our last day of trekking is finished. I know its not over , i still have the descend back to poblacion to maneuver.

Reaching the top of the pass was an incredible feeling. That kind of happiness you can hardly describe with words. The beautiful mountain range is calm and serene. The air was crisp, weather, its perfect. My sense of achievement is overflowing. My doubts - it was instantly vanished. I made it. This trek has allowed me to learn more about myself. When I reflect on Mt Kabunian, I immediately remember the feeling of accomplishment.

That being said, trekking Mt Kabunian is worth it. It was one of the most beautiful and picture perfect things I’ve ever seen. 

After taking some pictures the group decided to start going down. We need to catch up with our itinerary. I also need to take some meds that i forgot to bring with me. So I ask Sir Jojo if I can go ahead first.

The downhill return trek was a lot easier than the climb up the summit of kabunian,  i opt for a walk-run technique which seemed to work best for me.  I covered in just 2 hours back what took almost 5 hours to do going up. 

Towards the end of the concrete stairs my legs were completely wrecked and felt like I'm going to collapse. But hey Im almost there.

At exactly 11 am  i finished the grueling stairs, I was so tired, hungry, and thirsty, but I'm very much alive.

We wrapped up our last day in Bakun with a sumptous lunch. Altogether Bakun trio is one of my most incredible trip.