Most hypnotic waterfalls in Biliran ~ Tinago Falls

TINAGO FALLS| is one of the best attractions offered by the province of Biliran. The name "Tinago," means "hidden". At a height of around 90 feet, it is nature's display of beauty.

The most hypnotic waterfalls magnificently lay its beauty in the heart of Caibiran, Biliran. Offers a breathtaking spectacle water and rock formation surrounded by the green vegetation. A hideaway that blends perfectly for nature lovers, rich blend of trees, vines, & other exotic plants accompanied by the cooling & enchanting sounds of rushing streams. The tourists will surely enjoy this paradise that showcases the natural beauty of the province.

Besides being developed as an eco-tourism destination, the falls is also a source of the area's hydroelectric power, a big boon to the people living in the area.


TRANSPORTATION
From Naval, Biliran town proper, reached by any land transportation, approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. From the highway (jumpoff) one could trek for 15 minutes going to the falls.


LOCATION
Brgy. Cabibihan, Caibiran, Biliran Province

Hiking Talks #16: A trek to the most complex volcano in the Philippines ~ Taal Volcano | Crater Lake

 

MINOR CLIMB| Taal Volcano is a part of a chain of volcanoes along the western side of the edge of the island of Luzon. The lake is wholly located in the province of Batangas. The northern half of Volcano Island falls under the jurisdiction of the lake shore town of Talisay, while the southern half belongs to San Nicolas. The other towns that encircle Taal Lake include Talisay,Tanauan, Laurel, Agoncilio, Santa Terisita, Alitatag, Cuenca, Lipa, Balete and Mataas na Kahoy.

With its highest elevation at merely 311 MASL (1,020 ft), Taal is one of the lowest volcanoes in the world. Taal is a complex volcano and it is the second most active volcano in the Philippines with 33 recorded historical eruptions. All of these eruptions are concentrated on Volcano Island-- an island near the middle of Taal Lake. When viewed from Tagaytay Ridge, Taal Volcano and the lake itself represents one of the most marvelous picturesque and attractive views in the Philippines. It is located about 50 km (31 miles) south from the capital city of Manila.

Although the volcano has been quiet since 1977, it has shown signs of unrest since 1991, with strong seismic activity and ground fracturing events, as well as the formation of small mud spots and geysers on certain parts of the island. It brought great changes in the interior of the crater, according to chroniclers of the old. "Before, the bottom looked very deep and seemed unfathomable, but at the bottom, a liquid mass was seen in continual ebullition."

After the eruption, the crater had been found to have widened, the pond within it had been reduced to one-third and the rest of the crater floor was higher and dry enough that they say one may even walk over it. The height of the crater walls has diminished and near the center of the new crater floor, a little hill now lies that continually emits smoke. On its sides were several wells, one of which was especially remarkable for its size.

HIKING 

Crossing the lake is yet the first part of adventure,where one could observe the green-colored (the way I see it) fresh water of Taal Lake. Crossing the Talisay town to the major jump off point in the Volcano Island shoreline takes 15 mins. Since we left late from our destination, we arrived by lunch at the Tourism Office Station where we had our meal in a Canteen nearby.

The trek going to the crater edge will take about 45 minutes to 1 hour at a slow and relaxing pace, trekking a 1.7 KM (Daang Kastila Trail) regular trail. We started our trek at 1300H, not a good time to trek though for we needed to hit the trail under the heat of the sun. 

 

However, as you go up the trail, you will discover that it is an easy, dusty and a wide-open trail--it means that there is not much vegetation that covers the area. One could also opt for horseback riding instead of trekking. However, if you want to burn extra fats in your body, you gotta go for trekking!

 

Like any other hiking destinations in Batangas, the Daang Kastila trail also has a stop over mini stores.The first store is at the middle length of the trail and the next is before the final ascent to the crater edge ‘summit”. More of these stores are at the crater edge where one could refresh and hydrate with cold buko juice, softdrinks, Processed juices and more.

One could also observe to the volcanic quality of the rocks and the sulfuric steam vents along the trail. You would notice it just after the second store stop over. Cooking an egg is possible in this spot for the heat temperature reaches more than the boiling point.

At 1400H, we arrived at the summit. You can imagine the feeling of unwinding by the mere breathtaking view of the Taal Crater Lake. Explore some parts of the crater edge facing the west, take pictures and relax at the nipa huts. The summit offers an excellent viewpoint of the (SE) Mt. Maculot, (SW) Mt. Batulao, (NE) Mt. Makiling, (E) Mt. Malipunyo and nearby Highlands facing the famous Mt. Tabaro (recent site of eruption).

Amazingly there is a small island inside Taal Crater Lake, called the Vulcan point. Thus, everyone could say: It is an island within a lake that is within an island within a lake within an island. Boy aren't you confused! But that's how it is. Sounds amazing doesn't it?

 

After an hour at the summit view point, we descended and headed back to the mainland. Trekking down will take 45 minutes or half of the time going up, depending on your pace.


GREAT-TO-KNOW INFOS
”Bryan Malvataan Boat Station”offers a convenient and reasonable package tour. You may contact the reliable Sir Bryan Malvataan using the following mobile numbers (Smart: 09208490951| Globe: 09173631251/ 09172032792). He will cater to all your needs in the most convenient way. They offer free huts, face masks and even some bottled water. For more information of the breakdown details of package tour you may dial the above mentioned numbers now.
You may coordinate with them before heading to Talisay, so they can assist you and help you manage your entire travel.


TRANSPORTATION
If you are from Manila, take a bus bound to Lipa or Tanauan, Batangas (96 php). Stop at Tanauan bus stop, catch a tricycle that will bring you to the Jeepney Terminal bound to Talisay (10php). Ask the jeepney driver to take you straight to Talisay Town proper. Stop at 7/11 Store (meeting area).

If from Cavite or Tagaytay, simply pick up a tricycle near Rotonda in Tagaytay City. Tell the driver to bring you to Talisay, Brgy. Poblacion 8 via Ligaya Drive (short way). Traveling takes 30-45 minutes, fare for 3 pax is 250 php, and going back to Tagaytay is 300-350 php, considering the ascent of the winding road.

Note: Numerous boat canvassers in Tagaytay have their own hidden additional charges. Be careful. For safe and reasonable travel tours to Taal Volcano contact 'Bryan Malvataan Boat Station'

DETAILS 
Taal Volcano
Batangas Province
Entry point | Talisay, Batangas
311 MASL
Days required/Hours to Summit | Half day/1 hour
Minor Climb| Difficulty 2/9, Trail Class 1/length 1.7 KM
Features: Sulfuric steam/vents | Birds | Volcanic rocks | View of crater lake

Thanks to Janet Babatid and Mcbel Hormigas.

ITINERARY
I don’t post a detailed itinerary because I believe such should be experienced by nobody else but you yourself. General time frame in every stops are shown in the transportation and hiking part of the article.

Hiking Health Benefits ~ Lifestyle

HEALTHY LIFE| Everyone does hiking for different reasons. Some wants to breathe fresh air, and listen to the sound of nature, others also want to enjoy the scenery, some yearn for photography opportunities, bonding with friends and some just want to get away from city life. One of the best things about hiking is that the positive impact the activity has on your health. 

The front line reason why I enjoy hiking is the mental and emotional clarity I obtain while immersing myself in nature, a peaceful and bountiful gift of nature God had made. Sometimes we need to get away from the noise of life and find some quiet time to think. Those also proven that hiking and other outdoor activities reduce tension, stress, and depression. By taking to breathe in the fresh air, listen to the tranquil melody of nature, and feel the warmth of the sun on your skin.

For the reason of a healthy lifestyle we’ll take some time to explore some of the health benefits that hiking brings to us.

HEALTH BENEFITS:

Weight control, burns approximately 370 calories an hour

Weight loss is the most beneficial of hiking. Negotiating the trail up and down the hill, you burn a lot of calories. And a combination with a balanced and healthy diet, you will benefit with healthy weight loss and a fit body.

Increased bone density or a slower loss of density/ Body Toning

The lower body tones itself fantastically tones when you hike on a regular basis. The trails where there is some extra elevation fit in it and are the best to serve the purpose as they act as muscle toning workouts. 

Reduced depression, stress and better quality sleep

Everyone experiences stress in one way or the other. Hiking plays a role that it acts as a good stress buster. Going for a favorable hike all by yourself gives you time to think unconditionally, and also helps you to untackle your stress. The nature around you refreshes’ you up and efficiently promote better quality sleep.

Improved muscular fitness 

For the muscles to tone further and for you to increase your strength, you could carry some weight on your back (backpack). For beginners, it is recommended that one may start with flat land first and then negotiate by small hills and later on extra higher elevation.

Lower risk of coronary heart disease and stroke
Improved cardio and respiratory fitness; the heart, blood vessels and lungs.
The regular pumping of blood and the increase in the blood circulation in the body, one of the health benefits of hiking, a key to prevent heart diseases. The fat is burned better thus preventing blood clots and the level of the good cholesterol increases in the body. This makes in keeping the body healthy.

Lower risk of high blood pressure
The blood vessels and the arteries dilate and the insulin production reduces, thereby reducing the blood pressure. Thus, reduction in the blood pressure in people who suffer from hypertension is one of the important health benefits of hiking.

Slow- Down Aging Process
It has been proved that people who exercise regularly lowers aging process. It has been found out that the immune system of such people ages slowly and the other signs of aging are also delayed. In fact, inactivity increases the process of aging. Hence, some amount of regular exercise is very important in each one's life.

Photo Credit: Steph Haim

OTHER BENEFITS:
Hiking exercises almost every part of your body the legs, knees, ankles, arms, hips/buttocks, abdominal areas, shoulders, head and neck.

Hiking exercises both your body and your mind, which nourishes your imagination. Thus, it creates awareness in your eyes and ears and the rest of your senses.

Hiking is a great way to start exercising. Start with easy hikes and work up to steeper hikes that work your legs more.

Renew Life Spiritually
Immersing yourself to nature is a better way to get in touch more to the creator, since we are made in the image of God. And being in His image, we get great pleasure too by exploring and studying what He made. Some appreciate more on the creation itself, but thinking that the most and worthy is to praise the Creator who made the wonders what we see today. However, the wonders of creation in every part of world reminds us that truly God exist until at the present times.

“For by Him all things were created that are in Heavens and that are on earth, all things were created through Him and for Him.” Colosians 1:16 NKJV

The Famous Lake in Leyte ~ Lake Danao Natural Park

LAKE DANAO| Coined to be the highest lake in the province of Leyte, located in Brgy. Lake Danao.The lake offers a perfect getaway when you seek for peace, relaxation and nature adventures. The view deck is a place where one can view the entire picture of Lake Danao, the guitar-shape lake covers an area of 148 hectares (370 acres). It is situated in the 2,193 hectares (5,420 acres) Lake Danao National Park, which also includes the Amandiwin mountain range. The lake is 18 kilometers northeast of Ormoc, a 45 minute drive from the city.

There are wetlands found near the lake. The present lake could be the deepest portion of a much larger lake in the past. It was probably much larger in the geologic past and could have included the large wetlands and marshes. Sedimentation has probably transformed this portion of the lake into what it is today.

Lake Danao lies on an altitude similar to Tagaytay, making the place cooler than the average Philippine temperature. Unlike to similar lakes in the country, lake danao covers with pine tress which makes the location a perfect getaway during dry season. The hornbills, dove and pigeons are the most common birds roam around the lake and they are mostly hunted by illegal hunters. 

On June 2, 1972 “Lake Imelda” (original name) was declared a national park by virtue of Presidential Memorandum issued by Pres. Ferdinand Marcos. And in February 3, 1988 they renamed and declared as LAKE DANAO NATIONAL PARK through Proclamation No. 1155 and until now it is protected by Republic Act. No. 7586, also known as the National Integrated Protected Area System (NIPAS) Act of 1992.

One may experience trekking into the man made pathways around the lake, boating, kayaking and dine into the famous floating cottages are also possible. Lake Danao is a perfect place for side trip when one plans to climb the highest mountain in Leyte "alto peak", locals named it Mt. Amenduen. 

In the same mountain range, Lake Jalagdan is quite interesting also going to the north, but it takes to climb a mountain negotiating 2-3 hours of trekking. These two lakes are the most popular in the region.

GETTING THERE

From Ormoc City Terminal at Public Market Building A, catch a Jeep or a passenger multicab going up to Lake Danao or Brgy. Ga-as, hence transportation going to this areas are in time frame basis, scheduled trips are observed.

 

Wander and Wonders about ~ Butterfly

Butterfly in Mt. Batulao
In Philippines nearly 21,000 recorded insect species are found only in the country. In addition about one-third of the 915 butterflies found here are endemic. One of the largest butterflies in the world and the largest in the Philippines, the Magellan Birdwing can be found here and the largest moth, the “Altas Moth” can be found also in the country.

Butterflies exhibit polymorphism, mimicry and aposematism and others like the Monarch, will migrate over long distances. Some butterflies have evolved symbiotic and parasitic relationships with social insects such as ants. Some species are pests because in their larval stages they can damage domestic crops or trees; however, some species are agents of pollination of some plants, and caterpillars of a few butterflies (e.g., Harvesters) eat harmful insects. Culturally, butterflies are a popular motif in the visual and literary arts.

Butterflies in their adult stage can live from a week to nearly a year depending on the species. Many species have long larval life stages while others can remain dormant in their pupal or egg stages. Butterflies may have one or more broods per year. The number of generations per year varies from temperature to tropical regions like in the Philippines.

However, still the butterfly flies joyfully capturing many hearts. It’s not how high we fly, but rather how many lives changed because we came.

The Romantic Sunset ~ Manila Bay

Manila Bay Walk

SUNSET 
Manila Bay is a natural harbour which serves the Port of Manila ( Luzon), in thePhilippines. Strategically located around the capital city of the Philippines, Manila Bay facilitated commerce and trade between the Philippines and its neighbouring countries,becoming the gateway for socio-economic development even prior to Spanish occupation.

Across the entrance to Manila Bay are several islands, the largest of which is Corregidor, located 3 kilometres from Bataan and, along with the island of Caballo, separates the mouth of the bay into the North and South Channels.

Today, the land reclamation is largely intended for use in human settlement and industrial development, land reclamation projects contributed to the reduction of mangroves around the area, as well as significant reduction in Metro Manila's shoreline.

Shoreline retreat continued as man-made structures such as fish pens occupied the coastal areas. Most area of the bay, except those near the ports, are largely used as a major fishing ground, with fisheries and aquaculture as the dominant source of livelihood for the inhabitants in the coastal areas.

Manila Bay and its corresponding resources are considered critical recipients of environmental protection. As indicated in the 1987 Constitution (Article II, Section 16) there exists legal basis for environmental protection with the provision that: “the State shall protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature.

As a ray of white sunlight travels through the atmosphere to an observer, some of the colors are scattered out of the beam by air molecules and airborne particles, changing the final color of the beam the viewer sees. Sunset colors are typically more brilliant than sunrise colors, because the evening air contains more particles than morning air.

Nowadays, the beauty of Manila bay still remains, the amazing and romantic setting of the sun will testify the wonders of God's creation.

Home of a Thousand Migratory Birds ~ Freedom Island

Photo shot in Freedom Island

BIRDS MIGRATION
Just how do birds return to the same nest year after doing their long distance seasonal migration? Do they have a built-in map in their head? Perhaps do they have magnetic compasses in their brains? Or maybe they can accurately detect sun angels by being able to see polarized light. For those that flying by night, do they have a star map in their brains?

After decades of research, science has no definitive answers as to how birds acquire their map and their compass so that they can find their way so precisely. That is a delightful problem to keep working on throughout eternity.

Our God be glorified by the order in time and space exhibited in the seasonal migration of birds. May we also glorify You oh God by the way that our life may order according to Your will.

Hiking Talks #15: Majestic Mt. Apo Traverse| Kapatagan- Kidapawan Trail

KAPATAGAN- KIDAPAWAN TRAIL |TRAVERSE

MAJOR CLIMB | Mt. Apo is a large solfataric, potentially active, stratovolcano in Mindanao. It has an altitude of 2,954 metres (9,692 ft)above sea level thus gaining the title as the highest mountain in the Philippines. With coordinates 6°59′15″N 125°16′15 "E, the summit overlooks Davao City (northeast) Digos City (southeast) and Kidapawan City to the west.

The first successful ascent expedition ever recorded was on October 10,1880 by Joaquin Rajal,governor of Davao at that time; Joseph Montano, a French anthropologist; along with a Jesuit missionary, Father Mateo Gisber. Since then, numerous expeditions followed.

On May 9, 1936, Mt. Apo was declared a national park under Proclamation no. 59 by President Manuel L. Quezon. Such was solidified by Proclamation no. 35 of May 8, 1966 then Proclamation no. 882 of September 24, 1996.

Amid being declared a Natural Park, sadly though nowadays, the climbing trails are littered with rubbish by inconsiderate and irresponsible climbers, opening paths for soil erosion across the already denuded mountain sides. Some mountain climbers and social groups conduct climbs after the Holy Week--the peak climbing season, to initiate cleaning of the said areas.

It has one of the highest land-based biological diversity in terms of flora and fauna per unit area. It has three distinct forest formations, from lowland tropical rain forest to mid-mountain forests, and finally to high mountain forests. The mountain is a home to over 272 bird species, 111 of which are endemic in the area. It is also home to one of the world's largest eagles, the critically-endangered Philippine Eagle, which is the country’s national bird.

There are several trails coming from North Cotabato and Davao provinces that lead to the summit. Basically, the easiest route to the National Park is through Kidapawan City with an average hike taking 3–4 days covering ascent-descent. Various sights one may behold along the trail include Lake Venado, one of the longest lakes in the Philippines, the solfataras and the old crater/dead lake near its summit. The mountain may be climbed year-round or one can register and join the tourism's Summer Climb or October trek/Semestrial breaks.


HIKING
Public transportation is a good option in going to Kapatagan which is the jump-off point. Habal-habal is the readily available and most reliable means of transportation. In our case, the team negotiated with three habal-habal drivers-- The first two rides are for passengers and the third habal-habal was for our backpacks with the team's goal to lessen the heavy loads.

The travel time will take about an hour from Bgry.Cogon (crossing near highway) to Kapatagan. From Kapatagan, one may stop over some food chains or "Carenderias" and enjoy a full breakfast, since a long hike awaits.

However, after which you will have to transfer to another habal-habal coming from Kapatagan. It will bring you to the Major jump-off point which is the Sitio Paradise.

At Sitio Paradise one may experience a closer glimpse of Mt. Apo before trekking into the forest. From here one may negotiate with a porter, pitch water supplies and buy additional necessities. A mini store is available that however offers limited food items.

The trekking time will be 6- 7 hours up into the first campsite-- the Godi-Godi camp.The first part of it is crossing into the farm fields and then into the tropical rain-forest. The flora and fauna is good and rich in biodiversity.

Arrival to the camp site ends the first part of the trek, for the first day of the climb.Camp Godi-Godi can accommodate a dozen of tents or more. The name of this camp was derived from a local tribe hunter, who was said to have once occupied and built his shelter after a long stay in the forest to hunt wild pigs and etc.
The team settled for the night. We pitched our tents, had our dinner and slept.

The rays of the sun and the blue sky welcomed us on our second day of expedition. Much more thrilling was that we found out we have visitors--a group of monkeys roamed around the camp. We were so happy we had such an opportunity  to see and observe such wonderful creation up close. Having been inspired that more wonders await us, the team packed up, took  light breakfast meal, and left the camp. From camp Godi-Godi, it takes a few minutes(15-20 minute) to exit from the forest area.

Day two of hiking is the most exciting and difficult one. Why so? Trekking into the Boulder section of the mountain is a challenge. Since the boulder trail is not a common trail unlike those in any other mountains in the Philippines. The sharp rocks, and sulfuric foams will definitely awaken your senses.

However, the fauna brings comfort and peace while one enjoys the scenery above the clouds. You will notice some wild berries along the trail. Go ahead and try to pick the dark violet-colored one. It tastes good! You may pick more and place them in your pockets if you wish. It may serve as your trail food.

The excitement and thrill continues as the trail gets closer to the summit. The blue sky and the fog filters the heat of the sun that makes the trek a relaxing one.

Is this trail is the easiest? or most difficult? With the final assault to the summit gaining 90 degrees in angle, no roots nor branch of a tree to grab on, just simply holding onto the rocks, it is indeed a challenge to test your climbing skills and your stamina. The goal of wanting stand and reach the summit will push you forward. Oh, no turning back! No, you dare not turn back!

At the end point of the 90-degree-gain-assault, the crater/dead lake welcomes you. You have the entire privilege to explore the crater, and take pictures before finally heading to the summit-- a 5-minute-assault.

Team: Jed,Tom, Elmer, Steph

At 2,954 meters above sea level, the team successfully reached the summit with joy. Embracing the wonders of His creation. At the summit one may explore the vast area, take pictures and indulge oneself into the clouds. After an hour in the summit, the team descended back to the summit camp site and grabbed a lunch.

At 1430H, we descended to Lake Venado and set a camp for a night to stay. The trekking will take 3-4 hours.The second day of hiking ended in Lake Venado.

The good weather warmly embraced us on the 3rd day of our climb.This is the final morning for a closer glimpse of the summit. Lake Venado is a perfect place to camp with the much needed water source readily available. The mossy forest and the perfect view of the summit is truly breathtaking. The team left lake venado at 0830H, and made a descent via Kidapawan trail.

The trail continues down into the river, with the usual river crossing. And the team ended the trek at Lake Agko, post-climbing and dipped into the hot springs of Agko.

The climb to Mt. Apo is one of my most exciting and rejuvenating hikes.

DETAILS
Davao del Sur and North Cotabato
Entry point | Brgy. Mainit, Sitio Paradise, Digos
Exit point| Brgy. Ilovamis, Kidapawan City
Coordinates 6°59′15″N 125°16′15 "E
2,954MASL (#1)
Days required/ Hour to summit | 3 days/10-12 hours
Specs| Major climb/difficulty 7/9
Features| Mossy forest/Birds/Monkeys/Boulders/ Sulfuric Steam

TRANSPORTATION
From Davao (Eco land Bus terminal) take a bus bound to Digos, or V-hire bound to Kidapawan (traveling time 1.5hour). Stop at Brgy.Cogon crossing, ride a Habal-habal from crossing to Kapatagan. Travel time takes 1 hour (100/fare/pax). Then, from Kapatagan, transfer to another Habal-habal going to Sito Paradise. Traveling time: 30minutes (til major jump off)

From exit point: Take a habal-habal (75/fare/pax) going to Kidapawan City (Bus/Transport terminal), Take a V-hire or bus bound back to Davao City.

ITINERARY
I don’t post any detailed itinerary because I believe such should be experienced by nobody else but you, yourself. General time frame in every stops are shown in the transportation and hiking part of the article.