Hiking Talks #17: Day hike to Osmeña Peak | Cebu

MINOR CLIMB| Osmeña peak which is widely located at the Mantalungon mountain range, is unique from other mountain ranges in the Philippines. Why so?..it is because of its unique multiple jagged hills that are wonderfully grouped together. The highest of these hills is the Osmeña Peak itself, named after the reknowned Osmeña clan in Cebu.

At a quick glance, Mantalungon range may seem similar to the Chocolate Hills of Bohol. However, what sets it apart is the fact that the jagged hills of the ranges are much thinner, much edgy or sharp-pointed, and is far more rough.

What's more exhilarating is once you reach the peak, you get to have a 360-degree view of the southwestern coastline of Cebu. You can even see the province of Negros Oriental, and if you are keen enough, even get a sight of Mt. Kanlaon in Negros in a very clear sky.

HIKING

The trek to Osmeña peak is more of relaxing than strenuous. It will only take approximately 20-30 if one would start from the trail head. One could also do a more intense hike starting off from Mantalungon market. This covers a hiking time not less than 2 hours passing through the main road, farm land and community houses.

Per own experience, our trek started at 0930H. A little boy of 8 named,“Alvin” welcomed us with his shy yet warm smile. He offered to guide us up. Even though the trail seemed short and not that complicated, we agreed to let Alvin go with us, since he just ask 50pesos for the guide fee.. and much more, WE fell under his charm. While walking along the trail, we can't help but stop to take a closer look at noticeably wild yellow flowers called“otot-otot” and the multicolored flower said to be named as“ering-ering” (visayan dialect).

The trek may be a bit long but once we have reach the Osmeña Peak, surely, a 360-degree view of the range have captivated our eyes that includes the southwestern coastline of Cebu, and even the province of Negros Oriental. The peak stands approximately 1,013 meters above sea level making it the highest peak in the island of Cebu.

Osmeña Peak and the Mantalungon range are accessible to hikers and mountaineers all-year -round but it is best to climb the peak in the first half of the year since the rainy season tend to fall from June to October. During such time, the peak and mountain ranges more likely become wet and slippery making treking more arduous and risky,for that matter.

Every mountain has a unique experience to give. I highly recommend you trek Osmeña Peak and discover the beauty of the nature. Once you get to the peak, you can definitely exclaim,.."surely,God is the master artist of all"

TRANSPORTATION
One could take the buses traveling southward bound to Oslob or Bato via Dalaguete (Cebu South Bus Terminal) and get off at the Dalaguete junction going up to Mantalungon. Dalaguete is about 85 kilometers from Cebu City and is about 2 hours ride by bus. When you reach Dalaguete, you can take a Habal-habal that will take you up to Mantalungon until into the trailhead (30mins.traveling time).

Thank's to RV and Tom my brother for hiking with me.

TRIVIA
The Utanon Festival, a celebration of dance and music as thanksgiving for the good harvest of Mantalungon. “Utanon” is the Cebuano word for vegetables. Mantalungon is famous as the "Summer Capital of Cebu" because it is 700 to 800 meters above sea level giving it a pleasant climate all year round. The high elevation has made the village an ideal place to grow flowers, vegetables and other high-value crops, which gives Mantalungon the reputation of being the "Vegetable basket of Cebu."