Hiking Talks #04: A short hike to Manabu Peak ~ Mt.Manabu

MINOR CLIMB| Manabu is the abbreviation of “Mataas na Bundok”, and it is one of the three major peaks of the Malipunyo Mountain Range. The other two are the Malipunyo Peak and Susong Dalaga peak (Mt.Malarayat). 

The highest point of the Manabu is marked with a white cross, and it takes two hours or less to climb. The vast grass which makes the area appear like a lawn park covers the peak area and at the campsite too. Another thing that adds up to its beauty is that during summer, wild berries grow around and within the peak. In addition, there are also flowering plants and shrubs anywhere you look.

On a clear day, while taking a stand at the peak, you can widely view Malipunyo Mountain Range, Mt. Maculot, Mt. Makiling, Cristobal and even Mt.Banahaw.

Manabu peak is one of the most accessible and probably the easiest mountain to hike from the Metro. This mountain stands at the Town of Sto.Tomas, Batangas. The dialect used among the locales is “Batangeuno” and it is good to listen to and talk with Batangeunos. They have this certain distinct accent which the famous Filipino actor, Leo Martinez(s) holds so proud of("Ala ehh..)

The accessible, friendly short trail and the beautiful rendezvous that makes it easy to trek thus makes Manabu Peak a great and enjoyable first engagement for hikers who are yet newbies.


HIKING
The trek starts at “SULOK” Brgy. Sta. Cruz where you may log in and register. Follow the path where you can see a Cemented water tank. Along the trail you would notice trail signs with trail map provided to help you distinguish the location you may want to stop by as well as the distance for the next mark. Remember that a tour guide here is not necessary as you may guide yourself with the trail map available there in.

There is a slight river crossing on the first part of the trail and the path you are trekking is the same path which locales used on a regular basis and as they go about with their farming and the like. Hence, a couple of house you may pass through. After an hour of trekking you can drop by and relax at Mang Pirying's place and enjoy some resting time talking with him. This is the last house along the trail and an hour more going up to the peak.

From thence , you will be trekking into the short forest. It is beautiful to see the dry leaves falling from the tall trees and are scattered along the trail specially during months approaching summer. The forest is cool and pleasant that you will never notice the time that after 45 minutes of trailing into the forest, you can already reach the open area that leads to the campsite and quite a bit more steps, the white cross which indicates that you have reached Manabu Peak is within reach.

On your way down, you may just descend continuously following the trail from the peak. The next stop is Station 5m (water source) where you can have a drink of the natural fresh water. Now that's what "Nature's Spring" is! Then, continue to trod that trail as it will lead you back to the short forest and the trail continues going back to the Trail Head- jump off.

As for me, a relaxing short hike has been completed! Find yours. Trek Manabu peak.


DETAILS
Sto. Tomas, Batangas
Jump off point| Sulok, Brgy. Sta Cruz, Sto. Tomas
LLA| 13.9777°, 121.2413°,
760 MASL
Days required - Hours to summit| 1 day - 1-2 hours
Specs| Minor climb, Difficulty 2/9, Trail class 1-2


TRANSPORTATION
Manabu peak is most accessible from Manila. Take service bus bound to Lipa, Batangas (traveling time 1.5- 2 hours). From the terminal, ride a passenger multicab (passing the same direction in the highway) and stop at the Fiesta Mall crossing. Walk a few steps and the take a tricycle going to Brgy. Sta. Cruz, (100php or less is a reasonable fare, don’t negotiate beyond that)

ITINERARY
I don’t post a detailed itinerary because I believe your iti is for you to make and experience. Refer on time frames in the article.