Night Trekking, Limatik & Rain in Mt. Halcon
After the successful induction climb at Mt. Apo, AMCI prepared for the next induction climb of BMC 1997. Members and inductees readied themselves for Mt. Halcon.
The climb team made use of the Mayabig - Lantuyang route led by Jay de Guzman.
There were 18 AMCI members (10 from AMCI Batch 1997) and 8 inductees (7 from AMCI Batch 1997 and 1 from AMCI Batch 1996) divided into 3 groups, i.e., Night Shift, San Pedro and Hataw.
Are you curious about the names of the 3 groups? The Night Shift group did a lot of night trekking in Mt. Halcon. On the average, they trekked 2 hours at night for 4 days. All members of the San Pedro group reside in San Pedro, Laguna. While the Hataw group had a reputation of trekking non-stop.
DAY 1 November 27, 1997
The climb team arrived early at the pier of Calapan, Oriental Mindoro, and had an hour more of sleep. Cox Ordoña and Eric de Guiño, the advance party, arrived shortly afterwards.
We had fairly good weather with overcast skies and occasional rain showers (parang PAGASA), typical Mt. Halcon weather as Jay would put it.
Yas and Bea competed with one another as to who can shriek the loudest. You'll know they were under limatik attack whenever a primordial screech fills the air.
We didn't take the trail leading to the Mayabig - Lantuyang junction. Instead, we used a bypass trail which was easier to trek on. We had lunch along a stream and met a family of Mangyans. Fifteen minutes into our lunch break, Bal Alonzo arrived huffing and puffing glad to have finally caught up with us.
It was almost nightfall by the time the Night Shift group arrived at the last clearing before the final stretch to the Aplaya campsite. At this point Jay gave out the instruction, "Ready your flashlight and extra batteries." An instruction that will be given and heard, time and again throughout the climb.
As we started our night trek, it got colder and the rain began to fall. This further conjured an eerie and bleak ambience for the Night Shift group.
Lester was visibly exhausted so Eric and Jay took turns in bringing his backpack. Both men were unmindful of the fact that they were carrying heavy backpacks themselves.
We arrived at the first clearing of Aplaya after what seemed to be an eternity of night trekking. The group was weary, wet, cold and hungry, and the campsite was still an hour away. Furthermore, Lester was already feverish. Jay decided to set up camp.
Setting up camp at night and under the rain was a new experience for AMCI Batch 1997. Meanwhile, the Hataw and San Pedro groups have set up camp at Aplaya instead of proceeding to the Dulangan River campsite.
DAY 2 November 28, 1997
The Night Shift group was greeted by a windy, cold, foggy and rainy morning. It was difficult to get out of the tents and prepare for trekking.
Eager to be reunited with the rest of the team, we just had hot chocolate and trail food for breakfast. Lester was feeling better but it was still a question whether he could continue on or not. It was a slow start for most of us.
We were happy to see other members of the climb team waiting for us at the Aplaya campsite. Mar, Edward, Jimmy and Chard told us the others have already gone down to the Dulangan River campsite where the team will regroup.
Jhenda, Maan and the others were preparing food when we arrived at Dulangan River. Jay discussed with Mar, Bal, Anthony and Rhea the itinerary and plan for the day: San Pedro and Hataw groups will go for the summit but will have Sablayan as its fallback campsite. The Night Shift group will aim for Sablayan, but will set up a bivouac in the forest after Durungawan if necessary. The induction will be conducted the following morning.
After having our combined dinner (for Day 1), breakfast and lunch (for Day 2), we were on our way.
We went down a cliff by clinging and stepping on roots and rocks, immersed ourselves in the cold waters of Dulangan River, scaled a collapsed section of the trail using a rope and a make shift ladder, crossed a stream and two more rivers, and trekked through narrow and slippery trail made more difficult by protruding bamboo shoots. Whew! Just talking about it makes me feel tired!
Are we there yet? No! After going through that difficult trail, it only got us as far as the Big Waterfalls, the last water source. It was already 5:00PM and as we were loading up our containers with water Jay smiled and said, "Ready your flashlight and extra batteries."
Now if you think the worst was over think again! Consider this scenario: we've been trekking for almost the whole day, stopped to load up with water (at least 3 liters), cooled down somewhat, hungry, tired, darkness is once again upon us and we had to navigate through a VERY steep trail!
Jay was aware of all these and was very much concerned about the group. Instead of pushing further, he decided to set up camp at Durungawan. It was only after we have set up our tents that the rain started to fall. We were able to prepare dinner this time, and we also had a chance to share our experiences during the past two days.
The Hataw and San Pedro groups, on the other hand, had set up their camp at Sablayan. Jhenda and Jig-jig were the last people to arrive at Sablayan. The duo did some night trekking of their own under heavy rain.
DAY 3 November 29, 1997
A beautiful morning greeted us! We eagerly prepared for our assault of the summit which was only about four hours away. We were excited and looking forward to the induction rites. We were greeted by the rest of the team at Sablayan and after a few minutes of rest, we were finally on our way to Sialdang, the summit of Mt. Halcon.
The wind was blowing hard, it was very cold and we were blanketed with a thick fog as we started our ascent, visibility was almost zero. It wasn't long before we reached the wooden ladder leading to the summit ridge. Climbing that ten-foot ladder proved to be a frightening experience to some of us. Imagine climbing a wooden ladder coming off a very small base with the wind blowing hard; and for each slow and careful step you could hear it creak! We could see the tree tops of the thick forest below us and it sent shivers down our spine.
After the ladder we found ourselves trekking along the "knife's edge," 'di naman pala nakakatakot eh! But what Jay told us about it was true, i.e., to our right was a sheer precipice and to our left was a sloping terrain. We could imagine how difficult it would be to trek on this portion of the summit ridge under heavy rain and strong winds. Buti na lang! We then saw Jay stopping in the middle of the trail; he got a small piece of rock, put it on a small pile and started to pray. He later told us that it was the spot where a mountaineer (Neptali Lazaro) died from exposure a few years back. We also stayed for a few minutes and said our prayers for our departed comrade.
A few meters before the summit, the fog lifted and we were greeted with blue skies! It was an awesome view and the feeling was simply exhilarating. Jay congratulated everyone as they stepped unto the summit. He wasn't speaking but I know that deep inside he was very happy and proud that we reached the summit of Mt. Halcon.
Tears were shed during the induction rites. Congratulation to Bea Cabrera, Chard de la Fuente, Maan Escandor, Lester Feliciano, Jhenda Hernandez, Yas Martelino, Dojo Tia and Jimmy Sy-Quia! Welcome to AMCI!
But the climb wasn't over yet. After some more picture taking, we were on our way back to our respective camps.
Jay and Chard arrived first at our camp. Jay started breaking up camp while Chard cooked some food for the group. Later on the San Pedro and Hataw groups arrived at Durungawan. They continued with their descent after resting for a few minutes while our group stayed behind and had our breakfast and lunch.
During the cooking session, the stove being used by Chard toppled over and he was scalded with hot cooking oil. Eric and Jhenda assisted Chard in applying first aid on his injury. We were told that we’ll be doing some night trekking again. By this time we were already accustomed to it and simply nodded as we prepared to leave for the Aplaya campsite.
We've just crossed Mag-asawang Ilog when the last speck of daylight faded. The all too familiar instruction "Ready your flashlight and extra batteries," once again filled the air.
It was the longest night trekking we've done in three days. Finally, we've reached Dulangan River. Eric, Edwin and Jay crossed first to set up the route across the river. Afterwards, they assisted the rest of the group. Chard was carried by Jay and Eric so that his injured leg won't get soaked in the river. It was almost 10:00PM and the group was exhausted, Jay told us that we’ll be setting up camp at the Dulangan River campsite.
A few minutes before our campsite, Jay stopped and decided to wait for Lester, Bea, Edwin, Bong and Eric. Ten minutes have elapsed before he saw a lone figure making its way down the stream, it was Lester! Jay asked him about Bea and the others. Lester replied in short gasps, "Malayo pa sila." Jay began to worry. He knew that it shouldn't take them that long to climb the cliff and make their way towards the campsite. He took off his backpack, told Lester to wait for him and went back for the others. A few meters to the edge of the cliff he met Bong followed by Eric, Bea and Edwin. Bong told Jay that coming up the cliff from the river, they continued to push upward instead of getting on the trail to the right.
By the time we reached the campsite, Bea was already sluggish and wasn't responding to simple instructions given to her by Lester and Jay. She was crying, appeared to be dazed and was shivering. Jay took off her backpack, got her into the tent and instructed Lester to change her wet clothing, and to make her warm and comfortable. Meanwhile Edwin, Zar, Dojo and Chard prepared dinner.
Bea's condition improved later in the evening and Jay was able to sleep.
DAY 4 November 30, 1997
The continuous rain caused the river to swell. It was difficult to get up and prepare breakfast and lunch. Jay discussed the itinerary and plan for the day: Dojo and Eric will go ahead and try to catch up with the Hataw and San Pedro groups. They will inform them that our group will be late in going down to Lantuyang, and all those returning to Manila can leave without us. If they can't catch up with the others, or they are uncertain of the trail, they will stop and wait for us.
Soon enough we were on our way to Lantuyang. It was a long, steep, slow climb from Dulangan River to Aplaya. Jay caught up with Eric, Dojo, Jhenda and Chard around 1:00PM; they have stopped for lunch. Eric and Dojo were instructed to go ahead after Jay described to them the trail to Lantuyang. Zar and the others arrived shortly afterwards, and we had our fill of spaghetti and juice. At this point, our group was divided into four, i.e., Dojo - Eric, Jhenda - Chard, Jay - Maan and Zar - et al.
As we got nearer Lantuyang, the trail got more difficult! There were limatiks everywhere, thick vegetation spilling over the long, steep, narrow and muddy trail. Is there no end to this? What am I doing here?
It was already late in the afternoon and we could see houses from a distance Jay told us that it will take another 2 or 3 hours before we arrive at Lantuyang. As he would put it, "So near yet so far."
Again, the instruction "Ready your flashlight and extra batteries" was given out.
Jhenda, Maan and Jay arrived at Lantuyang around 8:00PM. They were welcomed by Dojo, Eric and Chard who arrived before nightfall. Chard arranged for a place where we could spend the night. They rested and waited for the others. Two hours passed, Jay told Chard to accompany Maan and Jhenda to his friend's house so that they can sleep comfortably. After waiting for another hour Eric, Dojo and Jay transferred to a roofed structure where they spent the night.
By this time, Zar and the others have set up a bivouac about 2 hours away from Lantuyang. Their water load was low and had to practice water discipline unaware that they have camped just a few meters away from a stream.
DAY 5 December 01, 1997
Jay, Dojo and Eric went back for the others after instructing Jhenda and Maan to prepare food. They asked 3 Mangyans for help unaware that Zar and the others were only half an hour away.
After an hour of trekking to Lantuyang our group was complete once more. We were happy to see each other and together we feasted on the food Jhenda and Maan prepared.
We called up our families, employers and friends to tell them we made it! Jay called up Cristie Arboleda, AMCI's treasurer, and told her what happened.
We then proceeded to Sabang in Puerto Galera where we met Omeng, Rocky and Gerry.
We were jubilant and very proud of our accomplishment. And now that it was over, I can't help but think of the responsibility that Jay had assumed in leading this climb. He was very patient with us. He managed to bring out the best in all of us, assisted and guided us through difficulties, and gave us the courage and strength to face our fears. When I found out that it was his ninth climb to Mt. Halcon, I asked him why he kept coming back. He said, "Climbing it makes me a better and stronger individual, and I hope it will do the same for all of you." And he added, "We made it because we wanted it to happen. We found strength in each other, never gave up on one another, and had strong faith in God." Amen. -- Anonymous
~ Carpe Diem ~
The climb team made use of the Mayabig - Lantuyang route led by Jay de Guzman.
There were 18 AMCI members (10 from AMCI Batch 1997) and 8 inductees (7 from AMCI Batch 1997 and 1 from AMCI Batch 1996) divided into 3 groups, i.e., Night Shift, San Pedro and Hataw.
Are you curious about the names of the 3 groups? The Night Shift group did a lot of night trekking in Mt. Halcon. On the average, they trekked 2 hours at night for 4 days. All members of the San Pedro group reside in San Pedro, Laguna. While the Hataw group had a reputation of trekking non-stop.
DAY 1 November 27, 1997
The climb team arrived early at the pier of Calapan, Oriental Mindoro, and had an hour more of sleep. Cox Ordoña and Eric de Guiño, the advance party, arrived shortly afterwards.
We had fairly good weather with overcast skies and occasional rain showers (parang PAGASA), typical Mt. Halcon weather as Jay would put it.
Yas and Bea competed with one another as to who can shriek the loudest. You'll know they were under limatik attack whenever a primordial screech fills the air.
We didn't take the trail leading to the Mayabig - Lantuyang junction. Instead, we used a bypass trail which was easier to trek on. We had lunch along a stream and met a family of Mangyans. Fifteen minutes into our lunch break, Bal Alonzo arrived huffing and puffing glad to have finally caught up with us.
It was almost nightfall by the time the Night Shift group arrived at the last clearing before the final stretch to the Aplaya campsite. At this point Jay gave out the instruction, "Ready your flashlight and extra batteries." An instruction that will be given and heard, time and again throughout the climb.
As we started our night trek, it got colder and the rain began to fall. This further conjured an eerie and bleak ambience for the Night Shift group.
Lester was visibly exhausted so Eric and Jay took turns in bringing his backpack. Both men were unmindful of the fact that they were carrying heavy backpacks themselves.
We arrived at the first clearing of Aplaya after what seemed to be an eternity of night trekking. The group was weary, wet, cold and hungry, and the campsite was still an hour away. Furthermore, Lester was already feverish. Jay decided to set up camp.
Setting up camp at night and under the rain was a new experience for AMCI Batch 1997. Meanwhile, the Hataw and San Pedro groups have set up camp at Aplaya instead of proceeding to the Dulangan River campsite.
DAY 2 November 28, 1997
The Night Shift group was greeted by a windy, cold, foggy and rainy morning. It was difficult to get out of the tents and prepare for trekking.
Eager to be reunited with the rest of the team, we just had hot chocolate and trail food for breakfast. Lester was feeling better but it was still a question whether he could continue on or not. It was a slow start for most of us.
We were happy to see other members of the climb team waiting for us at the Aplaya campsite. Mar, Edward, Jimmy and Chard told us the others have already gone down to the Dulangan River campsite where the team will regroup.
Jhenda, Maan and the others were preparing food when we arrived at Dulangan River. Jay discussed with Mar, Bal, Anthony and Rhea the itinerary and plan for the day: San Pedro and Hataw groups will go for the summit but will have Sablayan as its fallback campsite. The Night Shift group will aim for Sablayan, but will set up a bivouac in the forest after Durungawan if necessary. The induction will be conducted the following morning.
After having our combined dinner (for Day 1), breakfast and lunch (for Day 2), we were on our way.
We went down a cliff by clinging and stepping on roots and rocks, immersed ourselves in the cold waters of Dulangan River, scaled a collapsed section of the trail using a rope and a make shift ladder, crossed a stream and two more rivers, and trekked through narrow and slippery trail made more difficult by protruding bamboo shoots. Whew! Just talking about it makes me feel tired!
Are we there yet? No! After going through that difficult trail, it only got us as far as the Big Waterfalls, the last water source. It was already 5:00PM and as we were loading up our containers with water Jay smiled and said, "Ready your flashlight and extra batteries."
Now if you think the worst was over think again! Consider this scenario: we've been trekking for almost the whole day, stopped to load up with water (at least 3 liters), cooled down somewhat, hungry, tired, darkness is once again upon us and we had to navigate through a VERY steep trail!
Jay was aware of all these and was very much concerned about the group. Instead of pushing further, he decided to set up camp at Durungawan. It was only after we have set up our tents that the rain started to fall. We were able to prepare dinner this time, and we also had a chance to share our experiences during the past two days.
The Hataw and San Pedro groups, on the other hand, had set up their camp at Sablayan. Jhenda and Jig-jig were the last people to arrive at Sablayan. The duo did some night trekking of their own under heavy rain.
DAY 3 November 29, 1997
A beautiful morning greeted us! We eagerly prepared for our assault of the summit which was only about four hours away. We were excited and looking forward to the induction rites. We were greeted by the rest of the team at Sablayan and after a few minutes of rest, we were finally on our way to Sialdang, the summit of Mt. Halcon.
The wind was blowing hard, it was very cold and we were blanketed with a thick fog as we started our ascent, visibility was almost zero. It wasn't long before we reached the wooden ladder leading to the summit ridge. Climbing that ten-foot ladder proved to be a frightening experience to some of us. Imagine climbing a wooden ladder coming off a very small base with the wind blowing hard; and for each slow and careful step you could hear it creak! We could see the tree tops of the thick forest below us and it sent shivers down our spine.
After the ladder we found ourselves trekking along the "knife's edge," 'di naman pala nakakatakot eh! But what Jay told us about it was true, i.e., to our right was a sheer precipice and to our left was a sloping terrain. We could imagine how difficult it would be to trek on this portion of the summit ridge under heavy rain and strong winds. Buti na lang! We then saw Jay stopping in the middle of the trail; he got a small piece of rock, put it on a small pile and started to pray. He later told us that it was the spot where a mountaineer (Neptali Lazaro) died from exposure a few years back. We also stayed for a few minutes and said our prayers for our departed comrade.
A few meters before the summit, the fog lifted and we were greeted with blue skies! It was an awesome view and the feeling was simply exhilarating. Jay congratulated everyone as they stepped unto the summit. He wasn't speaking but I know that deep inside he was very happy and proud that we reached the summit of Mt. Halcon.
Tears were shed during the induction rites. Congratulation to Bea Cabrera, Chard de la Fuente, Maan Escandor, Lester Feliciano, Jhenda Hernandez, Yas Martelino, Dojo Tia and Jimmy Sy-Quia! Welcome to AMCI!
But the climb wasn't over yet. After some more picture taking, we were on our way back to our respective camps.
Jay and Chard arrived first at our camp. Jay started breaking up camp while Chard cooked some food for the group. Later on the San Pedro and Hataw groups arrived at Durungawan. They continued with their descent after resting for a few minutes while our group stayed behind and had our breakfast and lunch.
During the cooking session, the stove being used by Chard toppled over and he was scalded with hot cooking oil. Eric and Jhenda assisted Chard in applying first aid on his injury. We were told that we’ll be doing some night trekking again. By this time we were already accustomed to it and simply nodded as we prepared to leave for the Aplaya campsite.
We've just crossed Mag-asawang Ilog when the last speck of daylight faded. The all too familiar instruction "Ready your flashlight and extra batteries," once again filled the air.
It was the longest night trekking we've done in three days. Finally, we've reached Dulangan River. Eric, Edwin and Jay crossed first to set up the route across the river. Afterwards, they assisted the rest of the group. Chard was carried by Jay and Eric so that his injured leg won't get soaked in the river. It was almost 10:00PM and the group was exhausted, Jay told us that we’ll be setting up camp at the Dulangan River campsite.
A few minutes before our campsite, Jay stopped and decided to wait for Lester, Bea, Edwin, Bong and Eric. Ten minutes have elapsed before he saw a lone figure making its way down the stream, it was Lester! Jay asked him about Bea and the others. Lester replied in short gasps, "Malayo pa sila." Jay began to worry. He knew that it shouldn't take them that long to climb the cliff and make their way towards the campsite. He took off his backpack, told Lester to wait for him and went back for the others. A few meters to the edge of the cliff he met Bong followed by Eric, Bea and Edwin. Bong told Jay that coming up the cliff from the river, they continued to push upward instead of getting on the trail to the right.
By the time we reached the campsite, Bea was already sluggish and wasn't responding to simple instructions given to her by Lester and Jay. She was crying, appeared to be dazed and was shivering. Jay took off her backpack, got her into the tent and instructed Lester to change her wet clothing, and to make her warm and comfortable. Meanwhile Edwin, Zar, Dojo and Chard prepared dinner.
Bea's condition improved later in the evening and Jay was able to sleep.
DAY 4 November 30, 1997
The continuous rain caused the river to swell. It was difficult to get up and prepare breakfast and lunch. Jay discussed the itinerary and plan for the day: Dojo and Eric will go ahead and try to catch up with the Hataw and San Pedro groups. They will inform them that our group will be late in going down to Lantuyang, and all those returning to Manila can leave without us. If they can't catch up with the others, or they are uncertain of the trail, they will stop and wait for us.
Soon enough we were on our way to Lantuyang. It was a long, steep, slow climb from Dulangan River to Aplaya. Jay caught up with Eric, Dojo, Jhenda and Chard around 1:00PM; they have stopped for lunch. Eric and Dojo were instructed to go ahead after Jay described to them the trail to Lantuyang. Zar and the others arrived shortly afterwards, and we had our fill of spaghetti and juice. At this point, our group was divided into four, i.e., Dojo - Eric, Jhenda - Chard, Jay - Maan and Zar - et al.
As we got nearer Lantuyang, the trail got more difficult! There were limatiks everywhere, thick vegetation spilling over the long, steep, narrow and muddy trail. Is there no end to this? What am I doing here?
It was already late in the afternoon and we could see houses from a distance Jay told us that it will take another 2 or 3 hours before we arrive at Lantuyang. As he would put it, "So near yet so far."
Again, the instruction "Ready your flashlight and extra batteries" was given out.
Jhenda, Maan and Jay arrived at Lantuyang around 8:00PM. They were welcomed by Dojo, Eric and Chard who arrived before nightfall. Chard arranged for a place where we could spend the night. They rested and waited for the others. Two hours passed, Jay told Chard to accompany Maan and Jhenda to his friend's house so that they can sleep comfortably. After waiting for another hour Eric, Dojo and Jay transferred to a roofed structure where they spent the night.
By this time, Zar and the others have set up a bivouac about 2 hours away from Lantuyang. Their water load was low and had to practice water discipline unaware that they have camped just a few meters away from a stream.
DAY 5 December 01, 1997
Jay, Dojo and Eric went back for the others after instructing Jhenda and Maan to prepare food. They asked 3 Mangyans for help unaware that Zar and the others were only half an hour away.
After an hour of trekking to Lantuyang our group was complete once more. We were happy to see each other and together we feasted on the food Jhenda and Maan prepared.
We called up our families, employers and friends to tell them we made it! Jay called up Cristie Arboleda, AMCI's treasurer, and told her what happened.
We then proceeded to Sabang in Puerto Galera where we met Omeng, Rocky and Gerry.
We were jubilant and very proud of our accomplishment. And now that it was over, I can't help but think of the responsibility that Jay had assumed in leading this climb. He was very patient with us. He managed to bring out the best in all of us, assisted and guided us through difficulties, and gave us the courage and strength to face our fears. When I found out that it was his ninth climb to Mt. Halcon, I asked him why he kept coming back. He said, "Climbing it makes me a better and stronger individual, and I hope it will do the same for all of you." And he added, "We made it because we wanted it to happen. We found strength in each other, never gave up on one another, and had strong faith in God." Amen. -- Anonymous
~ Carpe Diem ~