Bakun Trio

One of the hidden gems in the Cordillera region, "Bakun Trio" refers to the three mesmerizing mountains which are situated in the town of Bakun, Benguet and envelopes the Poblacion that also serves as the jump-off point for the three.

Each mountain has a distinct characteristic, trail class, surrounding view and level of difficulty. It is composed of Mt. Lubo which is the highest among the three and is also the easiest to climb. Mt. Tenglawan has the longest trail to reach the summit with it's famous "Carrot Peak", it also have Limatiks in some parts of the trail.  And last but not the least is Mt. Kabunian which is believed to be the home of god "Kabunyan" and for me, this is the most challenging among the three. It requires some serious rock scrambling that resembles "Batangan" of Kibungan making it not suitable for the faint-hearted.

I will blog my detailed write-up for Tenglawan, Kabunian and Lubo next month.

Mt. Lubo (Patulok)

Mt. Kabunian

Mt. Tenglawan

Photo Credits:  Ron Rondubio and Kiko San Luis

***I joined an event organized by Emil Gannod of Laqbai

Naambon Falls

My visit to Naambon Falls was a side-trip from Team Una's: "Summit to Sea" event from the nearby Mt. Daguldol which is located in San Juan, Batangas. I was surprised to know that it is a hidden gem consists of more than a 120 ft. cascade composed of 3 tiered drop through rocks and boulders that feeds a small catch basin. 

The trail that leads to the falls includes a 400 ft. descent from Mt. Daguldol's trail (turn right) where one has to pass through a forested and slippery trail for approximately 30 minutes. From there on, one will reach a stream and a series of boulders which then leads to "Naambon Falls". According to the locals, during summer the falls has hardly any water, thus it was named "Naambon" because the drop during that season is comparable to a drizzle.

***Naambon Falls is actually part of  Team Una's Summit to Sea event which also includes Mt. Daguldol hike and swimming in San Juan Beach.

Mt. Talamitan

Named after the "Talamitan" trees that used to grow in it's mountain slopes. Mt. Talamitan is believed to be a dormant volcano and is usually hike together with the neighboring Mt.Apayang for a twin hike. The first part of the trail passes through a woodland which then passes an open field for grazing cows and goats. Then the last part of the trail is consists of lush grassy fields composed of cogon trails consisting of at least 300 ft. assault to reach the summit.

It has an altitude of 2040 feet above sea level with almost 1400 ft. altitude gain from the jump off to the summit. Considered to be an easy hike which is perfect for beginners but then again, hikers are still encouraged to be cautious as some parts of the trail are steep (almost 60 degrees) and becomes slippery during rainy season. Thus, precaution must be observed at all times.

Since there are no trees present along the mountain trail, one will have to deal with the scorching heat of the sun. It also lacks the cool breeze and strong gushed of wind compared to Mt Batulao, thus it is quite exhausting most especially during the summer season. Nonetheless, the view from the summit is 360 degrees panoramic view of Batangas and Cavite, making it one of the best scenic view near the Metro.

How to Get There:

1. Ride a bus bound for Nasugbu, Batangas.

2. Alight in Km. 83 (Brgy. Aga) which is the jump off/registration area.

3. Secure a guide.

***I've visited Mt. Talamitan twice, the first one was a solo hike and my second hike were I joined an event organized by Mark Anthony Odang of Manlalakbay Mountaineers.

Guide: Haries Yu 09360245124