Solo Cross Country Cycling and Trekking
Manabo, a favorite destination of
outdoor enthusiasts, is regarded by mountaineers as “the mountain for
beginners." Situated in Sto. Tomas, adventurers from all over Calabarzon,
Metro Manila, and Central Luzon visit this
mountain on weekends and holidays.
Like Malipunyo, Bagwis is located in Lipa. Though the most imposing, Bagwis is the least climbed of the three mountains. Known to locals as Susong Dalaga and dubbed by mountaineers as Malarayat’sMatterhorn , one of its sides seems to stand at a 90
degree angle when viewed from a certain location. Bagwis’ less popular
disposition may have been due to the difficult ascent that its sharp slopes
offer the less experienced climbers. This may also be due to the presence of
boho plants that partially block the trail and irritate with trichomes the skin
and eyes of climbers.
After three failed attempts that started in 2005, I finally reached the highest point of Malipunyo just last month. In the case of Manabo, I have been its constant visitor ever since I established the Ugnayan Kalikasan Reforestation Project way back 2008 though I first touched summit earlier in 2004. Thus, the remaining mountain to be conquered was Bagwis BUT not until I reached its summit last Sunday October 28, 2012.
I started pedaling from Canlubang toward Lipa early in the morning that day. Upon reaching the base of the mountain, I left my bike to local friends and hit summit more or less two hours after. It took me about an hour moving down the slopes.
Like Malipunyo, Bagwis is located in Lipa. Though the most imposing, Bagwis is the least climbed of the three mountains. Known to locals as Susong Dalaga and dubbed by mountaineers as Malarayat’s
After three failed attempts that started in 2005, I finally reached the highest point of Malipunyo just last month. In the case of Manabo, I have been its constant visitor ever since I established the Ugnayan Kalikasan Reforestation Project way back 2008 though I first touched summit earlier in 2004. Thus, the remaining mountain to be conquered was Bagwis BUT not until I reached its summit last Sunday October 28, 2012.
I started pedaling from Canlubang toward Lipa early in the morning that day. Upon reaching the base of the mountain, I left my bike to local friends and hit summit more or less two hours after. It took me about an hour moving down the slopes.
On
my way home, I pedaled thru the upland geothermal barangay of Bitin to reach Los Baños
and, eventually, Calamba (but not before having a flat tire!). I arrived home
few hours before sundown.
All thanks to the Supreme Spirit who guides and keeps us all safe all the time!
