Mt. Apo: Conquering Philippine’s Highest, Reaching Our Soul’s Deepest

Featuring our on the trail moments (simple and grand) --- all I don’t want to consign to oblivion, for the rest of my life.

Team Cebu. Photo was taken at Lake Venado Camp Site. Starring Mt. Apo at the back. | Photo credits to @commoncent93

To all my friends who asked how this whole climb feels like and yet I failed to answer in full details, this shall be my way of sharing our every step, all raw and unfiltered happenings of climbing Mt. Apo – the Grandfather of Philippine Mountains.

Who would have thought that we'll be able to set foot on this 10, 311 Ft. above sea level elevation height. *Wooh! Waves a flag* Never did I imagine that I'll be climbing great peaks and tremendous summits in my life at this present. I've only seen this view on our history books way back in Grade School and answered: "Bundok Apo" - when asked what's the highest mountain of the Philippines - on test papers during exams. But now, I am in the picture with an up-close and personal climb experience. This is so beyond blessed, truly!



Climbing Philippines' Highest Pinnacle
Sta. Cruz - Kidapawan Traverse

Interlude: I climb mountains not just to chase summits, but to chase stories as well. And at this point, I'll be telling the story of an empowered team from Cebu, who with all the courage, conquered the Philippine's highest and at the same time, reached their soul's deepest. With me are my "Padidit" friends: Shiekinah Gay (event organizer), Francis Paul (@wander_paul), Chiarra (@chiarrasebial), J-Ann (@j.annzeparadox), Cent (@commoncent93) and Gerald (@beachtarzan) - together with Carol (@chronicles_of_carol), An Jurvel (@bayot_laagan) and Shandy (@hoboshan) - all whom I strongly believe, have their own potential to awaken and inspire a new generation of outdoor enthusiasts. And now, I'm giving my all to document our journey in reaching the highest point of the Philippines. 

P.S. This is not your typical "How to get to..." with sample itinerary and expenses blog.



That Golden Hour Feels

"You are my sunshine. My only sunshine. You make me happy when skies are grey."
- Elizabeth Mitchell

February 15, 2019, | Sunrise

DAY 01 | 02.15.19 
What a beautiful way to start this three-days exploration. Entering Davao's stratosphere, the sun in its glorious splendor, welcomed us with its rays wide open. I've experienced countless sunrise moments down below, and they're all pretty amazing. But this one up above the clouds? Is so rare and magical for me. Looks like Mr. Sun is with us on this journey too - its radiant glares are cheering us, shining its rays with an affirmation that we will all make it through.

Even if I sat on the center part of the row, still I was able to witness this unlikely sunrise view. Thankful that the seat next to me was not occupied, so I got that chance to move closer to the window and yea, took a nice photo, even with a sleeping Gerald on the window-seat. 

But before this magical scene ends, the sleeping Gerald finally woke up and was able to watch it too. Yaay! I don't know if the rest of the team saw this. Cent also never let this moment to pass by without having some pictures so, he handed over his phone. I hope I captured all right on that one. I got you, bro! 

Family Groufie | Tourism Office | Photo Credits to @j.annzeparadox

Since we booked a guide for this climb, he came to pick us up at Davao airport, drove down for like 2 hrs. from Davao City to Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur and stopped in front of the public market to have a quick breakfast. Then we hit the road again heading to the tourism office, processed the permit to climb and have our names registered, which took us for about an hour or more. From there, we headed our way to Kapatagan, Davao del Sur just in time for lunch and for some last-minute buying of essentials for this trek. 

That Unique Soup Bowl

Dipper? or Soup Bowl? You decide.

We had our lunch in one of Kapatagan's public restaurants. For whatever reason, the craze is real and the food seemed more interesting when served in a strange yet extraordinary serving bowl. I never saw something like this cool design in our place. 



That Bumpy Ride 

Buckle up aye! It's going to be a bumpy ride.

Regardless of the intense heat. | Photo Credits to @commoncent93

Our guide arranged our transportation going to the jump-off and found this heavy-duty big red truck to fit all 10 excited climbers. We have no idea how bumpy this ride could get. But we pretty much enjoyed this off-road experience and at the same time got some chills upon seeing how steep, rocky and inclined the path is. It is quite risky to ride at the back of an open-air big truck, having only the side rails to hold on to. But I guess everyone in the team is already accustomed to danger. So, this rocky road ride became fun and enjoyable.


Time to Hit the Trail

Family Picture at Sitio Colon | Photo Credits to @bayot_laagan

We arrived at the jump-off around noon and started to begin the hike under the heat of the sun. For the first part of the trek, our pacing was enough to make us catch our breaths. From the jump-off, we made our way through several farmlands and villages of Sibulan. We secured group porters at Sitio Colon and listened to a quick orientation with the person-in-charge of the village, followed by another short notice by our guide.

Sitio Tumpis 

When we were all set to go, we began hitting the trail again. We arrived at Sitio Tumpis - the last Sitio and water source before we can enter the forest line. We took a few minutes rest, filled up our empty water bottles and continued the trek.




Those Captivating Floras



We saw these one-of-a-kind flowers upon entering Sitio Tumpis. I'm not really into taking pictures of flowers before but I couldn't help to not notice these enticing higher life forms found along the trail. While taking shots, I remember a few of my loved ones back home who happen to have green thumbs, who surely loves to have these on their front yards.

 

Even if traces of biodiversity are less seen in high altitudes area, the existing kinds that we found are unique and overwhelming. This is also a great advantage if things are away from civilization, they can evolve and transform into a more stunning living creation. These beauties are the most vulnerable on this planet. They need protection too since they also play an important role in balancing the ecosystem. Pick them not.

That Stallion's Exhibition 

When you see it

So, this is why Cent, who was supposed to be at the lead team, waited for us (tail team) to arrive exactly at the spot where this horse was standing close. Yo horsy, do you really have to extend that to welcome us? *insert grin face*

"Open-minded ka ba?" | Photo Credits to @wander_paul

We've seen a lot of horses on this trail. But this one really stood out among the rest. We were all surprised of course. And laughed hilariously at what we saw. This kind of scene is rare. Well, for us who don't usually see horses every day. This horse did play a big part to make this Apo-journey more colorful. 

The people on the lead team saw the display on the picture above. Good thing Kuya Paul got his camera ready. While we, in the tail team, have only seen a bit shorter than that, long enough to stun our innocence. I am still wondering what caused it to erect and extend that long. We were the only ones on the trail, aside from the carabao nearby. Maybe it was really because of the carabao. Haha. 

"Welcome to Apo!", says this stallion.



Those Rolling Hills

Before entering the forest line, we hiked our way through rolling hills which offer views that can really set your soul at peace. 

It was also at this area where we happened to spot an ongoing forest fire in one of the hills from afar. The weather on that day was really hot and sunny. That's why. And it seemed like the locals were already accustomed to it. But still, it's quite alarming. And maybe somebody already reported it to the officials and rescue is on the way. Nevertheless, we continued making our one-foot step in front of the other.



That Forest Trail

Welcome to the home of different floras and faunas species - that jungle feels, aye! 

The trek under the scorching heat of the sun was finally over when we entered the forest line. Shade from the towering mossy green forest welcomed us. 

Even if the summit is now less than 10 km away, it would take us 4 hrs or more to reach it. The original plan was to camp for the rest of the night at White Sand which is more closer to the summit. But, during the orientation at Sitio Colan the brgy. officer told us that camping there is no longer advisable unless it's an emergency situation. So, it was decided to stop at Tinikaran instead. And after hours of tedious traversing in this widely high-ceilinged giant trees, we reached Tinikaran Camp Site 1 before the sky totally gets dark.


That In-the-Middle-of-the-Woods Camping

We reached Camp 1 seeing our group porters already preparing our food for dinner. From our group, they were the first ones to arrive here and they've found a pretty good spot where we can pitch our tents comfortably. In a not so distant area, we also saw other groups staying for the rest of the night. 

"Where's the trowel?" | Tinikaran Campsite 1

After pitching up the tents, we then change our clothes, put on some layering so we can still sleep comfortably regardless of the cold temperature. Layering is really necessary if you're planning to climb Apo. Remember, you are not Queen Elsa. So, the cold will really bother you anyway. And as much as I want to be like Olaf, I, unfortunately, found no warm hugs. Deym!

Family Picture at Campsite 1 | Photo Credits to @commoncent93

Day 02 | 02.16.19
We woke up at 6 a.m., made a quick moment with the trowel, had breakfast together, cracked some bully jokes at Cent (haha), managed to have our stomach full, filled up the empty water bottles at the water source and prepared ourselves for another toil of the day. All smiles for this team who are now ready to take some arduous trail. 


That Obstacle Trail

Talinis, is that you?

Gerald and J-Ann in Action | Photos from @commoncent93

We went through this Talinis-like obstacle trail going to the summit. I am thankful enough we've done the practice climb at Nacolon Peak, or else my knees will really give up and fall down. My mind was already set for this difficult kind of trail which really helped a lot to keep my pacing. All credits to the practice climbs and the thrice-a-week 5km run preparation. And to Shiek, who never failed to remind us from time to time to have a serious preparation. This is not a walk in the park.

Check out this blog for our Mt. Talinis climb last November 2018 http://bit.ly/32tgXrV

That Killer Pose

Gerald, Cent, J-Ann and I were on the lead team waiting for the rest of the group at Campsite 2. We found this elevated mini stage-like stone which looks IG-worthy and decided to take a pose while waiting for the others. 

It was not too long when they finally arrived and the time span was enough for us to have the longest possible time to rest. When Kuya Paul finally decided to get his camera, everyone got excited (the feels). So, we then took our chances and smile at the camera lens like AsNTM models - Tinikaran edition.

And the winner goes to the lovely gentle giant, Shandy Dope! *the crowd goes wild with loud cheers*

Shandy slaying Mt. Apo. You lit! | Photo Credits to @wander_paul

She's a natural! 

Check out Shandy's YouTube channel (hoboshan) and watch her vlog about this climb. Here's the link of the video http://bit.ly/2XGUoBm Don't forget to like and subscribe.


Her Waves of Laughter

We all have that one friend whose laughter can bring so much brightness even on our darkest days.

Chiarra Sebial | Photo Credits to @wander_paul

We were on the plane when the history of  "laser leggings" started. Credits to Cent's remaining innocence, I began noticing Chiarra's waves of laughter as it echoes on the plane. She has that chuckles and giggles that's really contagious. And it spreads all through to those who can hear it, making us all laugh too. 

From the plane to the van, to the restaurants we dined in, along-the-trail scenes, at the campsites, at the boulders, at the summit, at Samal Island, and even on our way back to Cebu - I can still hear her blast of laughter echoing.  

Thank You, Chiarra. You have no idea how much happiness you've brought to the team during this entire expedition. 

That Excitement Because of Boulders, Finally!

For true and exciting adventures, you need to get out of the house. 

Now, this is the real deal. This is what we've been preparing for. We stayed for a little while at the entrance to the Boulders to have family pictures, solo shots, and insta-worthy photos.

Family Picture | Mt. Apo Boulder Face | Photo ftom @wander_paul

This climb is really blessed with skillful individuals. Thank you, Kuya Paul, for these exquisite photos. Check out his IG feed (@wander_paul) for more pleasing and stunning nature photos on all his travels. He also made a video clip of this climb, search Paul Labiste and subscribe to his YouTube channel. Here's the link http://bit.ly/2LUxq2P

Enjoy watching!

Team Cebu | Entrance to Boulders | Photo from @wander_paul

We live to make you wonder how we made it. At this point, we are thanking all those who support us - families and friends, including those who really prayed for our safety. We are forever grateful.

That Massive boulder

"There are only three sports: bullfighting, motor racing, and mountaineering; all the rest are merely games."
- Ernest Hemingway

Mt. Apo Boulders

We suddenly found ourselves getting caught by the dense fog in the midst of our crawl on the way up. This is what we came for: the extreme spine-chilling adventure. And we got what we wanted. Upon entering the Boulders, droplets of rain started to fall. From hot and sunny weather from Day 01 to a rainy and cold atmosphere on Day 02. See that bond paper background? We didn't get the chance to see what it looks like down below.

In the photo: Gerald at the Monolith | Mt. Apo Boulders Trail

Our goal here is to reach the White Sand for lunch. It took us almost 6 hours of trekking from Camp 1 to White Sand and the weather was really unpredictable.




That Spine-Chilling cliff

On climbing Mt. Apo, the Boulders is the hardest part. This open space trail became steeper and the elevation is precipitous. Of course, terror and fear are there because of the accidents we've heard from people stepping into unsteady rocks, falling into their deaths. But, everyone was calm and mindful of our every step. One wrong step on a loose rock and it will certainly lead to a serious and fatal casualty. And we don't want that to happen.

In the photo: Francis Paul ascending on a steep trail. | Mt. Apo Boulders

In this already thousand meters above sea level elevation, you can find rocks with unknown cracks. So, it is very important to follow the guide's trail. But sometimes, there are cases where the lead-team is hard to spot. They are already a few meters away from us (mid-pack), plus the fog and sulfur made our sight cloudy and hazy.

I wonder what  Carol was thinking at this time. Hmmm. Food it is. | Mt Apo Boulders

Slowly, but surely. We continued ascending the trail, looking for those yellow or orange flags to follow. With almost zero visibility, sometimes the trail marks are hard to be seen. This trail is actually the same trail of the renowned Boulders Face Challenge, yearly participated by local and international extreme outdoor enthusiasts. 

That Sweet Trail Food

Along the trail, you can nibble and snack these sweet wild berries, enough to have your stomach something to grind.

Trail food Apo berries. 

You can see many of these along the trail. But even if they're offered for free, we should not abuse this sweet mountain complementary.

That Rotten Egg Smell

Apo Sandawa, being a large solfataric and potentially active stratovolcano, has traces of sulfur deposits and sulfur vents that you can spot along the trail. The moment I saw these sulfur emission, I felt like I was being transported to another planet with rocky terrains and that rotten egg smell.

Sulfur deposits | Mt. Apo Boulders

These yellow pigments are caused by natural sulfur vents. They are quite interesting but smelly.

In the photo: An Jurvel in full gear for a stinky-smelly ascend. | Mt. Apo Sulfur Vent

The Boulders have been widely known as the most highlighted part of the climb. Maybe because along this terrain, you will not only experience the extreme at its best, but you will also get the chance to feel like you're an inhabitant in another planet - with smoking hot fumes of sulfur vents, significant yellow pigments on the earth's surface, and the foul smell.

That Freezing White Sand Temperature

After for what seemed like 4 hrs of ascending a rocky elevation, we reached White Sand at around 12;15 pm, in time for lunch. Our group porters were already here waiting for us, and again they found a good spot where we can all dine and take a little break.

In the photo: J-Ann feeling the chilly weather condition. | Mt. Apo White Sand

And because it's still raining plus the frigid wind, some of us added another layering to keep us warm. After everyone found a spot to rest, we then had our lunch together with the guide and the group porters. Even if the White Sand is walled with massive boulders, still the temperature is frigid chill.

Kuya Paul hiding behind a small cave-like rock formation. | Mt Apo White Sand

Thankful that these big rock formations were here for they serve as our cover against the cold breeze. And Kuya Paul found a good spot to hide, behind this small cave-like rock, to ease himself from the frigid chill.

That Chasing Summits

Even if our bodies at this moment are in sore, but our minds and hearts are pretty sure, alive.

We didn't let this chance to pass by without chasing some of the glorious peaks nearby.  I give you the Magic 10 and their Chasing Summits at Mt. Apo, Davao del Sur.

First Peak: Davao Peak

Foggy Family Photo at Davao Peak | Photo Credits to @wander_paul

The rain started to pour heavily when we reached Davao Peak. No clearing. Bondpaper background. Even so, I still find it cute to see us on that picture, on colorful rain gears. Like we're a team of Power Rangers in full costume with a grilled chicken. Haha. Hi Carol.

Second Peak: Mother Peak

And because everyone's tired from bargaining with our trembling knees and at the same time striving to catch our breaths, the group almost decided not to climb the Mother Peak. So, we stopped to take five at the foot of these peaks and took pictures instead. While the rest of the team is still composing back their selves from being exhaustively wasted, one mighty member of the team decided to climb the Mother Peak alone. Our guide said that the trail is not that difficult and anyone can reach it within a few minutes, so Gerald, with all enthusiasm went there alone.

Groufie with the gang at Mother Peak | Photo Credits to @chiarrasebial

We were all worried of course. But we know in full hope that he'll be back in no time. And thankfully, he suddenly appeared in I guess, less than 15 minutes. That quick! After Gerald told us how to get there, seven of us hurriedly go, running under the rain. Trail run! Trail run! Trail run! But after a minute or more, we were catching our breaths and decided to just hike our way up. Haha. Ika'y trail run?

So, this is where they placed that yellow signboard that I always saw on Facebook and Instagram posts. We then took each turn to do our summit pose. And after not too long, we decided to go back where the rest of us are waiting.

Philippines' Roofyard: Mt. Apo Summit

Magic 10. Family Photo at Mt. Apo's Summit | Photo credits to @hoboshan

Despite the chilly cold, we still pushed through to reach the highest point of the country. In all amazement and full gratitude, finally, we're here. This is one of the most priceless happenings I can take note in my life, or in their lives too like we were all giving ourselves a reward for all the hard works and struggles that we managed to pass in life. Look at those smiles, people! They're all beyond price.

That Blurred Summit Photo

If you're having a bad day, just imagine how worst it is to have a blurred photo at the summit. Haha.

Blurred Summit Photo by Malipayong Josefina

Cent, I really apologize for taking you a blurred shot. It was all because of the foggy and rainy weather at the top and I almost didn't see clearly the screen of your phone. While writing this, my conscience is really bothering me and my inner voice is saying, "You need to do something". So, to somehow balance with the worst, I scanned your also not-so-clear summit photos (sorry) and managed to make some few enhancements. Tadaaaaa!

Cent Estardo | Mt. Apo Mother Peak

I hope I did alright. (Na klaro na jud ang wai klaro)

That Crater Lake  


This dead lake is said to be the old crater of Mt. Apo. And it now has a surface with overgrown green grasses with gathered rainwaters forming into a lake.

Daydong at Mt. Apo Crater Lake | Photo Credits to @wander_paul

When we arrived here, these rocks were already formed into letters. I have no idea if doing so is desirable. But I think it is best that we should keep these rocks right where we saw them and leave them as it is. And care to leave no trace as possible.

While everyone's really tired at this point, only Shiek and Kuya Paul wandered around and took a cool photo. The rest of us were taking five on the far end as what you can see in the photo above.

That Squishy-Mushy Trail

After the euphoric assaults on Philippine's highest apogee, we descended right away to Kidapawan trail heading to Lake Venado. The trail is highly established and there's only a minimal chance of getting lost. Cent confidently leads the way, followed by J-Ann, Gerald and I was with them for the first few hours. We passed our way through slopes of soaring cogon grasses, with heights enough to cover us. Unfavorably, the rain didn't stop and the trail is now a complete muddy mess, plus the fog turning the surroundings in dark-hued murk. 

Most of us lost count on the times we tripped and slipped along the trail. It started to get challenging and it demands an intense foot-hold so we can avoid sliding against our will. Each of us is doing our own game plan on how to descend safely. Sometimes we hold firmly to the tall cogon grasses, other times we just leap and made sure to land safely on the sludge, regardless of how muddy our shoes could get. 

After a few hours, my pacing slowed down so, I ended up in the middle with Chiarra and An. Some things are really uncontrollable. Like how An, in all of a sudden, slid her way down so fast. And the next thing we knew, she's already lying down on the muddy surface, but with no casualty of course. Chiarra and I couldn't stop ourselves from laughing while at the same time worried about how are we going to get her up. After a while, An decided to catch the lead team, while Chiarra and I remained in the middle. From time to time we sent signals (Woooooooh!) to let know other groups that we were on our selves. With our headlamps on, Chiarra and I decided to wait for the tail-team since it was about to get dark. 

(Nobody took pictures along this trail, so please hang on with the long sentences.)

We finally reconvene with the others and the surroundings begin to get dark, indicating for another night trek we need to surpass. It was a few meters away from Venado entrance when I slid down horribly, and all I can feel was the cold muddy waters in my butt. I was so careful and confident that I was stepping in a porridge-like mud and even felt my shoes stepping on a dense surface underneath the mud. And I don't know what made me sag that fast. Suddenly, just around that area, Chiarra skids quickly, and her pants got snagged in a truncated trunk. A piece of her pants got stuck on it making her unable to move. And thankfully our guide was with us, with all his strength, he lifted Chiarra up.

We finally entered Lake Venado campsite and all we can see are the lights from the pinched tents. Before we make our way to the bridge, Shiek suddenly made a final slid show. Haha. And culminated this day's skidding and sliding. We joined our group, pinched our tents, fix ourselves and prepared for another chilly night. Some of us settled not to go out of the tent and decided to sleep right away. But our guide and porters were all thoughtful, woke us up and cared to bring our dinner on our tents. We are forever grateful for this.

Lake Venado Campsite

Day 03 | 02.17.19
Good morning Lake Venado! Hello Mt. Apo!

Lake Venado Campsite | Photo Credits @wander_paul

Who would not want to wake up in this stunning view? It's overwhelming to step out of the tent on a misty air and frigid chill grasslands, while at the same time seeing the sun finally rising. The green grounds of Lake Venado is vast and offers a scenic view. I was having a bit of this time-stopping magical feels the moment I stared at this massive landform, and he's standing tall and proud because he's the King of all Philippine mountains. Like he's asking me to bow down and pay some courtesy.

"All hail to the King!"

That Clearing at Lake Venado

An and I was looking for the perfect spot to answer the call of nature and we arrived at this far end on the left side of the campsite. We saw other groups gathering around this part while some are still heading this way, including Gerald too.

Lake Venado | Davao del Sur

We decided to go back to our post to check on with others. I felt the need to take some more pictures with the lake so I approached Shiek and Carol to come with me. 

Signature Pose | Lake Venado, Mt. Apo 

The place is so calm and undisturbed - every corner has a touch of serenity at its finest. I didn't actually notice Apo's reflection on the waters until Shiek mentioned it and it appeared stunningly magical on our pictures.     
  

That Lake Venado Laundry Shop

After satisfying ourselves with enough pictures, we head back to the camp so we can dry our wet clothes under the heat of the sun. It's fun to watch these array of garments and how they look-alike with the hanging clothes in a bargain store.

Our loads are no longer that heavy to carry because some of the wet clothes we have are now dry, including our backpacks.

That Breakfast View

It was indeed a beautiful morning, really worth remembering.

Beautiful morning at Mt. Apo

We were all having a good breakfast with this glorious view. Thank you to our guide and porters who prepared all our meals during this climb.

Time to Bid Apo 'Good Bye'

and see you next time. 

Before we began hitting the trails, we decided to take different group poses for our family picture,  with Mt. Apo on the background. Yaay!

The Duterte Pose

Team Cebu | Mt. Apo | Photo credits to @commoncent93

The Lingi-Luyo Pose

Team Cebu | Mt. Apo | Photo credits to @commoncent93

The Hikap-Bag Pose

Team Cebu | Mt. Apo | Photo credits to @commoncent93

The Varsity Pose

Team Cebu | Mt. Apo | Photo credits to @commoncent93

We actually have group photos with the guide and the porters but they're all silly shots. Haha.

That Guide We're All Referring To

So much respect and appreciation to Renante Antac (Kuya Babs), for his patience and deep understanding in dealing with 10 amazing individuals.

Our Guide: Renante Antac | Photo credits to Shiekinah Gay

Daghan kaayong salamat  Kuya Babu for taking care of us and always making sure that we're safe in all the ascends and descends along the trail. He may appear quite but he's very much accommodating and helpful in all our needs. Shoutout to our strong and able porters - Kuya Eli and Kuya Arnel. We, from Team Cebu, are truly grateful for all of your assistance. To those who are planning to climb Apo, we highly recommend Kuya Babz with full stars.

You can reach him through his Facebook account: https://www.facebook.com/antacrenante
or his Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/babosabino/



That African-Forest Feels

Exiting Lake Venado, we then entered into a forest trail, with a view that looks like the ones I saw on Animal Planet featuring the wide African forest and the higher forms of life living in it. 

Taking these pictures is the reason why Shiek and I were now behind with the group. I don't want to let this view pass without having something to remember from it.

This is still part of this big adventure I don't want to consign to oblivion.

Stopping by to have a quick look at the surroundings gave me the privilege to have a photo of Mt. Apo in another wide angle.

That Painful Descend

Shiek and I catch the team and found them all lined up, waiting for their turn to descend in this light and not really sturdy wood stairs. This trail sure is pretty tormenting. Good thing Kuya Babu never pressured us to hurry, he even advised us to let the other groups advance.

We had more of this and still more muddy trail waiting, enough to make our knees tremble and our feet ache. We left Lake Venado around 9:40 a.m. and arrived at Mati -ao around 1:40 p.m. and grab some lunch. After having enough rest, we began hitting the trail again.

That River-Crossing

Sometimes, you really have to drag your aching feet along the rocky trails and with all the strength that’s left, make it to the next stop. Just make it to the next stop and you’ll see yourself in extreme amazement. You’ll be surprised to witness yourself being more than capable of what you only thought you could.



One thing I was able to realize along Apo's trail is to simply drive myself back to nature in times when I needed mind-resetting and self-restoration. 

In the Photo: Kuya Babu giving assistance to Carol and Shiek doing her balance.

How we know ourselves and the ways we do to survive, all points directly to our soul - needing to be hooked up again to the earth below, to the rivers and waterfalls around.

That Orange River

Every mountain is different from the other; every trail is not the same. In this course, it is expected that we will experience less comfort – we will get dirty, we will be exhausted, our muscles will be in pain and our back too, our legs will be in agony for hours. But the views and the natural wonders we spotted along the trail are just simply rewarding.

In the Photo: Shiekinah Gay

We asked Kuya Babu what makes the river orange. He answered it was because the water has too many acidic compounds on it coming from the sulfur. Yay! 5 pts. to Gryffindor.



Those Bridges

We are doing what we love. So, we need to go out here and trek our heart out, regardless! We are not only doing this for pleasure and leisure's sake. We are doing this because our soul needs it too. No matter what trail in the outdoors, no matter what bodies of land or water we explore - all of them connect us back to that one landing-place. They all bring us back home to ourselves.

Human as we are, we also get tired with sipping into all the "relevant cups" in our everyday life - the work cup, relationship cup (nah everyone in the team is single), home cup, and the friendship cup. We also try to be everything to everyone in our circle. And you know what? Climbing Apo and communing with nature really helped. It reminded us of who we really are beyond all affiliations and commitments.


That Genuine Encounter

We saw these local kids from a tribe I forgot to take note. I remember Kuya Babs mentioning the name but I can no longer remember what it is. They speak a different dialect so, they were so silent when we started conversing with them. They were playing innocently and then began feeling a bit conscious and hesitant when we approach them.

We gave our extra trail foods to them, the nuts and candies since we're almost getting closer to the exit point. Seeing their excitement and genuine smile upon receiving those, is worth its weight in gold. My heart always leaps with gladness every time I see faces of innocence in this already corrupted and stained generation.

That Exhausting Ascending Steps

I wish there were two or three of me, all covered with extreme enthusiasm and fully energized body, without having to worry between resting for the longest possible time or catching up with their pace and making it to the summit before the sun sets down. But, human as I am, I must submit to extent of my capabilities.

At this point, my feet are really tired. And I was really overwhelmed that we still have to climb another more or less 300 steps before we can reach the pavements. Are you serious?!

Touchdown! Kidapawan Exit

I am thankful to Kuya Babu and Shiekinah because they were so patient, with me being freaking tired and with Carol having a little minor injury on her foot, they patiently thump the trail on our pacing. After all, this is not a marathon. Not a race. And so after 6 hours of that tormenting descend, we finally reached the central highway. We couldn't be happier. 

Tired Pose at Kidapawan Exit | Insert J-Ann | Photo Credits to @bayot_laagan

We finally regrouped with the rest of the team. We freshened up, change our clothes, take a full bath at Mamboram Resort which happened to be a walking distance from the exit point. We enjoyed most of our stay there, with our guide and porters, who we bid good-bye to after. I will always be forever grateful to these people - for all the touches of laughter that we shared (especially at the van on our way back to Davao City), to the chunk of memories we all enjoyed along the trail and most for simply being there in times of need. 

To these 10 amazing people: I think that soul-level relationship you established with yourselves is the most essential element that made this authentic connection with the team, possible. Thank You, big time!

Now to Samal Island, we go.

For more photos, feel free to check Shiekinah's Mt. Apo Album on Facebook

http://bit.ly/2XO9JLL

✏

All Rights Reserved

MALIPAYONG JOSEFINA

@happyemzey

(follow on facebook, twitter and instagram)

To God be all the glory and praise.