A Trek To Historic Peak, Mt. Manunggal!

It wasn't a fine Saturday afternoon when my friends met at the Terminal of Ayala Center Cebu as we waited for Van Service going to the provincial area of Balamban. The weather wasn't good, there was a reported storm but funny we still pursued to travel to the historic peak of Cebu, Mount Manunggal.

Blogger, Mark Monta at the top of Mt. Manunggal

With my Timex Expedition Field Leather Chronograph Watch

Before I talk about the trek, why do you think it's a historic peak? Remember our 7th President of the Philippines, Ramon Magsaysay? He was on board on a Douglas C-47 plane named "Mt. Pinatubo" and was reportedly crashed in the peak of Mount Manunggal together with other 24 passengers. That's why it is historic for the country! Now, let's go back to our unforgettable trek. As we arrived in Barangay Busog, we were welcomed by the Barangay officials with a PHP 80 entrance fee to be used by Ecotourism. Actually, most of us were shocked because of that 2-weeks old entrance fee which we are not sure where the proceeds will go. Anyway, so much of that bad vibes, we luckily arrived in Mt. Manunggal campsite before 3 in the afternoon. It was raining and fogs were everywhere. How amazing to witness those natural spots in the environment.

MT. Manunggal Campsite

So, we put up our tents in the camping site where you can see the monument of our late president. You can ask for assistance for any basic needs from the care taker of the place, her name is Ate Rose. She got a small sari-sari store and the best part is, they got a hot water which is very essential in a cold environment. We planned to just chill on a Saturday night since a very bad weather came. The good thing ate Rose cooked a hot chicken soup for everyone in an affordable price of course. It is very nice to help them in this little contribution.

My friends and our tent set-up

Such a lovely view at the campsite

The moon was about to set

On a Sunday morning, we excitedly woke up at 5:00 AM. We took our morning "pamainit" with a cup of hot coffee and some pieces of bread we brought. Then, we prepared for a 30-45 minute climb to the peak. It was not a normal walk. Muds were everywhere with slopes while braving a pace to the very top. I couldn't describe in words how astonishing the view is! Now, savor these pictures I can provide you below.

Blogger's friends savoring the sunrise

Hurrying up!

On our way to the top!

Take a rest then selfie!

Almost there bud!

How to go to Mt. Manunggal?
1. Take a Van Service available at the Ayala Center Cebu Terminal for PHP 120.00
2. Ask the Driver to drop off in the corner of Barangay Busog. (Ride is 45 minutes to 1 hr)
3. Walk a few meters going to Barangay Busog Hall to pay entrance fee of PHP 80. An additional PHP 20 if you wish to include Mt. Mauyog in your itinerary.
4. Ride a single motorcycle (Habal-habal) going to Mt. Manunggal Training center. Fare is PHP 100.
5. From the training center, take a 20-30 minutes walk going to the campsite.
6. From the campsite, ask for a guide from Ate Rose who will accompany you going to the very peak.

Now, here are some amazing shots we got at the top. These photos were taken by Huawei P9.