An Ultra Traverse In Search for Mt. Ayaas

The Wednesday Warriors strike again. On to our playground:  Montalban, Rizal.

"What mountain will the destination be this time?", asked the locals at the jump off who are already used with our presence on a weekday. "To Mt. Ayaas", our reply. " That is along walk from here", their common answer.

Peak of Mt. Ayaas. The story in between this part from the jump off is more interesting. Photo credit to Sir Joseph Sibal

We left Sitio Wawa on our own. Our runner friend who is from here and familiar to all the trails of the nearby mountain ranges is not available to join us this time. Started with the same trail as that of Mt. Pamitinan and Mt. Hapunang Banoi, it is evident that it has been raining in this area the past days, the trail is  just too slippery. My sore calves and quads from last Sunday's Milo Marathon did not have the chance to complain on the uphill trail early part of the trek. We stopped at the Uling Wall and only then Sir Joseph realized he did not put on the Strava program on his phone to keep track of our distance and direction.

That peak on the left is where we are going. Photo credit to Sir Joseph Sibal.

Upon reaching the saddle where on the right is Mt. Pamitinan and on the left is the trail that leads to Mt. Hapunang Banoi, there was one group of hikers resting. We proceed using the middle trail going down.

Bringing our gut feel and mountaineer spirit we used this as our companion from this point on. It's a single track shaded trail covered with trees, with bushes on both sides. Still slippery so we had to be extra careful going down. Shortly after our descent, we already encountered a fork (several trails going to different directions), a trail going to the right, one towards the left and  another on the left most that is a little uphill. 

Seeing the mountain ranges on the left, we know somewhere in the several peaks from afar is Mt. Ayaas. We decided to take the left trail. It's established and looks commonly used. Alas it went to an Uling site (Charcoal manufacturing by locals) and farm land. We tried to search for a possible trail  further left going down but to no avail. Until a local farmer noticed us (he is the owner of the farm land - Kuya Roger). There is no trail on this side of the mountain to where we are heading. He gave us direction where to go back and what landmark to look for. From this part on, I know we are on a real adventure. This is going to be an exploration trek, no more running as we are mindful of the trail. 

Making conscious of the landmark that Kuya Roger told us, we need to hit Ka Henry's house. We are still on a shaded trail,  covered with trees and tall bushes and banana plants, sometimes with open view decks especially in  areas  converted to farm lands by the locals. Despite the slippery trail, I can say this is still more runnable and friendly to newbie trail runners, still very safe compared to the trail of Mt. Pamitinan, Binakayan and Haponang Banoi. 

Reaching down the gorge we should hit a river, but before reaching that far as our elevation goes lower another major fork encountered. With Mt. Hapunang Banoi as our focal point, we decided to go for the trail on the left. We are already at the base of the valley but we did not pass any river. As we trek further following the trail we hope to pass by another community or a local house where we can ask for directions but to no avail. In rural areas such as this,  houses are just kilometers away. And don't ever take their word for saying it's just near because their near more often than not is still kilometers away. 

With Hapunang Banoi on the left where we are and another mountain range on the right, finally we reach another local house and lucky to have an owner around. We are at Sitio Lubog. We continue on hoping to reach a waterfalls as they said there is Lubog Falls and probably just settle of climbing the peak of Mt. Lubog.  Reaching  the house of Matandang Rolly, he said  the right trail will lead to Mt. Ayaas. With his word, we again see light of reaching Mt. Ayaas on this adventure. 

As we have been trekking for several hours now passing  forest lands, bamboos and farm lands,  crossing few streams on our search for the mountain, we hope to reach a community that has a sari sari store (local grocery store), where we can buy food and  hopefully ask for a  direction to either Mt. Lubog or Mt. Ayaas. 

As we trek further on the left, it is evident on the Strava that we are heading to a counter clockwise circumferential direction from where we started. Until we reached the other end of Hapunang Banoi. We figured out there could really be a traverse on this mountain. It's an open farm land with upland rice planted. It's showing the wall of Hapunang Banoi. Just when we are all set to let go of the thought of climbing Mt. Ayaas,  a group of locals showed up telling us that going left will be down to  an access road to the community while the trail on the right will lead to Mt. Ayaas. There our hope of climbing Mt. Ayaas  becomes alive again. Of course we want to accomplish what we come here for. They told us to take the left trail after the mango tree. As we stayed a little longer at the wall of the mountain to take few shots another local told us to take the right turn upon reaching the mango tree. 

We followed the last direction given, turn right on the mango tree, and it looks like it make sense since the mountain peak seem to be like towards the right direction. But as we move few more meters on the right we encounter again the first group of locals that gave us the direction and asked us to go back and turn left. We followed. This time around the trail is more open that passes through farm lands that is following the contour of the mountain. But it never goes towards the peak but rather away from it. As we moved further, we encountered two of the group of locals earlier and said that we are heading away from the peak of the mountain. Though he said we can go further then we will encounter the church of the Rizalitas where we can ask for directions and probably someone to guide us. We are following the contour of the mountain side which reminds me of the trail in some parts of Mt. Ugo under the trees. We know very well that we reached the house because of the barking dogs. But there was no use as the caretaker said she do not know anything about the place. We had no other option but to move further, hoping to encounter another house. We encountered farm lands we went over fences. Until we reach another house. The old lady said there is a road that leads to the peak of Mt. Ayaas. Before leaving we asked for water as we run out of supply already. 

The long haired man politely showed us the way after giving us 3 glasses of water, he walked with us. Until he showed to us a short cut, a trail that follows his farm land with fence on the side. This man is ended an angel. He said after the fence will already be the peak. It is a direct assault with no trail at all. We just followed the fence, holding on to what ever we can (tree trunks, the wooden fence, bushes and grass) as we negotiated that 60-80degrees inclined terrain. Until no more fence but tall sharp edged bushes. It is evident that this has been flattened not long ago, looks like just a week old. It gave us the trail to follow.  Holding on to the bushes, we reached the first peak that is just too slippery. All that one can see now is an open grass land, with the view of the Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges as far as your eyes can see. 

After passing by single track trail that goes up and down to  several local houses and streams, alternating with covered trails with old trees up to that part that is open and farmed by the locals,  passing by bamboos and fenced land, it is also evident how civilization slowly eat up the green forested mountain ranges of this area. On the left is a growing community with houses and subdivisions slowly eating up the mountain ranges, while at some part is a quarry of gravel that is used for commercial business in building houses and skyscrapers. Until how many more years will this place be conserved and left to the custody of the locals and will only get what they needed for daily living. We will never know but I will be one that will be sad if slowly this place will be destroyed to accommodate modernization.

As we continue to the next peak we can now closely see the flag that they said is the landmark of the summit of Mt. Ayaas. 11:45am, after 3hours and 15  minutes after so many wrong turns we finally reach the summit. Looking below at several mountain peaks rich with thick bushes, there are no tall trees at some mountain peaks. And with the grass land well arranged, looks like this part of the mountain was into upland farming decades ago, it has a well arranged terraces of bushes. And finally we found the established trail on the left. After few more shots of photos and little rest and eat some food we head down. 

But mind you going down is another story. Following the established trail on the left, we bounced back and forth at the trail  like a child happy on its playground. Its just so nice to run when we are sure of where we are heading. Going down passing by the electricity tower then until we pass by the house of Kuya Henry, the house that Kuya Roger told us early part of the trek this morning. Going down down down until we pass by a water falls on the left. It was 10 minutes before 2:00pm. It wouldn't be too far to where we come from probably we so take the luxury of spending some time on the water falls. After more than an hour of sprinting going down it is just a good reward to cool down our body on the cold flowing water. After sometime it rained. Then we decided to move on. 

The next move going further down becomes another adventure. We encountered another fork which we had to decide which way to go. As we move right it leads to no trail,  now bush whacking tall bushes and vines, slippery and muddy at some parts,  beside  big drops on the mountain slope. Until we figured out this could be a wrong trail. We went back to the last part that we entered, figured out it could be the other trail, went further down until finally we reached an old house with an old lady. She showed us the direction, until we reached another gate that leads to the river. Trying to figure out which way to go up to the saddle of Mt. Pamitinan and Mt. Hapunang Banoi, we move further down following the river. We encounter another house which the owner said just follow the river then go up on the left after passing by a house. House out of sight, we decided to go  up on the right side of the river but  the strava is showing a direction going away to where we are suppose to go. 

We decided to go back to the river until we come across another house, the lady Mom told us to just go straight into the river. Though it's not really a heavy down pour of rain,  I am really afraid of trekking a river especially when it is raining. An incident years ago that take away 4 lives of dear mountaineer friends really made me so conscious when it comes to river trekking. We went back to the house where the Mom is and asked the direction. She said its just the river. We followed her instruction until finally one local man bringing his umbrella catch up with us also going to Sitio Wawa. He served as our guide. Thanks to his presence no more uncertainty of which direction to take. 

Until we reached Karugo Falls, the second water falls that we encountered on this adventure,  a much bigger than the first  one. We stopped for a while, played  into the cold water while the local patiently waited for us. We left and trek further, encountered group of locals heading towards the water falls bringing some food and drinks. Until finally we get out and finally reach Wawa River near Wawa Dam. What a big relief. We are finally out of the jungle. What seemed to be endless inside the jungle is finally over. I still cannot figure out how we reached that side of the mountain and not back to where we started the trek earlier. We continue on up to the community. We reached where we started almost 4:00pm. What an adventure we had on this mountain traversing several rivers and streams uncertain of where it will lead to. We traveled 15km distance meeting several locals and local houses. Thanks to the generous people who showed us the way and I thank the mountain gods and goddesses for opening the trail gates of Mt. Ayaas and the gates of the river beds and the jungle to the Weekday Mountain Warriors like us, for giving us a safe passage and showing us the pristine and beautiful nature on this part of Montalban. Despite our ambitious spirits, they gave us the permission to enjoy the good weather and the long journey despite the puzzling  trail along the way.

The province of Rizal, especially that of Montalban is such a vast area that has a rich mountain ranges.  A good place to explore, to practice and to enjoy for a free-spirit hungry for adventure and with passion to be with nature like us. We hope that in slowly exploring the several mountain peaks of the area, it will also instill in us the grit and the guts, will toughen our body and mind just like the  champions in running that gained such while honing their skills in the same mountain ranges. 

Compared to the 3 mountain peaks that I have been to on this place, Mt. Ayaas is the furthest and it also has a different character when it comes to terrain. As oppose to the rocky terrain of the first three towards the peak, Mt. Ayaas is not, its just mostly purely hard packed single trail which passes by rivers at time that is similar to other mountains in the country. It has the most uphills as well and the longest. 

My Assessment

When trekking this place, go get a guide or have somebody who knows the trail. Don't try it on your own as there are several trails that leads to nowhere. 

This mountain can be a good training climb and a good place to climb for a gutsy newbie climber, otherwise one should be a bit experienced in tackling this place. 

Have enough water that will last you the entire day and have packed lunch too. Even if you are a trail runner and just be there to do a run, its always best to be safe. Bring packed lunch, enough water, headlamp and first aid kit. 

With the nature of the trail, this place can also be a good place to do a trail running event for newbie trail runners. A nice place to run around.

Most importantly I hope those who will climb this mountain they will practice the 'Leave No Trace (LNT) principle. There are few trash left in the summit. 

Our Itinerary

Sitio Wawa crossing hanging Path Bridge

Saddle of Mt. Pamitinan and Mt. Hapunang Banoi

Down to Sitio Lubog 

Up to the Peak of Mt. Ayaas

Down to Kuya Henry's House 

River Crossing to Wawa River 

The locals were right. Indeed, this is one long adventure with lots of great tale to tell. It was  a very fulfilling fun filled day. Another mountain peak of Rizal ticked off the list. That was one great adventure that showed us how small we are compared to the jungle that we are in.  It was one beautiful playground that sharpened our instinct, our land navigation skills less the gears. I thank my two companions,  Sir Joseph and Coach JLB again and again,  for tirelessly showing to me the beauty of nature and I hope in the many times that I am with you both I will be able to hone some trail running skills that you both already have. Together we will make our dreams of conquering big mountains and big races come true.

Another mountain conquered, battle scars added. One happy feet with a happy soul. Til the next adventure. Happy running.

Weekday Warriors' Journey to Mt. Hapunang Banoi

If you love rocks and boulders and you have the adrenaline for heights and big drops, this is your mountain. 80% rock scrambling, 20% trail over forest and agricultural lands, no way for you  to run anymore except the few meters after the hanging bridge, the community  to the forested area before the ascend to Uling Wall.

At one of the view deck on the way to the peak of Mt. Hapunang Banoi. Photo credit to Coach Jon Las Bruce.

The 3rd peak after Mt. Binacayan and Mt. Pamitinan that has a close proximity within the area of Sitio Wawa, I can say this is the eldest among the 3.  Mt. Hapunang Banoi is the highest when it comes to elevation, the longest when it comes to distance, a longer ridge at the top  that one has to traverse over boulders and rocks with big drops in between at some parts before finally reaching the peak. Of the 3 mountain peaks, this is the most challenging and the most treacherous (at least for me). A total body work out.

Last week's adventure on the rainy day at Mt. Binacayan, Mt. Pamitinan and Sition Simano, it was just a right decision not to scale this mountain anymore. Aside from the fact that it took us almost 3 hours to go up this time, well of course that includes the many picture taking that we did and a little exploration that our Trail Master and Lead, Mountain Goat Sir Joseph Sibal, the rock scrambling part is just to treacherous to do on a rainy day. It will be too slippery. It was even sketchy on this day when it did not rain, the trail and boulders are dry, all the more when it is raining. 

Hold on tight. It's a little bit dangerous. Photo credit to Joseph Sibal.

This is an out and back route (for there is no trail yet after the peak that continue to the other side of the mountain). We left Sitio Wawa without our local friend, Prof. Eric. He has school work to finish. So with my two friends who are  local from Rizal too and this place has become their playground as well, we left bringing with us our experience in mountain climbing and trail running. The three of us new to this mountain, we will just follow the trail where ever it will lead us.  It has the same jump off that of Mt. Pamitinan, and will have the same trail up to the saddle that separates to two peaks. Reaching the saddle after the Uling Wall, one has to go to the left side, that trail starts the way going to Mt. Hapunang Banoi.

Can I get a ride? Photo credit to Coach JLB

We are blessed with perfect weather, a little overcast but no rain at all. From the covered area on a forested part, it slowly goes up to the short agricultural land then goes to the side of the mountain where a kaingin part starts then goes up until we started going through the rocks and boulders. Until we catch up with the first group of climbers who went ahead of us. They were at the first view deck. Thank goodness of their presence, we come to know as well were to stop and get a good spot of ourselves to enjoy too.

The first view deck was a vertical wall of around 4 meters high, our friend Sir Joseph finds it at home on this very wall, making it just very easy for him to reach the top, go to the other side of the rock formation and going down with so much ease as if his shoes has some mighty bond that sticks to the rock face while me and Coach JLB has difficulty clinging to the wall going up on the other side. We ended on one surface with big crack not even standing at the top most. Going down is another story.

Get a right hold. Photo credit to Sir Otep.

We continue on, really there were more rock scrambling, hopping from one boulder to the other and more parts where gaps in between rocks are even wider that at some point with our mountain goat friend Sir Joseph way ahead of us, me and Coach JLB just thought of staying at one spot as we are stucked at one part where a very big gap is un-passable to do until the other group catch up with us and showed us how it is being done. Funny, how easy it is to look at them how to cross it yet we find it challenging to do. Sir Joseph ended coming back for us and helping us cross that section by extending his hand to us.

We finally reach the summit where I thought  was impossible for me to reach, thanks to the encouragement of Sir Joseph the other hikers. The view on the top was fantastic. We went back on the same route we did going up, this time still with extra care not to injure ourselves. I thank the mountain gods for a safe passage and allowing us to see the beauty of the place. One fine day on this beautiful mountain peak. Amazing to know of my 15 years of climbing and trekking there are still peaks like this on this area.

These 3 mountain peaks as I mentioned on my previous report, is a very good mountain to practice if one is planning to climb Mt. Guiting Guiting. More so if you are a rock and boulder enthusiast who loves a life hanging on the cliff on more than 500MASL. Go for this mountain.

I am scared of heights, the very reason why I went into rock climbing. It is to overcome that fear. I may love the rock formations but do not put me high above it, it will take me a while to really convince myself to do it. On this very journey after a long time of not doing rock climbing, it brought me back to that fear again. But one thing I always put in my mind as I was in that situation, I have to focus, concentrate, overcome my fear, do not let my fear eat my self but rather just trust, enjoy the moment, and relax enjoy the beauty of nature. This very adventure is just like life, it is not a smooth journey but worth the experience. It is one adventure to be enjoyed. 

Another mileage covered, battle scars added. Happy feet with a healthy soul. Our journey to H1 continues. 

Twin Peaks and A Hill - Mt. Binacayan - Mt. Pamitinan Trail Run

It's rainy season already in the Philippines. But that never stop for few of us to continue with our training runs, be it on road or trail. Aiming for  few major races in the next couple of months, even the stormy weather never stop us from doing our regular mountain run. Yesterday was no exemption. For few of us, we manage to squeeze in a training run on a weekday. But because the weather was too bad the day before yesterday, I asked our Coach if schedule will push through as planned. A go was agreed so we showed up.

At the summit of Mt. Binacayan (Photo courtesy of Joseph Sibal)

Four runners of different backgrounds came together with common passion, love of nature and running.

•  Coach JLB said, it's off season!  but keeps on running and/or biking every time some runners asked him to show his  playground and backyard. 

• Professor Eric - there is no off-season for him for he lives on this place, he grew up on this place and has to walk 4kms  going to the school and back to his home everyday, that's a total of 8kms a day plus his training runs. Running and the nature is his way of life. 

• Sir Otep on the other hand after a year and a half of sabbatical leave from running now decided to prepare for a major trail race almost a year from now. Out of the blue there was one thing that ignited his interest of going back to running and now unstoppable. I am amazed how he plans his trainings to have the best performance come race day.

• And me, who always love nature and running but really find it hard to look for motivation to train harder, to improve my speed and improve my total performance on running. Finding balance between work and going after my passion, I have to make sacrifices sometimes.

At Manila Hills before the trail run. The background two peaks is where we are going.  (Photo courtesy of Joseph Sibal)

This time around our goal for the day was, Mt. Binacayan and Mt. Pamitinan at Sitio Wawa,  Rodriguez, Rizal.  Of my many times visiting this place for an outdoor rock climbing trip, this was my very first time to do trail run on the area.

Arrived Sitio Wawa at around 7:00am, had breakfast in one of the open restaurant, final check of our supplies, we left at exactly 8:00am for Mt. Binacayan. This is the peak at the right side of the picture if you will look at the photo on my photo album, Backyard of the Masters - Binacayan- Pamitinan. Just the same weather as I left home early that morning, it rains a heavy downpour  for a short while then stop. And like the heavens are gathering enough water again then after an hour or so it will pour a heavy one again. But basically the weather was rainy, no wind thank God. The sky was all covered with white, no sign of Mr. Sun at all.

Mt. Binacayan

At the agricultural area before the rock formations to the peak of Mt Binacayan. ( Photo courtesy of Joseph Sibal)

From the community down below, we walk passing by few stores beside the road, after few meters is a slow ascend on cemented road. After less than a kilometer it will enter a rough road until it will just be a single trail. As the elevation slowly goes higher we leave the community area and slowly enter through an agricultural terrain with root crops and corn plants. On a rainy season and a sloping terrain, it is just not possible to run. We were just pushing fast with caution not to sprain our ankle if  get out-balanced on a slippery ground. Slowly we enter the rock formations which reminded me so much of my rock climbing years on this area. The terrain alternates with bamboos. Towards the summit are all  rock formations that one has to go over it with some parts using the upper body to make sure of a secure holds for safety. Some rocks are sharp which can cause cuts on the palm, arm or leg. We had few stops at several view points as slowly the fog and the mist cleared showing the beauty of the mountain ranges as far as your eyes can see.

At the peak of Mt. Binacayan (Photo courtesy of Joseph Sibal)

The summit is a total rock formation of limestone that offers a beautiful 360 degree view of several peaks around the area including that of the view of the Wawa River down below including the community that live on the area. It took us less than 2 hours going up despite the intermittent down pour of heavy rains.

 Going down was much faster though we had to be extra careful as well especially on the agricultural part for it is just too slippery. We reached the base in less than 3 hours. We really don't have exact  measurement of the distance, they estimated it to be 7km out and back  with 424MASL.  Had and early lunch, refill water and food supply then left for the second peak.

Mt. Pamitinan

On the way to Mt. Pamitinan (Photo courtesy of Joseph Sibal)

This peak is just higher by 2 meters than Mr. Binacayan, 426MASL. Coming from the community where we had our lunch, we walked through the hanging bridge where we used to walk during my rock climbing days. Passing by the forested area until it reached the wall where we used to climb, the part we call Uling Wall. Brings back old memories. A trek further is the junction to Pamitinan Peak on the right and Hapunang Banoy on the left. The trail going up slowly show more rock formations and boulders that one need to traverse, some a little sketchy and should be approached with extra care. Along the way are few view deck where one can see the mountain ranges of the Sierra Madre. Unfortunately for us, it was total white out and heavy down pour of rain. We continue on until we reached the famous peak of Pamitinan, but the 5 meter vertical wall made me a little concerned,  more so when we were on this part the rain was just on its heaviest down pour. With my 2 companion already up and Coach JLB just down below waiting for me to finish. Again, my imagination lingers, going up will be fine for I do not see how high down below but going down on this vertical wall will be a problem for me.

At the summit of Mt. Pamitinan

Nonetheless, I reached the peak welcomed with heavy rain with no view. After few photo shoots we decided to go down. It's just getting cold. I used the other side going down with the assistance of Prof Eric. Hold your grip tight, I really hope that the hold of the granite rock will not snap,  trust your core and secure your foot holds. OMG. As a rock climber, I know the margins of safety and risk, and this is really risky but I just have to trust myself, and not let my imagination linger. Otherwise I will really scare myself. That was only few minutes but few minutes of wrong more will also be fatal. Thank God I made it to the ledge safe. 

After the sketchy part, everything was just smooth going down of course still with extra care as some parts  were really slippery from the heavy downpour of rain. In less than 2 hours we were back on the base.

Photo credit to Jon Las Bruce

Sitio Simano

As much as Sir Otep wanted to explore the 3rd peak of Hapunang Banoy which we pass by at the saddle from Mt. Pamitinan on our way down, our TL Coach Jon Las decided to make the adventure to the 3rd peak on the next trip. We are still early from our itinerary, so we decided to join Prof. Eric to his place, at Sitio Simano, a place where he walk every day going to school where he teach, 8km back and fort in distance. The path way which passes by the community then pass by the short tunnel  follow the side of the Wawa River eventually reach the non functional Wawa Dam.

Wawa Dam (Photo credit to Joseph Sibal)

Despite my several times of visiting Montalban, this is my first time to reach the Dam area, with floating huts where picnic goers used during summer when the water is calm and clear. This time though, the water in raging current  and color brown due to the continues rain for several days now. A slow jog we just follow the side of the river, sometimes passing by small stream, until we need to ride a boat to cross to the other side of the river. Thank goodness despite the rain and strong current, the water is still calm. Few more minutes we reached the home of Sir Eric, had hot drinks and snacks, enjoy the presence of his dog, chickens and geese with the beauty of  nature,  then run back. It only took us 30 minutes running. Few minutes before 4:00pm we were already back at the community where we started.

Photo credit to Jon Las Bruce

Assessment: 
One day of running in the rain, estimated 21km distance. Not bad at all. It maybe short but for me, running on that weather is a good training for trail races that happens on rainy season with feet wet almost the entire race. So this is a good practice. The elevation on both peak is quite abrupt which gives us a good full body work out. We may not be able to run anymore on steep slippery and rocky part of the trail but it give a full body conditioning.

At Sitio Simano (Photo credit to Joseph Sibal)

But aside from trail running, for hikers who wish to climb the challenging Mt. Guiting Guiting in Sibuyan Island in Romblon, this two peaks is a good simulation and practice to get used to the rocks, boulders, the vertical wall. This is my first time see peaks with such rock formation on this area. Very near from Metro Manila, it may not be as long and high as that of Mt. Guiting Guiting but this could be a very good familiarization  place. It will definitely help climbers lessen the feeling of uncertainty of how it feels to be climbing G2. I climb it once and for me this place is a great place to practice. 

The boat ride to Sitio Simano (Photo credit to Joseph Sibal)

Gears: 

Suggested gears climbing these two peaks: arm sleeves or long sleeves, gloves, full tights or  calve sleeves. Rocks are sharp that can cut your palm, arms or legs. 

With that, we end our day happy. Another mileage covered, another battle scar added. On to the next training run. Our road to H1.

Adventure pa more!!!!!!

Sharing the rough itinerary that we some how followed, courtesy of our Team Leader, Coach JLB.

Pamitinan-Binacayan twin peak dayhike
600hrs- meet up at manila hills
700hrs- breakfast and meet up with prof eric (our host) at Sitio Wawa.
800hrs- start ascend to Mt. Pamitinan
930hrs- peak/picture taking
1000hrs- start descend
1100hrs- lunch
1230hrs- start ascend Mt. Binacayan.
1400hrs- peak/picture taking
1430hrs- start descend
1600hrs- Snack/Chit Chat
1700hrs- uwian na!

They said "Dont Look Back", I said "Dont Look Up" - A Trail Run to Sitio San Isidro

"The mountain is calling and I should go." So is my running friends who wants to do a mountain run on a weekday. I just have to make arrangements at work and do a little extension when I get back in the afternoon.  It's been awhile since my last trail run. Been too busy with lots of things lately. But who can say no to an invitation of two great friends whom I haven't spend some time with.

Destination: Mt. Balagbag to the famous "Don't Look Back Trail". One of  the many and long playgrounds of our Coach JLB and few other hardcore trail runners and bikers in the Metro, it is where few got their grit and wit on how to approach major trail races in the country. I'd like to think that slowly in my own time I will be able to follow their foot steps and eventually finish few major races that I am aiming to do.

A short car ride from Manila Hills, we travel through rough and bumpy roads to the jump off of Sitio Licao - Licao. A restaurant opens as early as 6:00am, final check of food and water supply and off we go. Slow walk on a rough road  warmed us up, a little push on the uphill until we reach the house before the place they called "helipad." My first time here, been thinking where exactly this place is. We are now higher in elevation and view of the mountain ranges are now more visible. The view is a such a breather. With few scattered clouds, the trek up is not so humid. After a short break we proceed by turning right from the rough road. We decided to try the famous Don't Look Back trail. No idea what to expect I just enjoy what nature brings me.

From the top of the hill, we headed down to the valley down to the lowest part of the valley, a long descend which I find challenging hopping especially on some eroded parts. A beautiful view of mountain tops as far as your eyes can see. A little eye sore though on those parts that mining starts destroying the side of the mountain. This is a long descend with grass in between single trail. Once at the lower most part of the valley is a stream where we can cool down, swim and enjoy the water.

We went straight to the nearby community to replenish some water and food, then head back to the same trail. Now that long descend will all be going up. Catching my breath as I slowly push my self up, I can feel my legs now slowly complaining. A real challenge. A total leg workout. It slowly hurt my calves and quads.

As I slowly pushed it dawned in my mind, how come they call this place "Don't Look Back", for me it should be called "Don't Look Up."  Really. Just don't look up for you will never be happy to see how far you are still going to go to reach the top most part of the peak. And don't look up, just focus your eyes on where you will land your next step, and just imagine that the 80degree incline is just flat. Whow. I am perspiring big time. They said we are still lucky the sky is over cast and no Mr. Sun.

Reaching the view deck is a bigggg relief, stayed a little longer at the nipa hut,  had few glasses of juice then proceed all the way down. Reached the community with a blast. Run around 4 hours on a 14km distance. Not bad on that elevation.

What a day. The very start of the many adventure on this area.  Happy feet with a healthy soul. Our road to H1 starts on this journey.

Our Itinerary
Sitio Licao Licao
Nipa Hut before the Heli pad
Dont Look Back to Sition San Isidro
Go back to Licao

Summits of Our Lives

Photo courtesy of Thailand Mountain Trail Official Photographer

It pays to look back as we climb the summits of our lives. The obstacles that lay beforehand may overwhelm us, but there is a relief in knowing that the view is better behind, pushing us to greater heights and enabling us to move forward. (Thanks L.Ano)
 
Discover your potential and know how far you can go. Push your limits. See the beauty of the northern part of Thailand. 

UPDATE: The event for this year has been canceled. Hopefully there will be one next year. 

Join the First Edition of Ultra Thai Chiang Mai (UTCM) - 4-6 December 2015! 150km distance, 8’800m+8’500m-, from Chiang Mai to Chiang Dao, Northern Thailand. Let's do this. 
 
Register on www.ultra-thai.com for Ultra Trail single  or Stage race!!!!!!!


My account on  UTCM - Zero Edition:  Ultra Thai Chiang Mai Zero Edition

Face That Fear - Mt. Maria Makiling - Reverse Traverse

I have a confession to make. But promise me not to laugh at me. I have FEAR  of heights.

Yah, right. From rapelling at one of the building in Makati University to wall climbing at Power Up Capitolyo to Silver City in Tiendesitas to Sandugo Wall in Market Market to out door rock trips in Wawa Montalban to Atimonan or Krabi in Thailand or Batu Cave in Kuala Lumpur or scaling the vertical wall of Mt. Guiting Guiting or that vertical drop at Mt. Mayon and before the Knife Edge of Halcon, promise I  always get that shaky knees and butterflies on my stomach. Only God knows how afraid I am and I know that is evident on my face.

Last Saturday, I face that fear again. Doing some trail running at Mt. Maria Makiling with a Reverse Traverse route, we have to go down the few rope segments which mostly used going up by hikers. Looks like we are the only one doing that crazy route. The risk is just really very high, with no life line (harness and rope used in rock climbing), I know I have to hold my life tight into the rope otherwise  my life will be at risk of one wrong move and if I can let go of my hand. With our lead, George, showing me how to do it, I just had to trust in myself and have faith that I can do this. Slow with every step down with so much care. Thank God, all of  made it through the danger part and through the entire run safe and injured free, I may have 1 leech bite.

https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/708441349/share/0?lang=en

Of the many things that I went through in life, be it literally facing that height on my expeditions and adventures on climbing, hiking, trail running or that moment in life that I just do not know what lies ahead of me, I just have to overcome that fear, face it heads on and trust that everything will turn out fine. As I always said to myself and to others, that which will not kill you will make you so much stronger. And that fear, that is just a false evidence appearing to be real. So no matter how scary that is, just face it.

Let your DREAMS be bigger than your fears, your actions louder than your words and your faith stronger than your feelings. Vision yourself to be in one of the most beautiful place on earth.

Exploring the Terraces on a Lighter Weight (Banaue Batad Mountain Marathon 2014)

Of my over a decade of mountain climbing and several years of mountain running, I have been to Banaue many many times and been to Batad via Cambulo a number of times with a heavy load of backpack on a multi day climb from Mt. Amuyao. Batad has always been a final destination and a great place of reward after 3 days of challenging  trek over several kilometers through the rice terraces. Since I started trekking,  passing through the rice terraces has always been my challenge, I just really find it so hard to get my balance on the narrow pathways  in between rice paddies with few meters high apart. Even with a trekking pole, having a load of almost 20kgs always gave me a hard time. I always cause a long queue  to hikers at my back every time we were at the terraces part. Few of my friends even tease me few years back, a Race Director should come up with a race on the terraces and they were quite sure it will slow me down.

A little of history (Photo by Wilnar Iglesia)

And around 3 years ago in one of our stop in Banaue with running friends, we saw a post of a full marathon in the area, this place could really be a nice venue to run,  to immerse once again to the Cordillera culture and be one with the famous rice terraces.

Until my race last weekend, I already forgot my fear of walking through the terraces nor my desire to run such race when I saw the marathon post few years back. The very first event along the terraces, the race really got me so excited that I did not recall any of what I thought and felt in the past. This could be a good break from the busy life in the city and to spend the long weekend with good friends will also be great to be done on a race again. Besides, I haven't been to the mountain for quite sometime now.

The Race, The Place, The People

Running with friends (Photo by Kian Vicera)

Banaue Batad Mountain Marathon is Team Malaya's 3rd Leg of the Cordillera Series, the Golden Harvest,  with route passing through the rice terraces along Banaue, Batad and Bangaan via  Cambulo. I miss the two earlier races hence this is my very first race with this group but I am very much familiar with most part of the race course.

I was with the company of my great friends Rollie, Mommy Del, Ati Myla, Shelly and Wilnar, we travel together from Manila Friday evening via Ohayami Transport for 9hours. Upon reaching Banaue, the organizing team (Team Malaya) was already at the Municipal Tourism Center (just few meters from Oyahami Banaue Bus Terminal) welcoming every race participants. After checking in, we settled in our lodge, Spring Village. Banaue is one of the 11 municipalities of Ifugao, a landlock province of the Philippines Cordillera Administrative Region in Luzon. This is  a small town of over 20,000 population and a home of  Unesco's World Heritage Sites, the Batad and Bangaan Rice Terraces, a 2000 year old terraces carved into the mountain, the main tourist attraction of the place.

From the town of Banaue, the race route will pass by Cambulo and Batad. Since the place has been visited by tourist all year out, there are Inns available within the town proper and  restaurants overlooking the view of the terraces. A good meal after our long bus ride was a very good start of our adventure with the first glimpse of the terraces over breakfast. It's harvest season though so most of the paddies are yellow colored ready for harvest or others has been empty for it has been harvested few days ago. 

A bright sunny day in the morning and a heavy down pour of rain in the afternoon has been the weather of the town lately. But the rain did not stop us, we claim our race kit, went to View Point to get a good sight of the Banaue Rice Terraces then went back for the race briefing and carbo loading of overflowing supply of brown rice, sinigang na chicken, steamed vegetable and fresh banana. It was a good way to see again the runners whom we will be sharing the course with the following day, most of them I know. 

Race Proper

At the starting line (Photo by Kian Vicera)

Indeed this is going to be  very different from my several visit of the terraces. Bringing my lightest hydration pack without trekking pole we went to the starting line 30 minutes before gun start, 5:00am will not be too dark for a start so I left my headlamp at the lodge. So happy to be towing the line with lots of friends, running friends, climb buddies and skyrunning friends.

There is no cut off time for both 42km and 21km distance. For a race over beautiful scenery, some runners goal is really to take it easy and enjoy nature's beauty. I thought the same as well, as this part of the region is home to  some of the best road and trail runners in the country, I never thought of pushing hard and getting a good ranking on my category.

View at the early part of the race (Photo by Fredz Decena)

Same gun start for both distance, once released, I just run my own relax pace. From the starting line at Banaue Poblasyon goes a downhill road which was a good start. I made sure that I run side by side with others as there were parts that has stray dogs got awakened by us on this cold early morning. The route follow the main road passing by communities overlooking the vast mountain ranges with terraces on the side, the road goes uphill and downhill, a good warm up on this hilly race. The scenery of the breaking dawn as the sun creep out of the mountain slopes where we were facing was just really beautiful sight to witness.  Just my ideal way of doing my morning run. Lots of runners already pass by me, male female, just not sure what distance they were running. At the 4km mark was the first aid station but I found that too early to refill anything so I kept on running until I reach the second aid station with a direction of turning left for us 42km runners. Running almost 8km now we were still on the paved road, then a turn left to Cambulo via the Kinakin Trail of 10km distance ahead. Mostly uphill paved road that switched back on the mountain slope until it finally goes to a rough road, muddy but I prefer running this than the paved one. I was running on my own. I pass by another aid station which I made sure to replenish my Gatorade drink and get fresh local orange fruit (dalandan). I have been running over 3 hours now, I need to make sure my hydration and nutrition should be well managed. Along the trail I pass by  mini falls, until finally it lead to a downhill trail to the village of Cambulo. I have been to this place in the past and I never realize we will pass by this place on the same trail this time.

View of the terraces early part of the race. (Photo by Ferdz Decena) 

From Cambulo, I am very much familiar with the trail already. Who will not? I have been to this place several times. Exactly the same trail we used in hiking on the right side the race course followed the great river to Batad. OMG. Passing by the narrow pathways of the terraces brings back my fear of walking through it. I was on my own, no runner infront nor at the back. Early on the terraces, as I was trying to maintain my balance until my left foot slipped, I have to put my weight on the right as the left side will be a deep fall. I fell on the muddy rice paddy with my left leg on the mud knee deep. That was a good consolation than falling on the other side of few meters down. What a good way to start my terraces adventure. With muddy left leg I continue my traverse, passing by trails above the terraces. Mostly uphill now on single track trail, I know exactly where the view deck of the bigger wider Batad Rice Terraces is. After several kilometers I finally reach it then it goes down following the stairs of uneven steps beside the terraces, overlooking the community of Batad. The trail leads to the main falls,  Tappiya Falls. This part is really a steep stairs going down with some parts slippery especially from the rain. I now meet lots of runners, majority are my friends. Too many to mention. Until I catch up with Rash and Benj. Only to find out there is no marshal at the Falls, the supposedly turn around point. A push back up to the trail from the water falls was a struggle. It was just too hot and I was catching my breath with thighs really tightened now. My legs are both now complaining. Upon reaching the saddle of this part of the trail, lots of runners already resting at the Nipa Hut. I wish there is an aid station somewhere that serve cold drinks but what was available was a mini store with drinks for sale, smallest bottle of cold water for 50.00 or Gatorade drink and coke for 75.00. Well, one cannot blame the locals, drinks deserve to be priced high for they have to haul it for several kilometers over mountain slopes and the terraces by foot.

At Batad Rice Terraces (Photo by Ati Myla Go)

Only then at that Nipa Hut I learned going down to Tappiya Falls was OPTIONAL and not part of the race course. WHAT???!!!! How come I did not know that? I miss one vital instruction again. Honestly, I lost much morale there. But I had no choice but to go back to the trail going to Batad Village and push a little faster despite my disappointment. To the terraces again then finally leads to the trail above with the view of the terraces below. I really wish an aid station will be sooner but to no avail. Until I met ALEN ALBAN. What? How on earth did you come ahead of me, I did not see you on the trail. He did not go down the falls. Oh well...that falls. Never mind. I continue on leaving Alen behind, it's just too hot now. I wish an aid station at the community but only to realize that will be at the saddle yet. There were few sari sari stores and one store that sells ice candy (I can still recall getting one few years back when I was there) but I opted to just continue with my journey leaving the community, I now enter the few more kilometers of trail from covered shaded part to the more exposed to the heat of the sun until it gets nearer to the saddle. I have been on the race for almost 6 hours now covering almost 30km already. All I am thinking now is just to get this over with for I am already hungry for some real food. The saddle is a sweet relief, I had my AMCI Packer friends waiting for me. Such a sweet surprise. After eating 1 piece of sweet potato, replenish my hydration bladder and pour water to myself, I run down.

Batad Rice Terraces

The downhill road was a little easier now but not friendly to my precious knees. This  will be a little over 12kms of paved road all the way to the finish line. It's sunny and hot and I can feel I need to pee. Until at one curve I saw Bitoy. Wohooo, another friend.  I asked him to look after me as I really need to pee. That was a very big relief. All the way I run until I pass by  the aid station at the junction, a sip of coke, brinnging with me small bottle of Gatorade and sweet potato, I am now counting the kilometer mark. From 8km it goes down to six until slowly getting shorter and closer. Just before mid noon a heavy down pour of rain came, earlier today than yesterday. Such a big relief running cooler now.  Upon reaching the community I know I am almost there. This is an out and back race so going to the finish line will now be an uphill push. 7 hours 45 minutes not bad for a suppose to be walk in the park mode race on a total of over 45km distance, not 42km(as per the GPS of Ati Myla). It was a good race after all. Nice view, nice trail over good friends with a bonus of ranking 7th on the female category.

Indeed, it was another visit to the rice terraces on a faster pace and lighter weight for I did not strap my heavy pack this time but I am sure I gain a little weight from all the food from the bus up to the time we went home. I went home with lots of  fun memories with great friends around.

Banaue Batad Marathon is also my entry race to an international race that I intend to take part of on a virtual category, #i2PRun. Organized by Impossible 2 Possible (I2P), this is a race in celebration to trail running showcasing the beautiful trails of Gatineau Park in Quebec, Canada. The date of the race falls on the same date as I am running in Banaue race, though I was not able to register on the virtual category online, my heart and mind was with i2P Run hoping that I was with the group of talented athletes running 100km through the beautiful trails of Quebec. Hope I can join one of the group's race one day. I believe in the group's advocacy and hope to take part of its mission by either sponsoring a young outdoor enthusiast or supporting their work one day and hope in my little way can help spread the mission globally.
Link of the i2P Run:  http://i2prun.com/i2prun.html

Post Race

A simple hug at the finish line, thank you Mariel.

I crossed the finish line 45 minutes past 12:00 noon, I was hungry and been wanting to eat real food. I was just too glad Kian and Mariel were there, I got a good photo upon crossing the line but most of all I got a good hug from Mariel. Thank you so much Mariel, I already smell stinky and been very wet yet you were there to hug me. I  don't know why but I just love to get a good hug after a good race.

Done. Thank you for the photo Kian.

After the organizer handed me my finisher shirt and talk to James Telias, I left the finish line without asking my ranking or where to claim my trophy or buckle or medal. I just want to have a good meal. At the restaurant nearby the finish line where a buffet post race meal was served, I met the runners who finish hours earlier than me, Mommy Del, Roland, Iris, and a lot more. Until the organizer call our attention that awarding is about to begin. I ate slow so the rest went ahead, been thinking of going straight to change in our room but thought of just dropping by the ceremony. The awarding just started. Mommy Del told me, room key is at the reception  of the Inn. I decided to stay despite being tired and feeling cold.

The awarding took longer than I expected, been wanting to leave until the top 10 for female 42km distance was called. My good friend Rashel was called which Mommy Del excitedly talk to me that for sure I belong to the top 10. Little did I know I ranked 7th without me knowing upon crossing the finish line. Glad I decided to stay a bit longer.

My signature smile...Happiness ( Photo by Mommy Del)

My thoughts after the race?  I think I got my money's worth. A race event shirt, personalized race bib, a carbo loading meal, post run meal, a long sleeves finisher shirt, a finisher's certificate and a buckle plus a finisher's trophy. Race such as this that covers vast distance over varied terrain is not an easy one to organize and I salute the organizer for doing their best to give the best to their runners.  I would like to share my thoughts which I hope the organizer will take it in a positive way.

• Red colored ribbons of wider and longer measurement were good visible colors. The placing and distance were strategic that it helps a lot for runners follow the right trail. Banner signages of THIS WAY were also a big help.
• Marshals were placed strategically on the areas needed but additional marshal should have been placed at the turn around point before going to Tappiya Falls. And should have informed  runners that going down is OPTIONAL.
• Aid stations - where it has been placed were already good but an additional should have been better, at the Cambulo area before the ascend or at the turn around point before Tappiya Falls.
• At the finish line, even if awarding has been going on, a designated marshal to welcome the coming runners crossing the finish line should be there at all times. Each runner deserve to be welcome after a great effort.
• It must have been great if all finishers trophy has been distributed at the finish line.
• A better fit of the finisher shirt should have been an additional plus. A small size is still much bigger than I thought.
• This is an event that passes through great historic view especially that of the terraces. Having a professional photographer on that part of the trail could have made the runners be happy to have good photo taken and for sure such photo will travel a long way which will also be a good advertisement of the race in the future.
• I commend the organizer's fast reply despite my late notice that I will use a friend's bib for he cannot join the race. They accommodated our request. Thank you.

Overall I can say it was a successful race. A very unique race which Team Malaya was able to put together. Looking forward to the next one.

A  race powered by Altra Lone Peak and Feetures socks. Thank you Singphil Ltd.Inc. for all your support.

More photos can be viewed here: Banaue Batad Mountain Marathon 2014