addy E. debriefed us on what to expect from the climb. Then there was the prayer and some stretching. Shortly afterwards a Toyota Revo arrived, inside were the others who would be joining the climb, Sir James and Marilen, who I had the pleasure of climbing with in Batulao and also a new guy, Sir Arin. Officially it was the start of the climb. But with just a brief walk along a farm trail going into the forest, there is another house where you will have to re-register again. This time, it's for the DENR. Final preparations were made and also the mandatory group photos at the start of the trail.
Jaweng and the Chicharon Boys
Studying the timeframe from the given IT, it took some 3-4 hours of trek towards the Papaya River where we will have our lunch. The reason I guess for the long trek at the first part of the climb is because the jump-off point is situated well away from the mountain itself. From there you could still see the mountain from afar, then you will be passing by farm lands, and clearings until you finally reach the forest at the foot of the mountain. The trail isn't that difficult, the only downside though is the heat of the sun. So proper sun protection is needed here, lest you want to get sunburned. There's also a clearing before the forest entrance after a not-so-steep slope. Some AMCI (Ayala Mountaineers) members, who happens to be climbing the same time with us, commented on the fallen tree at the side of the trail, which was somehow had been their marker as a resting place for it provided sufficient shade for them. The view from the resting place is also quite picturesque. From here on you have to climb another gradual slope to enter the forest trail.
Being under the shade of the trees was quite a comfort after walking under all the heat of the sun. The trail isn't that much harder either. One thing I noticed though was there were quite a few numbers of fallen branches and trees along the trail that you would have to bend or crouch past them. I was in company with Eds, Jaja and Ruwen. Jaja and Ruwen had been like trail buddies for they have been together since the hike started. Jaja is the guy you won't seem think capable of going to the mountains because of his thin physique, but he's doing quite well despite that. Ruwen is an amazing gal. She's has a chubby physique but I'm quite impressed how she can carry herself in the mountains. She's fast for her size. She's also the designated Medic for the climb. Aside from that, she has an enthusiastic and friendly attitude. Together, both are called "Jaweng" while she would call Eds and me, "Fredz".
