Finding it hard to squeeze in a major hike because of time and monetary constraints, a day hike is the next best thing to somehow quench my thirst for the mountains. Lalo na't work is getting to be more and more toxic again, being in the boondocks is a great stress reliever.
So last saturday found us up in Batulao. It was a pleasant surprise to be reunited with some of my ka-groupmates sa MFPI whom I haven't seen in a long while - Ricky with his son, Jivril, Ivy, and Ericki. As with most of our climbs, we coined and immortalized a term so we can remember a particular trip. On this edition, it's "biyak", the Filipino word for break. In english, it's quite harmless but in the vernacular, it assumes a naughty meaning. anyway, Let it be a private joke na lang, hahaha. Thanks mga amigos and amigas for a wonderful dayhike. As the pictures attest, the view was breathtaking and awesome, certainly worth the puyat.
For those interested in hiking up Mt. Batulao: Ride bus headed for Nasugbu (Crow transit - P94/one way, allow for 2.5-3 hours trip) • Alight at Evercrest Golf Club and register at the entrance • Start hike following the road leading to the Don Bosco Center, turn left to the end of paved road (opposite road leads to Calaruega) • Estimated time for hike to camp 1 - 1.5-2 hours • Register at camp 1 (P20/per climber; fee includes use of comfort room) • Estimated time to hike to summit from camp 1 - 30-45 minutes • Degree of difficulty: easy to moderate, rock climbing near summit • Wear long-sleeved shirt/arm protection & long pants as trail is mainly cogonal • Bring drinking water (no potable water source) • There are 10 campsites (including the summit), most of which are marked by Talisay trees, camp no. 1 has a toilet (how convenient!) • Many local trails exist so it's advisable to hire a guide
