Sweets and Sweat at one of the Philippines' Historic Mountains - Mt. Manunggal!

Climbing is without a doubt an adrenaline pump. You'll feel the blood pumping through your veins as your body starts to sweat. This is always what I feel which energizes me every time I go to the mountains. But this time, it felt giddy as if there were butterflies in my stomach as I climbed it together with my ex-boyfriend-now-husband, who was fresh from abroad for a vacation. He joined me on this adventure and I couldn't help doing some baby talk every time I slipped on the rocks. Haha! Char! Kidding aside.

It's been a while since I last posted my " adventures in nature" - life has been busy lately. So here it is now, and maybe you want to join me on this climb filled with sweets and sweat. Don't worry, I promise you won't feel like the third wheel! So what are we waiting for ? Letssss go, Taraaa! to one of my country's historic mountains - Mt. Manunggal!

Getting To Know Mt. Manunggal

Mount Manunggal is famous not just for us people in the North of Cebu or the whole province itself but the mountain has become one of the most iconic mountains in my country the Philippines. Some sources claim it is the highest peak in Cebu while some sources say that it's the third in rank. Interestingly, this mountain didn't get famous for being high up in the sky but because on one tragic event that happened on March 17, 1957. This was the site where 26 people including our country's President at that time, President Ramon Magsaysay died due to an aircraft crash.

They say that we always learn something new every day, and this climb was no exception. Surprisingly, there was a fact I learned along the way, something I never would have known if I hadn't climbed this mountain. And what was that? "Manunggal" refers not to the mountain itself but to the name of the tree where the President's plane crashed! All this time, the information I learned from school was totally off base! The plane didn't crash on the now-famous rocky peak of Mt. Manunggal, but it crashed into a giant tree. And look, the tree wasn't even growing on top of the mountain! In fact, it was nowhere near the peak - it was further down the trail. I only learned all of this information from the local guide who led us on our hike.

Ohh, I think I shared enough facts already, how about let's dive now into the experience!

Beauty and facts along the trail!

As soon as we arrived at the reception area of Mt. Manunggal, we hurriedly went to the registration desk, listed our names, and asked for the activities they were offering. I was surprised to know that Mt. Manunggal tourism department had quite a lineup: a viewing deck wich offers a panoramic view of the beautiful mountains of Balamban and the sea that surrounds the island of Cebu and is only a few minutes away from the reception area, a camping adventure, and lastly, a guided hike to the famous rock formation of Mt. Manunggal. We chose the latter because we wanted the adventure and the beautiful landscapes that would greet our eyes, and also we wanted to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of nature for a longer time.

Personally, I wasn't too keen on having a guide because I want to discover things on my own and find the trail by myself coz that is what makes a climb even more exciting. However as the saying goes "rules are rules", and their policy of "no guide, no climb" left me with no choice. In the end, obeying the rule turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It felt like I was walking in the classroom with a teacher who kept sharing fascinating lessons about the mountains and all the native trees we passed by! I ended up learning so much more than I expected!

The trail started off as a walk in the park as there were cemented blocks placed on the path. All you have to do is follow it and step carefully particularly when the blocks get slippery due to the moisture and rain.

Because of the place's cold weather ( oftentimes the place gets foggy and moist due to its high altitude), we could see the lush vegetation surrounding the place. What I loved about it were the different species of trees that thrive in the area with their fruits untouched. And then I learned that Mt. Manunggal has become part of the Protected Area of the government which means the government is not just safeguarding the place's historical significance but also preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of Mt. Manunggal.

The engine - the only remnants left

Walking along the lush vegetation at that time and learning its rich history was a different experience. I'm glad that our guide never failed to discuss the happenings and events of the tragic accident that unfolded here a long time ago. Eventually, we arrived at the site where the engine of the aircraft was found and was being preserved and protected by the Mt. Manunggal Tourism. The engine was securely cemented to safeguard it from thieves.

I asked if there were other parts of the plane that had been recovered but Nanay, the guide explained to us, that almost all parts of the plane were burned to a crisp. She added that before that some of the broken wings were found but the locals sold them off to the scrap merchants.

The monument

Not so long, we stopped by at the monument of the Pres. Magsaysay. The monument was built in order to commemorate the president's untimely passing. In front of the monument lies a wide open ground designated for campers. Every year, hundreds of nature enthusiasts flock to the site to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors and also to commemorate the death anniversary of Pres. Magsaysay.

Love on the rocks

After that "educational hike", I say. hehe. We finally reached the rocky uphill climb leading to the peak. Next to the stunning peak, this was my favorite part of the whole trail as I always loved adrenaline-pumping activities like this. My heart's racing!

It was during this stretch that I think my husband became the *corniest* as he constantly reminds me of his sweet words to be extra careful with every step I take. I almost got annoyed by it as it felt like he preferred to carry me at his back rather than let me climb on those rocks! However, I just laughed it off and told him that I was loving every moment of it. If slipped or stumbled then be it! I even love to get some dirt along the way!

The majestic peak and the breathtaking panoramic view!!

After the sweets and sweats, finally we reached the peak!

The peak was crowned by its incredible rock formation offering a breathtaking panoramic view. I absolutely love how the rocks seemed to be arranged on top of the mountain creating a perfect spot for anyone to sit and savor the stunning view!

In comparison, the peak of Mt. Manunggal has the same characteristics as the peaks in Licos and Mt. Kapayas in the Northern part of Cebu. But what's distinct about this mountain among others is the history etched into its very soul and its mystical view that often gets covered by clouds and this is the main reason why the President's airplane tragically crashed in this mountain.

We took time exploring the different sides of the peak and cherished the wonderful moment on top. It feels incredibly special to have your favorite person by your side and share the breathtaking view of the rolling mountains and the sky.

As we were learning the deeper history of Mt. Manunggal, we were also creating a memory on our own. It's a gift to be so indulged in nature this way!

🖊️@callmesmile

_{📚She is a public school Teacher on weekdays, a Jill of all trades on weekends, outdoorsy on holidays, a mother, and a blogger in between. 😉}

_{🍃She's in love with nature and the simple life of the countryside. As a lifelong learner, as she is, she is attracted to learning opportunities and growth.}

_{❤️Join her as she shares life's simple joy and its beauty through traveling, exploring nature, the wonders of creating things through some of her DIY, the good things about countryside life, a glimpse of being a Public School Teacher, and more!}

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