When we went there last April, I asked one of the guides why there are sights of burnt grasses and trees. He told me that they intentionally do it to attract deer and clear the area for wild boar hunting. Though this is not environmentally-sound, the people who do this are indigenous. They do not have other source of income, but this should not justify their slash-and-burn activities in the mountain. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the local government of Zambales should tighten their grip over these areas to avoid further destruction. They can issue ordinances that allow the indigenous people in the area to continue with their rituals, traditions and other perennial activities but not at the expense of the mountain.
Tips:
Make sure to take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), take the exit leading to Subic, then exit to Zambales.
1. Secure permits first from the police station. Guides will take you to the jump-off point. Register and secure guides (900pesos per guide good for the whole trekking; porter is also 900pesos.)
2. Trek early (eg 4:00AM) to avoid the scorching rays of the sun. Expect that during summer, heat comes from above and below. Pack a lot of water.
3. After reaching or exploring the surroundings through the visible 3 peaks of the mountain, you can go directly to the nearby Silanguin Cove.
4. Silanguin Cove is more serene than the popular Anawangin Cove. Lesser people go here so you can have the beach on your own. Softdrinks are sold from 55pesos to 80pesos. Ice is supplied every afternoon via the banca "Kambal."
5. You can arrange for sidetrips to Anawangin Cove and Capones Island (for its jade water and lighthouse) before proceeding to Pundaquit, San Antonio, Zambales.
6. For the budget: 2,000pesos is enough to go through Mt Cinco Picos and Silanguin Cove, including Anawangin Cove and Capones Island.
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