Mount Makiling is probably one of the most enchanting mountains in the Philippines. With the legend of Maria Makiling at its helm, this mountain could surprise in so many different ways. Ridges and gullies are covered with thick vegetation. Pitchers and Rafflesia are amazing and would astonish you.
How to traverse the mountain?
1. If you are coming from Manila, take any Batangas-bound bus and get off at Sto Tomas Public Market. Take a trike to the barangay hall of San Bartolome (fare is 14pesos or less) and pay a registration fee of 20pesos.
2. Be cautious as some parts are confusing. Be careful if you are doing it on your own. Lipang kalabaw, scientifically known as Dendrocnide meyeniana (Walp.) Chew, abounds near Peak 2.3. Exit through the traditional trail at the University of the Philippines Los Baños College of Forestry and Natural Resources (UPLB-CFNR). There are ladders and ropes installed in the area that makes trekking in this part a lot easier than before.
4. According to pinoymountaineer.com, this is a major climb with 6/9 difficulty and trail class of 3 with roped segments. Be prepared when the weather gets nasty (read: rainy) as trails become really slippery.
5. According to a professor of UPLB-CFNR, traversing the mountain is prohibited as it is classified as forest reserve.
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