From Sabluyon, Ligao City, after the Masaraga climb; we proceeded to Amater Spring Resort in Malinao, Albay. We spent our night in the resort that is being managed by Tupe Olayao’s good friend… and we had a chance to enjoy the cold and relaxing water of the spring after before resting for the next day’s Mt. Malinao exploration.
6:30 AM, after our pre-arrange breakfast at the resort caretaker’s house, we started walking. We passed through the approximately 3.0 km to 3.5 km long gradually ascending gravel feeder road under the bearable heat of the morning sun. We arrived at the trailhead after an hour. Like any other hiking destinations, initially, the trail was generally gradual. In the first few minutes after entering the trail, the beautifully cascading river which is vibrantly giving sound effects to the relaxing atmosphere of the place greeted us. The trail passed through abaca plantations and farmlands until we reached a very large grassland, the Sugad Campsite, where the beautiful view of the planes and coast of Tabaco City, Malinao and other surrounding towns could be seen. San Miguel, Batan, Rapu-rapu and other islands of Albay are likewise very visible in the campsite. Then, the trail once again passed through the woods, this time, the vegetation is much denser and richer. After another couple of hours, as we reach the 900 MASL mark of our altimeter, as expected, the trail became steeper that in some instances we grappled with roots and vines. Our assault was further challenged by the strong downpour!
After five long hours of walk, we reached the peak, one of the ridges of the large eruption caldera of Mt. Malinao. We did not expect that the mountain will give us the chance to see the crater floor, but everyone was so excited to be able to reach the 1,455 MASL mark! The chilling temperature compelled us to consume our light snacks and take souvenir photos quickly. Thus, after 20 minutes we started enjoying again the vibrant forest under the chilling but bearable rain. We reached the Sugad Campsite. The rain halted when we were in Sugad campsite, giving us further chance to enjoy the view of the eastern coast of Albay. However, after we commenced trekking again, rain poured and covered us from the sun until we reached the trailhead.
After the climbed, we briefly enjoyed the cold water of the spring… then pleased our tired body with pork adobo which was prepared by Tupe and his friend. For some, climbing a mountain under heavy downpour and with thick fog is not an enjoyable adventure. For me, it is not the elements that will dictate the enjoyment in every climb but our attitude in dealing toward these natural occurrences. Enjoying a certain adventure is a choice.
At 5:00, we proceeded to Tabacao City Terminal to catch the bus to Manila.
At 5:00, we proceeded to Tabacao City Terminal to catch the bus to Manila.