Mt. Pinagbanderahan (336+MASL)

We are often blinded by familiarly so we do not see or do not know the beautiful places in or near our hometowns. If not for the 2014 Mountain Clean-up Day climb organized by Pinoy Mountaineer, Dr. Gideon Lasco, I would never have discovered the mountain situated only 1- 1.5 hours away from my hometown of Sariaya, Quezon.

Mt. Pinagbanderahan is located in Atimonan, Quezon. It lies within the Quezon Protected Landscape, an area under the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS). Historically, the mountain served as an area where the Philippine flag was hoisted during the Philippine Revolution- hence, the name “Pinagbanderahan”.

Going to the jump-off, one will pass through parts of the highway called “ bitukang manok” (chicken intestine) because of the zigzagging path reminiscent of the said chicken part. There would also be locals in the road guiding vehicles along the winding path and it has been customary to give away coins to them.

Before we started the hike, we registered at the DENR office and hired a guide for P300. The hike to the summit of Mt. Pinagbanderahan was easy enough as I experienced during Mountain Clean-up. Actually, one can call it a “walk in the park” climb as the trail up until the summit is paved and only becomes steep enough for you to catch your breath once near the top.

The paved trail is a bit disappointing as it takes away the experience of walking on soft earth. On the other hand, it makes the trail easy enough that anyone (including children!) can climb it safely. It is a good introductory climb to first time hikers in a sense that they will not be traumatized with exhaustion. With this, it was in this mountain I decided to introduce my parents to the sports of hiking, #1: for them to see the wonders I see and, #2: for them to understand why, with so many risks involved, I climb mountains.

We started the hike at 8am in the morning. Our hike could have been faster if we did not take lots of photos of the beautiful forest-park. As first time hikers, my parents were complaining that I told them the hike was easy even though it is not. As we near the summit, complaints were firing rapidly and they were getting a little mad at what I put them through. I keep telling them that the view at the summit is worth all the aching in their tired legs.

At 9:03 am, we finally reached the summit of Mt. Pinagbanderahan with the sun rising so bright above us. Both my parents were so happy to have reached it and see the amazing views of Atimonan, Pagbilao, and the Tayabas Bay. They enjoyed the hike so much that when I asked them where we would climb next, they suggested going to Banaue to hike to the world famous Batad Rice terraces.

As my parents proved, it is not too late to start going up mountains. I hope that everyone will try, even once in their life, to hike a mountain just to see how the experience will change their lives. Happy hiking to all!