THE CHIEF MOUNTAIN OF BUKIDNON

Traversing Mt. Kalatungan (2,860m) to Mt. Lumpanag (2,525m) in Bukidnon is an unforgettable experience—one that tested my endurance, patience, and love for the mountains. Known as the 5th highest peak in the Philippines, Mt. Kalatungan is notorious for its difficulty, often ranking among the toughest climbs in the country. Adding Mt. Lumpanag to the traverse only made it more intense, but the breathtaking views and sense of accomplishment were worth every struggle. The Journey Begins: Day 1 Our adventure started early in the morning from Barangay Mendis, Pangantucan, Bukidnon, where we met our guides and porters. Before starting the climb, we attended a ritual performed by the locals, offering a “pamuhat” (a ritual offering) to the spirits of the mountain, a common practice in Mindanao’s sacred peaks. The trek began with a mix of river crossings, steep ascents, and dense mossy forests. The humidity was intense, and the trail quickly became a grueling challenge. The “Wild Boar Trail”, as some call it, was relentlessly steep and slippery, making every step feel like a test of willpower. By late afternoon, we reached Plaza Kalatungan (Camp 1), a small clearing near the summit. The temperature dropped drastically, and fog enveloped the camp, creating a mystical atmosphere. After setting up camp, we enjoyed a simple dinner and rested for the long day ahead. Summiting Mt. Kalatungan & the Traverse to Mt. Lumpanag: Day 2 We woke up before sunrise to push for Mt. Kalatungan’s summit, reaching it after an hour of steep ascents. The summit was covered in thick fog, but occasional clearings revealed stunning views of Bukidnon’s vast mountain ranges. We took a moment to appreciate the achievement before preparing for the traverse to Mt. Lampanag. The trail to Mt. Lumpanag was a mix of rolling mossy forests and knife-edged ridges. Compared to the Kalatungan ascent, this part of the trail felt more manageable, though still challenging. After a few hours, we finally stood at the summit of Mt. Lampanag, where the clouds cleared just in time for us to witness the beauty of the surrounding peaks. The descent was no joke—steep, muddy, and physically draining. With every step, my legs felt heavier, and the trail seemed endless. By the time we reached the exit point in Barangay Bacusanon, exhaustion had taken over, but so had an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. The Mt. Kalatungan-Mt. Lumpanag Traverse was a brutal yet incredibly rewarding adventure. It’s a climb that pushes your limits but rewards you with stunning views, lush mossy forests, and the satisfaction of conquering two of Mindanao’s toughest peaks. If you’re up for the challenge, this is a hike you’ll never forget!