5th Hike: Mount Batulao

Hiking Leaf # 5: Birthday Climb at Batulao


November 12, 2017 - I have already achieved my monthly commitment to hiking and I am happy because I am able to do it. I went back to my Mother Group, Galang Paa, and our group hiked to Mount Batulao. My hiking buddy, JP, was not able to join the climb because he had a scheduled a hike at Mount Ugo the next day (Wow! Ugo!). I invited my co-worker, Edlen, and my former schoolmate from college, Ella.

Upon arriving at the meeting place (KFC - Kia), I found out that we now have 2 vans! One of our companions brought along some joiners, who seemed to be colleagues, and they filled up an entire van! The rest of us who knew each other rode in the other van. Ms. Mylene decided to join the other van because she was the organiser and wanted to get to know the group of joiners.

We started our journey and passed through the Cavite area where we picked up two more joiners who were acquaintances of our companions. Then, we headed to Nasugbu! It was still dark when we arrived at the jump-off point of Batulao, around 4:00 am. Shortly after, Ms. Mylene gathered us for a briefing and set the formation. I accompanied my two companions to assist and guide them.

We began the trail, the first part of which was paved as we passed through a community. I realised I had forgotten to bring a flashlight! Once again, I relied on the cellphone lights of my companions. The trail was easy and the cool breeze made it refreshing.

As it was still dark, I didn't notice when we left the community and entered the dense forest. We had several stopovers, which puzzled me until I remembered there were many "Toll Fees" in Batulao where we had to pay for registration.

Due to our large group, there were times when we had to stop or faced traffic on the trail. Deep down, I didn't really like this as you couldn't fully experience the essence of nature and reflect on your life. But since I joined this event and I was part of it, there was nothing I could do but enjoy the trail!

The break of dawn reached us on the trail and that's when I witnessed the beauty of the peaks of Batulao. The cool breeze brushing against me, the beauty of nature was truly magnificent. We continued walking until we reached the Knife-Edge of Batulao. It was dizzying and I had to pass through that part with my head down. There were also parts where you had to use a rope (which was already there) for the steep ascent.

After a few more minutes of walking, we finally reached the summit of Batulao. There wasn't much clearing when we reached the top. Here, we decided to have our group meal. With our large group, it felt like we were crowding the summit, especially when other groups arrived behind us.

View at the other side of Batulao

No clearing at the top


Ella, Edlen and me


Sea of crowds at the summit


The three of us with Ms. Mylene


Group picture

The wind was strong at the summit, so there were moments when the clouds covering the beautiful view from the summit would part. Unfortunately, I wasn't fortunate enough to capture a great shot from the summit because there was really no clearing when we arrived.

I also enjoyed the experience of hiking up Batulao, especially on its "Knife-Edge" and of course, the beautiful views you can see along the trail.


Date of hike:
November 12, 2017
5th hike

My 7th mountain
Mt. Batulao (811+ masl)

Minor hike

Notes: Batulao is part of the Nasugbu Trilogy which consists of Mt. Apayang, Mt. Talamitam and Mt. Batulao itself.


Event organiser/group:
Ms. Mylene (momshie) of Galang Paa

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