Conquer Pulag Preparation

Mount Pulag will be happy to see you at the summit!

Conquering any mountain with high altitude requires a lot of preparation from coordination with travel or tour coordinators to strengthening our physical stamina so we can withstand the hours of hike from the Ranger Station to the Camp Site and eventually to assault the summit; and even the requirements for the trek such as hiking packs, shoes thermal jackets etc.  It was two months ago when my boss asked my to do the coordination with Travel Factor (our official tour coordinator) for the trek to Mount Pulag.  A lot of things were considered from the cost of the package and its inclusion to the schedule of the trek, list of participants and their personal details, the weather and and security of the area.  At first, I was hesitant to accept the offer to be one of the participants considering the distance that I have to walk just to reach the camp site and to assault the summit and of course the very cold temperature through advance researches.  However, I cannot say no to my boss for according to him, only few can conquer Mount Pulag and that I will be joining the group for free.  And because I was the coordinator of the group for the said travel, it was a big YES then.

For those who want to conquer Mount Pulag, be it known that it is the highest mountain in Luzon and the second highest mountain in the whole Philippines, meaning it is second to Mount Apo in Davao.  It has an elevation of 2,952 meters above sea level and houses endangered flora and fauna species and where the natives of Benguet live.  Before making any final decision to climb the mountain, it is a must for everyone to research about important facts about the mountain and choose the company that offers free tent accommodation at the camp site and free meals so you will not be bringing your own tent and other provisions. 

The following are the requirements:

• Clothing equipment
• Clothes for Layering*
• Backpack*
• Pants*
• Mess Kit (Plate, Spoon, Fork, Cup)*
• Jacket*
• Plastic bags for waterproofing
• Gloves
• Flashlight/Headlamp + Batteries*
• Socks*
• Cellphone*
• Hiking shoes/sandals*
• Sleeping bag
• Raincoat*
• Insulator
• Bonnet/Beanie
• Trail water
• Trail food
• Community water (1Liter)*
• Personal Medicine/First Aid

There are important reminders when preparing your things such PACK LIGHT and waterproof your things! When cleaning up, use wet tissue or hand sanitizer.  Be environment friendly - bring plastic bags to keep your trash and practice LEAVE NO TRACE POLICY.  Latrines are available at the campsite.  For those who wish not to carry their backs, porters are available at the Ranger Station for two hundred fifty pesos (P250.00) per way.  Lastly, don't forget to drink BONAMINE!  You may feel dizzy while riding the jeep from the DENR Station to the Ranger Station.