Ever since I was a child, climbing up a mountain has always been my dream. I owe to experience the challenge in trekking, and the majestic views after the hike that each mountain could offer like no other. That’s why I am more than happy to finally have my first experience in Mt. Balagbag in Rodriguez, Rizal. A place that offers a view of both the city lights, and also a view of its nearby mountain ranges in just a short 1-2 hour hike? Yes! That’s Mt. Balagbag!
Mt. Balagbag is a very beginner-friendly mountain. The trail leading to the top is so established that you won’t need a guide to hire, there’s no major assaults. That’s why the trail is also suitable for bikers and even larger vehicles. And also, Sitio Balagbag is the most accessible from our place, it only takes around 1 and a half hour from Meycauayan, Bulacan and even in Quezon City. So isn’t it Mt. Balagbag the perfect package for everyone to give it a shot?
GETTING THERE:
1. From Farmers Cubao, ride a bus heading to Tungko. Alight at BDO Tungko near Jollibee.
FARE: P38 (Ordinary bus), P60 (AC bus)
2. From Tungko, ride a jeepney going to Licao Licao. (Jeepney terminal is at the back of BDO Tungko) Drop off at the last stop.
FARE: P27
3. You can already start your trek with a 30-min walk from Licao Licao terminal going to the jump-off point of Mt. Balagbag. You also have a choice of riding a tricycle for only P20/pax going to the jump-off point to save time.
~ If you’re coming from Marilao or Meycauayan, Bulacan like me, you can take jeepneys from Muzon –> Tungko –> Licao Licao. It will help you save around 30 mins on your travel time.
STARTING THE TREK:
Upon arriving at the jump-off point, there is the first registration hall wherein you’ll have to register for only P10/pax. No need to hire a guide (unless you’re taking the Balagbag-Maranat Traverse). After registering, you can already start your 1-2 hour trek to the summit!
You can expect that a lot of refreshments and stores are available along the jump-off and the trail itself. They even offer lutong ulam and halo-halo (the best!) in the stores along the trail to make your hike even more convenient, since some parts of the trail also serves as the living area for the locals. Before reaching the grassland area of the trail, you’ll have to register at the second registration area. The fee is only P20/pax (dayhike) and P50/pax (overnight) on Mondays to Thursdays, while P50/pax (dayhike) and P80/pax (overnight) during weekends.
THE SUMMIT
Getting near at the summit already boasts a beautiful view and picture-perfect landscapes. So what more on the summit?
Upon reaching the summit, you can enjoy the perfect spot for a 360 view of the Metro Manila, wide plains of Bulacan Province, and also the view of the nearby Sierra Madre Mountains surrounding Rizal Province and the Eastern Part of Bulacan. Isn’t it the perfect prize after enduring the very long hike?
What is the best time to hike Mt. Balagbag?
Actually, the best option to fully enjoy Mt. Balagbag is by staying overnight, which we’re unable to do due to the changing weather. For dayhike, the best time to hike is early in the morning to avoid the heat of the sun. Another reason is for you to go down early, because the last trip of jeepney from Licao Licao is until 5-6pm only. While for an overnight stay, the best time to hike is around 4pm to avoid the heat of the sun. Perfect time too to watch the beautiful sunset upon reaching the summit. And during nightime is the perfect time to enjoy the city lights view. And ofcourse, watching the sunrise upon waking up at morning is another reason to stay overnight, truly an adventure! Just be sure to leave no trace. No littering and vandalism in the mountain!
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BREAKDOWN OF EXPENSES:
P76 – RT Bus Cubao-Tungko
P54 – RT Jeep Tungko-Licao Licao
P10 – 1st Registration Fee
P50 – 2nd Registration Fee
TOTAL: P190 only! Why not go on your first hike now?
My first hiking experience in Mt. Balagbag is definitely a highlight in my travels. Who would know that a very accessible place offers such a beautiful gift of nature? I wish that my next mountain adventure will be held the soonest as possible! There’s nothing more fulfilling as you reach a mountain’s peak after a challenging climb. So enjoy these beautiful things in life while you’re young! 🏞
Patrick Wanders 