Hello, Hive!
There's only a few days left before August officially slips away into a moment in time. How have you been? I'm guessing most people here are excited for the autumn spell as it means bountiful harvest, bonfires, apple pies, and scenic hikes. While we have no such time here in the Philippines, we do enjoy some golden moments of sun despite the ongoing wet season. In fact, my friends and I have just been to an amazing trip last week which I will be sharing with you here.
]A litte background...
If you have been following my blogs, you would know that I've been to Mt. Madjaas earlier this year (January). It was my first major climb for 2023 and the subject of my first travel post in this community too. You would also know that it was a failure — at least for four individuals. Turned out three days and two nights of torrential rain set the limit for France, James, Nas and I.
While we've already put the past at the back of our heads, regret lingered like a nagging conscience. The would haves, could haves, and should haves dragged on for months until, finally, France decided on a date of our return. He contacted the rest of the bonsai team (a moniker for those who were not able to summit Mt. Madja-as), but Nas could not come. Fortunately, we have 
A hopeful revenge climb
The group met in the airport with full packs and hearts full of hope. We took the 5 AM flight and arrived in Caticlan, Aklan ahead of time. Unlike the previous Mt. Madja-as climb, this one was a DIY. We had to secure our own transportation to Culasi, Antique which was two hours away via van.
Once we arrived in Culasi, we headed straight to the offices of municipal tourism, DENR, and PNP. As part of the SOP, every hiker is required to submit the necessary paperworks and go through the routine orientation and police questioning.
Afterwards, we hailed motorcycles that would take us to Brgy. Flores, the jump off for those following the Flores Trail. We arrived at 10 AM and by then, the weather was scorching hot. To the first timers Kim and Junji, it was a good sign, but to the revengers France, James and I, it was like an answered prayer. Finally, clear blue skies.
Appreciating Antique highlands the second time around
It was quarter to 12 noon when we started the hike, led by our porters and guides. Again, we saw the familiar bridge hanging above Tibiao River. The difference this time is that the water is clear. It glistened with the sun's rays as if inviting us to take a dip.
We hiked through the open hills and farmlands until we reached Kamandiga village, the farthest settlement in the barangay. It was as if we were walking its trail for the first time. Before, we didn't get to enjoy the surroundings due to dense fog and heavy rain. But here, before us, is a picture-perfect scenery.
After a quick coffee, we then resumed the hike. The gradual assault became steeper and constant. My shoulder ached from the heavy bag, but I had more drive to push through now. This is nothing compared to hiking on a muddy trail with the heavy rain weighing you down.
We finally entered the forested area, thankful for the shade from the trees. But soon, the temperature dropped and it rained. Thankfully, it was not that strong and did not stay long. By the time we reached the junction, the drizzle stopped. Our friendly and clingy friends (leeches), however, started coming out.
The final challenge of the day was the steep descending incline going to Bantang campsite. There was section in the trail where we had to use the roots of several trees as foothold. Nature really is amazing for finding ways to thrive.
After a total of 5 hours, covering 6.15 kilometers, we're finally done for the day. We pitched our tents and the boys went on to prepare our dinner.
There was another group led by Tatay Josue who arrived a little late. I found it unique that instead of tents, they use a huge tarp as shelter and shared the space for sleeping. Meanwhile, I went to bed early to reserve my auntie-strength for a bigger day tomorrow.
Yes, we're finally going to the SUMMIT! But there's too much excitement so I'll tell you all about it in a separate post. See you around! 😁👣
Maria is a hopeless romantic who travels in pages and places. She is an INFP who loves sunrises and moonlight nights and reading books in between. On weekdays, she works for a self-publishing company as a copywriter. On weekends, she lives for life as a poet or hiker. She hopes to share her love for words and the world with you here on HIVE.
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