Hi, Dear Hivers!
My first mountain climbing was still fresh in my mind. This expedition was at Mt. Campitlok wherein we only spent 1 hour climbing the peak. As an amateur in traversing mountains, after my experience of conquering the top of the world, I started to love mountaineering. It is full of adventure and is healthy for my whole being.
The moment that we were having our chit-chat at Mt. Campitlok's peak, 
I always dream of gazing at sunrise at the summit, but it appeared to be too difficult to experience. As agreed, we should embark on our climb at 6:30 AM, however, we were able to start our hike at 6:45 AM due to some reasons that are beyond our control. I hope someday I can enjoy watching the sun rises and I'll be at the top of the world waiting for him in solitude.
A little background of the place
Mt. Liog-liog is located at Mabuli, Tabogon, in the northern part of Cebu. Liog in Bisaya means neck and I don't actually know why it was called such a name. This mountain is one of the most climbed by the locals, especially during the Lenten Season. The Calvary of the religious devotees here was profoundly constructed at the topmost part of it. We need to traverse for an hour before reaching the foot of the mountain.
Although this is only a small barangay, the richness of natural resources in this place made it amazing. Along our way, we have seen a healthy and fully grown variety of vegetables and other crops that can be sold as a source of living. Farming is one of the sources of living here.
Apparently, the morning dew brightened up my day and the green scenery around is so relaxing and soothing to my inner self. The place is far from pollution, the chirping birds welcomed us all and I got an awesome feeling to have seen the wonders of nature that are untouched and vividly pure.
Let the Adventurous Climb Begin
...good thing my backpack was lighter because reaching the foot of Mt. Liog-log was a lil bit exhausting already. It was too far from the main road and took almost an hour to be to the bottom of the mountain. Climbing to the peak took 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Into the tall grass
As we started our first step in moving upward, I was welcomed by insect bites on my uncovered arms. I should have worn a sweatshirt the next time. Tall weeds covered the path and we needed to be very cautious because Mabuli is known in our town as having Philippine Cobra. This was my first time to be here.
Signages can be seen around and I'm glad about these. They are the evidence that Mt. Liog-liog is given importance by the local government. This friendly small act will remind mountain hikers of the importance of valuing their natural resources.
Ascending the steep rocky slope
Mt. Liog-liog is a forested and rocky mountain. It was challenging in heading upward due to the sharp huge rocks that we have passed. In climbing, we must be physically and mentally fit, courageous enough, and persistent to reach the summit.
Since we are still beginners in this journey, it's Miss Smile who instructed us on what to do. In ascending steep slopes it needs brilliant skills and we need somebody who will constantly guide us. Good thing she is knowledgeable about this trail and led us the way on the entire hike.
As we traversed further, huge rocks of different colors enticed us all. This is what made this journey more fun and challenging. The pathways are covered with sharp metamorphic rocks which made it dangerous once we fall thus, we need to observe safety precautions to avoid the risk along the way.
The presence of these rocks made it easy to ascend. We can easily step on these sturdy rocks and can lift our feet immediately without much difficulty. To have seen the craggy terrain for the first time brought me total amusement. Although we were exhausted from climbing the steep slope, we never got bored as we were astonished by the huge boulder. It seemed that we were in foreign countries doing mountain climbing.
We are on the high
After the energy-draining climb, the splendid view of nature mesmerized us all. The overlooking scene that I witnessed took my breath away. Everything is spectacular.
The alluring man-made structure which looks like a ship, was manually carved from a rocky mountain. It serves as the calvary mountain for the devotees. It tugged us so we can eyewitness the wonders of nature from above. My child did it first. She was able to experience the breathtaking view of nature.
The adventure doesn't end there, another cliff resting silently was waiting for us to be climbed. Without any hesitations, as a team, we went there enthusiastically.
Climbing the cliff was so challenging. At my age and being a beginner, I was struggling honestly in reaching the top. It was too tough for me. My legs were trembling in fear, however, my persistence conquered this and I successfully reached the top.
I never regretted accepting the challenge given as we were mesmerized by another incredible scene that has been offered to us by nature. It appeared that being at the apex of the mountain, a heaven-touching feeling was felt within.
The Challenge of Descending
Descending the steep slope was the toughest part of this expedition. All my body weight dropped which made my legs tremble. However, the aching joints of my feet due to the rise of my uric acid were healed after this trek. I have benefited a lot in this journey.
The Main Concern of Nature
Listen to the call of nature as it gives a healing power. If we used to immerse ourselves in it frequently, our whole being will be benefited whether it is mental, physical, emotional, or spiritual. My constant reconnection with nature helps me feel better. I have contentment after all. Being with nature leaves a great impact on my whole life.
It was indeed a wonderful holiday experience. For more peaks to be climbed and to be explored.