By Ricky Bautista, Editor
AFTER days of covering the West Philippine Sea (WPS) Reporting Training—fresh off my descent from Mt. Apo, no less—and spearheading preparations for the World Press Freedom Day celebration under the Region 8 Media-Citizen Council, not to mention gearing up for the intensive coverage of the 2025 National and Local Elections, I finally found a quiet moment to reflect.
The adrenaline may have slowed, but the echoes of Mt. Apo’s trails still thunder in my memory.
Though I had previously shared snapshots and TikTok clips of our journey, I hadn’t really had the chance to write down the heart of it all—my story, my mountain, my dream realized at 50.
A Summit Years in the Making
At exactly 12 noon on April 26, 2025, we stood atop the mighty Mt. Apo—at 2,954 meters above sea level, the highest peak in the Philippines.
The wind howled in triumph as if welcoming us to a club reserved for the bold.
This wasn’t just another adventure; it was the fulfillment of a long-postponed personal vow.
I had promised myself that by the time I reached 50, I would climb Mt. Apo.
And when I turned golden last November 2024, that dream burned brighter than ever. But due to life’s demands—work, finances, and everything in between—it had to wait.
But dreams delayed are not dreams denied.
The Climb: A Test of Grit, Age, and Willpower
At 50, climbing Mt. Apo isn’t just about the hike—it’s about testing the soul. As someone with occasional asthma, every step was a battle of breath and will. Mt. Apo is not just a mountain.
It’s a relentless terrain of steep ascents, slippery moss forests, unforgiving boulders, and icy cold trails that taunt you with their silence.
We were four in the group:
✓ Prof. Ronald Orale, a resilient academic researcher from Samar State University (SSU);
✓ Nonoi Verdejo, our ever-dependable companion from LGU Calbiga and also a member of the Philippine Cavemen;
✓ Liz, my ever-supportive “partner in crime” and on the trail; my cashier.
✓ And myself, Ricky Bautista, carrying years of unfulfilled longing and grit.
Of the four of us, Prof. Ronald was the strongest—swift and focused, he summited at 9 a.m., mingling with climbers from other hardcore groups.
Meanwhile, we “chill hikers” took our time. We paused to shoot videos, eat trail snacks, and let the trail teach us patience. We reached the summit a little past noon, not in record time, but in the right time—our time.
Leadership on the Trail
As the current head of our local mountain club, I’ve always believed in leading not just by instruction but by example.
Last year, I helped six members reach Mt. Apo. This year, it was our turn. Four more names added to our summit roster—making it 10 from our club – Samar Mountaineering and Outdoor Club, Inc. (SAMOC) who’ve reached the crown of Mindanao.
You can read the previous assault through this link:
Samar mountaineers conquers Mount Apo: A triumph of endurance and exploration
This wasn’t just a hike. It was a statement: age does not diminish one’s fire—it only makes the flame wiser.
Lessons from the Peak
We are deeply grateful for the guides and porters who watched over us like silent sentinels of the trail. And to the strangers who became trail friends—we thank you for the stories, the laughter, and the shared silences.
And yes—Prof. Ronald Orale wrote a powerful post-summit article that offers “no holds barred” insights, observations, and recommendations. His reflections are not just for Mt. Apo managers, but for all tourism stakeholders—including those in Samar.
You can read the full article of Prof. Ronald below:
https://proforale.info/post/climbing-the-king-of-ph-mountains
A Practical Guide for Aspiring Mt. Apo Climbers
If you’re dreaming of summiting Mt. Apo, preparation is your ticket to success.
Here’s what I’ve learned:
1. Physical Training
Engage in regular cardio, strength, and endurance workouts. We did weekly hikes and morning jogs to strengthen our legs, lungs, and hearts—prepping us for the mountain’s unpredictability.
2. What to Bring
Broken-in hiking boots
Layered clothing for sun, rain, and cold
Tent, sleeping bag, and ground mat
High-protein food, trail snacks, and 3–4 liters of water
Hydrite (electrolyte replenisher), energy bars
Trekking pole, headlamp, dry bags, and first-aid kit
3. Permits, Guides, and Porters
You’ll need permits from DENR and the local LGU. We opted for a tour organizer (P6,500 per head), covering food, guides, and documents. Porters charge P2,250 for 15 kg (3-day carry), plus P75/kg for excess. If you’re struggling mid-trail, don’t hesitate to ask passing porters for help—just remember their name and their organizer for accountability.
4. Weather and Route Planning
Always check the forecast. Know your chosen trail: Kapatagan (Digos), Kidapawan, and Tamayong (Davao) are the most common jump-off points. Expect a 3-day climb depending on your pace and the route.
YouTube has plenty of trail videos—watch those ahead to mentally and physically prepare – either back trail or traverse.
Here’s an additional details about Mt. Apo: A Challenging Climb
Summit: Mount Apo is the highest mountain in the Philippines, reaching an altitude of 10,311 feet or 3,144 meters (accoeding to online sources). Although, the summit marker indicated the altitude at 2,954 meters only.
Difficulty: Theclimb to the summit is strenuous and requires experience.
Time: The hike to the summit and back to the plains typically takes 3-4 days.
Trail: The trail is not for beginners and involves steep slopes and uneven terrain.
Challenges: Hikers will encounter high altitude, strong sulfur smell, and freezing temperatures, especially on the summit.
Reward: The summit view is a significant reward for the challenging climb, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Guides: Hiring a guide and a coordinator is highly recommended for navigating the trails safely.
Flora and Fauna: Along the trail, hikers will encounter a variety of endemic plants, including moss-covered trees, wild flowers, air plants, bonsai trees, and towering tree ferns.
Sulfur Vents: The upper slopes of Mount Apo have numerous sulfur vents, which can be smelled from a distance.
The Summit is Waiting
Climbing Mt. Apo at 50 wasn’t just a bucket list item—it was a celebration of endurance, leadership, and life. Whether you’re a fresh-faced adventurer or a seasoned soul like me, Mt. Apo offers more than just views. It gives you clarity, humility, and a deeper connection to yourself.
So if you’re still wondering when to go—go when you’re ready.
Train hard.
Climb smart.
Respect the mountain.
Because the summit isn’t just a place—it’s a state of being. And it’s there. Waiting for you.
About the Author: Ricky Bautista is a seasoned journalist, mountain climber, and media – citizen council leader in Region 8 and one of directors of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines. He is one of the Board Member for Visayas of the Mountaineering Federation of the Philippines (MFPI) and President of the Samar Mountaineering and Outdoor Club, Inc. He recently summited Mt. Apo at age 50 while continuing to advocate for press freedom, responsible tourism, and environmental stewardship.
