Minalungao National Park

I have never heard this place until I got an invitation for a quick escape from Manila. I googled it and found out that this is a hidden gem in Nueva Ecija. No wonder why the slots for this trip is full. We left Manila around 430 am. Then after more than 2 hours, we arrived at this place. 

Before we hit this place we were lost and found our way to the long and rocky road. We decided to make a U turn and take the smooth road. There is a gate before you enter the vicinity. You will see children wearing violet top and red pants and they will ask you to pay the entrance fee of 20 pesos per person and another entrance for the vehicle which is 50 pesos.

Good thing we arrived very early as we had the chance to choose the cottage and the raft. We got a deal of 600 pesos for both unlimited use till we leave the place.

Our guide Kristoffer and Adam, does the rowing. We went to the other side of the lake to see the 1000 steps leading to the cross. The stairs makes it easier for us to climb but the heat of the sun is killing us but still we made it to the top.

The ashes of a Korean Missionary was laid to rest here as his request.

We went down easily. Half of the group went ahead of us going to the cave. We waited for our raft to bring us to the cave. While waiting we did our photo ops.

The entrance to the cave. With no headlamp or flash light we still decided to go inside the cave. There is nothing special in this cave. The guide didn't even know that they should hands off the stalactites and stalagmites. A lot of vandalism is happening in here. Sad :(

Then we joined the group as they refresh in the cool water of the river.

This is a perfect point to cliff jump. I did twice. Others do their stunts too.

Our lunch...

After the food was gone. I felt sleepy. I think I had a quick nap for about 15 minutes. Others chat, change cloths and tried to think of other place to go. The place becomes a picnic ground. There are more groups coming. We decided to leave.

Bayukbok Cave

After Mount Manalmon and lunch, it is time for caving at Bayukbok Cave. We have to cross the river and the bamboo raft trip is free. Yey!

Going up to the entrance of the cave. This is a bit tiring.

Before we proceeded inside the cave, our guide Kuya Lean, gave us some reminders and precautions for the spelunking activity. The cave has 8 chambers and we have to pass some obstacles. First one is this. We have to rapel down.

Enjoy the beautiful rock formations. It is not as great as the caves in Samar but the adventure here is awesome.

Next obstacle is this rope/bamboo stairway. We thought it was easy but when you are passing this stair it is not. Hold on to the rope not on the bamboo.

Mmmm.. what is this?

This is what they called Body Language. Another obstacle. Its like you putting yourself inside 2 loaves of bread. I can fit in. lol!

My niece patiently waits for us.

Finally going out of the cave.

Unfortunately, the rain pours when we went out of the cave. The way down becomes difficult because it is too slippery. When we went back we tried the Monkey Bridge. I was so afraid.

But then my friend, Jen, successfully crossed the bridge...

and so... I have to!

We cool down at Madlum River

I'm amazed how people here put themselves in so risky position. Unlimited cliff jumping anywhere. I hope nobody died in here.

Anyway, they are already building a hanging bridge this will make everyone comfortable crossing the river.

And so this is it. Time to go home

Mount Manalmon

This is a quick escape from Manila since we've realized that it was a holiday and perfect timing to go out of the sun. Hello summer! We boarded the 5 am five star bus from Pasay (P128). After less than 2 hours we've reached San Miguel Bulacan. We had our breakfast of porridge at a local eatery for only 20 pesos. Actually, its unlimited but the bowl is enough for each of us.

From there, we hired a tricycle going to Brgy. Madlum (P240). It is a long rocky road. Then we paid for tricycles entrance (P15).

To go to the other side of the river one has to take the bamboo raft (P5) or the monkey bridge(free but risky). And we found out another way to save our 5 pesos, we go to one side of the river that has no water on it.

Mount Manalmon is an easy climb with only 160 MASL but for safety they require you to be assisted by Madlum guides.

Church

Madlum Cave

Easy trek.

Pineapple

Almost there

as we thought this is the summit. It is not.

We passed by the camping site and then the summit. Mt. Gola is here.

Risky photo ops

Jumpshots

We saw a snake. Good thing its dead. And I'm amazed with the guide how he warned us to back off when he saw this.

Fighting the heat of summer. Lucky for them they have a free pool.

Another heat buster is the Halo-halo (p25). We had our lunch here. Mine is grilled pork with rice (P65)

Our Madlum adventure continues with Bayukbok Cave...