Mt. Manabu

Mt. Manabu is one of the three major peaks of the Malipunyo Mountain Range [Malipunyo Summit and Susong Dalaga Summit]

The White Cross @ Manabu Peak

Manabu has two trails, one known as the Grotto, a longer trail that pass through to the Grotto [toinks] and will lead you directly to the Summit [760 MASL] that is marked by a white cross[Takes around 3 hours].The other trail which leads to Mang Pirying's coffee place which is easier than the other trail [Takes around 2 hours]. Manabu is a good climb for day hikes and fun climbs.

Here are two old school pictures of our Mt. Manabu Climb

Manabu Trail that leads to the Grotto - Longer Trail

@ The Grotto in Mt. Manabu

My first climb in Mt. Manabu was in 2002, there were still horses in the summit, I remember that the horses ate are Instant Pancit Canton Nooldes while we were sleeping. [LESSON: Always put your food and/or left overs inside the tent not only for your food/stock's safety but for the safety of the animals in the wild too, Some food may not be good for them and this will disrupt their local ecosystem]

The campsite is rich with Carabao Grass...

One of my favorite photos that I have taken, Sunset in Mt. Manabu

Manabu Trail that Leads to Mang Pirying's Coffee House - shorter trail

Mt. Manabu Suggested Itinerary [Dayhike]

06:00AM ETD Manila to Sto, Tomas 
08:00AM ETA San Pedro ride a trike to San Sulok
09:00AM ETA Sulok
09:30AM Start trek
10:30AM Reach Mang Pirying's Coffee House
11:30AM ETA summit. [Optional - Packed Lunch]
12:30PM Start descent
01:30PM Back at jump-off. Proceed back to Sto. Tomas.
0200PM Late Lunch
03:00PM ETD Sto. Tomas to Manila
06:00PM ETA Manila

Must do...

1. Drink a cup of coffee at Mang Pirying's House.

2. Sunrise and sunset in Manabu is also commendable,  [Photo-op]

3. Assault summit for the 360 degree view.

Ask Ven...

Q: How far is it from Manila?
A: It is about 2 - 2 1/2 hours away from Manila.
[Approximately 85-90KM]

Q: Is it difficult to climb?
A: Fairly easy, but it really depends on the individual.

Q: Is it safe to camp overnight?
A: Yes, so far I have not heard any bad thing that had happened in Mt. Manabu, do not forget to register before you climb and get the number of the barangay just in case. 

Q: Is it okay to do a night Trek?
A: Yes, just don't forget your headlamps and/or flashlights and of course someone that knows the the trail.

Q: Is it okay to climb during the rainy season?
A: Yes, but would not advise it for beginners. 

Q: Is there a water source?
A: Yes, near the grotto. It is better to bring your own, now the amount of water to bring depends on your itinerary. There is also "Buko stops" along the way for refreshments and Halo-Halo during summer

Q: Do you have packages for Mt. Manabu?
A: No, but we will be more than willing to help you out plan a climb for you and your friends, just send a message.

Q: How many times have you climb Mt. Manabu
A: Eight

Manabu Climb Costing

Bus Ride                 PHP120
[This is one way, multiply by two]
Trike Ride               PHP100
[Good for up tp four persons, some tike would ask for more]
Registration Fee        PHP20
[Do not forget to register, this 20 pesos might save your life]
Food                     PHP150
[PHP150 per meal is just about right
Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner]

Total cost would be not more PHP800 and that's with 3 Meals, and would be lesser if you are with a group.

You can now easily come up with an overnight camping itinerary and costing with the information provided, I hope this helps.