Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Conquering Mt. Pinatubo

The group met at Vicory Cubao at 8 AM and left Manila at 8:45 AM, reached Capas Junction at around 11 AM. After a quick brunch, we went to the wet market for more food supplies. We rented a jeep that brought us to where the 4x4s are. After a briefing given by the security, we started the 1 hour ride that brought us to the jump off. At around 3 PM, we started our trek. We passed by lahar mountains, and along the riverside. It took us 3 tiring hours to reach the campsite. Our itinerary says it's just a 45-minute trek but unfortunately, the skyway (which is i guess the shorter route) was closed and so we had to take the long way.

But it was all worth it when we reached the area. The site took my breath away. It’s so beautiful and peaceful. It’s hard to believe that almost 17 year ago, this same place caused havoc and so much destruction in the nearby provinces. But now, it has become one of the attractions of the province. I am at a loss for words so I’ll just let the below pictures describe our trip to that amazing place.
The gang, ready and excited.


On the way to the jump off. You'll pass through the river and the lahar mountains.




The magnificent Mt. Pinatubo crater!


Ayaw ko na! Ayaw ko nang mabuhay! Puro na lang problema! Paalam Pilipinas kong mahal!
Drama lang hehe.

Yan ang playground nila.

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Thursday, April 24, 2008

Mt. Pinatubo Itinerary

Travel Date: April 26-27, 2008

Itinerary:
DAY 1 (April 26,2008)
09:00 Assembly
10:00 ETD Manila
13:00 ETA Capas, Tarlac. Lunch
14:00 ETA Brgy. Sta. Juliana; finalize prior arrangements
15:00 Board 4x4 vehicles; adventure begins!
16:00 ETA end-of-the-road; start trek
17:00 ETA crater of Mt. Pinatubo. Explore the crater
19:00 Dinner
20:00 Socials
21:30 Lights off

DAY 2 (April 27,2008)
07:00 Wake Up Call, Breakfast
07:30 Explore the Place
10:00 Break Camp
10:30 Start Trek
11:00 Ride 4x4
12:00 ETA Sta Juliana, Lunch
13:00 ETD going to Capas
14:00 ETA Capas, ETD Manila
17:00 ETA Manila

Estimated Expenses:
Manila – Capas = P280 (P140 x 2)
4x4 Ride = P600 (P3000 / 5 Persons)
1 Guide = P200 (P1000 / 5 Persons) required
Security = P600 (P3000 / 5 Persons) required for overnight stay {air force personnel]
Conservation fee = P50
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Total is P1,730.00

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