Why you should climb your first mountain according to seasoned mountaineers
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GMANetwork.com sat down with some of the country's seasoned mountaineers during the #MerrellLetsGetaway event in Agimat Foraging Bar and Kitchen, and they shared their thoughts about why you should give mountaineering a chance.
I climbed my first mountain - Mt. Batulao in Nasugbu, Batangas - in April 2011 together with friends from my previous workplace who happened to be members of a mountaineering group. It was something that I have always wanted to try, so I didn't need much convincing when they invited me to join them for an overnight climb.
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Even with tours being offered left and right by climb organizers and tour agencies today, some are still adamant about trying out this activity, citing various reasons just to turn down an invitation. GMANetwork.com sat down with some of the country's seasoned mountaineers during the #MerrellLetsGetaway event in Agimat Foraging Bar and Kitchen, and they shared their thoughts about why you should give mountaineering a chance.
For adventure photographer Gerald Tipones, joining a climb is a way of supporting local tourism. "The hiking community has really invested with the locals wherein they hire guides, they pay these people to really protect and keep our hikers safe. They also practice LNT - leave no trace - where they train these locals to clean the trails for our hikers."
He added, "Being scared is just part of the process, but once you try it, it's something that you will do again and again."
Guido Sarreal of Trail Adventours agrees. "Don't let fear stop you because it's really safe. I would always tell people, there are more accidents happening in Commonwealth Avenue within a year compared to the ten-year history of hiking."
He also advises doing what I did - join people with experience. "Maybe they would want to join people with experience who will take care of them, who will look out for them. Also, have courage. Nobody grows by staying in a safe spot. It's a beautiful place to go to, it will help you grow to become a better person."
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Meanwhile, UP Mountaineers member and Team BTR race director Rayman delos Angeles recommends only two things. "Just enjoy it, and invest in quality mountaineering gear as it will serve as your protection."
Rayman's fellow UPM member Miko Santos, the man behind the PH Mountains mobile app, says preparing for the possible risks is important.
"Growth only happens when you are outside your comfort zone. Make sure you are properly equipped with knowledge before trying anything because there are certain risks involved. With proper knowledge and guidance, especially with technology nowadays, everything's very accessible. I encourage everyone to try it."
The Lakwatsero blogger Angel Juarez, who is also a mountaineer, scuba diver, and mountain biker, has one solid advice that he also applies to himself.
"Do it while you can, because time will come that you won't be able to and you'll regret not doing it."
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