Conquering Mt. Natib

MT. NATIB
Major jumpoff: Brgy. Tala, Orani
1287 MASL
Days required / Hours: 2 days / 4-5.5 hours
Specs: Major, Difficulty 5/9, Trail class 1-3

D' finisher

Mt. Natib in Orani, Bataan is my second climb with Sunmates. It is close enough to Manila, but at the same thing offers a challenging overnight climb. Closed for more than a year due to insurgency-related problems, it is fast becoming rediscovered by mountaineers, and in the 2008 climbing season, several successful climbs have been reported. Climbing this mountain needs training or better go there during summer. Not advisable to go there during rainy seasons.

Jump point Orani

Blood Leeches(Limatik)

The climb to Mt. Natib is commenced in Barangay Tala in Orani, which is an hour away via jeepney ride from the Orani Public Market. After registering at the outpost here, the trek is started. One hour away is Pinagbutasan; the rough road that serves as trail is spacious and the environments comprise of open grasslands and light woodlands. Houses may also be seen as the foot of the mountain is populated.

SunMates

The first landmark encountered is known as 'Pinagbutasan', around one hour away. The name is derived from the wall which has an opening (in Tagalog, 'butas') for hikers to enter. A water source ensues; the trail remains wide and comfortable - albeit somewhat lengthy - until the base camp is reached.

After the Climb

The base camp lies at the foot of the Mt. Natib, and it is also the bifurcation between the upward assault which leads to the summit, and the seldom-used trail that leads to Mt. Natib's other attraction, Pasukulan Falls on the other side of the mountain. The assault, seen as the highlight of the trek, features steep, rocky trails prior to reaching summit. At the top, where hopefully you will arrive before the sunset, the panorama is 360-degrees; there are good views of South China Sea (W), Bataan province and its mountains: Mt. Samat (NE) and Mt. Mariveles (W).

How to go there:

Bataan Transit and Genesis Lines, with terminals facing each other in Doroteo Jose (near LRT station), ply the route. You will drop off at the National Highway and walk your way to the Orani Public Market; and going back, it's the other way around; go to the highway and wait for passing buses to take you back to Manila. Fares cost around P150, one-way.