Mt. Hibok-Hibok, Camiguin, Philippines
We started the assault at 4:30 AM. It was dark, cold, and slightly raining. As we continued the ascent, past the coconut trees in private lands, it became apparent to me that it would be gruellingly difficult for beginners. I have scaled minor climbs in the mountains of Cebu, but it will be my first time to try a medium climb.
We continued the climb with the flashlights still on as we enter the forest. Even if it was about 5 AM, the forest covered the sky with its canopy so it was not possible to see our steps without our flashlights.
We were not even halfway, but the steps seemed to become steeper and steeper. The rain poured as if there was no tomorrow, together with the wind and fog, which added to the difficulty of the climb. Rainforests have their own microclimate and they can dictate their own weather. It was a never-ending assault with the most extreme weather condition.
Mt. Hibok-Hibok is 4/9 in classifications of difficulty, but with that weather condition, there's no way of classifying a certain difficulty. According to @xaydtrips, "A 1/9 scale will suddenly become 9/9 depending on the weather and your level of preparation.". Never underestimate every climb as you don't know when it will hit you.
The reward was when we entered the mossy forest near the mouth of the crater. It brought smile on my face even if I'm wet, cold, muddy, and exhausted. It's good to know that forests are protected from illegal activities that could bring harm to the whole ecosystem.
To be continued.
