by Erica San Diego, MAY 2023
Name: Mt. Romelo
Difficulty: 2/9
Elevation: 300 MASL
Jump-Off: Barangay Macatad, Siniloan, Laguna, Philippines
Hours to summit: 2 hours
Features: waterfalls, rainforest, woodlands, and a great view of Laguna province
This land of waterfalls is a captivating retreat at the southwest border of the Sierra Madre, known to hikers as Mt. Romelo. By some mistake that got perpetuated among hikers, the place also used to be called “Famy” after an adjacent town. Nestled in the town of Siniloan in the quiet, eastern side of Laguna province, it is as tropical as mountains can get. Easy trails (albeit oftentimes very muddy), taking just two hours to complete, lead to a wide campsite, and from there, one can explore several waterfalls.
Not far downstream are two other falls: the Old Buruwisan to the right is the original reason why people used to visit Romelo; it is even higher than Buruwisan, except that it is difficult to access. Rappelling is one way to reach this elusive wonder. Meanwhile, to the left is Lanzones Falls (right). At 70 ft, it has its own personality: instead of a cavern, it descends on sharp, jagged rocks, which form a wall ideal for rock climbing. Lanzones trees abound in the area, and from August-September, you may even buy Lanzones fruits at the jump-off point.
Upstream, on the other hand, are Batya-Batya and Sampaloc falls. Batya-Batya is a two-level falls. At its second level, the water is deep, around 18 feet. Here, the attraction is the interesting formation of rocks and the natural pools. Further up is Sampaloc falls. This is another grand waterfalls, with its own unique cascade and also a sizeable catchbasin.
Let’s hear from our employees their experience during the hike, last May 13, 2023:
Rojas, Sarah – Traffic Operations
“Nakakawala po ng pagod ang nakaraan hike lalo na ng nakita at nagtampisaw kami sa mga falls. nag karoon dij po ako ng bagong kilala sa iba deparment dahil sa hiking.
Looking forward po sa mga sunod pa hike more falls to see.
Thank you again for this experience.”
Baso, Ronnel – Finance
“Sobrang saya po ng experience sa MT. Romelo times 1000000 stars po, sobrang solid po ng mga falls nakaka relax po. Next time po ulit hehe.”
Bustillo, Zandro – Toll Operations
“Hindi nakakapagod yung hike na to. kasi may mga falls na na pahingahan. na nakakaalis ng pagod at sakit sa katawan. Pero siyempre ang pinaka importante sa lahat ay yung experience na maksama yung mga taong malalapit sayo, na kahit pagod na ang mahalaga maraming kwento.
simula hanggang matapos ang activity.
Salamat MPT South, Hanggang sa muli po.
Sana makasama uli. :-)”
Pega, Bryan – Finance
“This is my first hiking experience, I’m a newbie in hiking and I’m doubting to myself if I can do it but still, I still joined the hike. I don’t have any expectations in that hike, but my goal is to reach the top and to see the falls. I didn’t expect that hiking helps me to relax and meditate while taking the trail to the top. Once you’re in the top you will appreciate all your hard work in that activity. My experience in the hike really helps me to conquer my fear of heights and I conquer my self-doubt. The activity helps me to realize that nothing is impossible when you have a clear Goal, just enjoy the journey that you are taking because you know that journey that you are taking will help you to reach the Goal that you have. Thru that activity it refreshes my mind and helps me to be positive in any outlook in life.
Thank you Hiking club for the great activity that you let us experience. I hope that I will be joining more activities with you guys.”
Potes, Ronrick – PMD
It’s a great one po. I’ve been to other hikes before but Hike with waterfalls was really refreshing. The organizers were very approachable and fun to be with. Also, thanks for the free foods and ride throughout the event. Kudos to Sir Eugene and Ma’am Shamie! I’m looking forward for more Hikes with MPT South Hiking Club! Thank you and God bless!
Saladas Jr, Ricardo – MPTC
Thanks again to MPT South Hiking Club for letting me and other MPTC-based employees to join.
Despite the warm fine weather we had, I enjoyed the entire trip. With the vast forest cover and cold-water pools, I did not mind the intense heat. Mt. Romelo, with its nearby falls, is a perfect place to relax this summer.
Overall, it was a great experience as usual! Looking forward to the next adventure. Safe travels!
Papio, Arlynn – MPTC
“My Mt. Romelo hike was a blissful escape from worries, stress, and work hahaha. It was a short yet magical journey, filled with stunning waterfalls, breathtaking scenery, and the wonders of nature. The trail pushed me, but it also provided a much-needed break from the daily grind. As I left the mountain, my heart overflowed with joy, cherishing this unforgettable experience. It reminded me of the importance of taking moments to unwind and recharge. I eagerly look forward to more hiking escapades. Thank you, Hiking Club, for this wonderful adventure, and here’s to many more hikes to come!❤ “
Reference: http://www.pinoymountaineer.com/2007/09/mt-romelo-240.html
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About the writer:
Erica B. San Diego. Handling Corporate and Government Benefits for MPT South, Cavitex, and CCLEC. A brand new MOM, PATIENT and Empathetic.
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