THE Protected Area Management Board (Pamb) of the Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary is allowing trekking and mountaineering beginning April 11, 2022.
However, only one climb organizer is permitted to organize the activities -- JM Boundless Adventure Tour Assistance Services, which is owned by John Meryl G. Jayno.
Based on the guidelines given by the MHRWS-Protected Area Management Office (Pamo), no walk-in trekkers are allowed. Only MHRWS-Pamo is permitted to contact and verify the bookings.
DIY climbers and trekkers may be accepted after thorough review of requirements and verification of trekkers.
MHRWS-Pamo has also set guidelines on campfire prevention, waste management, and other trail prohibitions to ensure the safety of trekkers and the environment of Mt. Hamiguitan.
These include strict prohibition on littering, fireworks, use of detergents, shampoos, and bath soaps in water sources, and feeding of wildlife, among others.
The journey to Mt. Hamiguitan is a three-day itinerary with trekking fees ranging from P1,000 to P3,000, depending if trekkers are a partner organization of MHRWS, students, senior citizens, or regular trekkers.
The Mt. Hamiguitan, located in Davao Oriental, was inscribed as a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2014. (ICM)