9 Things You Need to Know About Mt. Kemalugong (Paasa Peak) - The Highest Point of Nueva Ecija

Photo Credit: NEBMCI

The geography of Nueva Ecija consists of mountain ranges, plains, rivers and grasslands. This is the main reason why the province hosts some of the best hiking destinations in Central Luzon- Mt. Mapait, Mt. 387 Batong Amat, Mt. Labi, Mt. Sawi, Mt. Kaanducian and Mt. Kemalugong.

In the coming months, there is a high possibility that the Local Government Unit of Laur will open Mt. Kemalugong to public. While they are working on that, it is a good opportunity to prepare for this challenging yet highly adventurous hike. Here are a few important things you need to know about Mt. Kemalugong that will help as you prepare to summit Paasa Peak:

Photo Credit: Nesly Mateo - NEBMCI Trail Recovery Team at Mt. Kemalugong campsite 3

Learn more about Mt. Kemalugong:

NEBMC TRAIL RECOVERY PROGRAM FOR MT. KEMALUGONG (PAASA PEAK) – THE HIGHEST POINT OF NUEVA ECIJA

MT. KEMALUGONG (PAASA PEAK)

1. It is the highest point of Nueva Ecija boasting an elevation of 1750 meters above sea level (MASL)

2. The name Kemalugong comes from an Ilocano term “Kalugong” which means Hat - The mountain seems to be wearing a hat due to the clouds surrounding its top.

Trail Recovery Team group photo at Gordon Hill with Mt. Kemalugong (cloudy area) in the background

3. Mt Kemalugong Summit was named as “Paasa Peak”- During the first exploration of the mountain, several times the team thought they have arrived to the summit already. Only to find out that the summit is still far, hence the term “Paasa peak”.

Photo Credits: www.nebmcph.wordpress.com- NEBMCI Exploration Team making a signage for the campsite

Photo Credits: www.nebmcph.wordpress.com- NEBMCI Exploration Team at Mt. Kemalugong campsite 3

4. The smallest rafflesia specie- Rafflesia consueloae , can be found in Mt. Kemalugong - This Rafflesia specie is exclusive to Philippines.

Photo Credit: www.gmanetwork.com

Rafflesia sighting along Mt. Kemalugong trail

5. Major Climb Category - The factors that contribute to the difficulty of Mt. Kemalugong include continuous assaults and lack of water source. Climbing this mountain requires plenty of training and preparation. It is not recommended for beginners.

Hybrid Map of Mt. Kemalugong

6. Some areas have Poison Ivy or Lipa- Although it is not present all over the trail but only in some parts, taking caution is still important. There is a high possibility of being in contact with this plant without noticing so it pays to always be careful.

Photo Credits: www.pinoymountaineer.com

7. Not yet open to public- Mt. Kemalugong is still in its preparatory stage. The Laur LGU is considering many things especially SAFETY before opening it to Public. Organizations can be allowed to visit the mountain by securing a referral from NEBMCI.

8. Mt. Kemalugong features a scenic view of pine ridge, sea of clouds and many more- The trail to Mt. Kemalugong is like a portal that brings you into different dimensions. From grassland to forest to pine ridge to bonzai area to mossy forest and to sea of clouds.

Gordon Hill