BEYOND its well-known beaches that draw crowds during long weekends, vacations, and summer getaways, Iloilo is steadily gaining recognition for another outdoor attraction — its mountains.
In recent years, hiking has emerged as a popular and growing recreational activity, and the Province of Iloilo, along with the rest of Western Visayas, is becoming a favored destination for adventure seekers.
While the region has long been celebrated for its coastal beauty, it is now equally known for its scenic mountain ranges that offer breathtaking views and rewarding hiking experiences.
Among the most frequently climbed are the mountains of Igbaras, home to notable peaks such as Napulak, Opao, Taripis, Pulang Lupa, Loboc, Tingalon, Tigurang, Igatmon, and Sansanan Peak.
Other municipalities in Iloilo are also gaining popularity among hikers, including Tubungan, Miag-ao, Alimodian, and Concepcion. Well-known destinations include Tinagong Dagat in Miag-ao, Mount Manaphag in Concepcion, and Mount Lingguhob in Tubungan.
Beyond Iloilo, hikers also flock to mountains across Western Visayas, particularly in Antique. These include Cresta Peaks in Anini-y, Mount Igmatongtong in Laua-an, the peaks of Igcoron, Baloy, and Taripis in Valderrama, Mount Nangtud in Barbaza, and Mount Madjaas in Culasi.
For seasoned hikers like 33-year-old Renan Vincent Vicente of Barangay Bagay, Igbaras, Iloilo, these mountains offer more than just adventure—they provide fulfillment.
With over a decade of hiking experience, Vicente has explored not only the mountains of Iloilo and Antique but also peaks in Palawan, Bukidnon, Romblon, Negros Oriental, and Benguet.
His passion began through his work as a mountain guide in Igbaras. Over time, he built connections within the hiking community, which opened opportunities to climb some of the country’s most challenging mountains, including Mount Guiting-Guiting in Sibuyan, Romblon; Mount Mantalingahan in Palawan; Mount Pulag in Benguet; and Mounts Dulang-Dulang, Maagnaw, and Kalatungan in Bukidnon.
“What I really enjoy is the sense of fulfillment after reaching the summit,” Vicente shared. “The views are always worth the effort. I also want to experience different mountains and landscapes. Even if others say there’s nothing to gain but exhaustion, the feeling of reaching the top is truly incomparable.”
Vicente occasionally organizes group climbs and also joins established hiking communities such as Brokid, JD Wonders, and Asiong Gala, which have taken him to various mountains across the country.
Preparation, he emphasized, is essential. Before every climb, he ensures proper physical conditioning and brings necessary gear, including a first aid kit, tarp, sleeping bag, flashlight, trail food, extra clothing, and other essentials depending on the terrain.
Despite having conquered numerous peaks, Vicente has no plans of slowing down. Among his dream destinations are Mount Kanlaon in Negros Oriental, Mount Halcon in Mindoro, and even Mount Everest in Nepal and China.
Another seasoned hiker, Sonny Boy C. Ligan, 47, from Caloocan City, also considers Western Visayas a prime hiking destination.
With 22 years of hiking experience, Ligan discovered his passion through simple bonding moments with friends.
“What started as bonding with friends eventually became my passion,” he said. “I realized that hiking allowed me to explore beyond my comfort zone and learn from the people I meet along the way.”
His work as a field researcher previously brought him across Western Visayas, where he climbed mountains in Aklan, Iloilo, Capiz, Antique, Negros Occidental, and even nearby provinces like Negros Oriental and Siquijor.
Ligan has also expanded his adventures internationally, having reached the Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal, which stands at 4,130 meters above sea level.
For him, hiking is a continuous learning experience.
“In hiking or mountaineering, there are no true veterans or beginners. Every climb teaches you something new,” he said.
Advice for aspiring hikers
As hiking continues to grow in popularity, both Vicente and Ligan stress the importance of preparation and self-discipline.
Vicente advises beginners to physically and mentally prepare before climbing.
“Even if the trail is considered beginner-friendly, you should never underestimate the mountain. Proper conditioning—like jogging or walking—can make a big difference. Whether it’s a minor or major climb, you won’t find it difficult if you are well-prepared,” he said.
Ligan, meanwhile, encourages aspiring hikers to pursue their dreams and push beyond their limits.
“Don’t limit yourself. Climbing a mountain is like pursuing a dream. There will be struggles, but when you reach the summit, you will understand that all hardships are worth it,” he said.
He also recommends conducting thorough research—especially with the upcoming Holy Week season—through online platforms to ensure a safe and well-planned climb.
For beginners, Vicente and Ligan recommend starting with accessible peaks such as Mount Napulak and Mount Loboc in Igbaras, as well as Bucari in Leon.
As more people seek adventure and connection with nature, Iloilo’s mountains stand as a testament to the region’s diverse beauty—offering not just scenic landscapes, but meaningful journeys for those willing to climb./PN
