Mount Malindang

Nothing compares with the elegance of nature, as you'll see first hand in the mountains of Mt. Malindang. Her intimate, tranquil, simple and refined beauty makes nature's best look even more beautiful and irressitible for naturalists to climb the summit. The hills that culminate in landscape designs, such as waterfalls, crater lake and dense virgin forests show the abundance of wildlife.

The timidity and innocence of Mt. Malindang wildlife bring out the inherent beauty found in all living things. The sound of water in creeks and streams provide an instant soothing effect in your soul as it works through your body as a "natural relaxer." As you trek through the hills alongside evergreens, you will realize the concept of "soul searching retreat" in the tropics.

Undoubtedly, the residents near Mt. Malindang may feel the invasive presence of tourists and visitors. This is because such presence threatens the stability of their natural wonderland. Since Mt. Malindang is described as a "natural wonder," it is up to us to preserve the delicate and virgin beauty that God gave to this land....our land.

The Mt. Malindang National Park is the home of the endangered Philippine Eagle and other species. The highest peak of Mt. Malindang is 2,402 meters (approximately 7,233 feet) above sea level. The park is accessible from either Ozamiz, Tudela and Oroquieta routes. The starting point of the trek from Oroquieta will lead through the Hot Sulfur Spring in Barangay Sebucal. This route also passes through several landmarks of waterfall, spring and lake which are the sources of the everflowing abundance of water that feeds the Layawan river.

The foothills of Mt. Malindang house several villages of the early inhabitants, called the Suban-on natives. To this day the Suban-on natives are believed to continue to practice their distinct customs and traditions. Among them are the slash-and-burn farming practices which threaten ecology and challenge the country's effort to preserve the environment.

By: Ofelia Bayutas Mutia