LA TRINIDAD’S FINEST: Mount Kalugong Through The Years

This is my journal from my Introduction to Communication Media course during my freshman year, where I chose to feature Mount Kalugong in La Trinidad, Benguet. I am still practicing and learning how to write both technically and artistically. I have made many errors and mistakes along the way, but I invite you to join me on my journey in this field of writing.

Another unquestionable wonder is Mt. Kalugong, the captivating mountains that overlook the expansive view of the “Salad Bowl of the Philippines,” as well as the flower gardens in La Trinidad, Benguet. Kalugong and Yangbew rise above the central barangays (villages) of the valley town, standing almost next to each other. Kalugong, the smaller of the two, has an elevation of 1,472 meters (4,829 feet) above sea level. Its summit affords a scenic view of the Valley of La Trinidad, as well as the nearby hills of Baguio and the surrounding mountains of the Cordillera range. It takes its name from the hat-shaped rock that can be seen perched at the mountain’s edge, secretly peering over the La Trinidad plains, and seems comfortable in its undisputed kingdom. It is mentioned that the shaped rock appears reserved, peaceful, and elusive from above. The word for hat or cap in the local dialect is “kalugong.”

The Municipality of La Trinidad, the capital of Benguet, is a town sprawled on a valley north of Baguio, hemmed in by a wall of hills and mountains. Renowned foremost for its strawberry fields, vegetable farms, and flower gardens, La Trinidad is also swiftly becoming a popular hiking destination owing to its two premier mountains — Mount Kalugong and Mt Yangbew.

To get there, from Baguio City, ride a jeepney bound to Tomay/Camp Dangwa. The jeepney terminal is located in front of Baguio City Hall, and it’s the same jeepney going to the Strawberry farm. Just ask the driver to drop you off on the road or jump off going to Mt. Kalugong. The fare is P12.00 each. (Updated fare as of November 2022 is P17.00 each) Once dropped in Kalugong Road, located in Brgy. Cruz, you need to hike on a very steep road before reaching the eco park. Hiking might take around 30 minutes, but it depends on your pace.

Hikers find peace and calmness once they reach the mountain. Mount Kalugong, through the years, is still appreciated for its beauty. People love to take pictures of the different rock formations. Besides the rock formations, there is a cafe called Mt. Kalugong Kape-an, and the hikers enjoy the coffee and snacks of their choice.

References: http://www.archipelagofiles.com/2017/10/history-of-mt-kalugong-eco-park-in-la.html https://phmillennia.com/mount-kalugong-an-introduction-to-mountaineering/