Hiking in Misamis Oriental’s Mt. Balatukan aims to fund infra projects
A view of Mount Balatukan mountain ranges from a vantage point in Sitio Lantad, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental. (Photo courtesy of SHANIA YULO)
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Northern Mindanao Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC-10) launched hiking-for-a-cause adventure at Mount Balatukan in Misamis Oriental on Tuesday.
This initiative is a charity event meant to fund infrastructure projects in remote communities.
“The aim is to collect funds for meaningful infrastructure projects to protect geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas,” RPOC-10 chair and Camiguin Governor Xavier Jesus Romualdo said.
The event will take place on May 16 to 18 (Friday to Sunday).
This is in partnership with the Army’s 58th Infantry Battalion and upland communities in Gingoog City, Lagonglong and Balingasag.
Registration fees are worth P2,700 for locals and P2,920 for foreigners.
Mount Balatukan in eastern Misamis Oriental is part of the Department of Tourism’s mountain tourism program.
The Mt. Balatukan Range Natural Park is recognized as a protected area for its outstanding high conservation category.
It is also being considered for designation as northern Mindanao’s fifth ASEAN Heritage Park.
Once this happens, the mountain will join the ranks of Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park (Bukidnon), Mt. Malindang Range Natural Park (Misamis Occidental), Mt. Timpoong-Hibok-Hibok Natural Monument (Camiguin) and Mt. Inayawan Range Natural Park (Lanao del Norte)./apl
