Last week we headed to Mount Paliparan, located in Barangay Cuyambay, Tanay, Rizal. Leaving Metro Manila at 5:30 a.m., we arrived at the trailhead just shy of 7:00 a.m. After registering at the Barangay Hall and attending a brief orientation on what to expect along the trail, we set off with our local guides.
The Story Behind Mount Paliparan
Mount Paliparan earned its name from the local Dumagat tribe, as it was historically a popular spot for flying kites. Fittingly, paliparan is the Filipino word for “airport.” Standing atop the jagged Tonghayan rock formation, you can look out across the landscape and spot the Dumagat tribe’s Tuoy village. Because the mountain only opened to hikers in April 2016, certain sections of the trail still feel wonderfully wild and unpaved.
Conquering the Mountain
The hike begins gently, winding through flat, scenic rice paddies. It wasn’t until we reached the true base of the mountain that the real challenge began and the terrain started pushing our limits.
Scrambling up the first major incline toward the Tonghayan rock formation quickly taught me a few hiking lessons:
•Prepare mentally and physically: Never underestimate the trail ahead.
•Pace yourself early: Keep a slow, steady rhythm at the start to conserve your energy for the steeper climbs.
•Every trail is unique: Never judge a new mountain by the last one you conquered.
Mount Paliparan boasts breathtaking landscapes at every turn..from sweeping views of Laguna de Bay and rolling grasslands to rocky river trails, culminating in the majestic Tungtong Falls in all its glory.
