The Mt. Balatukan Range Natural Park, spanning Gingoog City and the municipalities of Claveria, Medina, and Balingasag, is captured here from Mt. Sumagaya in Claveria, Misamis Oriental. Photographer Earl Ryan Janubas describes this view as a “stunner” and considers it one of his favorite mountains in Northern Mindanao. (Photo courtesy of Earl Ryan Janubas)
MISAMIS ORIENTAL (PIA) – Mount Balatukan, located in eastern Misamis Oriental, is being considered for designation as northern Mindanao’s fifth ASEAN Heritage Park. Known for its rich biodiversity and birdwatching opportunities, it is positioned as a prime eco-tourism destination.
Marie Elaine S. Unchuan, Department of Tourism (DOT)-10 director, expressed optimism about Mt. Balatukan’s inclusion. “We are very fortunate in the region to have four ASEAN Heritage sites, with hopes that Mt. Balatukan will become the fifth. It is one of our precious treasures,” she said.
DOT-10 is adding Mt. Balatukan to its Mountain Tourism program, set to launch this year.
“Our goal is to promote responsible mountain tourism and educate visitors on the conservation and preservation of our natural resources,” said Unchuan.
Photographer Earl Ryan Janubas shared his experience of climbing Mt. Balatukan, noting its significance to the Higaonon people, who consider it a sacred mountain. In May and June 2022, Janubas revisited the mountain, describing the climb through dense forests and challenging trails.
Mt. Balatukan, a stratovolcano standing at 2,450 meters above sea level, offers a challenging hike with scenic views. Janubas said the trails are relatively pristine compared to other popular mountains in the region, such as Mt. Kitanglad and Mt. Kalatungan.
“Personally, I enjoyed the pristine trails of Mt. Balatukan, it’s like a fairy land for me, and one of the mountains I want to come back to. If you’re planning to climb Mt. Balatukan and want to fully enjoy it, remember to always physically and mentally prepare for the climb,” he said.
For those interested in visiting, Gingoog City’s tourism office offers packages that include entry fees, environmental fees, and indigenous rituals. (SAYU/PIA-10/Misamis Oriental)
