Is this what soul searching is? It was late in the afternoon when we were set on conquering Mt. Kupapey, a peak legendary for offering panoramic views of the Maligcong Rice Terraces. Excitement and worry were the prevailing emotions at that time. Worried because it was our first time going to the place but at the same time excited to experience more of life in a different environment, we ventured forth with nothing but our backpacks and trust, hoping for an unforgettable experience to look back on and cherish.
We arrived at Roger Sacyaten’s home in Maligcong the day before our climb, and the cool mountain breeze was tempered by the warmth of his hospitality. Our excitement for our dawn hike was great as we enjoyed a delectable meal as the sky turned orange and purple at nightfall. It is always fun sharing a meal with people; it is like a new core memory for us; laughter fills the place as the food fills our stomachs. We met friends with whom we can share great memories; it is always a privilege to get to know people, especially from places you are not familiar with because those people will give you the comfort and familiarity you need. We slept and relaxed early, getting ready for an amazing event, with our cameras ready and our backpacks packed. At three in the morning, everyone woke up to get ready for the hike. After a brief check of our gear and a warm cup of coffee to wake us up, we headed off, our flashlights brightening the way.
With our flashlights on and a brief warm-up at the shed, we began our trail hike at 4:25 AM. The trail wound through lush trees on a little initial incline. The air grew colder as we ascended, and our journey’s soundtrack was the steady beat of our own footsteps. We made a few stops along the way to rest and quench our thirst and pushed forward to catch the sunrise as we ascended. The fact that we were not even halfway through the hike and our hearts were racing faster than usual made it likely one of the hardest hikes we had done. We were literally swimming in our own sweat.
Halfway up the mountain, we were greeted by a sight that left us speechless. A sea of clouds, swirled below, masking the Maligcong Rice Terraces from view for the moment. Yet, the scene was no less breathtaking. It was as if we were walking amidst a celestial ocean. We were also greeted by a white dog named ‘Loki’. According to our friends, Loki was the forest’s unofficial tour guide.
Fueled by the beauty around us and the promise of the sunrise, we continued our ascent. The final stretch was the most challenging, testing our stamina with its steep inclines. But with each step, the anticipation grew. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, we emerged onto the summit, greeted by an astounding panorama.
Upon reaching Mt. Kupapey, we walked to the cliff’s edge to witness the sunrise and gaze upon the magnificent rice terraces below. The breathtaking beauty of the terraces, the sea of clouds, and the lush green forests spread out before us felt like a fitting reward for our challenging hike. There it was, the Maligcong Rice Terraces, a masterpiece carved into the mountainside, emerald green and seemingly endless. Though strands of clouds still clung to the valleys, the first rays of the sun peeked through, casting a golden glow on the scene. It was a moment of pure wonder, a reward for the physical effort, a testament to the enduring beauty of nature.
We sat in awe, savoring the view with coffee and bread in hand, capturing moments with photos and simply absorbing the serenity. As the sun climbed higher, painting the sky in vibrant hues of blue and gold, we descended to explore the rice terraces up close, marveling at the intricate beauty of this natural wonder. Here, we could appreciate the intricate patterns of the rice field, each one a testament to the generations of farmers who had sculpted the landscape. The descent was faster, but no less enjoyable, offering new perspectives on the breathtaking scenery.
Back at the Sacyaten’s home, a hearty breakfast awaited us, the perfect ending to our adventure. As we chatted about our experiences with our friends, we relaxed and sat in the living room with our plates full of a filling breakfast. We learned that some of us were genuinely skilled trail hikers, which helps to explain why it appears like they are never exhausted.
However, they were thoughtful enough to wait for us each time we took a longer walk. The only hiccup during our trip was the transportation from Maligcong to Bontoc. Despite running breathlessly, we nearly missed the 9a.m. jeepney back to Bontoc. Fortunately, a kind local offered us a ride in his truck, though the journey was not without its challenges.
As we bid farewell to our gracious host and boarded the truck back to Bontoc, we carried with us the memory of the sunrise over Mount Kupapey and the Maligcong Rice Terraces – a sight that will forever be engraved in our minds.
This trek was more than just a hike; it was a journey of discovery, a test of our physical and mental limits, and ultimately, a humbling encounter with the magnificence of nature. Overall, the experience left us refreshed despite the challenging hike, particularly for those of us accustomed to city life. It’s clearer now why many turn to mountains and hills for rejuvenation and what they call “soul searching”.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure in the Philippines, climbing Mount Kupapey for a sunrise spectacle over the Maligcong Rice Terraces is an experience we highly recommend. Just remember to come prepared, embrace the challenge, and be ready to be amazed. By Hannalhyne Bolona, Je-anpril Ludaes, Jeremiah Sabiano
