The Mountains and Peaks of Bukidnon - Part 4

Mangima Canyon

Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon

Dubbed as the Kennon Road by the South, the zigzagged road of Mangima Canyon is a naturally scenic spot that never fails to astound travelers and tourists. An invitational off-road competition is held annually at the racetracks of the Mangima Canyon Springs and Country Park in Manolo Fortich where enthusiasts from all over the country face the challenges of the rough and rocky terrain that the place can offer.

For now, the road network is under construction so expect a longer travel time if passing through this route.

The Mountains and Peaks of Bukidnon - Part 3

Musuan Peak/Centennial Park

Dologon, Maramag

Known as Mt. Musuan, it has an elevation of 646 meters asl and a base diameter of 3 km. Musuan Peak is a natural landmark located at Barangay Dologon, serving as a border of Musuan from Barangay Lumbo; it is visible at the left side of the national highway bound south. A telecom tower has been erected at the peak so that there is now an easy trail going up there. Nevertheless, there are other points of entry to the peak, providing nature trekkers a good climb, especially on an early morning. At the top is revealed a panoramic view of the Bukidnon’s majestic mountains, green forests, vast ricefields, and the Pulangui River. One can also have a good view of the Central Mindanao University (CMU) campus.

According to some graduates of CMU, this Musuan Peak is famous as the site for hiking and outdoor adventure especially for fraternities and other school organizations.

The Mountains and Peaks of Bukidnon - Part 2

Mt. Kalatungan Range Natural Park

Situated in the central part of Bukidnon

Situated in the central part of Bukidnon, Mt. Kalatungan comprises an estimated area o 35,812.52 hectares and an elevation of 1,000 meters above sea level with several mountain reef. Drawn by the lure of overwhelming slope and ledges, this is where nature makes an eloquent declaration of beauty and power. Sites and rock abundant, wildlife thrives on native grasslands, and spectacular views of the plains offer an escape from the rush of the highway.

This is one of the best trekking site because of lush vegetation and mossy forest where during colder months, temperatures will drop below 10 degrees C.

The Mountains and Peaks of Bukidnon - Part 1

Mt. Kitanglad Range Natural Park

Located at the north central Bukidnon

A natural type of attraction located at the north central Bukidnon. It has an area of 31,297.00 hectares composed of more than a dozen mountain peaks, including Mt. Dulang-dulang. The peak of the mountain could be reached through three trail routes, namely: Bol-ugan, Kaatuan, Lantapan, Lupiagan, Sumilao, Intavas, La Fortuna, and Impasugong.

Kitanglad, the second highest mountain in the country, towers to more than nine thousand feet serving as the base to the Province’s long distance communication towers. It also offers a challenge to mountain climbers to reach its summit; one has to scale its ranges for five hours passing through Flora and Fauna of genuine virgin forests. At the base are Lalawan, Dalwangan, and the house of the Philippine Eagle. It was declared as a National Park under P.O. 677 dated December 14, 1990.

I've been to this majestic mountain twice and it's worth the effort - with all the sceneries, the wild berries, and the most exhilarating experience is you will be hugged by the clouds literally. Never mind the body aches after the climb.

The Elected Officials of Bukidnon

The following are the top officials of Bukidnon serving until 2010.

Governor - Hon. Jose Ma. R. Zubiri Jr.
Vice Governor - Hon. Alex P. Calingasan

Congressmen:
Hon. Candido P. Pancrudo
Hon. Jose Ma. F. Zubiri III
Hon. Teofisto TJ L. Guingona III

First District - Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members
Hon. Ben P. Pancrudo
Hon. Clive D. Quiño
Hon. Rogelio S. Lago

Second District - Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members
Hon. Camilo E. Pepito
Hon. Glenn P. Peduche
Hon. Nemesio B. Beltran
Hon. Roland f. Detecio

Third District - Sangguniang Panlalawigan Members
Hon. Alfeo U. Baguio
Hon. Anacleto T. Matias
Hon. Romeo T. Mabelin

Kaamulan Festival of Bukidnon

The province celebrated the Kaamulan Festival, an ethnic cultural festival held annually in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon from the mid-February up to March 10, the founding date of the Bukidnon as a province in 1917. It is held to celebrate the culture and tradition of the seven ethnic tribal groups—Bukidnon, Higaonon, Talaandig, Manobo, Matigsalug, Tigwahanon and Umayamnon—that originally inhabit the province. Kaamulan comes from the Binukid word “amul” meaning to gather. Kaamulan is gathering for a purpose—a datuship ritual, a wedding ceremony, a thanksgiving festival during harvest time, a peace pact, or all of these together. The festival started in 1974 and is celebrated until now.

Kaamulan festival is one of the most colorful festival in this part of the region. This is where the different tribes of Bukidnon converge in one place and showcase their rich cultural heritage.It's one festival you've got to witness when you are around Bukidnon or in Mindanao around February - March.