Almost a year after a huge fire broke near the peak of Mt. Apo, the tallest mountain in the country reopens to hikers but now with stricter policies and higher fees.
Last year when the fire broke, over 100 hectares of forest cover was affected. Hence, the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) close the mountain to travelers.
On Thursday, authorities have opened New Israel trail in Makilala, Mandarangan trail in Kidapawan City, Bongolanan trail in Magpet, Kapatagan trail in Digos City and Colan trail in Sta.
Cruz, Davao del Sur.
With the reopening, the fees were increased. Mountaineers need to pay P1,500 trekking fee compared to P500 last year.
Moreover, staying overnight at the peak is no longer allowed.
Each trail will have a maximum of 50 trekkers per day. No walk-in trekkers will be entertained.
A seminar will be given to all mountaineers before they will be allowed to go up the peak.
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