05/09/2026
Mount Labi: The Hidden Gem of Nueva Ecija
"It exists. You just did not know it was there."
Hidden in plain sight, Mount Labi has remained one of Nueva Ecija's lesser-known treasures for many years. While it may not be as popular as other mountains in the region, it offers an unforgettable adventure for those willing to explore its trails. This hidden peak deserves a place on every hiker's bucket list, not only because of its natural beauty but also because of the rich experiences it provides.
Before diving into the adventure, the challenges, and the importance of supporting the local tourism industry surrounding this mountain, let us first get to know Mount Labi a little better.
Located in Barangay Labi, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija, just a few kilometers before the boundary of Aurora Province, Mount Labi stands proudly at an elevation of 1,620 meters above sea level. It is considered the second-highest peak in Nueva Ecija and is often rated with a subjective difficulty level of 7 out of 9. Its trail classification ranges from Class 2 to Class 3, meaning hikers can expect a combination of off-trail trekking, rough terrain, and sections that require scrambling, where both hands and feet are needed for balance and support.
The traverse hike typically begins at the Cell Site Tower Trail and ends at the Labi River near the residences of Ms. Lyka, Ms. Lilibeth, and Sir Warly. Along the way, hikers are rewarded with a trail rich in biodiversity, featuring a wide variety of flora and fauna. The route showcases several highlights, including a lush mossy forest, the challenging Monkey Trail, and breathtaking views of the Sierra Madre and Caraballo Mountain Ranges.
Although the traverse covers only around 13 to 15 kilometers, shorter than many major climbs, do not underestimate it. Within that distance lies a journey that will test your physical strength, mental resilience, and patience. The trail may be relatively short, but it offers the kind of challenge that leaves your body exhausted and your heart fulfilled. It is the type of adventure that lingers in your memory long after the climb is over.
Now that we have covered the basics, let me share how I discovered the existence of Mount Labi.
My first climb in Mount Labi took place in July 2024. At that time, I was still new to organizing hiking events. A few months earlier, in April 2024, my friend Khael encouraged me to organize an event for this mountain. Initially, I was hesitant because I had never heard of Mount Labi before and knew very little about it.
Instead of immediately declining, I decided to do my research. I read articles related to the mountain, studied hikers' experiences, reviewed the trail conditions, and learned about the challenges we might face. Wanting to ensure a safe and enjoyable climb, I visited the official tourism resources of Nueva Ecija to find local contacts who could assist us.
Through my research, I was able to connect with Ms. Lyka Gane, who was then handling the local tour guide association. She later referred me to her father, Sir Warly, who became one of our primary contacts for the climb.
From April to June 2024, I maintained regular communication with them. I asked numerous questions regarding the trail, weather conditions, logistics, and safety concerns. My goal was to equip our group with sufficient knowledge, manage expectations, and prepare for any challenges we might encounter along the way.
After gathering all the necessary information, I carefully organized the details and shared them with our group chat. Since this was my first event at Mount Labi, I believed that proper research, planning, and coordination were essential. Climbing a new mountain requires not only enthusiasm but also responsibility and preparation.
When the day of the climb finally arrived and we successfully reached the summit of Mount Labi, I immediately knew that it would become one of the most memorable hikes of my life. The experience was unforgettable not only because of the mountain itself but also because of the people who shared the journey with me.
The local community welcomed us warmly and continuously ensured our safety throughout the trek. Their hospitality made the experience even more special. As an added bonus, we also had the opportunity to celebrate Sir Warly's birthday during our visit, creating memories that went beyond the hike itself.
The trail humbled us in many ways. What initially seemed manageable gradually became more demanding. Each section presented a different challenge, reminding us that mountains have a way of teaching lessons that extend beyond physical endurance.
One of the most important lessons I learned from that climb was that no matter how difficult the journey may become, there will always be light waiting at the end of the path. The hardships, fatigue, and obstacles only make the achievement more meaningful once the summit is reached.
Following the success of the first event, I organized a second climb to Mount Labi. This time, however, the experience was completely different. While the mountain remained the same, the conditions had changed.
The second climb took place in August, during the height of the typhoon season. It became a powerful reminder that no two hiking experiences are ever alike. Weather plays a significant role in shaping every adventure, influencing not only the difficulty of the trail but also the overall experience of each climber.
Yet despite these differences, one thing remained constant: Mount Labi continued to challenge, inspire, and reward those who dared to explore it.
For anyone seeking an adventure beyond the usual hiking destinations, Mount Labi offers a unique combination of natural beauty, challenging terrain, rich biodiversity, and warm local hospitality. It may still be hidden from the mainstream hiking community, but for those who have experienced its trails, it is a hidden gem worth discovering and supporting.
Mount Labi is more than just a mountain. It is a journey of preparation, perseverance, friendship, and self-discovery. And for me, it will always be one of the most remarkable peaks I have ever climbed.
Returning to Mount Labi: Two Years Later
Fast forward to 2026, exactly two years since my first organized event at Mount Labi. It was a great pleasure to return to its trails after some time away.
In July 2026, according to the locals, our group became the first to climb Mount Labi this year. I was delighted that the local tour guides still remembered and recognized me. However, this return was far different from my first experience. The trail had become overgrown, requiring us to cut through tall grasses, crawl under dense vegetation, and remain extra cautious of our surroundings. Thankfully, the weather rewarded our efforts by giving us a clear view of the magnificent Sierra Madre Mountain Range.
After reaching the summit, the group gradually spread out during the descent. Unfortunately, the weather suddenly changed, making the trail significantly more challenging. The rain transformed the already difficult terrain into a slippery and exhausting route that demanded every ounce of our remaining strength.
Some members of the group reached the jump-off point between 3:00 and 4:00 PM. However, the sweep team, including myself, did not make it back until around 7:00 PM. By then, darkness had already fallen.
To clarify, we were hiking without a tour guide at the back because I had advised our guide to accompany the other participants while I took responsibility for sweeping the trail. As the rain continued to pour and darkness enveloped the mountain, visibility became increasingly difficult.
At one point, when we reached a ginger plantation, I could no longer recognize the trail. Together with Mommy Peng, I searched back and forth for a way out. The only sound surrounding us was the steady rhythm of raindrops falling through the forest.
I opened my Strava recording and relied on both technology and instinct. Eventually, we found our way to the river. From there, we followed the direction of the water flow, knowing it would eventually lead us to the road.
Although I was deeply focused, I was never truly panicked. I knew there had to be a way out. My attention was divided between ensuring Mommy Peng's safety and carefully navigating our route back. Then, in the darkness, I suddenly found myself plunging into what felt like a rabbit hole. Yes, I literally fell into a hole approximately six feet deep. Thankfully, there were no sharp objects below, and I managed to pull myself out. Looking back, it was both frightening and amusing at the same time.
A Second Return and an Unexpected Discovery
My second return to Mount Labi provided a completely different experience. This time, we were blessed with excellent weather, allowing us to fully appreciate the beauty of the trail and the surrounding mountain ranges.
One of the highlights of the climb was encountering the endemic worm commonly known as the "Fried Egg Worm." It earned this nickname because the distinctive pattern on its body resembles a sunny-side-up egg.
The first time I encountered this fascinating creature was during a climb at Mount Pamaza-Pazan in Maria Aurora, Aurora Province, back in 2023. I never expected to see it again, which made the experience even more memorable.
With favorable weather and good trail conditions, the entire group successfully returned to the jump-off point before 5:00 PM.
The Third Event: The Most Challenging Climb Yet
Among all the Mount Labi events I have organized, the third was undoubtedly the most challenging.
At that time, many areas across Luzon, including Metro Manila, were experiencing flooding due to persistent rains. Five days before the event, I maintained constant communication with Ms. Lilibeth regarding the weather conditions in the area. She regularly sent photos and updates, which convinced me that the climb could proceed safely. Safety has always been my highest priority when organizing events.
Four days before the climb, I reopened additional slots. To my surprise, the third van was filled within the same day. Since I also had a Spartan Trail Race scheduled a day before the climb, I requested Hilarey to help support the team in case I could not return to Manila as early as planned. This ensured that participants would still have a designated point person to assist with pickups and coordination.
When we arrived at the jump-off point, rain immediately began to fall. Strong winds and cold temperatures greeted us. Despite the unfavorable weather conditions, the participants remained determined to continue the climb.
Upon reaching the Cell Site Trailhead, I advised everyone to remain sheltered and wait for the rain to subside. Unfortunately, the weather showed little sign of improvement. Heavy rain and powerful winds continued to pound the area. Eventually, when the downpour slightly eased, the group decided to proceed.
Near the Cell Site, we encountered a Philippine Pit Viper, a highly venomous snake species endemic to the Philippines. It was an exciting yet sobering reminder of the wilderness that surrounded us.
As we continued along the trail, everyone became drenched from the relentless rain brought by the Southwest Monsoon. The cold weather added another layer of difficulty to the climb.
The greatest challenge, however, awaited us during the descent.
As we approached the final river crossings, the water level began rising rapidly. The current had become significantly stronger than when we crossed earlier. I stayed with Maggie, Jelane, Jaice, and Jeff after receiving a message from Hilarey that I initially misinterpreted. Since there was no guide accompanying them at the front, I joined their group.
River after river, we carefully assisted one another across. However, when we reached the final crossing, we found ourselves stranded. Crossing was no longer an option. The water level continued to rise, the current had become dangerously strong, and even setting up a safety rope was not advisable. To make matters worse, there was no mobile signal available, preventing us from contacting the team waiting at the jump-off point.
Then an idea came to my mind "Follow the water hose."
Leaving the group in a safe area, I searched for an alternative route that would allow us to bypass the dangerous river crossing. After some time, I found a possible trail. The only problem was that it had become heavily overgrown with grass and vegetation.
Fortunately, Erika and our tour guide eventually caught up with us. Since even the guide was hesitant to cross the river, I shared the alternative route I had discovered. Together, we carefully cleared portions of the trail and pushed forward. After a while, we finally out from the forest.
Everyone made it out safely.
At that moment, nothing mattered more than knowing that every member of the group had returned unharmed.
Why I Continue to Organize Climbs
Today, I am grateful that more hikers have become aware of the existence of Mount Labi.
One of the moments that touched me the most was when Ms. Lilibeth told me that she had been receiving numerous inquiries after I posted videos encouraging people to support Mount Labi and its local tourism industry. Hearing that brought tears to my eyes because it reminded me of the reason I started organizing hiking events in the first place.
My goal has never been solely about reaching summits or completing climbs. It has always been about supporting local tourism, helping local communities benefit from responsible travel, and providing quality experiences for fellow hikers.
Seeing more people discover and appreciate Mount Labi is incredibly rewarding. It serves as a reminder that every organized climb is not just an adventure but also an opportunity to support the people who call these mountains home.
And that, perhaps, is one of the most meaningful summits of all.
