Have you ever seen a golf course on top of a mountain? Neither have we until we climbed Mt. Daguldol. All that was missing were people hauling clubs or racing golf carts. For those of you who wants to experience a different kind of summit, a relaxed climb and meet really nice people, this is the mountain for you. We did an overnight climb last Nov 2, all souls day. The hike started with a steady ascent from jump off and can be really hot if you start a little late. After an hour or two the ascents become gradual and the last leg to summit was a lot easier and cooler. There are no tough assaults to peak. We were expecting a Fiesta of some sort because of the long weekend but we were pleasantly surprised because we practically had the mountain all to ourselves. And the campsite as well. We were the only ones there! And by gosh it looked like a golf course. The vast ladscape was lush green. I was itching to roll down hill and run up and do it all over again like a kid. There were cows grazing and the air was so fresh and lovely. The campsite/summit didn't have an unobstructed view of the sea or other mountains but was breathtaking nonetheless. The night was cold, windy, foggy and a little creepy ( maybe due to the fact that it's just me and Harley up there, hehe ) but that added to the fun and adventure. We were apprehensive and scared at first but we proved that this is a safe mountain, even if we felt like we were on LOST. We descended the following morning feeling happy and overwhelmed by the experience. The descent was manageable and relaxed. ( and we didn't shred our quads. Point! )This was a gem of a climb. Now let me tell you about the people of Batangas. Kuya Onyok, our guide, was very patient with us ( particularly with me, slowpoke! ) and was chatty and very accommodating. When he offered to refill our 2 liters of empty water bottle at the nearest water source, he kindly gave us extra 5 liters so we'll have enough to last us the night. Take about going the extra mile! He was so very kind and polite and I advice everyone to look for him for your future climb here. Ate Lorna, the lady at the registration, very accommodating, pleasant and honest. I left my wallet at her place and she took precautions as to whom to give it back to. She studied my ID and told everyone with her to check if the one who claims it looks like my picture. Hehehehe. She could've just given it to anyone and be done with this lil hassle but she kept it safe for me. The unknown mountaineer - kudos and a big thank you to the person who found my wallet at Ate Lornas place and gave it to her for safekeeping. Your a true angel. All the other people of Laiya Batangas - There were all so nice and accommodating. They know how to take care of you and make you feel welcome. They were all smiles and willing to help with even the littlest things. Like the Ate and Kuya at the last store before the peak. They offer free water and good conversation. Very nice people. Very nice. They are the real reason why I want to go back there. And the reason you should go there too. Salamat po sa inyong lahat. All mountain is your first. That's what I believe in. Doesn't matter if it's you actual first or your hundredth. The experience, adventure, sights, pain, wonder and excitement all feels new everytime... ● Minor climb - 2.5 to 5 hours to summit depending on pace ● Not steep, no tough assaults but with steady ascent from jump off for an hour or 2 ● With stop overs where you can buy food and drinks ( and sing! 1 has a videoke machine ) ● Guides required - 500 for day hike 1000 for overnight ● With parking for private vehicles near registration ( 100 ) note: rough road with sharp rocks to site ● 35 pesos per head registration fee ● Public transport time bound and expensive ● Water source in Niyugan campsite. No water source at summit. ● Beware of doggies at night who attack....your left overs. Hehehehe. Place your trash high up where they can't reach it. Don't leave anything outside your tent after lights out we were advised. Better do the same I guess. But the dogs are friendly. The insect are not. Spray repellent on your tent. They ate holes in ours.