I’ve had a few attempts to visit Catanduanes, but something would always come up, usually work. This time, I finally made it. And yes, the stories were true. It’s beautiful. Rugged, wild, and breathtaking.

The trip was for the 18th Luzon Summit of the Mountaineering Federation of the Philippines (MFPI), the umbrella organization of major mountaineering and outdoor clubs in the country since 1979. MFPI holds regional gatherings like the Luzon Summit, Visayas Mountain Festival, and Mindanao Summit, along with national events such as the Annual Congress, Midyear Congress, President’s Meeting, and the All Women’s Climb, an event I joined last March for Women’s Month.

After that climb, I already had my eyes on the Luzon Summit. But I hesitated. I worried that work might get in the way again, like it did during the Midyear Climb in Bohol last year. I had booked and planned, only to cancel last minute because of a work commitment in Manila. I didn’t want that to happen again.

It took me a while to decide. Ironically, it was work that finally pushed me to go this time.

One of my clients, Teva, a pioneer in the sport sandal category, expressed interest in supporting the event. Teva was born when a Grand Canyon river guide strapped his flip-flops to prevent them from floating away during river trips. Then HOKA, another client under MAP Active Philippines, came in as well. Known for their cushioned running shoes, HOKA is now reconnecting with its roots in the mountains through its expanding line of hiking and trail footwear. It was a natural fit for the summit crowd.

That sealed it. I was going.

By the time I finalized everything, Cebu Pacific fares had already hit sixteen thousand pesos roundtrip. I almost backed out again. But I knew I’d regret missing the chance to reconnect with MFPI friends, be part of the summit, and finally see Catanduanes.

The summit was hosted by Leaflife Outdoor Adventure, an MFPI member club based in Virac. The main events were held at Punta del Mar, a beachside venue in Barangay Agojo, San Andres. Since I decided late, all the climb slots were already full. There were no more open slots for the climbs to Mt. Lantad, Mt. Sadab, and Mt. Pacogon. The slots for the Happy Island 360 tour and the overnight hike to Catanduanes’ most popular attraction, Binurong Point, were also already full.

I arrived on the second day. From the airport, we had lunch in Virac, then headed to Emmalyn’s Paradise Resort, which would be our home for the next few nights. At this point in my life, when there’s an option to stay somewhere clean and comfortable with its own bathroom, I take it. I still love sleeping in tents, but comfort has its perks.

After settling in and saying hi to friends also staying at Emmalyn’s, we took a tricycle to the campsite. We went straight to where the Basic Mountaineering Course was ongoing. A lot of our friends were instructing, and this BMC was made even more special by the presence of Sir Boboy Francisco. He co-founded the UP Mountaineers and MFPI, and helped design the BMC framework that many clubs still follow today. He shared how happy he was to see the community grow and encouraged everyone to complete the course and stay true to the spirit of responsible mountaineering.

While the BMC was ongoing, other participants joined the mangrove planting activity. Giving back is always part of MFPI events, and this one also included a beach cleanup organized by the hosts.

That afternoon, we returned to Virac to explore and eat. 

The next day, we visited some of Catanduanes’ most popular attractions. On the way, we dropped by Bato Church, a beautiful stone structure that opens to a view of the ocean. It’s one of the most picturesque churches I’ve seen in the country. 

We then spent time at Puraran Beach, a well-loved surf haven known for its golden sand, strong waves, and dramatic rock formations.

After soaking in the coastal views, we made our way to Binurong Point, where a short and easy trail led us to rolling hills that end in majestic cliffs overlooking the crashing sea below.

When we got back to the campsite, the closing program had just started. It was the summit highlight and a chance to celebrate with friends. When we arrived, fellow member Camby was performing on stage, and the girls I climbed with in Cebu were dancing in front of the crowd. It rained a little, but no one seemed to mind.

I-riepublic got everyone dancing. And then came Coffeebreak Island, a band I hadn’t seen live in years. They closed the summit with a set that brought back so many good memories. It was truly a night to remember.

The next day, we moved to a hotel in Virac, attended Mass at the Virac Cathedral, and dropped by a small post-event gathering with friends before calling it a night. We had an early flight the following morning.

It took a while to get here. But I made it.

Catanduanes was worth the wait.