Banahaw still off limits to trekkers, pilgrims

MANILA, Philippines - Mt. Banahaw is still closed to trekkers and pilgrims this Holy Week while religious activities will be allowed only in designated areas, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has advised the public.

DENR Calabarzon executive director Reynulfo Juan said they would also charge visitors higher entrance fees. 

“Human activity has caused the deterioration of the ‘holy mountain’ but closing it completely will be somewhat difficult since Mt. Banahaw traditionally hosted cultural and religious practices for ages,” said Juan, who is concurrent chairman of the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) of the Mounts Banahaw-San Cristobal Protected Landscape (MBSCL).

Juan reiterated that trekkers, including pilgrims, would be held liable for violating environmental laws.

Salud Pangan, protected area superintendent, said volunteers have been mobilized to help PAMB protect the park from vandalism and destruction, ensure the safety of park visitors and prevent entry into restricted areas.

Pangan also warned mountaineers and trek organizers to refrain from advertising Mt. Banahaw as an open climb destination.

A MBSCPL-PAMB ordinance issued on April 2, 2014 extended for another three years an earlier resolution to declare parts of Mt. Banahaw off-limits to the public.