Mount Baonao of Leyte, Leyte

If you are from Biliran island and you pass through the bridge that connects Biliran and Leyte, you will see this beautiful and tall mountain, The Mount Baonao.

From PHIVOLCS site, Mount Baonao is an inactive volcano with a height of 485 meters above sea level and is located at the northern tip of Leyte, Leyte. At its peak you can see the towering mountains of Biliran island, the Biliran strait, the Leyte Bay, Mount Canjamampaay, and the neighboring areas of the municipality of Leyte.

Its distance from Biliran Bridge is roughly two kilometers, and it will take you an hour or more to go uphill.
You will pass beneath lush trees as you begin the ascent. Along the trail, you may find a plantation of pineapples, jackfruits, and mangoes.

And midway, grasses that are almost waist high occupies the rest of the slope. Since there aren't many trees to provide shade, climbing here is very tiring under sunny weather. So bring enough water to drink because you can't find water sources throughout the climb. However, when you get to the top you will definitely be amazed by the view you will see around Mount Baonao.

Others who have climbed here, dubbed the mountain as Little Batanes since it resembles the well-known hill of Batanes island. Others refer to it as "Mount Opao", because it was once turned bald due to a fire. The kaingin system used by other farmers could result in destruction of the mountains. Soil erosion and low supply of water are some of the consequences if the system continues.

Truly, Eastern Visayas mountains are rich in biodiversity so let's preserve it for future generations.

Always remember to hire a local tour guide, be a responsible tourist, respect locals, and don't leave your trash behind.

Watch the video here:

https://youtu.be/54HkCnstK0A