Davao Oriental — Nature lovers, mountaineers, and adventure seekers have a rare opportunity this year as the Mt. Hamiguitan Range and Wildlife Sanctuary (MHRWS) remains open for trekking, camping, and guided exploration. Its annual three-month “off-season” closure, usually enforced from July to September, has been officially deferred until calendar year 2026.
This means enthusiasts still have time to climb Mindanao’s first and only UNESCO World Heritage Site — a living treasure that showcases an extraordinary biodiversity of global importance. Nestled in the eastern side of Mindanao, Mt. Hamiguitan is home to a wealth of endemic species and the country’s largest pygmy forest, a surreal landscape where towering trees shrink into knee-high woodlands as if nature itself sculpted a miniature world.
But beyond its ecological marvels, every trek into Hamiguitan is an intimate encounter with fragility. The sanctuary is not merely a playground for adventure but a living classroom where hikers can deepen their respect for the environment, build a sense of stewardship, and appreciate the delicate balance of life sustained within its mountains.
Dr. Roy Ponce, President of Davao Oriental State University, seasoned mountaineer, and staunch advocate for Hamiguitan’s protection, welcomes the decision to keep the site open this year. He emphasized that the reopening in January — after two years of closure — has not led to violations or damage. “We have not monitored any climbers bringing destruction to the area,” he said, noting that responsible tourism continues to prevail.
He also highlighted how ecotourism directly benefits local communities through livelihood opportunities, from guiding services to homestays and eco-friendly enterprises. “This decision is not just about accessibility but also about empowering locals,” Dr. Ponce added.
For many, trekking Hamiguitan is more than ticking off a mountaineering bucket list. It’s about forming a personal bond with a landscape that symbolizes resilience and biodiversity conservation. Standing atop its peaks, breathing the cool highland air, and walking through its rare pygmy forests, climbers often leave with more than photographs — they leave with a stronger commitment to preserve nature.
Whether you are an experienced mountaineer or a first-time trekker eager to immerse in an ecological wonder, this year offers an extraordinary chance. With the off-season moved to 2026, the trails of Hamiguitan remain open for you to climb, learn, and explore.
For bookings and inquiries, visit the official Mt. Hamiguitan Trekking Facebook Page: Mt. Hamiguitan Trekking.