A territorial dispute between San Juan and Lobo in Batangas has led to the official suspension of hiking activities on Mt. Daguldol. Noelito Pascu explained that the trail and registration area fall under San Juan, while the summit is in Lobo. Some hiking groups have proceeded anyway to raise awareness about the issue.
Mt. Daguldol in San Juan, Batangas, features dense rainforests and rare flora and fauna, but a territorial dispute is hindering tourism potential. The hikers' registration and trail are under San Juan's jurisdiction, while the summit belongs to Lobo, leading to the official halt of climbing activities.
Noelito Pascu, chief of San Juan's Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office, stated: “The registration area of all the hikers plus the trail itself is within the area of San Juan, Batangas, but the summit itself is within the area of Lobo, Batangas.” This ambiguity makes climbers feel like they are committing a crime by ascending.
Despite the ban, a group from the Barako Hiking Club, including the owner of Casa Amara resort, proceeded with the climb to spark discussion on the mountain's value for tourism. The author noted that the suspension only benefits illegal loggers currently profiting from the area.
Guy Tiongson, president of Sierra Madre Outdoors Inc., praised the site: “It is the perfect climb. There is much to see in the mountain itself. Rain forest, rivers, and waterfalls. It has a beautiful grassland summit, and unlike other mountains, it’s possible to finish the trek in half a day and still have time to go to the beach.” Similarly, Nini Andrada Sacro of Climb Against Cancer described it as “a very satisfying climb” suitable for beginners.
Experts believe collaboration between the municipalities could generate income from hiking, similar to other Philippine mountains that boost local tourism. However, until the dispute is resolved, this potential remains untapped.
