Trash left by trekkers prompts Mt. Pulag’s temporary shut down

Trash left by trekkers prompts Mt. Pulag’s temporary shut down

BAGUIO CITY (February 20, 2025) -- The management of Mt. Pulag National Park in Kabayan, Benguet announced in a public advisory that it is temporarily closing two camp sites for rehabilitation and clean-up.

This after the Protected Area Management Office (PAMO) noticed mounds of garbage suspected to have been left by trekkers at Campsites 1 and 2.   "Due to this, Campsite 1&2 will be temporarily closed to allow for rehabilitation and to instill discipline among visitors," the advisory said.

Mt. Pulag Protected Landscape (MPPL) Protected Area Superintendent Emerita B. Albas confirmed they will be imposing penalties on campers found to have left their trash at the site. Reopening of the said campsites, she assured, will be announced once it is deemed suitable for use again.

The management is requiring campers to carry their trash with them when leaving Mt. Pulag, especially on urging the use of re-usable water containers to prevent littering and a heavy environmental impact. 

The Mt. Pulag National Park advisory reiterated, "We urge all visitors to practice Leave No Trace Principles and help preserve the natural beauty of Mt. Pulag."

Mt. Pulag National Park is the highest peak in Luzon and is the second highest mountain in the Philippines with an elevation of 2,922 meter above sea level.

It was proclaimed a National Park by virtue of Pres. Proclamation No. 75 on February 20, 1987 covering an area of 11,550 hectares, to protect and preserve the natural features of the area such as its outstanding vegetation and wildlife.

Mt. Pulag, belongs to the Cordillera Biogeographic Zone located in Northern Luzon. The area nestled over Kabayan and Bokod in Benguet is a National Integrated Protected Areas Programme (NIPAP) site.