I’m not a good decision-maker; in fact, most of my trips are out of randomness. While it’s essential to come up with firm decisions at times, there are moments when it’s easier to let fate take its course. Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned through all those adventures, it is the fact that God has better laid-out plans for us – always, always better that what we have scrupulously prepared.
It was twelve midnight when AJ sent an invitation to one of Cebu’s newly discovered peaks – Casino or Lugsangan Peak. Had I been in my usual demeanor, I would have easily-declined such activity. Call time’s 3am. When will I sleep? HAHA. As mentioned in my Ormoc’s post, I am not me when I’m sleepy. But I woke up at three and received a message that the activity’s moved to four. So other choice do I have than to submit to the call of nature.
Casino Peak is located several meters away from the base of Osmena Peak. Contrary to the preconceived thought that Casino Peak is a gambling site for locals, it actually refers to the owner of the land near the peak, “Seno” whilst “Ka” is a possessive pronoun that poses ownership for the said possession. Thus, when asked who owns the area, the familiar Bisaya answer was, “Ka Seno”. Yes, such play of words like Mt. Kan-irag and Candayvic Falls. The peak has been a familiar sight when traversing to Kawasan Falls and a favorite hiking destination by locals as it offers a beautiful view of the nearby peaks that would somehow parallel to Bohol’s famed Chocolate Hills. Since it’s a ridge, going up is quite challenging as the trails consist of unstable rocks, slippery ascents, and semi-bouldering into the caverns; however with patience and proper guidance, this paves doable even to beginners.
We were too sleepy and tired while trekking the cemented road in going to the base of Casino Peak. And in these moments, I began to ask myself why I joined such activity. I would have been at home watching K-drama or writing all my back logs in the blog… or just surrender in deep slumber for the whole day. HAHA. Then it began to drizzle. Thin sheets of fog began to envelop around us. Suddenly, all my queries faded. I looked around my company and all the crazy conversations and things we have done through this sleepless journey – maybe… this is what I needed at this time. An experience that goes beyond my usual routine. Friends that would show a different side of my usual companions. A place that would offer a yet another scenic insight on what was deemed known already.
Life allows us to make a lot of decisions daily. Should I stay or go? Should I stop or continue? Should I go for love or money? Should I follow the path or take a detour? Success or peace of mind? You see, no one’s actually certain with the fate that we’re taking and the chances we miss. But whatever decision you make, I hope you granting the desires of your heart, acknowledging as well the impact it would create to the people you deal with.
In the end, as cliché as it always been, it’s the journey that counts not the destination. The choices we make maybe a little bitter, but this only proves that somehow the experience was worth it, worth-taking. There might be a little feeling of lost inside us when we see that the path we couldn’t have trotted was way better, but remember that the result wouldn’t have been exactly the same if you have chosen the other way. And in this daunting process, it’s difficult not to give up something, to lose something. But lost isn’t directly proportional with being forgotten. You will always have a special dwelling in each and everyone you encounter – a little piece that would complete the puzzle of this purposeful sojourn.
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HOW TO GET THERE:
- Ride a bus bound for Dalaguete. Ask a habal-habal driver to bring you to the base of Casino Peak and then start the hike in going to the Peak.
- Other option: Ride a bus bound for Mantalongon, Dalaguete from Caltex located near Carbon Market. Fare’s only P100.00. From Mantalongon, you can hike from there in going to Casino Peak.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothes. Bring water to keep hydrated.
- For other queries, feel free to connect with me thru Facebook or Instagram.
See you on trails! For other peaks to see around Cebu, click here.
Dakilanglaagan 