Philippine Climbing History

• Mountaineering activities include hiking and trekking.

Philippine Climbing History

• Rock climbing in the Philippines began in the 1980s as part of mountaineering, following international trends.
• Early mountaineers climbed challenging terrains as a secondary activity.
• The University of the Philippine Mountaineers pioneered rock climbing.
• They created a Basic Mountaineering Course based on a 1966 handbook by Alan Blackshaw.
• The handbook was used for ascending the Matutungil rock in Anilao.
• UPM's first rock climbing team used car parts and polyurethane ropes as makeshift gear.
• They established rock climbing routes in Rodriguez, Rizal, with the Mountaineering Association of the Philippines.
• In the early 90s, the first generation of rock climbers in Cebu established traditional style climbs in Cantabaco.
• Spelunkers and mountaineers explored caves and cliffs in Barangay Cantabaco, Toledo City.
• Artificial climbing facilities first appeared in the Philippines in 1993.
• Climbing facilities spread nationwide, leading to a need for a national group to oversee development and safety standards.
• Outdoor recreation offers opportunities to be active, relax, develop friendships, and learn new skills.
• It serves as an alternative to organized traditional sports.
• Mountaineering, hiking, and trekking are recreational activities.

Distinctions Between Mountaineering, Hiking, and Trekking

• People often use mountaineering, hiking, and trekking synonymously due to their similar nature.
• Differences lie in the difficulty of each activity.

Hiking

• Hiking is a challenging recreational activity but easier than trekking and mountaineering.
• Its difficulty ranges from easy to moderate depending on the location.
• Hikes often end in the same location.
• Hiking typically lasts 2 to 8 hours and requires good physical health.
• Difficulty is determined by elevation gained, with an ascent rate of 400 m (~1312 ft) per hour depending on slope steepness and terrain.

Trekking

• Trekking's difficulty is between hiking and mountaineering.
• Treks are longer than hikes, usually taking two or more days.
• Trekking is more challenging than hiking, as it involves multiple days of walking.
• Treks start in one place and end in another.
• Distances vary from ~40 km to hundreds of kilometers.
• Some popular treks can take weeks to complete.

Mountaineering

• Mountaineering is outdoor recreation involving walking, hiking, backpacking, and mountain climbing.
• It's a more challenging and technical form of trekking to peaks above 5000 meters.
• Requires physical preparation and technical skill, plus the proper gear.

Mountaineering First Aid Kit

• A first aid kit can be shared among 2-3 people, but each should have a basic emergency kit.
• The kit includes pain relievers, bandages, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, anti-itch cream, ACE bandage, and moleskin.

Essential First Aid Items

• Aspirin/Ibuprofen/Acetaminophen: 12 tablets/person for pain/fever relief
• Antacid: 6 tablets for indigestion or heartburn
• Band-aids: 12.1" plus assorted for minor cuts
• Butterfly bandage: 6 various sizes for closing small wounds
• Carlisle Dressing: Buttle 1.4 " (or sanitary napkin) for large bleeding wounds
• Moleskin: ½ package for padding blisters and hotspots
• Needle: 1 medium size for removing splinters
• Tincture of Benzoin: 1 oz. plastic bottle; painted on skin to help tape adhere
• Antibacterial soap: 1 oz. plastic bottle for washing abrasions and cuts
• Razor blade, single edge: 1 for cutting tape, moleskin
• Roller gauze: 2 rolls, 2" x 5 yd. for holding gauze flats
• Tape, waterproof: non- 2" roll for securing dressings
• Triangular bandage: 2 for supporting arm, dressing, or splinting
• Wire mesh splint: 1 for splinting
• Oral Thermometer: 1 for measuring body temperature
• Tweezers: 1 for removing splinters
• Prescription medicine: As prescribed, for its intended use

Mountaineering Equipment and Essentials Checklist

• Bible: Essential for spiritual guidance
• Hiking Shoes: Lightweight and well-fitting with heavy wool socks
• Fleece Jacket: Wind-resistant and versatile for temperature control

Additional Gear

• Pants: Fleece, wool, or soft-shell pants for room and movement freedom
• First Aid Kit: Personal supply of medications with provided Mountaineering First Aid Kit
• Sleeping Bag: Mummy bag with synthetic or down fill; consider a vapor barrier liner for high altitude climbs
• Assorted Stuff Bags: Waterproof bags with assorted sizes
• Expedition Pack: Comfortable, durable, roomy pack, sized dependent on the adventure
• Toiletry Kit: Toothpaste, toothbrush, personal medications, dental floss, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, lotion
• Cup, Bowl, and Spoon: A plastic insulated mug, a bowl with a lid or large Nalgene jar, and a lexan spoon (no metal)
• Pocket Knife: Victorinox knives are tested and useful, especially the scissors, also the Leatherman multipurpose tool
• Headlamp: Essential for reading and rummaging at night; small LED head lamp is recommended
• Cameras: Document experiences with extra batteries for digital cameras

Other Essentials

• Journal with pen/pencil: To record daily thoughts
• Water Bottles (2): Nalgene wide mouth one quart
• Sun glasses (two pairs): High quality polarized lenses with UVA and UVB protection, wraparound style plus a nose guard recommended
• Sun Screen and Lip Balm: Both with SPF
• Bandanas (2): Colorful silk or cotton
• Socks: High-quality wool or synthetic; two pairs for activity, one for sleeping
• T-shirt: Polypro or synthetic
• Lightweight underwear (2 sets): Polypropylene or wool; one set for activity, one for sleeping
• Watch: For synchronizing all activities and itinerary items

Risks, Safety, and Emergency Procedures

• Mountaineering is rewarding but carries health and physical challenges, especially at high altitudes.
• Long hours of walking and climbing can lead to dehydration, hyperthermia, hypothermia, and overexertion.
• Dehydration occurs when fluid loss exceeds intake leading to include increased thirst, dry mouth and swollen tongue, weakness, dizziness, palpitation or the feeling that the heart is jumping or pounding, confusion, slowness, fainting, incapability in sweat and decreased urine excretion.
• Water needs vary with temperature, weather, clothing, and activity duration.
• The human body is 75% water and must be replenished to avoid dehydration.
• Dehydration can lead to poor decision-making, heat exhaustion, cramps, and heat stroke.

Preventing Dehydration

• Avoid overexertion under extreme heat.
• Rest in shaded areas, drink water, wet bandana and increase fluid intake in hot weather.
• Limit mountaineering activity to cool mornings and late afternoons.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat, and clothing made out of breathable natural fibers such as cotton.

Hyperthermia

• Hyperthermia is when the body gets overheated.
• Body temperature can rise up to 46 degrees.
• Symptoms: headache, dizziness, exhaustion, muscle cramps, dark urine, nausea or abdominal cramps, rapid heart rate, excessive sweating, clammy skin and fainting.
• Untreated can be fatal, heat stroke, confusion, no sweat, vomiting, seizures, and unconsciousness.

Avoiding Hyperthermia

• Avoid overexertion on hot days.
• Rest in the shade and drink often.
• Wet bandana and cover the head.
• Locate potable water sources.
• Eat consistently throughout mountaineering.
• Perform strenuous activities in the morning or on relaxed trails.
• Check the weather before climbing or hiking.

Hypothermia

• Hypothermia is when the body loses heat faster than it produces.
• Body temperatures drop below 95°F (35°C).
• Can be life-threatening.
• Extreme cold weather is a common cause.
• Warning signs: include shivering, dizziness, feeling hungry, rapid heart rate, feeling tired, nausea, confusion, rapid breathing, trouble forming words and lack of coordination.

Avoiding Hypothermia

• Keep body warm by layering clothing. Wear a warm cap and carry hand warmers.
• Monitor weather conditions. Bring a warm sleeping bag in case temperatures drop.
• Wear warm waterproof clothing.
• Drink fluids and eat small meals.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
• Do not hike in deteriorating weather.
• Seek shelter early if weather worsens, and stay near designated paths.

Recreational Activities: Mountaineering-Camping

• Camping involves sleeping in tents and campfires.
• Memories of Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts camping on school grounds, local parks, or in nature are usually part of camping trips.
• Two types of camping: front country and back country.
• Front country camping is also known as "car camping".
• Usually close to a vehicle, with amenities such as bathrooms, stores, and emergency aid.
• Campsites feature picnic tables, specified tent locations, and fire rings. May also include travel-trailer camping.
• Camping has been around a long time.
• Native Americans and armies used tents as shelters.
• Camping became a recreational activity around 100 years ago.
• Thomas Hiram Holding considered the father of modern camping.
• He traveled the US with his parents by wagon train, developing a passion for camping.

Essential Camping Items

• Clothes: The first line of defense in maintaining body temperature; cotton is best for warm or hot conditions.
• Layer 1: Base Layer or Skin Layer is the clothing next to the skin.
• Layer 2: Insulating Layer is worn over the base layer, retains heat by trapping air close to the body.
• Natural fibers like wool and fleece are excellent insulators.
• In extreme cold and wet situations, an insulated jacket is usually worn.
• Layer 3: Wind and/or Rain-Barrier Layer: The outer layer, protection from wind, rain, or snow
• Sleeping Bag and Pad: Provide warmth and comfort for good rest at night
• Camping pads serve as cushions from the ground and insulators against the coldness of the ground.
• Tents: Protection from rain, wind, and bugs; add warmth, comfort, and security.
• Tents come in many shapes, styles, and sizes.
• It should be light, compact, and waterproof, with breathable material like ripstop nylon or nylon taffeta to protect you from mosquitos.
• Tarps are used as lighter shelters, requiring appropriate knot-tying skills.
• Cooking and Eating Utensils: Small lightweight backpack stoves are more efficient than open fires due to temperature control, reduce the threat of starting fires, and have less impact on the environment since it will not leave fire residue.
• Today, more and more designs are available in the market to choose from.
• Most important preparation to do is try out first at home to know whether it works or how it works.
• Cooking pots can double as eating utensils.
• Bring spoon, fork and knife or these can also be combined in a camping swiss knife.
• Water: Should either be readily accessible, brought by the camper, or through plumbing.

Food

• Front country camping allows for chillers and ice chests to keep food from spoiling.
• Cooking can be done using a portable stove, charcoal, or wood.
• Backcountry camping requires food that can last for days, examples like adobo.
• Canned goods should be repacked into lighter Ziploc bags for portioning and sealing.

Other Essential Camping Items

• General Equipment: Lantern, Toilet paper, Biodegradable, Insect repellant, Small thermos bottle, Duct tape, Safety pins, Shovel (if backcountry camping).
• Safety Equipment: Flashlight with extra batteries, Waterproof matches, Pocket knife, Topographic maps, Compass, Sun protection, Rope, Water treatment.
• First Aid Kit Contents: Adhesive bandages, Gauze pads, Adhesive tapes, Tweezers to remove splinter, Salt tablets, Paracetamol/aspirin, Antihistamine, Medicine for diarrhea, Razor blade, Moleskin, Tube of antibiotic, Anti-sting relief ointment/ cream.

Camping Skills

• Washing dishes using soaps that will not harm the environment.
• Campfires should be built only in fire rings; always evaluate/survey the site before sparking a fire
• Building fires requires choosing a safe spot away from trails with no overhanging limbs.
• Fireplace size should hold grill, kettle, or frying pan.
• Avoid using slate or schist stones due to explosion risk.
• Keep water, sand, dirt, and shovel nearby for extinguishing fires.
• A wood fire needs tinder, kindling, and fuel.
• Tinder: Small, no thicker than matchsticks; small twigs, wood shavings, or dried weeds.
• Kindling: Dry wood, either thin as a pencil or as a thick as your thumb.
• Fuel: Largest wood that keeps fire going (charcoal or seasoned wood).
• Stack wood in three piles: tinder, kindling, fuel.
• Keep the woodpile safe from dew and rain.
• In building campfires, three elements must be present: fuel (wood), heat source (matches or lighter), and air.

Sanitation of Campsite

• Campsite living should instill basic “leave no trace behind” principles when going/living in the outdoors.

Leave No Trace Principles

• Plan Ahead and Prepare
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
• Dispose of Waste Properly
• Leave What You Find
• Minimize Campfire Impacts
• Respect Wildlife
• Be Considerate of Other Visitors