#mtpurro

March 25-26, 2017

As part of the company’s efforts to form good, working relationships among its members, the whole team took a day-off and spent the weekend together at Mt. Purro Nature Reserve to unwind, retreat, and enjoy the peace that the rural can offer.

© S. Halaba

One of the highlights of the vacation was meeting the Dumagats, the local tribe living nearby. A few tribe members showed us how to make fire and cook sinigang and rice using bamboo. All were amazed at how easy Tatay Aurelio made it look, yet it was the exact opposite when some of our team members tried (and failed) to create fire from friction. 

© S. Halaba

The food was prepared and served very simply. The team shared the meal and ate with their bare hands—a gesture that embraced the simplicity of nature and life. 

© D. Silverio

© J. Montalbo

That night, everyone gathered inside a humble kubo for dinner, and good food was served. The team then proceeded to bond with group activities and chitchat in their rooms, without the temptation of checking emails or their social media accounts (simply because there was no Wifi!).

© D. Silverio

The following morning was welcomed with a heavy breakfast that prepared everyone for the almost 3 kilometer trek to reach Malvar’s Peak. It was a difficult one—it was tiring, risky, and hot; yet the team still pushed through and finished together. At the highest point, all were rewarded with the beauty of Sierra Madre mountain range, and the fresh air that Antipolo is known for.

© S. Halaba

See the beauty for yourself.

© S. Halaba

It was a rather uneventful trip going home, but for those who accepted the remoteness of the Dumagat lifestyle, for those conquered their fear of heights, for those who embraced the natural surroundings of bare nature, and for those who simply wanted to detach themselves from the hustle and bustle of the urban life, it was a relaxing and fulfilling experience altogether.