jump-off.

Capas, Tarlac, was our starting point. A Saturday crowd of hikers buzzed around the registration tables, but our agency's free lugaw with egg was a welcome distraction.

We ate with gusto, knowing our next substantial meal was a long walk away.

There were lots of kids selling hiking poles as well. Ali, being a beginner, went ahead and bought one while I refused kasi not a single soul called me Ate Ganda. Hina ng sales talk besh, di ako na-convince. Siyempre joke lang.

We then headed to the street where our 4x4 ride awaits.

4x4.

This part was quite memorable. As we rode across the rocky plain, we noticed a few animals grazing here and there. It was utterly hilarious when Morz exclaimed, "Ang cute ng baka <3" while pointing to a carabao. She said it sweetly pa naman.

Upon arriving at what locals call Toblerone Hills, we took pictures and stretched for a bit.

We resumed the ride shortly after and reached the start of the trail.

the hike.

The trail was easy—a flat terrain with plenty of rocks and rivers to cross. My eyes, however, one being nearsighted and the other farsighted gave me a hard time so whenever we need to cross the river and the rocks we're stepping on are unstable, I always wait for Kuya Guide's assistance. Sis never got tired. Masaya pala maging Disney Princess.

the crater lake.

The two-hour hike to the crater lake left us sweaty, hungry, and—quite frankly—furious with the ridiculously long and line-cutter-infested queue for a photo-op with the Pinatubo sign. The lake, however, a blend of emerald and sapphire glowing ethereally under the sun, was breathtaking. We got what we're looking for and more.

We descended with ease and walked back to our ride chatting, laughing and singing. Everybody's fine, no one got hurt.

We then packed up and slept soundly through the entire trip home.