BAGUIO CITY — The management of Mt. Pulag, in an advisory, announced it is temporarily closing two camp sites for rehabilitation and cleanup.

This after the staff of the Protected Area Management Office (PAMO) observed that Campsites 1 and 2 of Mt. Pulag are littered with garbage probably left by hikers and trekkers.

“Due to this, Campsite 1 and 2 will be temporarily closed to allow for rehabilitation and to instill discipline among visitors,” stated the advisory.

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

The management is requiring campers to carry their trash downfall and use reusable water containers to prevent littering and environmental impacts. “We urge all visitors to practice Leave No Trace Principles and help preserve the natural beauty of Mt. Pulag,” stated in the advisory. 

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 meters above sea level. It was proclaimed National Park by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 75 on 20 February 1987 covering an area of 11,550 hectares.

It was established to protect and preserve the natural features of the area such as its outstanding vegetation and wildlife. It belongs to the Cordillera Biogeographic Zone located in Northern Luzon. Mt. Pulag is a National Integrated Protected Areas Program site.