By Ramel A. Babac, President – CPU Mountaineering Society

CPU Mountaineering Society successfully conducted its Basic Mountaineering Course and Brush-off Activity at Bulabog Puti-an National Park in Dingle, Iloilo.

On May 9–10, 2026, the CPU Mountaineering Society recently carried out its Basic Mountaineering Course (BMC) and Brush-off Activity along the scenic trails of Bulabog Puti-an National Park in Dingle, Iloilo, marking another milestone in its commitment to student empowerment and environmental stewardship.

The event was implemented smoothly with the invaluable guidance of seasoned instructors from the CPUMS’s mother organization, the Iloilo Mountaineering Club, Inc. (IMCi). Their expertise ensured that participants not only learned the fundamentals of mountaineering but also practiced safety, discipline, and teamwork in real outdoor conditions.

The BMC served as a foundational training ground for CPU students, faculty, and staff, equipping them with essential skills in navigation, survival, and responsible outdoor conduct. Beyond technical knowledge, the course emphasized the values of resilience, camaraderie, and care for creation from qualities that extend far beyond the mountains into everyday life and leadership.

Complementing the training was the Brush-off Activity, a hands-on effort where participants collected litter along the trails of Bulabog Puti-an National Park. This initiative underscored the CPUMS’s commitment to conservation by helping preserve the park’s biodiversity and natural beauty for future generations. Through this direct engagement, students not only contributed to maintaining a cleaner environment but also deepened their understanding of environmental stewardship and the vital role mountaineers play as caretakers of nature.

The collaboration between CPU Mountaineering Society and IMCi reflects a strong tradition of mentorship and community engagement. It underscores the CPUMS’s mission to empower students through experiential learning while strengthening ties with local stakeholders in the protection of Iloilo’s natural heritage.

As the trails of Bulabog Puti-an echo with the footsteps of new mountaineers, the CPU Mountaineering Society continues to inspire students to climb higher, not only in mountains but also in values, service, and responsibility.