First, I just want to say: I love Wawa. Officially called the Pamitinan Protected Landscape, it’s in Barangay San Rafael, Rodriguez, Rizal, which is home to the famous Wawa Dam. You’ll start from a lively hub where you’ll find the local environmental offices, barangay hall, and tourism office, surrounded by eateries, sari-sari stores, and fresh…

Weeks before: I contacted a local guide, Kuya Juanson, and inquired about Mt. Daraitan day hike. He quoted PHP 1,000.00 inclusive of all tour expenses and the guide fee. He said the hike starts at 3:00 am. I was quite shocked as this seemed too early. I was able to haggle for a 4:00 am…