CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines — Police and rescue teams have intensified the search for a 31-year-old hiker who has been reported missing on Mt. Kalatungan in Pangantucan, Bukidnon.
The Pangantucan police said Alkharj Zamayla was last seen on Friday morning near Camp 1 along the Kalatungan trek route.
Authorities said Zamayla lost contact with his companions and relatives shortly after he was seen in the area.
The Bukidnon police said several rescue teams have been deployed to look for Zamayla, whose family appealed for help on social media.
In a post on Facebook, Zamayla’s sister asked for prayers and urged residents to provide any information that can help find her brother.
Mt. Kalatungan is the second highest peak in Bukidnon and is considered one of the country’s most challenging hiking destinations due to its rugged terrain and dense forest cover.
Police assured the public that the search and rescue operation would continue until Zamayla is found.