Mount Pulag frost lures more climbers

MANILA, Philippines - The drop in temperature at Mount Pulag in Cordillera is attracting more mountain climbers who want to witness the phenomenal frost at the peak this season.

City tourism officer Benny Alhambra said that the climbers are also looking forward to the freezing temperature and the perfect view of three mountain lakes from Mount Pulag's summit.

According to MountainForecast.com, temperatures at the top of Mount Pulag this week will not go below 12°C and may drop to as low as near-freezing 9°C at 3,000 meters above ground.

From the foot of the mountain, the temperature is between 17°C and 21°C.

Alhambra said that not all tourists to the Cordillera range intend to hike up the country's second highest peak.

He observed that the mountain resort has overcame its 2012 slump as more eco-tourists visiting hot springs and holding outdoor activities arrived for the December holidays.

While many of the tourists left after celebrating New Year, new batches of tourists reached the venue to experience the cool atmosphere, Alhambra said.

Most expeditions are arranged in Baguio City where there are experienced tour guides and climbing equipment are more available. The city receives more than a million tourists every year.