Kitanglad Mountain Range

Kitanglad Mountain Range is a large mountain system with five main peaks rising over 2,900 meters and spreading across eight municipalities. The range feeds major rivers below and hosts diverse ecosystems that change as you climb from lower foothills to cooler mountain forests.

The mountain range became a protected area in 1990 and received complete legal protection through national legislation in 2000. These measures established it as one of the region's important forested conservation areas.

Local communities in Bukidnon practice traditional land management that shapes how the forest looks and is used today. Walking through the mountain passes, you can see signs of this ongoing connection between people and the natural landscape.

Visiting requires contacting local authorities in Bukidnon beforehand, with Cagayan de Oro serving as the main gateway to the mountain range. Travel during the dry season when trails are more passable, and bring proper hiking gear since higher elevations get cold and conditions can shift quickly.

The mountain system shelters rare bird species including the Philippine Eagle and serves as the source of major rivers that flow hundreds of kilometers downstream. This dual role as wildlife habitat and water supply system makes it essential to the region's survival.