Facts
- Elevation: 1,073 m (3,520 ft)
- Prominence: 1,073 m
- Ribu category:
Kurang Tinggi
- Region:
Central Philippines
- Island: Cebu
- Coordinates: 9.8367, 123.4508
- Rating:
- World Ribus ID: 69553
Bagging It!
Mount Labalasan, also commonly known as Osmeña Peak, is the highest point on Cebu Island. It is part of the mountain range located near the municipalities of Badian and Mantalongon in southern Cebu. The peak is famed for its rugged limestone formations and panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the sea. Hiking the southern end of Mount Labalasan is considered a relatively short but steep trek, usually doable within 1 to 2 hours depending on fitness level and pace. The trail passes through rural farmland, grasslands, and patches of forest, culminating in exposed rocky outcrops. Do note that the highest point does not appear to be hiked to regularly, despite being close to a road. It is located about 2km north along the ridge from the more commonly visited tourist peak and may be easier to reach from the north-east where there is a road just 250m from the summit.
Practicalities
-
- Getting there: The most common approach to Mount Labalasan is through the municipality of Dalaguete, Cebu. From Cebu City, travelers take a bus or private transport heading south to Dalaguete town. From Dalaguete, a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) ride or local jeepney transport can be hired to bring hikers to the jump-off or registration point, often in Barangay Mantalongon or nearby barangays close to the peak. Registration is typically done at a local tourism office or barangay hall.
-
- Permits: There is no formal national park permit system reported for Mount Labalasan/Osmeña Peak, but hikers are encouraged to register at the barangay or local tourism office prior to the climb.
-
- Water sources: While there are no prominent permanent water sources documented directly on the trail or at the summit of Mount Labalasan, the tropical climate means there may be small streams or spring water at lower elevations during the rainy season.
Local Average Monthly Rainfall (in Cebu)
Location
Click on the blue arrow (top right) to see your current location on the map
Origins and Meaning
The name “Labalasan” refers to the mountain peak, which was later popularly named Osmeña Peak after Sergio Osmeña, a notable former Philippine president from Cebu.