This Bikepacker Shot These Stunning Photos of a ‘Crying Mountain,’ a Hidden Paradise in Benguet

The mountains of Benguet have always carried a sense of mystery, but there’s one in particular that has long captivated the curiosity of locals—an enigmatic peak known as the “Crying Mountain.” Hidden deep in Benguet, its fascinating lore is matched only by its breathtaking views. And recently, Migz On-onod, a bikepacker and photojournalist has captured this mountain in all its emotional beauty—using nothing but an Honor X8 phone. 

We caught up with this adventurer, who not only shared stunning photos but also offered insight into the journey, the story behind the Crying Mountain, and the life of a bikepacker.

“I have a full-time job in real estate based in the U.S., but I work remotely from Baguio. On the side, I’m a photojournalist and a passionate bikepacker,” Migz told ALL-STAR. 

One day, during their bikepacking trip on a mountain somwhere in Benguet, a local asked them if wanted to see a crying mountain. They were intrigued and did not hesitate to say yes. 

The Crying Mountain, a little-known wonder in the province of Benguet, gets its name from the natural phenomenon where water cascades down its rocky cliffs, resembling tears streaming from the mountain’s cliffs.’ It is said that the mountain “weeps” most noticeably during the rainy season, when its stone face comes alive with waterfalls.

What exactly is bikepacking?

“Bikepacking is a multi-day ride where you pack all your essentials—food, tent, equipment—on your bike. It’s like a combination of trail running and mountaineering, but with a mountain bike. You ride to remote areas, camp out, and enjoy nature along the way.”

For this particular adventure, bikepacking allowed the rider and his friends to access areas that traditional hikers might skip, and to see landscapes like the Crying Mountain that aren’t on typical tourist maps. The experience of slowly traversing these paths offered the perfect opportunity to reflect on the stories and history of the places they passed through.

“I’ve been cycling since I was young, but I got serious about bikepacking between 2019 and 2020. I joined Bikepacking Philippines, and we had training that really prepared me for long trips like this.”

Bikepacking through Benguet is no small feat. The region’s rugged terrain, combined with high altitudes and unpredictable weather, means that any trip through its mountainous roads demands both physical endurance and mental resilience.

The Myths and Legends Surrounding the Crying Mountain

For hundreds of years, the indigenous peoples of Benguet have been guardians of the mysterious mountain, according to Igorotage, Igorot tribes such as the Ibaloi, Kankana-ey, and Kalanguya have cultures steeped in myths and legends surrounding the Crying Mountains.

One Ibaloi myth speaks of the waterfalls of the Crying Mountain as the tears of a giant who turned into stone. Another Ibaloi myth tells that the mountain is a sacred place that is the home of the gods.

In Kankana-ey and Kalanguya legend, the mountains are believed to be the dwelling place of the spirits of their dead ancestors. They dwell in the mountain to watch over their descendants.

The Crying Mountain of Benguet remains a very sacred place for indigenous people. It must be protected and treated with utmost respect.

Bikepacking opens your eyes to nature’s plight

“When you’re part of the bikepacking community, you become aware of the urgency to protect nature,” Migz told ALL-STAR.

“Exploring the mountains shows you firsthand how they’re eroding. You see pollution in water sources and the illegal activities harming these beautiful places.”

The Crying Mountain serves as a poignant symbol of this environmental fragility. Its weeping waterfalls are not just a scenic wonder but a reminder of the delicate balance between nature and human activity.

“When you witness these things, you feel a connection to nature, and you’re moved to protect it,” said Migz.

Check out Migz’s high-resolution photos of the Crying Mountain here.