The Basic Mountaineering Course (BMC) is designed for climbers who are just starting out with their mountaineering journey. It is also a great way for the more experienced outdoorsmen/women to partake in re-learning the latest techniques and training modules provided by the Mountaineering Federation of the Philippines Inc. (MFPI)
In this 2-day outdoor excursion, we will be able to learn the essentials of Mountaineering in the Philippines and similar tropical regions in Asia. These learnings are part of the primary skills necessary in any type of outdoor activities And shall also be your stepping stone towards learning more advanced wilderness skills and classes we offer.
The mountaineering skills provided by S.O.S.C. will be from our MFPI certified BMC instructors.
Course Highlights:
– Climb objectives
– Outdoor Etiquettes
– Planning & Preparation
– Equipment Familiarization
– Trail & Camp Management
– Basic Knots – Outdoors safety
– Basic navigation & Compass reading
– Leave No Trace Awareness
– Gender & Cultural Sensitivity
Course duration: 2 Days 1 Night
Prerequisite: NONE
Class location
The BMC will be held in Sapangdaku / Babag Mountains Cebu which will require a 1-2hours of hiking with loaded backpacks. We will be camping for 2Days & 1Night. Students/participants shall be required to bring their own camping gear, pack/prepare their own food, and hydration needs. A water-source will be available at camp (natural spring). Heads up, it will be a wild camping experience with less amenities since we want our students to experience a real-life tropical wilderness camp setting. At times you will be crossing streams and each participants are required to wear shoes/boots at all times when moving.
What Gear do I need to bring?
Clothing: We suggest that you come dressed to spend a day outdoors where weather can change. The weather in the country is quite unpredictable so even if it is sunny, include rain gears in your pack.
Shelter: Tents with good waterproofing, tarps, or hammocks w/tarps will be applicable at camp. However we highly recommend you bring tents so you can also secure all your gears inside while the training is on-going.
Food & Hydration: You will need to bring your own food good for four (4) meals, 1st day meals must be ready-to-eat meals. You will also be required to bring at least 1-2Liters of drinking water and water filtration system if you are not comfortable drinking straight from a natural spring.
Cooking/mess kit: You must bring your own mess kit (for cooking & eating). Cooking set & camping stove with enough fuel. Campfires will be allowed at camp but we suggest you bring camping stoves for convenience
Illumination & power: Flashlights/headlamps with spare batteries. Powerbanks for your phones and other gadgets
IFAK (Individual First Aid Kit)
Training equipment: Paracord at least 3 meters, and something to takes notes with if you wish. We’ll provide all the other things needed for your outdoor adventure training.
Age Requirements?
This course is appropriate for ages 13+, however it is a fast-paced learning experience geared towards teens and adults. Minors must be accompanied by a participating adult guardian or parent.
Registration includes the following:
- Training venue fee
- Instructors fees
- Event Tshirt
- BMC Certificate
- Giveaways
Jose Sison (verified owner) –
Very satisfied with my BMC experience. The organizers, staff, trainers are friendly and accomodating but most importantly very compitent and knowledgeable.
ivan kim (verified owner) –
researching the best ways to acquire those skills and quickly found that a Basic Mountaineering Course (BMC) would be the best place to start
Aussie Amor Desales (verified owner) –
You think you know it all until you attend the BMC class! Here’s my reflection on my experience from February 8-9, 2025.
**Location** – The venue was fantastic, situated right next to the river. It was a great environment to learn in, and the peaceful surroundings really enhanced the experience.
**Instructors** – The instructors were both knowledgeable and approachable. They provided valuable insights and made sure to address all our questions. From the start, they asked us about our expectations, and by the end of the course, we left feeling informed and confident. They didn’t just teach us the basics—they also shared real-life scenarios that were easy to relate to, making the lessons even more impactful.
**Lessons** – Every lesson was extremely useful, especially since we were all newcomers to outdoor activities. Some things that seemed insignificant at first turned out to be essential. The lessons gave us a solid introduction to topics that we can explore further in their advanced courses. Personally, my favorite lesson was about river trekking—it was fascinating!
**Overall Experience** – The two-day class was a mix of realizations, learning, unlearning, and most importantly, fun! Looking back, I wish I had started with BMC before diving into outdoor activities—it would have set a stronger foundation.
**Tips**: When they tell you to bring pen and paper, take it seriously! This is a two-day course packed with information that’s hard to absorb all at once. Taking notes will help you retain and share what you’ve learned with others.
Most importantly, have fun! After BMC, I realized just how much more there is to learn about the outdoors. If you’re reading this, I highly recommend enrolling!