Mount San Cristobal is a potentially active stratovolcano located at the boundary of the provinces of Laguna and Quezon on the island of Luzon, Philippines
- Elevation: The mountain rises to an elevation of 1,470 meters (4,820 feet) above mean sea level.
- Location: Mount San Cristobal is situated in the Calabarzon region of the Philippines, specifically in the provinces of Laguna and Quezon.
- Geology: It is a stratovolcano, which is a conical volcano composed of layers of hardened lava, volcanic ash, and other volcanic materials.
- Volcanic Complex: Mount San Cristobal is part of the Holocene volcanic complex of Mount Banahaw.
- Protected Landscape: It is included in the Mounts Banahaw–San Cristobal Protected Landscape, which covers an area of 10,901 hectares.
- Folklore: In Filipino folklore, Mount San Cristobal is known as the Devil’s Mountain and is considered the alter-ego of the Holy Mountain, Mount Banahaw.
- Climbing: The easiest route to climb Mount San Cristobal is from Dolores, Quezon.
Mount San Cristobal is potentially active, and it is important to follow safety guidelines and consult with local authorities before attempting to climb or explore the mountain.
Mount San Cristobal is considered the Devil’s mountain in Filipino folklore. It is the alter-ego of the Holy Mountain, Mount Banahaw, meaning that if Banahaw is the power mountain with lots of positive energy, Cristobal is supposed to be the opposite – a mountain with negative energy.
One of the popular myths about the mountain is that a creature that the locals call the “Tumao” roams the region around the mountain.
The Tumao is a legendary creature that is said to inhabit the vicinity of Mount San Cristobal in Laguna Province, Philippines. Despite its mysterious nature, there are some details known about the Tumao based on local legends and folklore.
According to the legends, the Tumao is described as a creature with a human-like appearance but possesses supernatural abilities. It is said to have the ability to shape-shift into various forms, making it difficult to identify. Some accounts depict it as a tall, dark figure with glowing red eyes.
The Tumao is believed to be a guardian of the mountain and its surrounding areas. It is said to have the power to control natural elements such as wind, rain, and earthquakes. Locals believe that encountering the Tumao can bring either good fortune or misfortune, depending on the individual’s intentions and actions.
Legends surrounding the Tumao often involve cautionary tales and warnings to those who dare trespass on its territory. It is said to be particularly protective of the mountain and its natural resources. There are stories of people disappearing or suffering from mysterious illnesses after disrespecting or damaging the environment around Mount San Cristobal.