Facebook reminded me of a photo I posted many years ago showing me at the peak of Mt. Apo.
This photo was taken 14 years ago when I was leaner and more nimble.
When I became Governor of North Cotabato, I was introduced to mountain climbing by young members of my staff.
My first climb was with then Police Colonel Alex Paul Monteagudo, then Provincial Director of North Cotabato and now NICA Director General.
It took us about 10 hours to reach the peak and the trails we passed through reeked with the pungent smell of Omega Pain Killer.
That started a new passion for me and before I stepped down as Governor, I had scaled the country’s highest peak 12 times.
In each of my climb, I planted Tinikaran trees endemic to the area.
I climbed with my family, my children, the Ambassador of the Czech Republic, French businessman Hubert d’Aboville and many more dignitaries.
Today, my record stands at 16 and I may attempt to reach 20 ascents before the old knees will give way.
#ClimbOneMoreMountain!
#CrossOneMoreRiver!
#ChaseOneMoreDream!
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