to live, to love, to learn, to leave a legacy… and to laugh along the way
Our dream now is to keep developing the farm sustainably, to keep building cacao products we can be proud of, and to leave behind something the next generation can actually carry forward. If Gran Verde proves anything, it is that limited resources and a difficult beginning don’t have to be the end of the story – not if you’re willing to clear the land one patch at a time, and change course when the land asks you to.
The pull toward the wild isn’t new to me. Rather, it feels more like a homecoming. I’ve always been an outdoor man. It is a desire I rediscovered during my days as a young lieutenant. Patrolling the mountains with the elite Scout Rangers wasn’t just a duty; it was where I felt most alive.
The highlands of Alicia gave us more than a physical ascent; it offered a shared memory, a reminder that beauty, when pursued together, becomes a great, memorable experience. For Buchi, the grand adventure was a spark—one that lit up his imagination that hopefully will develop a strong bond with nature and a strong sense of responsibility over our environment. We are grateful for this wonderful opportunity to bond, to exercise, and most of all, to teach the young one of our collective responsibility for the wild, wonderful world he will learn to live and love in the years ahead.
The plan was to jump-off at midnight, and chase the sunrise that would appear if the clouds decided to yield. The world, however, was simply uncooperative. The clock ticked as the wind screamed, while light, sporadic rains started to drench our tents. Lucky for us, the rains had stopped when midnight came. We went on our way; but the wind sang hoarsely like a chorus of knives. Still, we trudged on; even as the terrain, the cold, the dark, the strong winds – and my bum stomach – were all clearly aligned against us.
I have always dreamt of conquering Mt Apo. Now in the twilight of my years, I feel an urgency to grab the opportunity now before my knees make it more difficult for me. We’re on our way to Mt Apo, and it should be great!
Maragusan Valley is indeed a place of unparalleled beauty and charm. With its enchanting waterfalls, rejuvenating hot springs, captivating landscape, plus – most importantly – the indomitable spirit of a resilient people who were once upon a time under the menacing shadow of the insurgent threat. For travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure off the beaten path, this hidden gem in the Philippines offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, unwind, and explore the wonders of the natural world, peopled by a determined lot ready to welcome you and the world.
Color My World 