Travel – Color My World

I Survived Mt Apo (Part 2)

October 18, 2025 cbholganza

Mt Apo has proved to me that the world’s most poignant stories are not always about reaching the top, but about returning with something intact, something earned, amidst the challenges one has to hurdle. It is about chasing a dream; something that will echo that craziness in me, yet has clothed me with a sense of pride for having at least tried. And if I ever forget, I will listen to the memory of the wind – the same wind that refused to yield my glorious sunrise in Apo; and instead whispered a different, humbling truth: that to live is to endure, and to endure is sometimes the bravest ascent of all.

I Survived Mt Apo!!! (Part 1)

October 15, 2025 cbholganza

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 Dream of Apo

September 8, 2025 cbholganza

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!

Believing In Belfast

January 25, 2025 cbholganza

My trip to Ireland was inspiring as well as humbling. I learned much from my gracious hosts. And I hope that the world can learn from its conflicts, and that I may share the lessons in Southern Mindanao. By recognizing our shared humanity and embracing our differences, we can create a future where peace flourishes.

Sagada Na Naman!!!

January 15, 2025 cbholganza

Sagada was altogether a different adventure. The family had always been partial to water, being scuba fanatics and all. But for once, my wife, Wit, thought of a totally different adventure. And as is always the case, she wins any argument hands down.

A Salute to Vietnam

January 9, 2025 cbholganza

Thailand had the homecourt advantage. Vietnam’s superstar and tournament top scorer Nguyen Xuan Son suffered a nasty broken leg just before half time. Thailand scored a questionable goal to take the lead, 2-1. It looked like the stars were aligning to favor Thailand. But no, the football gods just would not have it that way. And in the end, Vietnam’s winning goal would simply trickle in oh-so-slowly to a defenseless goal. What a roller-coaster ride this game was!

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