Weightlifting coach Julius Naranjo shared his reflection after meeting Filipino tattoo artist Apo Whang-Od in Kalinga and getting a tattoo from her.
"Last week I had the chance to meet a living legend in @apowhangod and I was quickly reminded that I was actually with two living legends. One culturally and one through sports (@hidilyndiaz). Both women embody strength & empower beauty through their talents and achievements," he posted on his Instagram page.
The weightlifting coach then took a trip down memory lane and recounted the time when he was discovering the Filipino culture when he moved to the Philippines after living in Guam.
"When I moved to the Philippines in 2018, it was a chance for me to discover a part of my culture, something I had a taste of back home in Guam, but nothing compares to experiencing it first-hand," he recalled.
"It’s been an adjustment, but becoming Filipino and discovering my Ilocano roots meant doing things I’ve never would’ve imagine," he added.
Julius relayed that he also met the prodigy of Apo Whang-od and got a tattoo from her as well during his trip to Kalinga with his wife Hidilyn.
"And while we establish a grassroots here in the Philippines with the @hdweightliftingacademy, getting a traditional tattoo from none other than Apo Whang-od and meeting one of her prodigies in @palicasgrace, I knew I needed a piece from Grace which tells a story of courage, resilience, perseverance, and strength," he remarked.
Reflecting on the parallels between his own journey and Grace's dedication to giving back to the community and preserving traditions, Julius realized that his journey has come full circle.
"Much like Grace is keeping Apo Whang-Od’s traditional alive, I feel the same with what we are doing for grassroots here in the Philippines. I feel this sense of pride in giving back to the community and giving kids the opportunity to make something of their lives. Much like my Filipino grandfather had joined the U.S. Navy in the Korean War, and giving his adopted children the opportunity at a better life, things do come in full circle, and I’m for it," he stated.