The Happy Family Hikers: Trekking through trails and ties

 

“The Happy Family Hikers: Trekking through trails and ties”
SunStar Davao, August 12, 2023

In the midst of the chaos that was the pandemic, when the world seemed to be at a standstill, a group of intrepid souls found a way to not only stay active but to forge deeper connections with nature and each other.

It all started with Bernie and Joshua Al-ag, a dynamic father-son duo, who decided to embrace the call of the great outdoors. Armed with hiking boots, backpacks, and a thirst for adventure, they joined Bernie's high school friends for a trek to Lake Holon in South Cotabato.

Fast forward two weeks and Bernie was ready for another expedition, this time the Battlefield in Tagurano, Toril, Davao City. But he was not going alone. His wife Cherry, a self-professed non-outdoorsy type, decided to step out of her comfort zone and give hiking a shot. Little did she know that this decision would mark the beginning of a newfound passion that would reshape her lifestyle. 

Enthusiastic trailblazer

From hesitant hiker to enthusiastic trailblazer, she found herself embracing the thrill of the hike and the beauty of nature with open arms. The once skeptical participant was now an integral part of a growing community of like-minded individuals who craved the outdoors as much as they did the company of one another.

As the hikes continued, more families with kids joined the Al-ags – the Lees, Suys, Mancaos, among others. The Happy Family Hikers, a term that seemed to naturally encapsulate the spirit of the group, emerged organically. What had started as a simple activity ultimately transformed into a tightly-knit community of uniquely different individuals, bound by a shared love for hiking, health, and happiness.

The group's adventures were as diverse as their members, ranging from the gentle slopes of local hills to the grandeur of Mt. Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines. With a mixture of seasoned hikers and trail-running aficionados, the Happy Family Hikers thrived on their shared sense of adventure, whether it was conquering summits or simply enjoying the beauty of nature.

No pressure

Age was no barrier within this vibrant community. Toddlers as young as 2 years old and elders beyond 60 years took part in the hikes, reflecting the group's all-encompassing ethos. The freedom to join or step back at will further exemplify the openness and lack of pressure that defined this hiking family.

                

Weekends became a canvas for exploration within Davao City and its environs. The majestic hills of Eden, Tagurano, and Marilog provided ample opportunities for the group to bond, reflect, and appreciate the natural wonders in their own backyard. Venturing further, they explored peaks in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, and even Bukidnon.

Their most recent conquest? The iconic Mt. Fuji in Japan. A venture that not only tested their physical endurance but also underscored the global nature of their ambition. The peak of Mt. Fuji marked not an end, but a promising beginning for their international hiking endeavors.

Trails and ties

Yet, the Happy Family Hikers are more than just adventure seekers. They are a force for good, what with pondering a Fun Run for a cause that would involve the Junior Hikers – a chance to nurture the next generation's commitment to protecting the environment through hands-on action.

In a world that often feels divided, the Happy Family Hikers serve as a testament to the power of unity, shared passions, and the beauty of embracing the great outdoors.

As they trek through trails and ties, this group continues to inspire others to step outside their comfort zones, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

E-mail the author at mom.about.town.dvo@gmail.com. Visit http://momabouttowndavao.blogspot.com/.