Bohol Odyssey

I always look forward running in Bohol. It's one of those times that we get to breath real clean air sans the pollution offered by more urbanized cities like Metro Manila, Cebu and Iloilo. The last time I was in Bohol was when we joined the Sandugo 14K Run together with Judge Gabby Ingles, Ombudsman Ed Canton and other members of the Cebu Executive Runners Club. So when my mother ordered me at gunpoint to accompany her to Bohol, I didn't have second thoughts. In an earlier column I mentioned that I was in dilemma where to go with so many special events being staged at the same time.

But the Bohol trip was a priority as mom and my sisters needed a break while we have to be in Bacolod City the following day to bury the ashes of my aunt who died in Arizona USA two weeks ago. It was the first time for my siblings to be in this part of the Visayas. Our stay was made more enjoyable with the hospitality of Tito Dodong Sarmiento who operates the NISA Traveller's Inn, a small hotel that is more of a home. Tito Dodong even fetched us at the pier and arranged for a car to take us to the beautiful spots of Bohol.

Our first step was at the Sandugo Park where we proceeded to the Baclayon Church and Lobok River where we have pictures with the world's smallest primate, the tarsier. Finally, we hit Chocolate Hills in Carmen. It was my turn to "punish" my 77 year-old mom who was in a wheelchair (blame it on her arthritis) when she arrived in Cebu a day before. I told her she would miss the magnificent view of the hills unless she climbs the 210 steps leading to the viewing tower.

The extreme drill master that I am, had her stopped several times but nevertheless made it to the top. Mom said she is amazed with her condition as she even uses a cane to walk around. Mom was even surprised with herself when she descended into the Hinagdanan Cave in Dauis. I told her it's the power to exercise and to throw away all those painkillers she always carries around.

Bacolod Sea Games

The following day we were in Bacolod City where I had the chance to check on the progress of the venues being renovated for the Sea Games. Bacolod is hosting football, boxing, volleyball and weightlifting. Former provincial sports coordinator Efren Timtiman said they are racing against time to finish work on the Paglaum football field.

Efren said he has also another problem, how to drive away the squatters living inside the complex. Bacolod celebrated its Masskara Festival last Sunday but it seems "wala kaayo saba" compared to previous years. There were also no sports competitions except for a motorcycle drag race. Well it's really bad times. Still in Bacolod I was told that a representative from Metro Manila called his fellow congressman from Negros Occidental "Moneyco." I don't know if he is referring to my classmate Monico Puentevella. Well, when you're in politics you receive all kinds of monikers. Right Nyuk! "Tonto ato nga tawo."

Starting Em Young

Touched down in Iloilo City to start registration of the much-awaited Governor's Cup Kiddie Run that fires off of the SM City carpark on Nov. 13. SM executive Tess Sy Coson liked the idea so much she's thinking of bringing the event around the country next year. Kids aged 5-13 will vie in 3 age categories with trophies.

Medals, t-shirts, certificates and gifts checks are waiting for the winners and participants. Provincial Administrator Boy Mejorada said the project is a truly grassroots program that encourages kids as young as 5 years old to be aware of wellness through physical activities such as running.

Gay Run

I was one of the guest runners in last Sunday's Bombo Radyo Gay Run that attracted 30 "badings". I wanted to wear a wig and join the race and pocket the P3,000.00 top purse but race director Boyet Rentoy of Prosports said "certified bakla gid ang qualified". "Moapil sad ko unta" said Banat's Manang Krizanta but said she will just wait for the UP Oblation Run where the view is better.