Palomo is second-oldest man to reach peak of highest mountain in the Philippines
GLENDALE – Proving once again that “age is just a number,” 81-year-old Los Angeles resident and Filipino American Serge Palomo, an architect, avid marathoner, hiker and former special lecturer at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, conquered Mount Apo, considered the highest Philippine mountain and the 24th highest peak of any island on earth.
Mount Apo, known as the grandfather of all Philippine mountains, is not an easy feat due to its terrain and its height of 2,954 meters (8,802 feet). With a long-time dream of reaching the top and challenging himself, after 3 days of hiking, Palomo set foot on Mount Apo’s summit recently.
“We were so excited and proud of him. He was my college professor at University of Santo Tomas, College of Architecture and Fine Arts. He and his wife, Architect Lucille Floresta, also a marathoner and hiker, are members of the Filipino American Business Association of Glendale (FABAG-GLAC). We are also members of the United Architects of the Philippines (UAPSoCal) Chapter. Serge and Lucille are both active community members, high achievers and role models!” said Architect Edith Fuentes, past president and board member of FABAG, and active member of UAPSoCal.
“I hope every able-bodied Filipino will try their best to come here. Forget the age, age is just a number,” said Palomo in a video shared by tour operator “Lakaw ni Paw”.
Palomo is the second oldest man to successfully climb Mount Apo via the Sta. Cruz circuit trail. Mabuhay ka, Architect Serge Palomo, a Pinoy Pride!!! n
