I started this year with a tragedy - losing my best friend, Derek. I spiraled into depression. I stopped training, ate whatever, slept late, drank a lot of alcohol. It all caught up with me. Hypertension. Inflammation. Pre-diabetic glucose spikes. My weight shot up to an all-time high of 175 lbs.
I honestly thought I’ve fallen into a rut that would be impossible to get out of. It was sometime late August when I finally told myself something had to change.This unhealthy lifestyle had to STOP. So I signed up for Gravelton and the Clark Duathlon to give myself immovable goalposts- a sure way to stay accountable, especially when you make those commitments public on social media. :) I rebuilt my routine from the ground up: strict keto diet, Intermittent fasting (6-hour window), no alcohol or sugar, early nights, morning sun, cold plunges, meditation, breathwork, and daily gratitude. Breathing exercises became my way of relaxing and grounding myself, a physical reminder that change begins with presence.
By race day I reached my target weight at 140 lbs, and the results were almost identical to last year’s races- landing on the podium after two months of focused training. But this time, It was different. I trained smarter, ate smarter, and my mindset was stronger and calmer. Landing on the podium wasn’t the point; it was simply a reminder of what consistency can do, especially after grief and setbacks. I’m doing this for longevity, for strength, and most of all — for my family and my kids. I want to live long, live well, and be here for them. This isn’t vanity. This is my priority in life. And if there’s anything I want men my age to hear: Titos, it’s never too late to take control of your life again.
Losing Derek earlier this year was heavy.
Grief pushed me to a dark place
but it also pushed me to rebuild.
To be healthier, more present, and more grateful at 52 years old.
My mantra now:
Breathe In. Brave On.
Grateful for the comeback,
and for the chance to keep going.
My heart is shattered. I lost my best friend, my brother, my confidant, my colleague. He wasn’t just a huge part of my life; he was family. Our friendship is irreplaceable, and the loss is immeasurable. Rest easy Derek, I love you so much. You will forever be in my heart.
Today we celebrate you, @bentobykat , for your strength, your love, and for keeping this family grounded and connected. Happy Mother’s Day to the one who does it all with grace.
This is my version of the city: less skyline, more shoreline. Less traffic, more trails. Less rush, more ride.
A visual haiku told in 3 split frames-images of dirt, sand, rivers, and friends riding through El Nido. Shot on the iPhone 17 Pro Max for @powermaccenter .
Now it’s your turn- join the #MyiPhoneMyCity campaign and show us your city!
#MyiPhoneMyCity #iPhoneForAll
My City. My iPhone.
But for me, my city is paradise.
Shot in El Nido on my iPhone 17 Pro Max - a little sun, sea with family and friends in a beautiful little island called Darocoton, told in three-frame visual haikus.
Now it’s your turn. Join the #MyiPhoneMyCity campaign by @powermaccenter and show your own city through your iPhone.
#MyiPhoneMyCity #iPhoneForAll
Happy 60th @uy.alexander !!
From our triathlon days to all the adventures since, you’ve become one of the closest people in my orbit. You’re honest, grounded, always real, and most of all - grumpy pero alam mo labs kita.🤣
You’ve been like a brother (a really old one) to me, especially during moments when I really needed one.Grateful for you brother, our friendship, and all the memories. Happy birthday po!
How every morning in El Nido looks like.
Nothing rushed, nothing grand-just a slow start, fresh air, plants and trees, playing with the dogs, and sipping coffee and getting my cmorning sunlight. The little routines that make this place feel like home.
