Julius Naranjo’s Life-Changing Experience Meeting Apo Whang-Od

Julius Naranjo’s Transformative Encounter W/ Apo Whang-Od

JULIUS NARANJO – Weightlifting coach Julius Naranjo’s life-changing experience meeting Apo Whang-Od deepened his connection to his heritage and reinforced the importance of preserving cultural traditions.

Last week, Julius Naranjo had the profound experience of meeting the legendary Filipino tattoo artist Apo Whang-Od in Kalinga. His journey to this moment was not just about receiving a tattoo but about embracing a deeper connection with his heritage and the rich cultural tapestry of the Philippines.

On his Instagram page, Julius shared his thoughts, stating, “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.” His words reflect the respect and admiration he holds for these powerful figures who, in their own right, have shaped cultural and athletic landscapes.

Photo Source: @hidilyndiaz IG
Reflecting on his experiences, Julius took a trip down memory lane to when he first moved to the Philippines in 2018 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. This moment of self-discovery has been a significant part of his journey, allowing him to embrace not only his Filipino roots but also his Ilocano heritage.

During his visit to Kalinga, Julius not only received a traditional tattoo from Apo Whang-Od herself but also met Grace, one of her prodigies. Grace’s work resonated deeply with Julius, prompting him to select a piece that tells a story of courage, resilience, and strength. This interaction reinforced the parallels between his dedication to coaching and Grace’s commitment to preserving traditional tattoo artistry and giving back to the community.

Julius reflected on these parallels, saying, “Much like Grace is keeping Apo Whang-Od’s tradition 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.” His personal journey, intertwined with his cultural explorations, serves as a testament to the cyclical nature of heritage, where stories and traditions continue to shape future generations.
Photo Source: @imjulius IG

Through his experience, Julius Naranjo has found a deeper connection to his roots and a renewed sense of purpose in fostering community and tradition through his work in weightlifting and cultural preservation.