Marcos commends Guinness World Record holder Lito De Veterbo

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomed Claro “Lito” De Veterbo Jr. during a courtesy call at Malacañang, honoring his extraordinary feat as the fastest person to traverse the Philippines on foot —from Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte to Glan, Sarangani.

The meeting celebrated not only De Veterbo’s historic Guinness World Record accomplishment, but also his inspiring advocacy for environmental stewardship, sustainability, and responsible tourism through his “Leave No Trace” mission.

In a social media post of the Guinness World Record, it said De Veterbo achieved the world record after a nearly five-month trek across the entire archipelago.

“I went into this with the intent of teaching people how they can enjoy nature while minimizing their impact to the environment. But at the same time, I thought it would be great if I could also simultaneously set a world record," said the hobbyist mountaineer.

De Veterbo's journey took 147 days, one hour, 39 minutes and 53 seconds, which stretched from Maira-ira Point in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte Province in the north to Tinaca Point in Glan, Sarangani Province in the south.

He began his trek on February 9 and ended on 6 July. —LDF, GMA News