A Philippine forest dog is making every Aspin and Aspin owner proud as he earns celebrity status for conquering 14 scenic mountains across the country.
With a feat no other dog has pulled off, Bundok has become a viral sensation, landing multiple talk show appearances in just a few days.
His hiking buddy and fur dad, Henry Wong, a mountaineer, couldn’t be more thrilled about his one-year-old pup’s growing popularity, which helps put the spotlight on the “Asong Gubat,” also known as the witch dog, an ancient indigenous breed often sidelined by Filipinos’ preference for foreign dogs.
“Sikat na ang aking alaga na si Bundok hiking buddy namin sa lahat ng akyat namin sa bundok na feature na po sya sa news,” Henry shared in a Facebook post.
Bundok first hit the trails with his fur dad in June 2024, tackling twin hikes, the beginner-friendly Mt. Pamitinan and the more challenging Mt. Hapunang Banoi in Rizal. This debut showcased the “Asong Gubat’s” natural survival skills in the jungle and mountains, its natural habitat.
In just a few months, he and Henry conquered more mountains, including Mt. Ngusong Kabayo, Mt. Lubo, and Mt. Tangwa. Last month, Bundok reached the summit of Mt. Lubog in Montalban, Rizal.
“Pag kasama ko siya sa pamumundok, wala akong alinlangan na baka alagaan ko siya kasi si Bundok po napaka-behave po during trail tsaka masunurin,” a GMA News Online report quoted Henry as saying.
“Kahit first time niya sa isang lugar alam na po niya agad ‘yung daanan. Para po siyang nagiging isang tour guide,” he added.
