At the age of 14, Don Beto, as he is known, crafted his first marimba and guitar. Fearing travel to Belize City, the only place where a secondary level institution was located, he intentionally failed the exam which would allow him to progress in his studies. In doing so, he was able to tailor his education to his own interests. He proceeded to learn many trades such as carpentry, gardening, landscape farming, and chicle harvesting.

At the age of 24 he was able to cure two snakebite victims by implementing what he learned from his father. Later, Don Beto realized that by practicing what his mentors taught him, he could help keep Maya traditions alive. He recalls, “I saw the need for someone to go ahead and teach the traditions that Mr. Elijio Panti left.” Always full of life, Don Beto continually provides information about traditional healing practices to all who will listen. His knowledge of the forest is immense. He can identify 540 species of forest plants and can distinguish their significance. Because none of his sons are currently interested, Don Beto is worried future generations may lose the knowledge he has worked so hard to secure. His nephew, however, brings hope as he has been learning Don Beto’s ways and helping in the garden.

Currently, Don Beto owns 15 acres on which Masewal Forest Garden sits. The Garden is open to the public because he collaborated with Dr. Anabel Ford and Raleigh International whose volunteers assisted in the construction of the trails. Don Beto continues to get support locally and internationally, usually from students, including the Corner Stone Foundation that assists him each month with his financial challenges. Don Beto offers medicinal healing at no charge to his patients; rather, he feels honored that people recognize his as a good healer.

Don Beto was married at the age of 21 and currently has 7 children.