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10,000 Roses: How Fake Flowers Led Me To Life’s Real Treasures
Where were you when 10,000 Roses took Cebu by storm in 2017? Did you rush to this cafe to witness its enchanting garden of LED-lit white roses come to life? Or were you content scrolling through the sea of dreamy posts flooding your Instagram feed? I can still remember the buzz when 10,000 Roses became a sensation years ago. Everyone was in awe, and it drew photographers, influencers, and curious wanderers from all over the island. And like most introverts, I didn’t jump into the frenzy. I waited patiently for the perfect time and moment to visit this garden cafe. While it did seem attractive, crowds tend to overwhelm me.…
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Inambakan Falls to Mt Hambubuyog: The Zombie Outbreak Escape
What would you do if you knew you’d die days from now? You’d stuff your face with all the sinfully delicious food that your heart desires, right? And you’d go on adventures and treks, like the hike from Inambakan Falls to Mount Hambubuyog. But what if I told you that we’re slabs of dead meat begging to be buried or burned into ashes? What if you realize that you’re a zombie with a broken spirit performing mindless tasks that you don’t like? And what if I told you that you’re a zombie manipulated by social media algorithms? The truth is, some people die at 25 and aren’t buried until they…
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A Lost Star In The Odette Aftermath
Every time a star dies, it spews its contents into the vast and expanding universe, paving the way for the future generation. In the aftermath of Odette, the galaxy lost a star, creating an explosion that will forever change my life. The night Odette ravaged Cebu At 9 o’clock on an ordinary night, the city of Cebu would be in its final act of the day. The bustling streets, “Instagrammable” restaurants and places of entertainment would be crowded with people who are living their own stories. And, even with the on-going pandemic, the city is coming to life again. But, tonight, the massive storm, Odette, is a counterweight to the…
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Ngipon sa Ilaga and the Quest for Perfection
I’m a train wreck perched precariously in Ngipon sa Ilaga. Full of flaws and limitations, every inch of me is a mess and chaotic. I’m a short-tempered, careless, immature, clumsy, stubborn, and disorganized nonconformist. And I embrace every flaw and mistake I have made. That’s why society hates me. The modern world thinks I’m an outcast and a nutcase. Yet, as I stand at the top of Ngipon sa Ilaga, I feel fabulous and free. I don’t feel the pressure of being imperfect. I don’t feel inadequate, exhausted, and frustrated with my messed-up life. And I’m enjoying every second of this imperfect, unplanned, and spontaneous nature trip. As I soak…
