• Mimbalot Falls: The Art Of Finding Joy In The Simple Things
    Travel

    Mimbalot Falls: The Art Of Finding Joy In The Simple Things

    How does a waterfall this gorgeous stay a secret? And how can something so easy to find feel so undiscovered? Mimbalot Falls is one of those places that seem like a world away. Even though it’s pretty accessible, it somehow feels untouched and like a local secret. Before we arrived at the parking lot of Mimbalot Falls, I expected a busy, chaotic scene. After all, it’s arguably the most accessible waterfall in the “City of Waterfalls”.  I even thought it had that typical public beach-like vibe, with rows of vendors and karaoke machines playing Michael Jordan highlights. But I was wrong. The moment I arrived at Mimbalot Falls, I instantly…

  • Marawi: Where Beauty Blooms In the Shadows Of War
    Travel

    Marawi: Where Beauty Blooms In The Shadows Of War

    Why Marawi? Why choose to explore a remote city with a tragic past? With no iconic attractions and a scarred history, Marawi is definitely an unusual choice. After all, the Philippines offers so much more, from Palawan’s gorgeous beaches to Bohol’s postcard-worthy rolling hills. Yet, I chose this hauntingly beautiful and deeply unique city. Maybe it’s because it’s unlike anything I’ve seen before. Or perhaps I was drawn by a desire to learn more about our Muslim brothers and immerse myself in their culture. The truth is, I’m not exactly sure why Marawi intrigued me so deeply.  Yes, the city isn’t exactly known as the safest in the country. Its…

  • Lake Sebu 7 Falls: Turning Imperfections Into Adventures
    Travel

    Lake Sebu 7 Falls: Turning Imperfections Into Adventures

    What’s the most important lesson we can pass on to the younger generation? Is it respect? Patience? Wisdom? Or maybe how to stay calm when life takes an unexpected turn? Over the years, I’ve realized that travel is one of the best ways to teach these lessons. During our visit to the iconic Lake Sebu 7 Falls, I stepped into the role of a co-teacher, sharing these lessons with my niece. It all started when I told her we were headed to South Cotabato to explore Lake Sebu.  Ever since that day, she couldn’t stop dreaming of taking the long zipline over the picturesque 7 Falls in Lake Sebu. She…

  • Punta Isla Lake Resort: Where I Discovered The Real Secret To Success
    Travel

    Punta Isla Lake Resort: Where I Discovered The Real Secret To Success

    What’s the price of success? Can success be called “success” if it costs you everything else? I always believed the cost of success was hard work, long hours, and relentless self-sacrifice. But one day, staring at my laptop surrounded by deadlines, I realized I was wrong. And for some bizarre reason, success felt like selling my soul to the Devil. Desperate to escape the madness, I quickly picked up my phone, scrolling aimlessly for a little inspiration. That’s when I discovered a place that seemed like the antidote to the chaos inside my head: Punta Isla Lake Resort, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. And Lake Sebu had been on my radar…