We found ourselves heading out to Guimaras Island on the first flicker of light of Sunday morning. The journey was short and sweet, a 15-minute boat ride from Iloilo City. Upon arrival on the island, we hurriedly boarded a jeepney that maximized its seating capacity by cramping all of us 30 passengers inside. During the trip, I battled cramps and endured an uncomfortable seating position for an hour before we reached Brgy. Lawi in Jordan town. From there, we took another boat ride for 20 minutes to Barras Beach. There, we found a lovely resort situated in a tiny islet dotted by wooden cottages perched atop a rocky path leading to a perfect, magnificent view of the sea.

How I love traveling with friends both old and new. My trip to Iloilo was green lighted after an initial plan hatched by Chin. I first met Chin online in Multiply about 5 years ago and has since been looking forward to meeting her in person. Also joining us on our Iloilo trip was another online buddy; Aileen—one of my favorite online buddies who used to work for UN projects in Mindanao. She is also a great photographer and has ventured out in wedding and portrait photography.

Since my friends left for Manila the day before my flight, I decided to spend my last day in Iloilo by visiting my mother's birthplace of Dumangas — a town approximately 30-45 minutes from Iloilo City. It was a special trip because I saw with my own eyes the place where my mom grew up. According to her, this was the place where she spent her happiest and formative years with my uncles, aunties, and my grandparents.