A Brief Respite To Bohol and Cebu

Wit and I took a quick, yet delightful respite in Cebu and Bohol recently, seeking solace from the hot summer sun and reconnecting with loved ones and cherished memories. In today’s fast-paced world, taking a break has become some sort of necessity for me to recharge my batteries and rejuvenate the soul.

Our journey took us to a quick day-trip to the Alhibe Farm in far-off Cebu. Alhibe is a breathtaking bamboo paradise nestled amidst lush greenery in the hinterlands of the town of Carmen. Wit had always dreamt of creating a green environment in our property in Tagbilaran or Davao. She wanted to find inspiration from the arboretum of bamboo and Philippine native trees developed by a young couple who are staunch advocates for the environment, Sheryl and Marvin Marinas. And our ever-helpful niece, Kai, was there to bring us to this ecological treasure in the north of Cebu City.

As we entered the gate leading to this quaint mountain enclave, I felt the gentle rustling of leaves and the earthy scent of nature embracing us, creating a deep sense of calm and tranquility. Towering bamboo stalks swayed gracefully in the breeze, casting snippets of sunlight on the forest floor, painting a picture-perfect scene of refreshing serenity and peace. Our sumptuous lunch featured herbs and other edibles planted in the farm; and my grandkid, Buchi, had a quick refreshing dip in their pool, a reservoir of sorts supplied by the spring water coming from the mountains. Indeed, the trip was not only enlightening to the mind, it was a most enriching one for the soul as well. Coming down from Alhibe, we made a quick visit to Nang Auring in the heart of the city; before rushing off to catch the boat back to Tagbilaran. (For a closer look, just click on the pics.)

Finally arriving in Tagbilaran, we took the time to reassess our little wilderness in the heart of the city. Balay ni Charing (BNC), named after my late mother, is one of the last green frontiers in the city. If one were to look at satellite views of it, BNC – along with its adjoining neighbors – is now the biggest piece of green territory in Tagbilaran City, and the last bastion of ecological sustainability and environmental consciousness in the area. Thus, it is no wonder that many drivers bring their trucks or other vehicles to wait under the cool shade of the trees in the vicinity, as it is only here that one can enjoy a significant temperature drop while still within the confines of the urban jungle.

BNC is that big patch of dark green as highlighted in yellow in the pic above.

As I explored our little piece of paradise in Tagbilaran, I couldn’t help but marvel at the clear transformation from the old to the new, having witnessed the rapid urbanization encroaching on this once pristine frontier land. Amidst the modern developments and the bustling cityscapes sprouting all over the city, Wit and I made our way through a secluded wooded area in BNC. We hope to preserve it as a vestige of the past, a poignant reminder of the family’s strong commitment to stay connected with the ground, and our dream for a piece of land where the environment is preserved and nature protected. And as we took that walk, the towering trees and verdant foliage whispered tales of my papa’s bygone era, evoking a sense of reverence for the land and its simple, yet enduring beauty. I can still recall the countless times he’d come home with that big grin, proudly holding on to some seedlings which he would then eagerly plant in our backyard. That was my papa, ever the environmentalist at heart.

Eager to bask in the sun and feel the sand beneath our feet, we also found time to visit a nearby beach for a quick dip in its refreshing waters. The sea breeze and the rhythmic sound of crashing waves served as a welcome reminder of beach ventures of yesteryears, when – as little kids – we soaked in the natural splendor of the Maribojoc coastline.

However, the scorching heat prompted us to seek refuge instead in a beautiful not-so-secret creek in Antequera, where the spring water was cool and inviting, offering a refreshing respite from the sweltering sun. Once again, it was my grandson, Buchi, who would enjoy this water adventure immensely. (For a closer look, just click on the pics.)

We also took time to reunite with relatives, classmates and old friends; sharing old funny stories, remembering the simple joys of our school days, reminiscing those sweet memories over hearty meals and a swig or two, and talking about where life had eventually taken us. It felt great basking in the warmth of their company, and feeling the nostalgia of our many shared experiences. And it filled my heart with joy, reaffirming the enduring bonds of friendship and family that will transcend time and distance. And we offered a silent prayer in memory of those who have left ahead of us. Times like these, I’ve learned to appreciate even better the reunions and the regular meet-ups that may not be mandatory, but have given us the rare opportunity to reconnect with those who are still around.

It has been 52 years since we graduated from the Divine Word College of Tagbilaran’s High School Department. Seeing my old buddies, it felt like I was transporting myself in a time machine to a different, yet simpler era. One filled with youthful exuberance and dreams. We laughed at our growing-up antiques, our amateur attempts to deal with the young ladies in our batch, and the trials and tribulations of days gone by. And in the midst of all these, we found renewed appreciation in our collective achievements, and the bonds that have endured despite the years apart. Truly, these gatherings are a celebration of growth, and our collective resilience, and the enduring beauty of friendship. (For a closer look, just click on the pics.)

In the quiet embrace of nature and the company of loved ones, I found solace and renewal. I now better understand – and have learned to cherish – the simple pleasures in life and the timeless connections that bind us together. My week-long sojourn to the province was a balm for the soul, a journey of rediscovery and rejuvenation that left me with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit refreshed and ready for the adventures that lie ahead.

Photos courtesy of Wit H, DWCT HS 72, Ruben Calatrava, Ben Silva, Buchi, etc. For a closer look, just click on the pics.