WHO IN THEIR right mind attempts six cities in three days? Apparently, eight of us did — and I, the eldest in the pack, survived with only minor muscle protests and a renewed respect for hammocks.
We launched from Iloilo at dawn, landing in Cebu where history, culture, and love stories collided. First stop: the grand Temple of Leah, Cebu’s own “Taj Mahal” built by a husband for his wife, complete with Roman columns and sweeping city views. Then the Taoist Temple, perched high with dragons, rituals, and steps that test your cardio. Finally, Magellan’s Cross, small but mighty — a wooden relic planted in 1521 marking the spread of Christianity. Before catching our ferry, we posed at Plaza Independencia, a plaza that has lived many lives: Spanish parade ground, American park, and now a monument to freedom.
Bohol welcomed us with its iconic Chocolate Hills and the serene Manmade Forest, a mahogany tunnel straight out of a movie. The tarsier sanctuary was closed, which stung a little, but regret was short-lived — we had a ferry to catch.
By 11 p.m., our tuk-tuk rattled into Thornton’s Sea View Caféin Siquijor. Imagine a seaside sanctuary where Kuya at the front desk treats you like family, and the owner insists, “Balay saBukid is also your home.” The next day was Siquijor magic: Fairy Walks, drone shots from Pitugo Cliff, pretending to be witches on walis tingting rides, and letting tiny fish give us a free pedicure at Lunok. Sunset coffee at BuCafe capped the day, with some of us shopping at the capitol while others danced at the café. Me? I found bliss in a hammock, a duyan strung by the sea, catching up on online classes under the stars.
Dumaguete gave us contrast — sulfur vents and monkeys, the icy rush of Pulang Bato Falls, followed by the warm hug of nearby hot springs. Nature here doesn’t just entertain; it resets you.
And then, Bacolod. At last, a proper meal! After days of snacking and skipping, Chicken Inasal felt like a reward from the heavens. Juicy, smoky, garlicky goodness — we ate like champions before boarding the RORO back to Iloilo, stumbling home just before midnight.
So what did I learn, as the eldest trying to keep up with seven adventurers? That food can be optional, sleep negotiable, and itineraries chaotic — but laughter, sunsets, and ferry rides are non-negotiable treasures. The Philippines is stitched together by islands, each waiting to surprise you. Don’t wait for the “perfect time.” Go. Laugh. Chase the hills, the crosses, the hammocks. And if you find yourself in Siquijor, take the duyan. Trust me — it’s the best souvenir.
