MY KIDS' MOM IS BACK

It had been almost two years since we last laid eyes on her. However, on June 6, we finally reunited with her at Mactan Cebu International Airport around 1:00 pm. The moment filled my children with a mix of excitement and thrill, having missed her dearly during her absence. There she was, in the flesh once again.

For my youngest, who celebrated her 3rd birthday on June 28, the reunion was particularly quite poignant. Because her memories of her mother were hazy, as she was barely a year old when her mother left. Now, on that sunny afternoon, her mother stood before her, and without hesitation, she embraced her, as if no time had passed at all. In a soft voice, she uttered the word "mama," a term she hadn't used much since I had been the one at her bedside every night and morning for nearly two years. It was a world turned upside down for her, seeing her mother by her side again, though not for long. Because tomorrow, Sunday, 5th of July, her mother would return to Dubai, ending her month-long vacation.

Every family should understand the challenge of having incomplete parents. Both parents are essential, each fulfilling a unique and irreplaceable role. For me, it was unimaginable to face such decision, especially the physical absence of my children's mother. Yet, I believed it was a necessary sacrifice, a noble effort to confront adversity and preserve our family's precarious financial stability. Her being an OFW is our only solution to mitigate greater financial difficulties that were straining our family.

Nevertheless, there's truly no place like home. I could see the radiance on her face as she reunited with her family. Without a doubt, her presence brought back vibrancy to our home, which had felt dull since her departure. The children were overflowing with excitement about the days ahead. I had even planned my own four-day vacation leave to coincide with her first week off.

Our first outing was to the mall. Since it was a weekday and the older kids were in school, we took our youngest to SM City. I treated my wife to pork lechon at CNT, a special treat she hadn't enjoyed in almost two years due to the dietary restrictions in Dubai, an Islamic country. 

After which, we browsed the department store and hardware section, where she quickly realized the multitude of tasks awaiting her in managing our household—areas where my own attention had been lacking. She effortlessly handled them, showcasing her natural talent.

Next, we visited Ayala Mall. Mikaela found it surreal to be spending the day with her mom at that very moment, relishing every minute.

On Friday, June 12, Philippine Independence Day, a public holiday, we returned to Ayala Mall, this time with all the kids. We visited Time Zone, where the kids delighted in the arcade games and Mikaela had a blast on the kiddie rides. After which, they wanted to dine at a kid-friendly restaurant, my kids' favorite, Jollibee, but I suggested something different, opting instead for a little upscale restaurant in the 'The Terraces.'

It was a first-time experience for my kids. We ordered the most delicious-looking food from the menu, and throughout the meal, the word 'delicious' echoed repeatedly from their lips.

Later that day, we visited my kids' grandparents, aunts, and uncles to share the pasalubong gifts my wife brought from Dubai."

The Bohol Trip

On June 13, a Saturday, we rose early and readied ourselves for a trip to Bohol to visit my wife's parents and her siblings. The morning air was slightly cooler as we made final preparations. I called for a taxi, and soon we were on our way to the port under clear skies. We arrived just in time to catch the 7:00 am ferry, a familiar journey we hadn't taken in years. The ship, freshly painted and immaculate, began its voyage at 7:15 am, marking the start of our adventure.

The nearly two-hour journey brought us to Tubigon port in Bohol. Stepping off the ferry, I caught the scent of fresh Bohol air and navigated the steep gangway carefully with my youngest, Mikaela, ensuring her safety.

We were greeted by my wife's brothers a short walk away. They were visibly surprised to see how much my eldest daughter, Maica, had grown into a young lady at ten years old.

Bohol looked much the same as it had years ago—serene and untouched by modernity. The scenic beauty remained captivating, prompting me to capture several photos along our way.

By noon, we reached Carmen, where my wife's family treated us to a lavish lunch. Afterwards, we settled into our accommodations, where I watched 'Wowowee' while the children napped. Despite the heat and the inadequate fan, I tried to relax.

Later in the afternoon, my father-in-law drove us to the Chocolate Hills, but heavy rain prevented us from climbing to the summit. We sought shelter in a restaurant where my sister-in-law worked, joining other tourists who flocked to the area due to the long weekend holiday.

Reflecting on our early days as newlyweds, I recalled strolls with my wife through nearby churchyard. So, we went there, tried to enjoy a brief moment just the two of us, cherishing the apparent tranquility and peacefulness of the place. As we went back, I noticed new homes but with little to no occupants, a proof of rural-to-urban migration. As most people from the provinces who left home for better opportunities in other big cities here and abroad, also find their extended homes in those places.

Evening came, it brought another delightful dinner with crab, seafood, and pork broth in the dining table. All of my wife's siblings were present except the one who was a seafarer overseas. Our sister-in-law brought a 'wow' karaoke, and the kids entertained everyone, especially Mikaela, who stole the show with her rendition of Celine Dion's classics 'My Heart Will Go On' and 'Because You Love Me', and Whitney Houston's signature song, 'I Always Love You', impressing her grandparents.

The following day, Sunday, we woke at 6:00 am and prepared for Mass at 8:00 am. Mikaela' s restlessness prompted me to take her outside during the service, where we encountered more of my wife's relatives in the church plaza. Mikaela, reluctant to wander far, insisted on returning to the church.

My father-in-law picked us up after the mass and the family discussed places to explore like tourist spots. So, we set out for Danao, departing around 9:30 am and enduring rough terrain and a lengthy journey that tested our patience.

Danao's mountaintop resort offered adrenaline activities like a sling ride over a deep gorge, but the scorching sun and physical discomfort deterred most of us from participating. Instead, we enjoyed the view and a leisurely outdoor lunch.

Afterwards, we proceeded to Sagbayan Peak, where Disney characters and stunning vistas welcomed us. The children marveled at the miniature castle before we departed for Tubigon port to conclude our Bohol adventure with a 4:30 pm ferry back to Cebu.

Back to Cebu

Back in Cebu, my wife made the most of her month-long stay. She reconnected with old friends, surprising them with thoughtful pasalubong gifts, and even reached out to former bosses who were pleasantly surprised by her visit. Among them was a once-feared boss from her office days, whose demeanor softened upon seeing her.

It struck me that regardless of our societal roles, we are all fundamentally human beings who crave connection and acknowledgment. Observing my wife engage with friends, former colleagues, acquaintances, and even individuals she had employed in our family business or small store, I realized the enduring impact we have on those around us. Beyond life's challenges and hardships, what truly matters is the warmth and compassion we share with others.

Life isn't about chasing wealth or status but nurturing kindness and fostering genuine relationships. Happiness and fulfillment stem from these simple yet profound interactions. I often wish I possessed my wife's natural friendliness, though I sometimes worry about her vulnerability to exploitation due to her unwavering kindness. Yet, despite the potential pitfalls, her generosity enriches those around her, even as it gradually depletes her own resources.

A Visit to Family Park

In the early years of our family, we often visited a place called "The Family Park" on weekends. It was our haven for picnics under the shade of trees, where I would jog while the kids enjoyed the playground, mini-zoo, and occasional splashes in the pool. Those were cherished moments, but since my wife left, circumstances or perhaps my own oversight prevented us from returning.

On June 21, 2009, we revisited the park. I brought crabs and sautéed alugbate from my garden, along with rice, pork lechon, cookies, mangoes, and bananas. The park was bustling with cars parked along the roadsides, as a charitable event had attracted many children. Nevertheless, we headed straight for the pool. It was only the second time my kids had swum since their mother's absence—the last being a beach trip to Mactan Island, sometime around April 2008, my company-subsidized outing to Shangri-La Mactan Island Resort.

We rented a small cottage and enjoyed a delicious early morning meal. The skies were clear, the morning sun casting gentle rays over the hilltops. I swam in the adult pool with Mikaela, who showed no fear of the water's depth. Later, she joined her siblings in the children's pool, where the water barely reached her neck. They laughed and played while I swam laps for exercise.

We departed around 10 a.m., so contented with our morning bonding.

Shangri-La's Mactan Resort: A Day and Night of Leisure and Family Fun (May 17 - 18, 2008)

May 17, 2008

Escaping the routine of work and the pressure of daily life often calls for a retreat to serene and idyllic destinations. Cebu, renowned as a prime vacation spot for both local residents and international tourists, offers a rich option for relaxation and adventure. On May 17, 2008, our family had the privilege of visiting one of these coveted spots: Shangri-La's Mactan Resort and Spa. 

Maica and Maila at Shangrila 2004 visit

The anticipation had been building for weeks. When I finally broke the news to my children about our upcoming stay at Shangri-La, their excitement was palpable. Memories of our previous visit, four years earlier when Maica was five and Maila was three, still lingered fondly in their minds.

Unlike my children, I hadn't always been eager to join company outings or vacations in recent years. I found solace in the comforts of home, enjoying movies, singing karaoke, or simply tinkering on the computer. On this particular morning, I found myself surprisingly calm about our upcoming adventure at a five-star resort, while my children buzzed around, frantically gathering their swimsuits and essentials.

After a leisurely morning, which included a light-hearted joke about cancelling our plan, much to their dismay, we eventually got ourselves ready. Following a brief stop at Gaisano Mall in Mactan to pick up snacks and essentials, we headed towards Shangri-La's Mactan Resort.

The drive was pleasant, with clear skies above us despite a storm brewing up north. As we approached the resort's entrance, we unexpectedly bumped into my officemates, who were running errands before heading back to the city. It was a nostalgic reminder of how things used to be, rushing between work and personal life.

Upon arrival, the tranquility of the resort enveloped us. The staff warmly greeted us as we made our way towards the main entrance, setting everything for a memorable stay. Even though Mikaela, our youngest, couldn't join us, we ensured she was well taken care of at my parents' house.

Our day at Shangri-La's Mactan Resort was filled with relaxation, good food, and quality family time, a well-deserved break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As the sun began to set over the tranquil waters of Mactan, we savored every moment, grateful for the opportunity to create new memories in such a breathtaking setting.

Checking into Shangri-La's Mactan Resort was effortless; everything had been pre-arranged. The friendly staff handed us our room key and escorted us to our accommodation. My children were immediately enchanted by the elegance of our room. "It's so nice, Papa, it's like a house," exclaimed Lala, marveling at every detail. They eagerly explored the room while I settled our belongings.

Our balcony is overlooking the sea, with the towering Hilton Hotel visible in the distance. As my kids relaxed with cable TV, I took photos of us against the backdrop of the expansive view, framed by a transparent sliding partition.

Later in the evening, I left the kids in the room to scout out our dining options. In the lobby, I unexpectedly ran into a former colleague, still attending the summer outing. We joined his group for dinner, where I struggled to appreciate the unfamiliar dishes served. After I opted for mango juice for my drinks, I excused myself to return to my hungry children.

Back in the room, I found Maica and Lala eagerly awaiting dinner. Despite my delay, they were relieved to hear they could finally eat. While they enjoyed their meal, I lounged on the sofa, flipping through TV channels. The children playfully hopped between the beds, their laughter filling the room. I found myself unexpectedly engrossed in a horror movie on HBO, despite not fully understanding its plot twists.

As the air conditioning cooled the room, a sense of tranquility settled. Seeing Maica and Lala peacefully asleep beside each other, I realized how much I missed my wife, who called twice from Dubai. Her absence was felt keenly during what was supposed to be a relaxing vacation.

Reflecting on the day, I reminded myself to lighten up and enjoy the moment. Yet, the void left by my wife's absence lingered. Despite the beautiful surroundings and my children's joy, I couldn't steer clear of the feeling that something was missing.

As I relaxed in our room at Shangri-La's Mactan Resort, my cellphone rang for the third time, but this call was from my boss, not from my wife. She kindly offered more food, including my favorite, chocolate cake, and directed me to their room to collect it. In her room, I found the rest of the gang in which a close colleague of mine assisted to carry the food to our room.  Despite their invitation to join them for drinks that night, I declined, preferring to stay with my children.

The spread included bread and butter, a dish resembling chicken creole, and, of course, the coveted chocolate cake, although my stomach was already full. I placed everything on the table and returned to watching television, eventually dozing off.

I woke up hours later, disoriented, thinking it was almost morning. It was only dawn, around 3 am. I encouraged my children to eat, but realizing the hour, I suggested they go back to sleep. Maica likened our room's serenity to a vacation in Bohol, away from the early morning cacophony of Canduman's bustling streets and noisy motorcycles. Maila, still facing the television, turned around and soon both were back asleep.

May 18, 2008

I woke to the cool room with sunlight streaming through the balcony. It was finally morning. Maica was still asleep, while Maila was up and currently in the bathroom. I called Maila over to pose with Maica for a photo once she woke. Afterward, I suggested we head to The Tides (a costly restaurant) for an early breakfast, aiming to start our day with an early swim.

Lala taking her breakfast at The Tides

By 6:15 am, the buffet at The Tides was ready with a variety of dishes. I tried some items from the Japanese section, only to find they were raw. My kids stuck with familiar foods like bacon, ham, sausages, and pancakes. I declined coffee due to heartburn concerns when offered by the waiter. Soon after, a couple of my officemates, joined us briefly for breakfast.

After finishing a mango, we returned to our room to prepare for the highlight of our vacation: swimming at the pool and beach. With swimsuits and camera in tow, Maica eagerly pressed the elevator button while I realized I'd forgotten my glasses. Back upstairs, a courteous staff member greeted us.

Once back downstairs, I led the way to the children's pool where Maica and Maila applied sunscreen and joyfully splashed into the water. My officemates couple, equipped with a digital camera, helped to capture moments since I only had my cellphone. Despite the cloudy morning, we managed to avoid rain as we explored the beachfront and snapped photos.

Although the kids were wary of the waves and a particularly large jellyfish (which I suspected wasn't real), we made the most of our beach visit. After a brief swim where I encountered surprisingly large fish, we returned to the safety of the children's pool.

Later, as the sun intensified around noon, I convinced the kids to pack up and return to our room. Reluctant to leave, they eventually agreed. We showered and relaxed in the room until check-out time at noon, enjoying some TV and snacks.

At check-out, I was surprised to find phone charges on our room. It's Maica's phone calls.

Anyway, after settling the bill, we went straight to our car for home. But on our way home, we made a stop at my parents' residence to pick up Mikaela. She was still asleep, so waited a while until she woke up.

Just as we arrived home, safe, my kids told me they already missed Shangri-La. I reassured them we could return someday, not ruling out the possibility.

2007 HOLY WEEK VISITA IGLESIA

At Poor Claire Monastery

For the past few years, our family has maintained a tradition during Holy Week, visiting various churches to observe Visita Iglesia doing the Stations of the Cross. This year, we began our journey in Tayud, Liloan, Cebu, driving north about 10 kilometers from home to our first stop, the Poor Clare Monastery. Despite the absence of nuns, we paused for a quiet prayer and noticed others waiting at the confessional box. The weather was pleasant, with a refreshing breeze despite the scorching summer sun.

St. Joseph Parish, Liloan

Heading back south, we discovered the small St. Joseph Church in Liloan before continuing to Consolacion, Basak, Mandaue, where we stopped for a light lunch at a burger joint near St. Joseph Church. 

Our pilgrimage then took us to Opon Church, home of the Birhen sa Regla, followed by a journey further south through South Reclamation to Jones Avenue, and a turn onto Labangon Road. Passing Sabellano Street, we reached a church in Pardo, then continued towards Talisay, visiting Mohon and Pooc, and concluding in Poblacion Talisay.

St. Therese of Avila Church, Talisay City

Our final stop was at a church in Poblacion, Talisay City (pictured left). From there, we retraced our route through Inayawan, Pardo, along F. Jaca Street, where childhood memories flooded back. It was a nostalgic visit to the place where I spent my early years, though much had changed since.

Continuing through Mambaling San Nicolas Road to USJ-R Main in downtown Cebu City, we briefly stopped at the White Gold Warehouse Superstore at the Reclamation Area before heading home as dusk settled in.