In the Beginning

From a young age, climbing the hills where I grew up in the remote town of Ipil, located on the western peninsula of the southernmost island of the Philippines, I knew I wanted more. I wanted to hike higher mountains, swim in deeper oceans, and explore the places most people only dream of visiting. I longed to experience what others had experienced and to witness the beauty they had seen.

I have always understood that life is temporary, and because of that, I believe it should be lived fully. I want to collect as many memories as I can, knowing that one day I may be gone—six feet under—and eventually forgotten by many I once knew. That thought does not scare me; instead, it motivates me to live intentionally. At the same time, I am aware that I cannot do everything I dream of, limited as we all are by finances and, most importantly, time.

As of this writing, I have lived in only two regions of the Philippines—Region IV and Region IX. I later acquired Canadian citizenship and now reside in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The contrast is immense. I grew up in a place where temperatures could rise to 40 degrees Celsius, and now I endure winters that can drop to negative 50 degrees Celsius.

This experience has taught me something powerful: no matter where you are—whether in extreme heat or bitter cold—if you have the right gear, wear the proper clothing, and most importantly, maintain the right mindset and attitude, you will adapt. You will survive. And eventually, you will learn how to be happy.

Most people know that the Philippines is an incredible place to visit. Some fall in love with it instantly; others do not. Some vloggers choose to stay for extended periods, while others decide to make it their permanent home.

For me, the Philippines will always be where my journey began—the place that first taught me to climb higher and dream bigger.