What Inspired Me to Travel?

Mentored by a five-star general of a mom and supported by a QCPD officer (now retired) of a dad, my routine as a child was home-school-home-school, the perpetual vacation at my Aunt Ellen’s home in Bulacan, during weekends, vacation or on the days when school has been cancelled because of a Signal No. 3 thunderstorm, and the weekly Sunday School at a nearby church

This, somehow, hindered my social growth as a child adding to the fact that I was born an introvert. I hated going to the store just a few steps outside of our house. I hated going up to the pretty cashier to ask for extra tissue at Jollibee. And I hated being called in class when I am not really raising up my hand during recitation. I absolutely hated anything that would require me to speak out my name and be noticed.

But then, just like with any child, curiosity dawned on me, albeit a little late. I began seeing the world, particularly the Philippines, in a whole new light. I remember when I was in my pre-teen years, just when other children are beginning to discover the mystery of the opposite sex, I tumbled upon this tape which has Gary Granada’s song Ang Aking Kubo. I immediately fell in love with this song, its lyrics are very vivid and it reminds me of the classic bukid scenery we can find in our countryside. I wanted to see one with the matching working Carabao, cute little Nipa hut and the lovely sunset setting on the mountains from afar.

This song fueled my love for my country at an early age.  When my peers in high school were listening to pop music and the like, I have found myself patiently waiting for Gary Granada’s concert in my school.  Listening to him croon his classics, mostly in Filipin. Then I was in awe.