Masbate quick getaway

Masbate

Quick introduction to Masbate. It is known as the Cattle Capital of the Philippines (funny thing: I didn't know it myself, not until my wife spilled the beans to me). I never saw a lot of cattle over the years I went here, not until this trip happened (spoiler alert). Masbate is also a part of the Bicol region (which is part of Luzon). Growing up as a kid, I thought that this island was a part of Visayas.

Fun fact

My mother's side came from Cebu / Masbate, the same as my wife's family. Coincidence? Maybe? Maybe not. But I am super lucky to see it with my own eyes! 👀

Where we went:

• Cataingan, Masbate - Where my wife's father lived his entire childhood. This is where he basically grew up and learned how to earn money at a young age. Right now, they still visit this place to catch up with their childhood friends / family members. Life here is pretty much simple. All of your basic needs can be picked up around the area. Food, water, you name it. People are happy and contented. Along the way, we saw these people playing basketball and took a picture of them (they look so happy!)

• Palani, Masbate - This was the heart of the trip. We drove to the unfamiliar road going to Palani, without expectations, just me, my wife, and my mother-in-law exploring a new side of Masbate we haven't seen just yet. The ride is mostly comfortable, although as expected to provincial roads, there are unpaved surfaces. Along the way we saw a lot of cattle ranches, and cattle strolling along the way. Our eyes were full of good views! It's really good to travel without assumptions, isn't it? This was a pretty 15-20km straight drive with a view of the mountains! Amazing, right? We stopped by to get our pics so I can show it to you (I am eating + camera shy so pardon me for the smirk)

Going back, the trip only lasted for 1.5 hours. Finally we reached the destination, Paraiso de palani. The resort has a chill vibe with only a few guests checked in. We just dropped our things to the room and went in for a dip! The place is not crowded and peaceful ☺️, which fits our preference! Here's a pic of my lovely wife getting ready to get into the beach haha

We stayed here for a day and a half before our flight early next day.

Takeaway

Getting back here always makes my wife and me feel humbled in life. People who live in remote places show us what it really takes to be happy. In my early years working in corporate, I often felt like I hadn’t accomplished anything despite working for years. Being here has helped me reflect on how city life and social media can distort our ideas of success. Living privately with peace of mind and spending time with the people I value is what truly matters to me.