PAGBO

The excitement hit my foot as soon as I saw the pink sand and the foamy waves that licked the beach like a kitten eating its milk. Those children who scream with joy as the waves touch their backs, the peaceful sky and the wind coming from the sea, make me feel at home. This is the vacation that I need.

It was a 12-hour trip from Manila, but the tiredness that I got from sitting for a long hour disappeared when I heard them talking about visiting our own island, which we call ‘Pagbo.’ The island that my dad had inherited from my grandparents.

The scent of cold wind and the sound of a boat engine every time a wave touched our boat was the only thing I heard on our 30-minute ride from Garchitorena to Pagbo. As soon as I saw the silhouettes of our island, it gave me warmth and a sense of belonging. With a bright blue sky and pink sand that shines like a diamond that gives my foot a warm embrace every time I walk on it. We were welcomed by a small Nipa hut on the side.

Amazement was drawn all over my mind, I can’t believe that what I see is real—a jellyfish. The fear of electrical shock made me jump to the nearest person and hug him, and to my delight he was a friend of mine. Relaxing breeze in the afternoon was like aromatherapy for all those who need rest. But along with my boyfriend, we plan to go kayaking on a small boat used for fishing. We hunted and searched for fish, but unfortunately there’s no fish because it was too shallow, but it’s all right at least we’ve found each other.

The night was filled with a gloomy atmosphere, and the sky was like a forest made of bright stars. The warmth of a large lamp of fire was put in the middle of us, serving our comforter in the midst of cold breeze as we sing songs that remind us of our childhood life in that place. That was one of the wonderful trips I enjoyed. The fragrance of the sea and the pink sand speckled with the jellyfish was also visible to my memory. The island made me feel like I was part of it.

So far yet so near. I only have memories on it for now but soon after this Pandemic I’ll be back on that island and enjoy every bit of moment and do as much as memories as I can.