In 1994, I spent a month trekking through the Philippines. It was the off season, which is my preference in visiting other countries. Fewer tourists, but one also runs the risk of limited access to some activities or areas for a variety of reasons. It’s a trade-off. I had read about the T’Boli people, and was determined to make my way to their village at the top of Mindanao. So, by jeepney & on the back of accommodating locals’ motorbikes, I managed to arrive unannounced at the ‘mayor’s’ door. I knocked, not knowing what to expect. It was raining very heavily and I was drenched. I thought, “Whoever opens this door will most likely be terrified and slam the door in my face!” As was my experience with all of the Filipinos I had encountered to this point, I was welcomed with open arms. For 5 days, I tagged along the mayor’s side while he made house calls to nearby families who summoned him by gong, the only form of communication in the village. I drank in the unspoiled beauty of the surroundings, built around Lake Cebu. Sundays, the village holds a festival where they parade around the lake. Either by foot or horseback, everyone participates and is dressed in traditional wear. It is from Lake Cebu that all of our meals were provided – by simply marching out into the lake and spearfishing, we ate like kings. Following our evening meals, I enjoyed listening to my host’s children play indigenous musical instruments, even trying my hand at playing percussion. I learned, was humbled, and overjoyed that I was privileged to be included & welcomed in this remarkable experience. This kind of experiential travel is why I do what I do, the luxury lying in the experience.
Here’s a short video on the Philippines:
It’s more fun in the Philippines!!
