Majestically Mindanao (Field Unit Visit)

Zamboanga City, is located in the western part of Mindanao. The immediate coastal lowlands are narrow, with low, rugged hills located a short distance inland. 

Zamboanga’s Spanish-style architecture, fine beaches, and mountainous backdrop combine with a climate that is cooler and less humid than that of Manila to make it a favourite tourist spot.

I left the house at 3 o' clock AM to catch the 5:00 AM flight. I was the first who arrived at NAIA, then after few minutes two of teammates came in. Walking in the airport with one small luggage on one hand and a cup of Starbucks coffee on the other while sharing our whole day itinerary to my boss. That's what basically my role for this trip. But to make it clear, this is not a vacation, but a massive planning to combat trafficking and help the youth of this nation. I might only be a person behind the scenes, but I will never trade the time I step into this role I currently play. 

The sky is still dark when we left Manila. This is my first time traveling via plane with the General and few of the high-ranking officers of Women and Children Protection Center of the Philippine National Police. It was almost 7 in the morning and the weather is beautiful when we got off the plane. We felt overwhelmed knowing that we had a Royal welcome at the airport. There was a short dance performance at the arrivals, and I was really caught in amazement not knowing that this trip would be so special for the partners. 

I never felt much honor and safe traveling to this area having been ushered by these so dignified police and army in one of the so-called no-go-zone part of the country. 

We visited three field office units that are supported by our organization in the fight against trafficking. The visit started in Zamboanga, were they meet with the PNP Regional Director, members of Inter-agency Council Against Trafficking, the Bureau of Immigration, Coast Guard, social welfare group, and other civil society. In-depth conversations were had on all forms of trafficking in persons, including exploitation of children. Following Zamboanga, the group traveled to Cagayan de Oro and then Iligan City. 

Meetings and planning right after the other to consider and incorporate all the needs and agenda of each unit in order to provide them the best response in ending online exploitation in their provincial jurisdiction. We have attended a small press conference type meeting in the city of Iligan. 

Iligan, city, is situated at the northern Mindanao, southern Philippines. On the southeastern shore of Iligan Bay, it is the island’s major industrial city and an important port at the mouth of the Iligan River. Its growth has stemmed largely from the proximity of the Agus River, with its great hydro power potential harnessed at Maria Cristina Falls.

Maria Christina Falls 

It was a great way to be introduced to one of the reasons why Iligan City is often dubbed as the ‘City of Majestic Waterfalls’. And we were certainly not disappointed. We only stayed for almost half an hour as we should be heading to the airport for our return to Manila.

Despite it being a quick stop, we learned a great deal about the falls and what makes it important to the region. Seeing the waterfalls before our very eyes made me appreciate how travel can make the things we see in textbooks come alive. A truly educational experience indeed! If you visit Iligan City, one of the must-see sites is that of the Maria Cristina Falls. 

But wait, I must end this post on a heavy note, I can say heavier than this falls. Aside from my heart, my tummy is the happiest because of the generosity of our friends in Mindanao. These are just some of the many reasons of my return here in the far south. Muchas Gracias!

Curacha de Alavar/ Knicker Bocker/Lechon/Durian Shake 

I'm so surprised here, Man!