Story and photos by Emmanuel Canto
The Convention Baptist Young Adults Fellowship of the Philippines concluded last weekend at the Maribert Inland Resort in Pontevedra, Capiz – a town famous for cheap alimango. Meanwhile, Roxas City, the capital of Capiz, is known as the “Seafood Capital of the Philippines;” however, some locals have a different opinion. I’ve been to Roxas City many times and have found their seafood is even more expensive compared to Negros.
My wife and her family are from Panitan, Capiz, where life is slow and stress-free. I love visiting the town because I get to enjoy the tranquil lifestyle. I enjoy hanging out with the older generation to hear stories about the train that operated between Capiz and Iloilo. They really cherish their memories.
While in the province, we traveled to The Edge, a mountaintop site in Roxas City. Inspired by Bali, as it is a perfect place for a photo opportunity, I had a chance to talk with the owner, who said the spot was intended for family and close friends. However, with photos of the place all over the internet, they decided to open it to the public. The locale good for small groups intending to experience nature; it also works for pre-nuptial photoshoots.
In addition, despite the government not maintaining parolas, or lighthouses, very well as some have become very dilapidated, Roxas City is home to the Barangay Culasi lighthouse. The area underwent a renovation a few years ago to make it more accessible to tourists.
Just like Talisay City, Roxas City also has its own ruins. It is sometimes referred to as Alcatraz or the Ruins of Alcatraz due its resemblance to the infamous island jail in San Francisco Bay in the United States.
There were plans to construct an infinity pool and restaurant on top of a nearby mountain but the project was abandoned because of Super Typhoon Yolanda. The owner, a former mayor, was disappointed by the circumstances as they wanted to add attractions given the growing number of visitors to the ruins. Perhaps, one day, they will develop an area for tourists to sit back with some good food and appreciate their surroundings.
Indeed visiting other places widens our horizons. We can learn lessons, unwind and relax, meet people, listen to stories, and be a blessing to those who need it most. It’s a realization that there are a lot of people who may not be financially blessed but are content. It is a testament that we don’t have the right to complain that life is hard and should appreciate what we have.
At the end of the day, we can say to our creator, “Thank you for everything.”/WDJ
