Escaping the Unfamiliar

Shot by John Prillway Empe EMBRACING THE DUALITY OF DESTRUCTION AND BEAUTY by Gwyneth Galang Manuel had been there since the very beginning of the Taal Volcano's disastrous eruption, after all, it is where his home used to stand. He stood as he saw terror and destruction take place in front of his very own eyes. Manuel had assisted in the rescue of several people, led them to safety, and directly confronted the fury of nature. Though he was there to help people, he was traumatized and disturbed as well by the images of screams collapsing buildings, and choking on ash that surrounded him.The havoc and chaos that came from Taal volcano had been left behind when Manuel and his colleagues evacuated. He couldn't help but sneak looks in the rearview mirror as they drove away, the smoking ruins and devastated expressions of the survivors still imprinted into his mind. 94

Years passed by as Manuel found himself eventually trying to recover his life, seeking peace in the daily routines that provided an illusion of stability. But the trauma remained, and even thinking about the Taal Volcano gave him discomfort. Though he tried his best to suppress the memories, they would occasionally reappear in dreams and vulnerable situations, reminding him of the sheer power that had previously consumed him. However, fate had other ideas for Manuel, and life has a way of taking unexpected turns. A few years later, he was forced to go back to Taal, his hometown, by events. This time, it was an opportunity to see the land he had left he once left, to confront it -- regardless of the terror and pain alongside. He hesitated as he parked his car on the edge of the volcano. The screams echoed in his ears as the memories resurfaced, sending his heart racing with fear. He experienced a shudder down his spine when he felt the volcano's familiar heat, as if his hidden worries had suddenly surfaced. Manuel, with all his courage, gradually made his way closer to the volcano. The once-devastated landscape greeted him with a surprising transformation. The lake was brimming with new life, reflecting the sun's golden rays, and the hills were blooming with beautiful trees. He couldn't help but notice the bright colours that now surrounded the area. 95

The majestic beauty of the volcano still gathered attention, its imposing presence was beautiful against the clear sky. Smoke from the crate lightly rose from its depths, a sign of the unfading power that existed below the surface. Manuel however gained respect for the nature's resiliency among the ruins of the disaster. Calmness came over him as he inhaled the clean air. His initial fear was replaced by a deep admiration for place that had emerged from the ashes. He was amazed by life's resilience and how beauty could endure despite catastrophe. Both Taal and Manuel had changed over time. In that instant, he understood that his trip to Taal was about more than just confronting his concerns; it was also about embracing the duality of existence. Taal had caused chaos, but it had also shown a wild beauty that called for awe and wonder. Manuel realized that life might be both fragile and resilient, destructive and transformative. Manuel felt a feeling of certainty as he stood there. Taal served as a reminder of the strength he and the people of Batangas had inside them rather than an indicator of nightmares. Manuel made a commitment to keep their stories, their bravery, and their unbending spirit, always engraved on his heart. A newfound sense of purpose was a feeling he carried with him as he drove away from Taal. He knew that the memories of the destruction would always be a part of him, after all, he did carry it for years. But now, along with those memories were the vivid images of the beauty that emerged from the chaos. It served as a reminder that there is always a glimmer of hope even in the darkest times. He turned to leave with a smile on his face, knowing that he had faced his worries and found comfort in the most unlikely of places. He walked with a newfound ease in his step on the way back to his car. His years-long load had been lifted, and in its place was a deep admiration for the resilience of human nature. 96

Manuel decided to tell his tale in order to pay honor to his hometown and its people for their unwavering courage. In the face of sorrow, he wanted people to know that there is strength to be found and that beauty can emerge from the ashes. He believed that by sharing his story, he would encourage people to face their anxieties, recognize the transformational potential of resilience, and look for comfort in the most unlikely of places. Years passed and Manuel became an advocate for disaster preparedness. He visited many towns, providing assistance to those affected by natural calamities -- showing people who had gone through the same struggles that they weren't alone, giving them hope and encouragement. As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the horizon, the man looked back one last time at Taal Volcano. It stood tall, a symbol of both destruction and beauty, reminding him of the profound lessons he had learned. With a grateful heart and a renewed spirit, he continued his journey, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing that within the darkest moments, there is always the potential for transformation and growth. Manuel looked back towards Taal Volcano as the sun started to set. The volcano stood tall, remaining a symbol of both wrath and beauty. He went on his journey with a grateful heart, prepared to face whatever obstacles lies ahead. Because he realized that though life, just like this volcano, had taken a lot away… it would also give a lot back. 97

six•word•sto•ry A form of storytelling that challenges writers to convey a complete narrative or evoke a specific emotion using only six words. Despite its brevity, a six-word story can be powerful and thought-provoking, prompting the reader to imagine the context and fill in the gaps. 98

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One Tale can't Describe a Paradise - Gwyneth Galang 100

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Its beauty belied devastating eruption. - Gwyneth Galang 102

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The Unknown I WONDER I KNEW - Gabrielle Hernandez 104

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UNVEILING REA UTSTRIP K N O W N P O S I B I L I T I E SMichaelAngeloAmantillo LMS, SEEKERS O 106

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craving thrills, wondering fed, soul's hunger. - Lheynie Rose Pose 108

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Solivagant's thirst quenched, solo travel sufficed - Lheynie Rose Pose 110

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Mind worn out Pondering about ADVENTURE Michael Angelo Amantillo 112

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The unknown, place to call home. - Gabrielle Hernandez 114

po•em A literary work that utilizes rhythm, language, and imagery to evoke emotions and convey meaning. Poems often explore complex themes and use various poetic techniques, such as rhyme, meter, and metaphor, to create a distinct aesthetic experience for the reader. 115

Drawn by Lheynie Rose Pose Dreamscape by Gabrielle Hernandez Four walls in a room The mountains rise to the clouds, what I perceived as a norm And waterfalls, they sing aloud, far from storm The forests are deep and green, far from being torn. A fairy-tale wonderland scene. As I closed my eyes that's when magic lies, In this place of pure imagination, my imagination shapes, Joy and wonder is the sensation, surely an escape. As the world becomes a fantasy, A land of dreams and fantasy, A realm of mythical mystery. A place of wonder to see, With shining castles in the sky, And unicorns that flutter by. 116

Shot by Christian Baranda TREASURES OF LIPA by Aaron James R. Mission In Lipa's embrace, a city so serene, Where nature and history weave a vibrant scene, A place of wonder, waiting to be explored, Where tales of the past and present are adored. As dawn unfolds, the city comes alive, Bathed in golden sunbeams, it begins to thrive, Mount Malarayat stands tall and proud, A guardian mountain, standing strong and loud. Through fields and hills, a picturesque view, Coffee's aroma lingers, embracing you, Batangas barako, bold and strong, Whispers of Lipa's coffee culture all along. Walk the old streets, with Spanish grace, Heritage buildings tell a story, a trace, Gardens and plazas, tranquil and serene, Inviting you to wander, in moments so keen. 117

San Sebastian Cathedral, a beacon of light, Its facade stands tall, a symbol shining bright, Devotees and pilgrims, seeking solace here, United in faith, they hold their hearts dear. The melodies of kakanin, a sweet delight, Pamitinan Falls, cascading with sheer might, Climb to Taal Volcano, in majestic splendor, Behold its beauty, a sight to remember. Indulge in delicacies, flavors so divine, Kapeng barako, lomi, suman that shines, Lipa's culinary treasures, a feast so grand, Leaving an impression, memories in hand. In Lipa City, warmth and smiles abound, A place where hospitality can always be found, A haven for wanderers, a sanctuary so true, Lipa welcomes you, with open arms to pursue. 118

Drawn by Ellysa Mae Kayo 119

WHISPERS OF LIPA by Aaron James R. Mission Legends whispered by elders, divine, Stories ancient, captivating the heart, Through enchanting verses, their magic unfolds, In Lipa's embrace, a wonder to behold. As twilight settles, a creature takes flight, Malakhíng Manananggal, haunting the night, With wings outstretched, she soars through the air, A fearsome presence, causing dread and despair. Within ancient trees, the Kapre resides, A gentle giant, where folklore abides, With laughter that echoes through the forest deep, He watches over nature's secrets to keep. And in Lipa's heart, a tale of old, Buried treasure, a story untold, Campanario's bell, a secret it hides, Fortunes awaiting, where destiny bides. These legends and myths, passed down with pride, Bring Lipa to life, where stories reside 120

Shot by Walter Gauiran A VISIT by Aaron James R. Mission In a foreign land, an adventurer's quest, To Manila they came, seeking tales of unrest, Amidst the city's bustling streets and glow,Legends and specters whispered, waiting to show. Escolta's grandeur, a time long gone, Silent whispers echo, tales carried on, Gentle spirits roam through its faded grace, Amidst forgotten dreams and a bygone embrace. Beneath the moonlit streets of Binondo's core, A white-clad lady, mournful and sore, A tragic love story, forever she weeps, A ghostly apparition that silently creeps. 121

Luneta Park, where heroes find repose, The White Lady wanders, her story composed, A lost love, a broken heart that still bleeds, Her ethereal presence, a sorrow that leads. In a foreign land, an adventurer's quest, To Manila they came, seeking tales of unrest, Amidst the city's bustling streets and glow, Legends and specters whispered, waiting to show. Escolta's grandeur, a time long gone, Silent whispers echo, tales carried on, Gentle spirits roam through its faded grace, Amidst forgotten dreams and a bygone embrace. Beneath the moonlit streets of Binondo's core, A white-clad lady, mournful and sore, A tragic love story, forever she weeps, A ghostly apparition that silently creeps. Luneta Park, where heroes find repose, The White Lady wanders, her story composed, A lost love, a broken heart that still bleeds, Her ethereal presence, a sorrow that leads. 122

Drawn by Ellysa Mae Kayo 123

SPECTRE by Aaron James R. Mission Upon Balete Drive, a haunting tale On Balete Drive, their story unfolds, weaves, A bittersweet tale, as the darkness enfolds, He feels her presence, her ethereal touch, Where shadows linger and the moonlight cleaves, A love forbidden, but he loves her much. A ghostly romance, hidden in the night, In whispers and echoes, their love takes The city's heart beats with their secret affair, flight. Their phantom whispers float in the air, A longing, a yearning, forever unfulfilled, A fortune teller walks the mystic street, His eyes meet hers, their souls gently Their love's tender flame, with destiny greet, chilled. She, a specter draped in sorrow's embrace, In the depths of night, their spirits entwine, He, a mortal drawn to her ethereal grace. A spectral waltz, a dance so divine, Their love a melody, haunting and rare, In their encounters, a connection deep, An eternal bond, bound by a fateful affair. Two worlds entwined, secrets they both keep, Upon Balete Drive, their legend remains, A love that defies the realms of the Whispered among those who wander its known, lanes, An enchanting bond, in whispers sown. A ghostly romance, forever alive, In the realm of spirits, their love will But the divide between them looms, survive. immense, She, a phantom trapped in timeless So let the tale echo, through the years and beyond, suspense, He, bound by mortal realms, unable to A love story whispered, a bond that's fond, In Balete's embrace, their spirits reside, stay, Yet their love persists, night after night, A love immortal, across realms they glide. day after day. 124

THE WONDER OF TRAVEL by Stiffen De Castro Travelling back to my hometown, At the back of my car, my baggage is like a tome, Blue sky, white clouds in afternoon, It is a routine every month of June So many things in nature to write rhymes about, In this varied and wonderful land of south, Serenity and the scenery is green, A land where in all seasons natural beauty is to be seen. Shot By Chritian Baranda 125

Lucena, such a wonderful place to go, I’ll never forget this place, it is what I sworn, In these travel things are not always fine, However, there is something of the nature I am compelled to find. Cheers for all the new places to explore, Let us keep travelling by plane, train, and more, Have a strength to bind where you want to stay, Oh what a clean and wonderful bay. 126

drawn by Ellysa Mae Kayo Voyage of a Curious Soul by Michael Angelo Amantillo Adventures started, horizons in sight, Travel's enchantment with flame burning bright. On paths untrodden, my spirit roams, Exploring new worlds, making them home. Across wide landscapes, I venture forth, In search of wonders of this planet's worth. Mountains and valleys, their majesty grand, Whispering old tales of the land. Through progressive cities, streets are alive, Various cultures flourish where stories are derived. In vibrant fair and bustling squares, I dive into the web of general affairs. Seas and oceans, their waves and tides, Lead me to shores where adventure resides. 127

Islands and beaches, untouched and pure, I surrender to nature's embrace, feeling sure. In each encounter, a meeting of souls, Connect and create new roles. From strangers to friends, hearts intertwine, Leaving a trail of memories behind. Spoke Languages with melodies in the air, Absorbing the beauty of unfamiliar flair. Tasting exotic flavors and dishes delight, Enjoying the world will inspire every bite. With every journey, new context blooms, Expanding my mind, dispelling the gloom. For travel reveals the beauty within, Always reminds me of places I've been. So I heed wanderlust's compelling call, Embracing the unknown and standing tall. Travel and exploration, my soul's truest quest, In the pursuit of discovery, I am truly blessed. 128

Shot By Chritian Baranda VERSES OF ADVENTURE by Michael Angelo Amantillo In the fertile soil of Philippines, my journey unfurled, A variety of wonders, a wonderful world, From golden coasts to lively city streets, I headed on an adventure, where beauty meets. The sandy beaches with waters so clear, Where soft waves dances, casting out all fear, The palms moved in rhythm, as I indulged in delight, Philippines' water treasures, an astounding sight. From beach and shores to it’s beautiful lagoons, Nature outlined works of art with vibrant hues, Azure waters welcomed me with their embrace, In an enchanting paradise, I found peace and grace. 129

But it was the people, with hearts pure and kind, Their comfort and hospitality, forever intertwined From vibrant towns to the isolated countryside, Their laughter and beaming smiles are a true joy to find. I explored old temples and historical sites. Intrigued by histories imprinted in their ancient rites, From terraces to different hills, Philippines' rich heritage, my soul fills. As I journeyed through this astonishing land, Each moment carved in memories, like grains of sand, The Philippines, a treasure trove that is so profound Always in my heart, its splendor will resound. So, let this be a tribute, a heartfelt ode, To the Philippines, where my wanderlust flowed, A land of wonders, where dreams come alive, In this paradise, my inner being shall always thrive. 130

Shot by Gabriel Dela Vega LOVE'S SERENADE: TALES OF BEAUTY IN TAAL by Gwyneth Galang In Taal's land of green and gold, In Taal's land of green and gold, Where mountains rise and stories Where mountains rise and stories told, People find their hearts, told, Amidst the beauty of Taal’s art. People find their hearts, Amidst the beauty of Taal’s art. As you walk the roads of olden days, You’ll feel the warmth of sun's As you walk the roads of olden bright rays, Seeing the lake's serene embrace, days, You might find love in this sweet You’ll feel the warmth of sun's place. bright rays, Seeing the lake's serene embrace, You might find love in this sweet place. 131

MAJESTIC HEIGHTS OF MT. MACULOT by Gwyneth Galang Over Batangas' beautifully Climbers face the challenging gentle land, path, Is where the majestic Rockies of Maculot stand, In facing Rockies' wrath, In Cuenca it is found, Every step, every strain, A stunning view that astounds. Rewarded by a sight from A mountain that stands so high, plane. that seems touch the sky, A scene that is genuinely breathtaking, Atop Maculot's crown, The beauty of nature that isn't The world seems to bow down. tiring. And the Maculot Rockies loom so tall, With it, Cuenca won't fall. 132

A MELANCHOLY’S VOYAGE by Lheynie Rose Pose I was in the abyss of melancholy. Tied up by apathy and feeling so empty. I have a lot on my mind that seeks comfort. And from the inky black pen, my spirit comes forth. As I stroke the nib on my blank sheet, I felt like setting sail on a journey to breathe. In my mind, there I found the Hinatuan River as my foundation. A mystical river, after which I began to write about my fascination. Your body is filled with crystalline. Strangely salty yet clear and pristine. Colors of sapphire and jade, You have an incomparable shade. 133

As you gracefully flow, you know your destination. Though your water's origin remains unknown. An astonishing view, to be seen only in imagination, Exists and sparks overflowing speculation. You are a river of phenomenon. Guarded by creatures that silently glide. Your depth was unfathomable. It is where your secrets reside. Mythical creatures with mystical grace, Through their harmonies, river’s magic is revealed. In the depths of night, were dreams ablaze, The enchanted secret of nature is unveiled. When the dark starts emphasizing the stars, I softly sigh. As the poem finds its end, reaching the sky. Yet the river's fascination forever whispers to me, Unleashing its mysteries, where the heart feels free. 134

Shot By Chritian Baranda CAMIGUIN by Lheynie Rose Pose Island Born of Fire, were picturesque blends folklore, As rare as sapphire. 135

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