Tacloban, Leyte: Prelude

“What is that feeling when you’re driving away from people and they recede on the plain till you see their specks dispersing? It’s the too-huge world vaulting us, and it’s good-bye. But we lean forward to the next crazy venture beneath the skies.”― Jack Kerouac, On the Road

Doing an Oble at the Philippines longest bridge, San Juanico. and the closest I can get to being at two places ate same time: Leyte and Samar.

I’ve held off writing about this weekender due to two things. First, I haven’t finished the Tokyo series yet (which I have, at last, done so yesterday), and second, this vacation was a bittersweet one. Sweet because I went there to witness the start of the union of two of Kite’s good friends. Bitter because that was when Nanay wasn’t able to wait for me to go home to say her goodbye… I realize life must go on though, and as much as the two memories are conflicting, I know my grandmother won’t take it against me if I choose to celebrate the good one.

Tacloban, to be upfront, is a sleepy city, but (or rather, and) that is what makes it charming. After being through some highly urban destinations of late,  the chill, laid-back vibe was a welcome change. It is unfortunate that we didn’t get to see the supposedly beautiful beaches that are nearby and that border the province, but we did get to experience the hospitality that is uniquely Waray. We were also able to sample some of the best and delectable local food we’ve ever tasted (hint: lechon!). For me, those are reason enough to say damo nga salamat.

Without further ado, the succeeding posts will be my little contribution to spreading the good word about Tacloban. Himu-on ta ini! Let’s get it on.