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     Despite the crisis we are facing today, there are important things we should not compromise on. One of which is to relax through a summer escapade. This helps us stay optimistic even during tough times.

Last May 9, the EI staff went to Canigao Island for the annual summer getaway. Attendance included Senior Manager CAZamora, two of the Section Managers JSSalgado and MCPiñon and nine of the Area Managers namely CRQuinte, TSBernal, JSCentino, JVChavez, VMAcasio, EPSVergara, FEVios, JTAligno, and CBAmolib. Also among with them were their families. At 9 in the morning, we arrived in the island where sun-bleached bristles of sand await us. The tempting scenery that welcomed our eyes banished our dizziness from the almost 5-hour winding road and the 15-minnute pump boat travel. We had some stopovers in Ormoc and in Bato Public Market to refuel, buy some food, camping and other supplies for the over night stay in the island.

As soon as breakfast was ready and tents were installed, we did not waste a single moment to enjoy. Some went diving, swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters. Others enjoyed the 15-minute hiking along the shoreline around the island. In the loamy areas of the island, a few naturally grown trees provided cool shades in some areas. It was a perfect place to spend the whole-day session with beers and tuba.

From sunrise to sunset, the view of this mini-Boracay paradise was spectacular. The full moon and the stars at night created a shimmering reflection on the calm waters. We also enjoyed the steady sound of the waves gently touching the shore. It was like a soothing music – very relaxing.

At 7 AM the following day, we headed to Monte Cueva in Maasin. It is a chapel perfectly fit inside a cave on top of a mountain. As per counting, we climbed over 280 concrete steps for about 20 exhausting minutes. The stone-carved walls and ceiling of the chapel was jaw-dropping. A whimsical sound reverberated on the hallowed hall as drops of cold water fall from the ceiling to the prepositioned vases. It was a perfect place for pilgrims to pray and meditate. After a few moments of silence, we spent most of the remaining time to take pictures. While the overlooking terrestrial view of Maasin was breath-taking. From the cave to the outside, we were satisfied witnessing these quenchable works of nature.

As we went back to our way home, we could not help but talk about every splendid nature we just had an eye on. It made us smile and get re-charged. Despite the scorching heat of the sun at the beach and the knee-trembling pilgrimage to the chapel, everything was worth it!