Melo Villareal
Juan for Fun 2017 Winners travel around PH, rediscover Filipino hospitality
Who would say no to one year of unlimited travel passes, delectable dishes, and a world experience? Those are the rewards that the Juan for Fun 2017 winners will get. But for the Team Juanton, the winning team hailing from Davao, they already won these prizes the moment they began their adventure with Juan for Fun 2017.
The seven-day backpacking challenge made by Cebu Pacific brought Dominic Ang, Chyn Crisostomo, and Geia Mendoza to two islands, four provinces, and countless breathtaking views of the Philippines that the young travelers never imagined they could reach in just a week.
Geia said, “I realized just how beautiful the Philippines is. It’s just one country, but in it, more than 7,000 islands that are vastly different and unique in their charm.” She is still marveled by the distinct beautiful offerings of the destinations they visited.
From Manila, the Team Juanton landed in Dumaguete and ventured into the exquisite waters of different nearby islands. They were introduced to Apo Island’s marine life and marveled at the magnificent sea turtles swimming as they snorkeled.
The team also saw the white blur of foam and waters as they hold on to the ropes of Siquijor. They also tried the Tarzan Swing while viewing the unobstructed view of the Cambugahay Falls. From there, they reached the man-made Salagdoong Forest while following the roof of trees and climbed at the top of the Tierra Alta Lighthouse to take a last look of the enchanting island.
As their thirst for the oceans was satisfied, Team Juanton flew to Cebu. The province offered the young travelers a rich serving of heritage, culture, food, and must-see locations. Being bold travelers, the team embraced what the province has to offer, even going to the Osmeña Peak to meet its people.
Their last destination stole the hearts of the Juan for Fun winners. Legazpi, Albas left a huge impression to the young travelers. From its picturesque terrain, their most hospitable people, and the rich flavors of their foods, Legazpi marked a great place in the hearts of the Davaenos.
“It was our last stop during the challenge and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Still, we needed more time,” Geia said. Chyn and Dominic can still recall how they explored Albas via ATVs and the moment they came close to the majestic Mayon.
Unforgettable Hospitality
Recalling their experience in Legazpi, Chyn cannot forget the hospitality that the tricycle driver gave them. Through the heavy rains, the man offered them shelter. “It was our last stop during the challenge and we thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Still, we needed more time,” Chyn remembered.
The hospitable tricycle driver, as the team remembered, gladly welcomed them to his home. He also served them buko and introduced the team to his family. As Dominic said, “We traveled to go outside our comfort zones, but these people actually made a comfort zone for us.”
Other than fun, Team Juanton and the four other teams of Juan for Fun aimed to spread positivity through their week long challenge around the Philippines. However, according to Dominic, the humble and fun trips plus the welcoming locals are the uniqueness of the Filipino’s hospitality and optimism.
“We have always heard foreigners talk about the Filipinos’ hospitality. Sheltered in our own cities, we wouldn’t have realized this, but joining Juan for Fun and going out to these places across the Philippines showed us that the classic Pinoy kindness is truly out there,” he said.
The Team Juanton composed of Geia, Chyn, and Dominic now have their unlimited travel passes to visit any of Cebu Pacific’s domestic and international destinations. When asked where they are planning to visit next, the Davaenos immediately said: “We want to go [back] to Legazpi!” The trio was very sure that the Philippines is still the top choice for every Juan finding home.
Know more interesting stories shared by the other Juan for Fun challengers. Use the hashtag #JuanforFun2017 to see the stories and behind the scenes of the biggest, most exciting nationwide travel challenge of Cebu Pacific. This is co-presented by Smart Communications and Jack ’n Jill. JFF is also supported by Opposition camera phone, Use Express, and Boreas Gear, and endorsed by the Department of Tourism.
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