Volunteer Story: Memories of Calayan

By Jo Barahan
 

May 2006. I have had this privilege to join a group of Add Up volunteers for the Center for Environmental Awareness and Education to conduct and environmental workshop and photo shoot a documentary on Philippine environment and culture in Calayan, one of the Babuyan group of Islands.

It took us several days to prepare for the workshop but it was all worth since it was spelled with fun.

Two days before the travel we were required to take anti-malarial drugs (prevention daw is better than cure :) ) Travel to Calayan likewise was long.. 11-12 hours bus ride to Aparri, then another 8 hours boat ride (on open seas) to the island.

Going back to Manila, we took a different route.. a boat ride to Claveria.. . and than a bus ride to Vigan. We made a stop-over here to bother a very good friend :) before proceeding to Manila.

Despite all the drama before, during and after the workshop, I could say this is one volunteer experience I would always remember. Why?

• The wanderlust that I am, this is my first time to travel far, far north.
• The performer that I am, I've had nerves straining my muscles because I am conducting a workshop for educators... though I hope it didn't show :)
• Of course, the opportunity to do my share inpromoting environmental education and awareness... (hmmm.... seriously...)
  
• The people of Calayan, the educators that we met and CEAE's partner for this event, ISLA... nice and beautiful
• The beauty of the island and its virginal beach... Magnifico.
  
• The people I travelled with... no dull moments even if we agree to disagree... :)
  
• The halu-halo after the workshop
• Brainstorming... plus the drama behind each session
  
• The fun at the beach
• The climb to the lighthouse
• The food.. :)
• etc., etc., etc.

Just see for yourself everything that is depicted on these videos. Related video, click here.

Tiresome... I'd say, a bit. It was fun to work and enjoy at the same time.

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