It's been a shameful stereotype to recognize Mindanao as the most dangerous place in the Philippines. I hated the media hype that triggered that mindset. It was too unfair to have that generalization especially for those who haven't even visited that part and spreading destructive information.
It was two years ago when I set my foot once again in Mindanao to visit it rare parts also known as the most dangerous place because this is where the wars took place or is still happening. I was fortunate to spent almost a week there to learn more the beauty of the place, culture and people. My first day was totally unforgettable. When I arrived at the airport, the person whose suppose to pick me up won't be able to make it so I had to commute by myself to reach my destination. I was freaking out by then knowing that my first visit in Cotabato was during the wedding of my previous boss and we were really given an extreme security by then. I felt it was exaggerated or maybe I'm just not so familiar with the place. Our direct flight to Cotabato City was diverted to Davao City which would require us to take a long road trip. We were asked to text every time we reached a certain destination and discouraged to speak to each other while were travelling.
As my hear pounds so fast as I figure out how to reach my destination adding-up the tension that I can't speak their native language, I'm scared to death, my parents are not aware of my mission trip then.
Comments
Post a Comment