Against All Odds (and Weather Reports), I Went Outside

The weather forecast said Metro Manila was in for a horrendous typhoon. Plans were hanging by a thread, and honestly, I already assumed our photowalk would be cancelled. When the group announced that we were pushing through the next morning, I hesitated. A 6:30 AM call time? For someone who’s basically a vampire? The odds of me waking up were… let’s just say, low.

But the night before, I spontaneously invited my friends Lourd and Jovy to come with me. I definitely need social buffers when joining a photowalk full of strangers (haha). Luckily, they both said YES — which basically forced me to commit. Peer-pressure, but wholesome.

Because I am who I am, I ended up not sleeping at all. I literally watched my alarm ring while my eyes were already open. Then I got up, got ready, and somehow willed myself out of the house.

I rarely visit Manila anymore, especially after studying there about a decade ago. It always felt a little too… “real life” for me. But I’m glad I went. The morning weather was surprisingly pleasant. There was a bit of drizzle, but thankfully no typhoon-level downpour. We walked around for about three hours capturing photos centered around the theme REFLECTION — literally and metaphorically.

And honestly? I went home feeling fulfilled. I’m proud of myself for pushing through, trying something new, and stepping outside my comfort zone. Big thanks to my forever social-buffer friends for joining me even though they don’t even take photos. What a win for my “Proof I Go Outside” journey.

Quiapo Photowalk

Thank you to my friends Jovy and Lourd for coming with me! Love you guys!
(I took their prenup photos!)