Baguio.
I first went here last 1988. I was part of a group of young people on a Church mission. I had my first picture on the Lion's head. Also on that picture was a lady who would later become my wife.
The next trip was a few months later. Our group stayed on the home of a Baguio resident who would later become a very close friend, and more than twenty years later, become more than just a close friend.
I had several trips later on over the years, mostly during summer (one happened during Christmas), including some work related seminars, but these were not as memorable as the first two trips.
Two years ago I had another seminar, and for the first time my close friend gave me a tour of the city. It was one of the happiest moments of my life - cut short by inclement weather that forced me to return to the lowlands ahead of schedule.
Last week I was back again, but this time with mixed feelings. I had another picture at the Lion's Head. When I texted my wife about it, I commented about our first picture 25 years ago. We intend to go back here and have a picture, just the two of us (or even with the kids) for old times sake.
But why mixed feelings? One week before this last trip, I texted my close friend about my upcoming trip. The messages were alright, and I was looking forward to meeting her again. But one day before the trip, her phone number suddenly went dead. I had no idea as to why.
The stay in Baguio was pure heartache. I know her address, but I couldn't go there. I didn't know where she worked because she wouldn't tell me. And worst of all, she deleted her FB account
The trip back to Manila two years ago was bittersweet. Now it is simply bitter. The weather in Manila is warm, but for me it is still Baguio weather - wet, dreary and cold.
Baguio. This is a place full of memories. But maybe the lyrics of the Barbra Streisand song are just so prominent in my mind. "Some good things never last."
Baguio. Adieu.
