Destined, Destination

Chapter 1

LIBRA

"Welcome to the Temple of Leah." I motioned my hands to the entrance of the grandiose temple of Cebu.

Hindi ko na mabilang kung ilang beses na akong nakapunta sa lugar na ito, one of the perks of being a tourist guide, I guess! But even though I've been here for how many times? I'm still not used to the sensation it gave me.

I felt an overwhelming sense of love as I observed the various couples in this place. There were new relationships blooming: young couples, newly engaged pairs, recently married duos, and even long-standing relationships that had stood the test of time. It warmed my heart to see an elderly couple gazing at the temple with such adoration in their eyes. It was as if I caught a glimpse of my own parents through them, which I do hope I witnessed. Yet, amidst the love surrounding me, I couldn't shake off a feeling of longing. It was a longing for the loved ones I've lost, a hope that perhaps gazing at this temple would ease the loneliness. Because that's what I've been feeling for the past decade.

"Who's that woman?" A tourist pointed to the statue at the center.

"That's the late Leah Albino Adarna. She was the wife of Teodorico Soriano Adarna, who promised to keep all her belongings together under one roof. So, he built this temple and honored his wife by crowning her queen," I explained, gesturing towards the Golden Queen. The late Leah Albino Adarna was depicted in a 9-foot bronze statue, radiating grace and benevolence.

"Wow, that's the power of love, isn't it?" The Canadian tourist remarked to her friend casually.

"I hope I can find that kind of love, but I know it's rare. Good luck to me," she added cheerfully.

I continued to guide them through the site, pointing out various features and sharing interesting tidbits about the place.

Gosssh! feeling ko dudugo na itong ilong ko kaka-ingles. Jusko! 

The majority of our tourists at CONSTELLATION TRAVEL AGENCY come from other countries, so I don't have much of a choice.

Before delivering my final speech at the Temple of Love in Cebu, I made sure to hydrate myself by drinking plenty of water. As we approached the magnificent fountain adorning the entrance of the mausoleum, featuring three naked maiden statues and four seated horses.

I spoke with enthusiasm, "Many refer to this temple as the 'Taj Mahal' of Cebu because, like the Taj Mahal, it serves as a mausoleum for an enduring love that transcends even death. I sincerely hope that each one of us discover a love that provides a sense of home and security, even after death. Enjoy the remainder of your stay here in the Philippines, everyone, and have a safe journey home tomorrow. Thank you very much for choosing CONSTELLATION TRAVEL AGENCY." I respectfully bow my head and then I escorted them to their van.

nihatid ko ng tingin ang van na lulan ng mga turista bago ako naglakad pababa. Ilang minuto lang ang lumipas bago ko marinig ang busina ng sasakyan. Ngumiti ako nang malawak nang makilala ko ang kotse na papalapit. "On time huh!" Huminto ang sasakyan sa mismong harap ko, hinintay kong bumaba ang passenger window para kumpirmahin kung talaga bang kotse ni Sid ito at baka mamaya ibang tao ang nasa loob at ma-kidnap tayo.