Friday, January 23, 2026

From Bicol to the World : How a Poor Bicolana Learned to Dream Big

From Bicol to the World: How My Travel Journey Truly Began


My journey into travel was not instant, glamorous, or easy. It was built slowly — through resignations, relocations, side hustles, and faith.

In 2013, I made a difficult decision: I resigned from my previous work at a travel agency. At that time, I didn’t have a clear plan. Like many Filipinos trying to survive, I took a practical job and worked as a MIS staff for Monde Nissin. It was honest work, but deep inside, I knew my heart was still connected to travel.
After some time, I resigned again — not because I failed, but because I was still searching for where I truly belonged.

In 2015, life took me to Lucena City. Starting over in a new place was challenging. I had no office, no big capital, and no strong connections. But something unexpected happened — people started asking me for help with their travel needs. Simple questions at first: bookings, requirements, advice. I helped them using the little knowledge and experience I had.

By 2016, what started as simple help became a side hustle. I decided to take things seriously and secured business permits, not yet as a full-time agency, but as a small step toward something bigger. I didn’t know it then, but that decision changed everything.

In 2018, I returned to Bicol, my home. This time, I came back with purpose. I opened my own travel agency office with the help of my Auntie, I put up my office on their garage area, driven not by money, but by a desire to serve people who were like me — ordinary Filipinos who thought travel was only for the rich or the lucky. 


The journey was still not easy. There were quiet days, doubts, and moments when I questioned myself. But I stayed. On this year also I got my first award from Golden Globe Annual Awards for Business Excellence and Outstanding Filipino Achievers, as Best Choice 2018 for Trusted Travel Agency ( Naga City)





In 2022, one of my proudest milestones happened — I officially received my DOT accreditation. That moment was more than a certificate. It was proof that consistency, patience, and faith truly pay off.

This blog is my way of sharing my real story — not just the successes, but the long road behind them. I want others to know that you don’t need to have everything figured out at the start. Sometimes, all you need is the courage to begin, even if it’s just a side hustle.

If you are someone who feels lost, starting small, or afraid to take the next step, I hope my story reminds you of this:

Progress is still progress, no matter how slow. And dreams grow when you don’t give up on them.

Welcome to From Bicol to the World 🌍

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