My last day in Bicol was spent with my family. We celebrated Father’s Day over a simple lunch in Embarcadero de Legazpi. This is one of the new commercial hubs located by the city’s port. The place is a refreshing take on the usual mall restos that us, Bicolanos, are so used to.

Meet my brother, Buba. When we were kids we look so much alike that some of our friends would call us twins. But no, we have a 1-year difference. 😀

Lunch was a feast but I’m posting here my favorite dishes. Don’t get us wrong. We ordered some veggies too, but the Pinakbet (mixed vegetables simmered in fish paste) is a disappointment. Such a sucker since we always order a plate when we dine out as a family. Anyway, the grilled pusit (squid) is on top of my list followed by the crispy sisig (various parts of a pig’s head chopped and seasoned with calamansi and pepper). The grilled blue marlin belly and liempo (pork belly) are also good.

And here are my folks, whom my siblings and I fondly call “The Masters”. Aside from Father’s Day, we also celebrated their 28th Wedding Anniversary. I admire my parents so much because they are simple-minded, humble people who are still very much in love. While growing up, I always wanted to experience the thing that they have. My mom would usually act so excited when he hears my dad arriving after work. And my dad would usually troll around and try to evade her before giving her a kiss. Mushy, I know, but it’s something that is really hard to find these days.

Funny that I don’t exactly know their love story. I’ll make it a point to ask them next time we have our family bonding time.

As I’ve said, my vacation in Bicol was short but very sweet. Just a few nights ago, I found myself crying like a kid because I was missing them so much. 😦

It’s really hard to have a post-vacation depression. I know. I just made that up. But it’s going to be true. Just you wait. Haha! 😉

I can’t wait for next Bicol vacation with them. For sure, it’ll be much longer. 🙂