Our Galarion Reunion in Gingoog

Lovely Shane Bruce 

Grade 12 - Sartre 

The late afternoon sun was beginning to set on May 23 when we left San Antonio at exactly 5:00 p.m. Excitement buzzed in the air, not just because we were traveling, but because this was no ordinary trip—it was the long-awaited Galarion Clan reunion. After about an hour on the road, we reached Barangay Mahogany in Butuan. My tita’s house became our first stop, a warm and familiar place where we spent the night telling stories and resting for the big day ahead.

By 4:00 a.m. the next morning, May 24, the whole household was already alive with movement. Bags were packed, last-minute items were checked, and the energy of anticipation filled the air. At 5:30, we boarded a tricycle to the terminal and caught our ride to Gingoog. The two-hour trip was long and a little tiring, but excitement kept us awake. When we finally arrived around 9:00 a.m., the journey felt worth it.

Our first stop in Gingoog was at Tita Bebe’s house. We had a quick meal, freshened up, and changed into more comfortable clothes before setting off again. My stepdad took the motorcycle with my mom and me on board, while my cousins and siblings followed in other vehicles.

When we finally reached Guxmana Restaurant in Barangay Civoleg, I was taken aback by how lovely the place was. The cool breeze welcomed us, brushing away the morning’s fatigue. The restaurant had everything you could ask for in a gathering place—a swimming pool that shimmered under the sun, a tidy garden filled with greenery, and a balcony that offered a refreshing view. It was, in every way, the perfect backdrop for our reunion.

As more relatives began to arrive, the once-spacious venue quickly filled with laughter, chatter, and the joy of reconnection. The crowd grew so large that many of us, including myself, my cousins, my brother, my stepdad, and my mom, ended up standing by the side just to have space. But no one seemed to mind. The sound of laughter, the clinking of utensils, and the heartfelt conversations created an atmosphere of pure joy.

By 5:00 in the afternoon, the reunion slowly wound down. We returned to Tita Bebe’s house, tired yet overflowing with happiness. The day may not have been perfect—the crowding proved a small challenge—but the warmth of family made it unforgettable.

Looking back, I realized that reunions aren’t about the venue, the food, or even the seats we do or don’t get. They are about people—our people. It’s about sharing stories, strengthening bonds, and creating memories that will stay with us long after the day is over. Our Galarion Clan reunion in Gingoog was more than just a trip; it was a reminder of the ties that keep us together, no matter the distance or the years apart.