Dear Pong Pagong,

I had so much fun swimming after you that you took me far away from my boat. I was so exhausted going back because I didn’t realize the distance I swam, with NO flippers to boot. I was so enamored chasing after you, jelly fish and plankton stings be damned! Now my legs are full of whips, lashes and battle scars that it will take months and several gluta IV shots to remove the marks.

Will I do it again? A definite YES as I rarely catch a glimpse of you. May the ocean be good to you, may humans take better care of you.

So long, Pong Pagong! We shall see each other soon. [photos courtesy of @nomadic_mike ]

Pawikan sighting: one of the giant turtles we spotted during our trip to Inaladelan Island in Palawan, Philippines

Pawikan lounging underwater in Inaladelan Island