Returning Home: Our Beach House in Butuan, Mindanao

After more than a year away, we finally made the journey back to our beach house in Mindanao — a place that’s given us both challenges and unforgettable memories.

Our trip began in Cebu at Mactan-Cebu International Airport. In less than an hour, we were touching down in Butuan City on an ATR 72-600 prop plane. Waiting for us was Marilou’s brother in a colorful jeepney, ready to bring us back to the province. Of course, no homecoming would be complete without a quick stop at Robinsons Supermarket Butuan to grab groceries for the days ahead.

The drive out to the village felt surreal. This was where we had lived for over a year and a half, where we built our beach house, and where we experienced firsthand the rhythm of province life in the Philippines. Returning reminded us of just how different it feels from the city — less convenience, more struggle, but also more peace and simplicity.

One of the most emotional moments was reuniting with our dog, Bamboo. It had been over a year since we’d last seen him, and we weren’t sure how he’d react. True to his nature, he growled at first — but that’s his way of showing excitement. Soon enough, he was wagging, jumping, and reminding us why he’s always been more than just a pet. For me, Bamboo has been like a service dog in the province, getting me through some tough times and reminding me of the bond we share.

Walking through the house and garden, it was heartwarming to see how the in-laws had maintained it in our absence. Plants had grown, the landscape had changed, but the house still stood as it was meant to be: a rest house by the beach, where we can slow down, breathe, and enjoy the life we built here.

In our next video, we’ll be sharing a detailed tour of the beach house — inside and out. If you’ve been following our story, don’t miss it!

👉 Watch the full playlist of our beach house build in Butuan here:
Beach House Playlist on YouTube