Summer Blast 2025: Bantayan Island with My Mini-Me, Friends, and a Side of Sunrise Miles

Summer 2025 was the reset I didn’t know I desperately needed. Our two-day escape to Bantayan Island with my daughter and friends turned into a little slice of paradise—filled with sunshine, seafood, saltwater, and sweet moments I’ll hold close for a long time.

🏃‍♀️ Sunrise Jog & Fun Run Prep

Yes, I know it’s a vacation—but this Queen Mother is also a runner-in-training! With the 16km IPI Fun Run on the horizon, I managed to squeeze in an early morning jog. The cool breeze, the calm roads, and that glowing Bantayan sunrise made each step worth it. It wasn’t just a workout—it was a moment of peace, strength, and presence.

🚲 Bicycle Rides & My Proud Mom Walk

Here’s a cute little twist: I rented a bicycle for my daughter, and while she pedaled around joyfully, I strolled beside her—because plot twist… this mama doesn’t know how to ride a bike! 😂 But hey, we made it work. She looked so free and confident riding along the coast, and I was just as happy power-walking next to her, snapping photos, and cheering her on like the supportive walking queen that I am.

🏊‍♀️ Early Swims & Beachside Bonding at Panyang Resort

We stayed at Panyang Resort, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. After my jog, we jumped into the day with a refreshing early swim. Just me and my little mermaid, soaking in the calm sea and sunshine before the island woke up. Those moments—no distractions, no screens, just the two of us—are the ones I live for.

🎣 A First-Time Fisher in the Family

One of the most heartwarming highlights? My daughter got to try fishing for the first time using her brand-new rod! She was so focused, excited, and adorably serious about it. Whether the fish bit or not didn’t matter—what mattered was seeing her light up while trying something new and getting that hands-on island experience.

🍽️ Last Night Feast at Kota Beach

On our final night, we headed to Kota Beach for a beachfront dinner with friends, and wow, did Bantayan deliver! Fresh seafood grilled to perfection, toes in the sand, the sky turning pink above us, and endless laughter around the table. It was the perfect way to wrap up our trip: full hearts, full bellies, and memories made under the stars.

💬 Final Thoughts

This wasn’t just a beach trip. It was a celebration of slow living, early morning goals, laughter with friends, and unforgettable bonding with my daughter. Whether I was jogging, walking next to her bike, swimming at sunrise, or cheering on her fishing attempts—I was fully present. And that’s what made it magic.

So here’s to more escapes like this—where we may not have it all together, but we have the moments that matter most.

Until the next sun-kissed chapter,
xoxo,

Sassy Cebuana
Queen Mother of Cebu 2024 – Fortitude, proud walking mama, seafood lover, and forever beach babe