As part of my research, I embraced public transportation to immerse myself in the lifestyles of the community. In many areas, transport was scarce, and drivers would go out of their way to accommodate passengers who had been waiting long for a lift. I often found myself feeling nervous, especially on those narrow, steep roads where the cliffs loomed ominously on one side. With every twist and turn, I couldn’t shake the feeling that even a slight misstep could send us over the edge. Let’s just say, I prayed hard during those rides!

The photo was the jeepney ride to Songco, Lantapan, Bukidnon, Region 10 on August 6, 1999. It was here that I discovered one of my cherished songs, “Pong Pong Piyangaw,” in the Talaandig language. You can find this song in my book, Philippine Children’s Songs, Spoken Rhymes, and Games for Teaching, Book One.