The Portrait in the Fortress

— A story of memory, silence, and a woman who chose to stay.

In the quiet coastal town of El Nido, Gabriel and Simon uncover more than ruins during their visit to the weathered walls of Fuerza de Sta. Isabel, a 17th-century Spanish fortress. Hidden within its stones lies a forgotten portrait—and the name of a woman lost to history.

Her name was Alina.

Not a saint. Not a muse.

A healer. A daughter. A woman who chose not to flee when fire came from both enemies and allies.

Through a series of letters, paintings, and long-buried memories, the boys piece together the story of Alina and Esteban, a forbidden love forged in the shadow of war, erased by empire, and rediscovered by chance. But as they uncover the truth, they come to realize: this is not just a love story. It’s a reckoning with the past—and a promise that some names will not be forgotten.

A haunting, emotional journey across time, The Portrait in the Fortress blends history, romance, and mystery into a deeply human tale—where art remembers what history tried to silence.

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White Sand. Red Veil. A wedding that was never meant to happen. A truth that refuses to stay buried.

When Gabriel and Simon arrive in Boracay for a friend’s beach wedding, they expect celebration—not secrets. But an anonymous call, a red veil washed ashore, and a name from the past lead them into the shadow of a tragedy.

Lara, the bride-to-be, begins to question everything when she learns about Celia—the woman who vanished just days before marrying the same man five years ago.

As the waves whisper the truth and memories rise like the tide, Gabriel and Simon race against time to uncover what really happened before another vow is spoken.

Set against the golden sands and haunting sunsets of Boracay, The Backpack Boys: White Sand, Red Veil is a gripping tale of love, betrayal, and the quiet power of standing up for those who were never heard.
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 Discover Albay: Where Legends Live and Volcanoes Breathe

Join us on a breathtaking journey through Albay — home of the world-famous Mayon Volcano and a land rich with culture, color, and adventure. From the scenic drive along Legazpi Boulevard to the stunning views from Mayon Skyline View Deck, this video captures the soul of Bicol's most iconic province. Whether you're chasing sunsets, tasting spicy Bicolano dishes, or diving into centuries of history, Albay is a destination that stirs the heart.
As featured in ESCAPADES – Albay Edition
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Legazpi Boulevard – Where the City Meets the Volcano
A stunning stretch where land, sea, and sky meet in perfect harmony — with Mayon Volcano standing in timeless grace. Whether you're strolling by the bay or capturing the perfect sunset, Legazpi Boulevard offers one of Albay’s most iconic views.
Legazpi City, Albay
Featured in the Albay Edition of ESCAPADES.
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When Gabriel and Simon arrive in El Nido, they're expecting nothing more than island tours, postcard sunsets, and a break from their usual mysteries. But when a young boy named Enzo disappears inside a cave during a routine tour, the trip takes a heartbreaking turn.

As the Backpack Boys join the frantic search, they’re forced to dive into treacherous waters, face their own fears, and confront something beyond explanation. In the shadows of the cavern, a quiet miracle unfolds — a moment of grace seen only through the eyes of a child, and carried forever in the heart of those who believe.

The Backpack Boys: The Lost Child is a soul-stirring journey through danger, faith, and the quiet ways we’re watched over when we least expect it. Set against the stunning backdrop of El Nido, this fifth installment in the beloved series is a tribute to friendship, family, and the unseen hand that guides us home.
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 “Read it. Dream it. Live it.

With Escapades Magazine, every page takes you closer to the Philippines you’ve always wanted to explore.
From secret coves to cultural treasures—this is where your journey begins.”
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 Travel with me to the breathtaking shores of El Nido, Palawan

From hidden lagoons to towering limestone cliffs — witness the magic captured in ESCAPADES Vol. 1, Issue 4 – February 2025.
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The Backpack Boys: Magayon is a sweeping tale of love, sacrifice, and destiny — a reimagining of the timeless legend that gave rise to one of the Philippines' most iconic wonders.

When Gabriel and Simon arrive in Albay, they expect to find only the beauty of Mount Mayon.

Instead, they are drawn into an ancient story whispered through the winds and etched in the very stones of Cagsawa.

Through the gentle voice of Nanay Lita, the boys discover the tragic love story of Magayon, a maiden as radiant as the morning sun, and Kalayo, a mysterious man born from fire.

Their love, fierce and forbidden, defies the bonds of duty and pride — but in a land ruled by honor and bloodlines, love alone is not enough.

As fate conspires to tear them apart, the earth itself rebels.

From the trembling ground to the furious skies, nature bears witness to promises made in secret and vows broken by force.

Set against the majestic and unforgiving backdrop of Mayon Volcano, Magayon is a moving story about choices, sacrifice, and the echoes of a love so powerful, even the mountain could not forget.

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Where history was sealed with blood.
On March 16, 1565, the legendary Sandugo—or Blood Compact—between Datu Sikatuna and Miguel López de Legazpi marked the first international treaty of friendship in the Philippines.
Set against a stunning Bohol sunset, this monument in Tagbilaran City honors a powerful moment of peace, alliance, and heritage.
Featured in ESCAPADES! Explore Bohol  

 

4 destinations. 1 travel dream.

From Bohol’s Chocolate Hills to Siargao’s waves,

Boracay’s white sand to El Nido’s secret lagoons

this is your sign to explore the Philippines.

Escapades Magazine is your ultimate travel guide.

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Book 3: The Backpack Boys: The Evening Maiden’s Promise

When Gabriel and Simon arrive on the sun-drenched shores of Siargao, they expect only adventure and discovery. But their journey quickly turns into something far more haunting—a search for the truth behind an ancient legend whispered by fishermen and guarded by the waves.

Long ago, a beautiful siren named Alon fell in love with a mortal fisherman, defying the sacred laws of her kind. She made him a promise under the stars—an eternal vow sealed by a mystical amulet. But promises in the realm of legends come at a heavy cost.

As Gabriel and Simon unravel the pieces left behind—a hidden cave, a forgotten cove, an old fisherman still clinging to memories—they are drawn deeper into a story where love, sacrifice, and the secrets of the sea blur the lines between past and present.

In the heart of Siargao, beneath the crashing surf and whispering winds, the Evening Maiden’s promise still lingers... waiting to be heard.

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