BORACAY — This week, we’re back on one of the world’s finest beaches — not just for the usual dose of sun and sea, but to celebrate a special milestone: the 60th anniversary of Centurion Security Agency, Inc.
Founded in 1965 by the late Jacinto “Jack” Mendez, Centurion has grown into one of the country’s leading security firms. To honor this diamond year, 60 Centurion staff members were flown in. For all but one, it was their first time stepping onto Boracay’s white sands — and for most, their first plane ride, from Cebu to Caticlan. What a reward: postcard sunsets and moments they’ll remember for life.
CENTURION. Leading the celebration was the family matriarch, Mrs. Malu Mendez; joined by Atty. Michelle Mendez-Palmares, Centurion’s president; my wife Jasmin, the company’s VP for Finance; Jake Mendez and Monette Desnacido.
This wasn’t just a company outing. It was a tribute. A thank-you. A heartfelt celebration of six decades of CSAI service — mixed with plenty of fun, sand, and laughter.
HAPPY PLACE. To me, Boracay is extra special. When our family lived in Bacolod, we visited long before the island became a major destination. Our first trip was in 1984 — back when there was no electricity, no resorts, no crowds.
Fast forward four decades later, Jasmin, Jana, and I have made Boracay an almost annual tradition. If there’s one place we call our “Happy Place,” this is it.
For this trip, we noticed that there were fewer crowds. The usual influx of tourists from China and Korea has dipped, lending the island a quieter, more relaxed vibe. And while Boracay’s once-wild party scene has mellowed, its sports spirit is as alive as ever.
SPORTS. Among the many activities, our favorite is Beach Tennis — fast, fun, and played 2-on-2 (on a volleyball-size court) with paddles and soft balls. We’re staying at our favorite spot, White House Beach Resort, and the court sits just steps away from the sea.
Another staple is Beach Volleyball. Every afternoon, groups gather to spike, dig, and block. Just the other day, we spotted national team standout Maddie Madayag casually joining a game with locals.
Frisbee is a constant sight — tossed by kids, teens, and playful grown-ups under the mid-morning sun.
Water sports? They’re everywhere. Paddleboarding. Kayaking. Jet-skiing. Windsurfing. Kite-surfing. Parasailing. Years ago, we took on the Flying Fish and Banana Boat.
We also once rode ATVs (with Jake) up the mountain; and for the more adventurous, there’s mountain biking and trail hiking through the island’s interior.
But for us, the best sports here are the ones that come free.
Running is a sunrise ritual. White Beach stretches four kms. — perfect for an 8K out-and-back. Jasmin and I walk it each morning, barefoot on the cool, soft sand.
And of course, the most timeless sport: swimming. No gear. No schedule. Just you, the powder-fine sand and the calm Boracay sea.