The sun rose over Puerto Princesa International Airport on the morning of September 1.
"Sis, be careful in Manila, okay?" Zane said, her voice filled with concern.
"Don’t neglect yourself," she added, her eyes searching Zara's face for reassurance.
"Of course, Sis," Zara replied, her tone upbeat despite the circumstances.
"Child, please take care of yourself!" their mother implored, her voice tinged with motherly worry. "Stay with Tito Albert and Tita Marga while you're in Manila, alright?"
"Yes, Mom. I’m only going to Manila. I can handle myself," Zara said, adding a touch of humor to lighten the mood.
"Good," her mother said, pulling her into a tight embrace.
"Dad," Zara said, her voice quivering with emotion as she looked at her father.
After a final family hug, the speaker anno
