DENIZENS

Off the coast of Bais City in Negros Oriental lies the playground of hundreds of dolphins who call these waters home. They are the denizens of the deep, frolicking near humans, sometimes doing a show worthy of ovation.

Some say dolphins are one of the smartest animals on the planet. Communication through language is inherent to them. For me, watching them in their natural habitat can be one of the most rewarding experiences.

While taking pictures, I noticed one dolphin breaking away from his pod and started to swim parallel to the boat, gliding gracefully through the waters as if part of it. "Come quick everyone, there is a dolphin underneath the boat."

This was not an unusual scene. Dolphins tend to swim near the boat and leave as abruptly as they enter. But this one seemed different. This dolphin was staying longer, quietly looking at all of us underneath Apollo's blazing sun.

"Why have you been following us for quite some time now?"

" Who is it you are seeking?"

"Is it I? What do you want?"

"Gaze upon me so that I may see into your spirit."

"Yes, I understand now..."

"Go forth! Oh, most gentle of creatures! Tell the Nereids I shall obey."