Thank you so much for watching friends! This was a special one for me, and I'm so grateful to be able to share it with you all! See you guys next week from Iloilo City! As always, until then, come say hi on Instagram - instagram.com/tourist2townie/
I love how their faces all light up and became really helpful after you told them that is your grandfather. You can tell they have so much respect for the American forces, they even all came out to help you locate the place. Did they ask you for a copies of that pictures?
This was so great to watch this morning for fathers day in Australia. I have my 4 kids running around me and watching this and the pride you must have felt for the man you respect. As always Gareth, great videos and I can't wait to see the rest of your trip!
@@GarethLeonard thanks for visiting our beloved Cebu. 'hope you can come back soon and explore deep south. more adventures like swimming with whale sharks,,canyoneering,,etc.
@@GarethLeonard You have an amazing personality with great content its showing and reflecting on your Vlogs. I got you on my newsfeed and stumble on your videos now I am your new avid fans thank you much for sharing us. May Almighty God Bless you more with good health so you can continue inspiring new viewers. Cheers!🥰🤩😇👍🙏🇵🇭🇵🇭🇵🇭
Being that my late grandfather and his brothers are US veterans as well during WW2, I felt very emotional watching you retrace your grandfather's footsteps. It was a very difficult time back then and they made such unbelievable sacrifices. Salute to all WW2 veterans.
I was born in Cebu but i moved to Alaska, USA when i was 5. My grandma is the mayor of Alcantara, right by Moalboal. Everytime i watch your videos i get nostalgia and i frickin cry 😂♥️
Wow. It's so incredible that you found, and got to stand in, the very spot your grandfather stood eight decades ago. The fact that so many of the employees there took the time to help you on your mission made me emotional! Such a powerful moment. Your positive energy and passion and genuine enthusiasm for what you do is so infectious. That, combined with the level of kindness and respect you show for the people you meet, their food, their culture, and their traditions is what has quickly made you one of my favorite travel vloggers. Much love and respect to you, man!
oh my! this is actually the first time i cried while watching a travel vlog! Thats a nice mission Gareth! Tell your grandpa all your experience! Show him how Phils is now. And thank him for me. Because of the heroes of the WWII were enjoying what we have right now!
This is the very special reason why the United States of America and the Philippines will always be friends. Thank you to your Grandpa for his service to help liberate the Philippines from the Japanese Imperial Army.
Gareth, congrats on following the foot steps of your grandfather and recreating moments of his favorite places in the Philippines. Thank you for putting an even more personal side of you on this video, and thanks to your grandfather for his military service and for helping to liberate the Philippines during the War.
Finding the place where your grandfather stood and had a photo more than half a century ago in a foreign land is awesome but it gave you another feeling difficult to explain because he came to join a war. Behind that beautiful photo is the cry of filipinos,american and japanese soldiers killing one another. We all long for lasting peace but that can only happen when we respect one another. I thank you, sir for your granfather’s coming to visit.
I’m from Cebu & I hope you had a agood time visiting our place. The story with your grandad touched me, which is what I liked most in this video. I’m sure it’s a torrent of emotions when you went where your grandad used to stand & I’m happy to see you had the oppoetunity to be where he was.
Wow, I was impressed by the fact that u visit the exact place where the pic of ur grandfather was taken.Back then the place looks so beautiful and it was kinda clean.
Truly amazing! Am in awe how you've discovered and got right at the actual spot where your grandfather posed for a souvenir photo (circa 1945) taken in front of the now Cebu City capitol bldg., while he was stationed there as a soldier shortly before he went to Okinawa base. That was really emotional and nostalgic...like feeling for him that sort of attachment. That was just an awesome feeling!!!
You’re a lovely man & a grandson... you made your grandpa so happy & proud 🥰 You’re always going to be welcome in the most humble loving family-oriented island in the world. Stay safe & strong.
*If vlogging would still be around for the next 50 years or so, im definitely sure, your son or your great grand son would do the same just as you did to your grand father folk... you really set the bar ...generation to generation..*
i WAS impressed of your love and respect to your grandfather..I maybe late in watching this but I am presently moved of your sincere vlogged I ever watched. Thank you for choosing our country as one of the best place you explored. Much love and God bless
I think this is the heart of your travel to experience the place where your grandfather stood before, to saw the exact place and to feel what he fight before is a real treasure.
Hi, Clark Kent, your friend, Bruce Wayne, he asked me if I could do him a favor. He told me to tell you that your grammar is wrong. It's "to see", not "to saw".
Gareth, your grandpa must be happy to see you visited where he has been in 1945. We can tell that you are about to cry being in the same spot where he was. Thanks for sharing this emotional video about your connections in that part of Philippines. God bless.
You’re a very good story-teller. Your g-father must be smiling when you went to those locations in Cebu. A friend of mine here in the US his g-father was with Gen. McArthur when he landed in Leyte, also in the Visayas during WW II. I hope he can do what you did, visit the places in Leyte, Phil’s, where his g-father was. So much memories in Cebu- that’s where I went to school in college. Thanks for this great story!
Cant lie, ya just made me cry a bit. From a 21 year veteran, it's amazing to see family making such an effort to follow those who came before, even if in a different way. Thanks for sharing this incredibly personal and emotional journey and tribute.
Woah! Your grandpa has a great heart of reminiscing his memories thru you. Awesome guy passing his love of Cebu,Philippines. You have a good heart...enjoy your travels with passion.
Imagine 80 years from now in 2098 your grandson would make the same trek to the Philippines and take a photo of himself where you once stood. THAT would be crazy, right?!
It's a wonderful thought that a country that is much less heard of the world is a connection you and your grandfather both share. I hope you find love and warmth the same way your grandfather did in the Philippines.
You made cry on this video. I remember my grandfather. He was a ph airforce pilot and base commander in Mactan. He was a non-stop storyteller about the war and ghost.
I think the words you were looking for were meant to express how grateful you were to be able to honor your grandfather in that way. For him to survive one of humanity’s darkest hours and be able to watch his seed grow, get out there in the world and retrace some of his footsteps in a world he helped make better.....As an old man, there is no greater honor.
Oh, my! You are standing at the same spot your grandpa was standing in WWII. Too many strong emotions involved here, and it deeply touched my heart. This is incredibly remarkable! _and you have a similar smile as your grandpa...
I’ve watched so many travel vloggers for years now, and you are the most genuine travel vlogger there is so far. I wish your videos were longer. You are a delight to watch!
@@TheEverCuriousJen don't listen to nasty people like that. They purposely watch videos just to write inane comments. You are beautiful and I don't understand why he is comparing you to chucky.
How touching and sentimental, you pay homage and tribute to your grandpa by being in Cebu and in the exact place he was back then when he was about your age. It was like a mission accomplished, good job. Thanks for sharing vid, thumbs up.
It’s sort of a tribute to your grandfather, retracing a sweet reminder of the passing of time. Thank you for sharing vlog. Go! forth discover yourself to travel.
Dude that is so awesome that you found spot where your grandpa took those pictures. That something special knowing that your grandpa had a connection to where you are right now. Stuff special memories are made.
one of the most touching videos that I have seen on youtube, thank you for honoring the military and your family, I have been to Cebu 4x and going back soon, the Filipinos have always been friendly and very helpful...Great video!!!
those pictures, your grandpas' war photo & yours, seemed like a happy conclusion for your personal mission to see those places in person.. I'm happy for you, it made your cebu journey more meaningful
This was something else man. Who would've thought way back 1945 up to the present year.. just mind blown. I can only imagine how happy he'll be once he sees those recreated photos. Big props to your grandpa for his service and contribution for claiming the freedom we now enjoy today. Thanks for sharing your experience.
I know just how you feel as my dad was a Lt. stationed way ahead of MacArthur's return. He lived in the jungles, helping to communicate with the resistance movement. Being a farm boy far away from home and a Catholic, he fell in love with the Filipino people. And when he did mention his service, which was only thru asking him repeatedly about his experience, he'd say, that the Pinoys he fought along side with, who made the tuba/jungle juice, and taught them how to survive in the jungles were fierce fighters and friends. As he was wounded twice in his years of service, he credits his Filipino friends with making it back home. The awesome experience of walking in my fathers footsteps, paying respect to his fallen friends in the Taguig American cemetery, the unbelievable carnage, the sacrifice these men and women made leaves me awe struck. And as my 1st of a doxen trips was to see the lands he mentioned, it's the spirit of such friendly people that keeps me coming back for more. and if it wasn't for my kids and grand-kids, would move their permanently.
Sharing your moments where your lolo was (here in Cebu during WW2 )was something in your heart to feel his memories. The past n the present site. What a nostalgic history.
Wow this is amazing story about your grandad, its so emotional. The city is now completely different and to see the picture of your grandad when he was in Philippines.
my grandpa was in the service too in WWII i can tell the feeling that you feel were feelings of fullfilment... thank you for visiting our place... God bless and more videos to come... MABUHAY KA!!!
Goodness. I chanced upon this video and saw a familiar structure: the Cebu Capitol. I recognized it because my grandfather was one of its architects. He was one of first pensionados (I'm sure you'll research that) and studied in the USA. He came back to be the government architect during the Quezon administration. So if anyone wonders why our government buildings look like old US government buildings, it's because my grandfather used them as inspiration. It's not a coincidence that the Cebu Capitol building looks like the Capitol in DC.
Your Lolo is the architect, Juan M. Arellano. He designed the Cebu Capitol with Pedro Siochi. Other Arellano designed buildings are the Metropolitan theater and the Manila Post Office.
Thanks to your grandfather for his bravery just to depend our country and thank you for hugging our culture..we filipino are so blessed to have you in our country..thankyou
That’s so incredible that you got to visit the places where your grandfather went in WWII! Even better that you recreated his photo! It was so nice to see this personal story in your video! Definitely one of the best parts of traveling for sure!
This is like watching you travel the Time Tunnel in search of your grandpa's eventful past. Truly emotional segment. Man, you are one special travel vlogger. Just subscribed. Greetings from Arizona!
exactly amazing.. to think your grandfather was there and more decades after you were there to witnessed that so much has changes and to relate the feeling.
I'm from Cebu... Just saw your video WE FEEL YOUR JOY.. And while watching it specially on the part where u are standing on the garden where ur grand father stands in the photo.. tears in my eyes.. I would like to say THANK YOU FOR WHAT YOUR GRAND FATHER HAS DONE DURING THE LAST WAR ...TO HELP PHILIPPINES HAVE ITS FREEDOM AGAIN.. GREAT RESPECT TO YOUR GRAND FATHER.. MAY U BE BLESSED AND YOUR FAMILY ALWAYS. THANK YOU FOR SHOWING THE WHOLE WORLD HOW BEAUTIFUL IS THE PHILIPPINES . THANK U.💙💙💙 I'm subscribing ur channel now. Great vlog... just perfect. 👌
Oh that is awesome, i felt very emotional watching the part of your grandfather’s photo and the memories it brings to you right in that moment that you were there. I am a Cebuana and that’s why I know all those places you are showing. Thank you for your awesome videos.
What a.beautiful story you had about your.grandfather ! He is like a hero ! You are very lucky you keep that photo for all those years ! Amazing story !
The capitol is special for me.. this is where I am working.. I happen to know the people whom you talked to...hehe that's awesome... I'm following a lot of vloggers but you are the most genuine and articulate...which I like... may you have more vlogs sir
Wow! I’m teary just watching this. Awesome that you get the chance to see the spot where your grandfather was during the war. Love history! Good job! 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼❤️❤️❤️
Awww watching this 2yrs after your visit and I’m touched by your love and respect for your grandpa. Is he still around? I see you continue to tour the world. Stay safe!
WOW, it is like mission accomplished, 1945 was so long ago when your grandfather’s photo was taken, a lot of things changed, it was really interesting video, I like the mouthwatering lechon as well, I enjoyed the tour, thank you very much, massive thumbs up, more video please, MABUHAY
I haven't seen much of all your videos. But this is probably my favorite one as it you tried to recreate you grandfather's time in Cebu. Very emotional. I can tell he means a lot to you. Thank you to your grandfather's service in the navy.
Nice of you guys to visit our country. Hope you did not encounter any unpleasant experience during your tour. Have a safe travel going back to your point of origin.
Thank you for sharing that special connection you have for our country. Thank you for the sacrifice and service that your grandfather gave to make our present time peaceful and safe for us. We are so lucky we never experienced the hardships their generation had to go through...
I am also working on a documentary about my great grandfather and retraced his steps as a leprologist. Went to Culion Island a month ago and like what you said, i was overwhelmed with emotions when i saw his photos taken in the 1920's and took photos at the same spot where he stood. Hope to meet you! I am a travel blogger also 😊
Hi Gareth, I'm your new subscriber here in the US. I ran across your video being in Cebu. I'm from Cebu and I just want to say thanks so much to your grandfather's service. I grew up hearing my grandfather telling stories about the American soldiers. It was a mix of fun and sad stories. But overall he always had a great admiration for the American soldiers. Sadly he passed away few years ago. Your video is very touching. God bless you and stay safe there in the Philippines.
How about feeling , Connected. Your Grandfather's past instilled something in you, and you are carrying the future that he might have hoped and wholeheartedly served for. so as you stood there in those two special spots, you and you're Grandfather were together again. I'm grateful for you sharing this.
To be honest, this video make my eyes watery. Feel happy to see you can find the most precious memories in your life. You are blessed @Gareth Leonard . Love to see more videos from you.
What a video! It really touched me the way you explain the feeling of being there so personal so special so magical. We all have missions to accomplish, and see yours really connects ❤️❤️❤️
This is definitely a special video. Did you post about this on your IG stories? I feel like I’d seen this before or a very similar story. My parents are from PH and I’ve been able to go back with them several times, each of them visiting different parts of their past younger life across the country much like this video shows. What a cool encounter! I’m sure your grandpa is just as excited as you were.
Imagine standing at the spot where your grandpa stood some 70 or more years ago! It's quite a journey of a lifetime! I do admire men in uniform. They do a great service to their country! This vlog is really something!
I like that you are really diving into the Philippine culture. You're right when you said it's a bit sad when one country explored and colonized another country because they do change the culture. I couldn't help but think what the Philippines would look like if we've been left alone to retain our original culture. Also, Banana Cue, is one of my favorite street food so it made me smile that you like it. Excellent video! Thank you.
What a wonderful way to validate and empower memories of a special man that you love and admire so much! What a great addition to your journey there in the Philippines! Thanks for the great video, and for sharing this experience!
i think the appropriate word that escaped you while you were feeling emotional about standing exactly where your grandpa stood 73 years ago was "Serendipitous."
Gareth, what an emotional trip. How wonderful the people were so helpful so you could locate the spot your grandfather stood. I understand your emotions and feelings of accomplishment in being able to accomplish this task. What a keepsake to have a photo of you standing where he stood!
To stand on the very same spots where your progenitor stood 73 years ago is indeed an awesome experience. I wouldn't be surprised if you somehow felt connected to your grandfather, albeit for a brief moment, when you finally realized that you both were on the same place somewhere in time.
Such a great adventure and very emotional indeed, love your passion for travel and much love from the Philippines 😍 💖 🌹, got teary-eyed with the before and after photo of you and your grandfather, which I'm sure got you teary as well after you saw the transition, but after seeing the lechon cebu, this got me wailing hungry 😂😂😂
Would have been nice if you had a local with you to help ease you in areas like the local market. 😊 On a personal note, it is nice of you to go through that little "mission" of yours to trace back the locations where your of grandfather's photos were taken. I didn't expect you had that connection to our country 🇵🇭 through your grandfather. Very nice vlog! 👍😊
Hello from California! but born in Cebu. Another great video! I'm grateful for your videos because it pulls my heart strings. My parents have passed but never forgotten. So much sacrifice. So much history.
Very moving! Can’t help but feel the emotions you went thru being at the exact same place your Grandfather was at in 1945.. We appreciate his service and appreciate you sharing. Cheers!
Thank you so much for watching friends! This was a special one for me, and I'm so grateful to be able to share it with you all!
See you guys next week from Iloilo City! As always, until then, come say hi on Instagram - instagram.com/tourist2townie/
Gareth Leonard you are beautiful in and out :)
I love how their faces all light up and became really helpful after you told them that is your grandfather. You can tell they have so much respect for the American forces, they even all came out to help you locate the place. Did they ask you for a copies of that pictures?
Gareth Leonard I got a goosebumps. 😯👍👌
Gareth Leonard ,
Thanks for sharing this special video, very cool to be in the same spot your grandfather stood!
This was so great to watch this morning for fathers day in Australia. I have my 4 kids running around me and watching this and the pride you must have felt for the man you respect. As always Gareth, great videos and I can't wait to see the rest of your trip!
I saw your eyes, it was teary. I feel your emotion when you remembered your grandpa long long time ago..
It was tough keeping it together enough to film. As soon as I turned the camera off, I lost it.
@@GarethLeonard thanks for visiting our beloved Cebu. 'hope you can come back soon and explore deep south. more adventures like swimming with whale sharks,,canyoneering,,etc.
@@GarethLeonard my respect to your grandfather and thank him so much for his service in ww2,,
Very awesome..
@@GarethLeonard You have an amazing personality with great content its showing and reflecting on your Vlogs. I got you on my newsfeed and stumble on your videos now I am your new avid fans thank you much for sharing us. May Almighty God Bless you more with good health so you can continue inspiring new viewers. Cheers!🥰🤩😇👍🙏🇵🇭🇵🇭🇵🇭
Being that my late grandfather and his brothers are US veterans as well during WW2, I felt very emotional watching you retrace your grandfather's footsteps. It was a very difficult time back then and they made such unbelievable sacrifices. Salute to all WW2 veterans.
Well said!! Thanks for watching man!
I was born in Cebu but i moved to Alaska, USA when i was 5. My grandma is the mayor of Alcantara, right by Moalboal. Everytime i watch your videos i get nostalgia and i frickin cry 😂♥️
Wow. It's so incredible that you found, and got to stand in, the very spot your grandfather stood eight decades ago. The fact that so many of the employees there took the time to help you on your mission made me emotional! Such a powerful moment. Your positive energy and passion and genuine enthusiasm for what you do is so infectious. That, combined with the level of kindness and respect you show for the people you meet, their food, their culture, and their traditions is what has quickly made you one of my favorite travel vloggers. Much love and respect to you, man!
oh my! this is actually the first time i cried while watching a travel vlog! Thats a nice mission Gareth! Tell your grandpa all your experience! Show him how Phils is now. And thank him for me. Because of the heroes of the WWII were enjoying what we have right now!
Really??come and bring your grandpa one day,,i think we should thank to them also.
This is the very special reason why the United States of America and the Philippines will always be friends. Thank you to your Grandpa for his service to help liberate the Philippines from the Japanese Imperial Army.
Gareth, congrats on following the foot steps of your grandfather and recreating moments of his favorite places in the Philippines. Thank you for putting an even more personal side of you on this video, and thanks to your grandfather for his military service and for helping to liberate the Philippines during the War.
Finding the place where your grandfather stood and had a photo more than half a century ago in a foreign land is awesome but it gave you another feeling difficult to explain because he came to join a war. Behind that beautiful photo is the cry of filipinos,american and japanese soldiers killing one another. We all long for lasting peace but that can only happen when we respect one another. I thank you, sir for your granfather’s coming to visit.
Wow! a lot of history and emotions. Great respect to your grandfather for his service and helping our the Philippines.... Mabuhay!!!
Thank you!
I’m from Cebu & I hope you had a agood time visiting our place. The story with your grandad touched me, which is what I liked most in this video. I’m sure it’s a torrent of emotions when you went where your grandad used to stand & I’m happy to see you had the oppoetunity to be where he was.
Wow, I was impressed by the fact that u visit the exact place where the pic of ur grandfather was taken.Back then the place looks so beautiful and it was kinda clean.
Thank you! You are right, a lot has changed in Cebu City since those days!
Truly amazing! Am in awe how you've discovered and got right at the actual spot where your grandfather posed for a souvenir photo (circa 1945) taken in front of the now Cebu City capitol bldg., while he was stationed there as a soldier shortly before he went to Okinawa base. That was really emotional and nostalgic...like feeling for him that sort of attachment. That was just an awesome feeling!!!
You’re a lovely man & a grandson... you made your grandpa so happy & proud 🥰 You’re always going to be welcome in the most humble loving family-oriented island in the world. Stay safe & strong.
You just made me cry. Thank you for your grandfather's service. Safe travels. God Bless!
*If vlogging would still be around for the next 50 years or so, im definitely sure, your son or your great grand son would do the same just as you did to your grand father folk... you really set the bar ...generation to generation..*
That is a special moment when the picture of Your Grandfather
Morphed into you in the same place in the same Pose. !
Thank you, it was truly a special day!
I won’t be surprise if your future son or grandson will do the same.
i WAS impressed of your love and respect to your grandfather..I maybe late in watching this but I am presently moved of your sincere vlogged I ever watched. Thank you for choosing our country as one of the best place you explored. Much love and God bless
Oh my god its amazing to know that your grandpa been there before
Oh my god, I just balled my eyes out... I’m so happy for you. Imagine standing at the very spot where grandpa did in 1945... can’t stop crying.💕
I think this is the heart of your travel to experience the place where your grandfather stood before, to saw the exact place and to feel what he fight before is a real treasure.
Hi, Clark Kent, your friend, Bruce Wayne, he asked me if I could do him a favor. He told me to tell you that your grammar is wrong. It's "to see", not "to saw".
Gareth, your grandpa must be happy to see you visited where he has been in 1945. We can tell that you are about to cry being in the same spot where he was. Thanks for sharing this emotional video about your connections in that part of Philippines. God bless.
You’re a very good story-teller. Your g-father must be smiling when you went to those locations in Cebu. A friend of mine here in the US his g-father was with Gen. McArthur when he landed in Leyte, also in the Visayas during WW II. I hope he can do what you did, visit the places in Leyte, Phil’s, where his g-father was. So much memories in Cebu- that’s where I went to school in college. Thanks for this great story!
Cant lie, ya just made me cry a bit. From a 21 year veteran, it's amazing to see family making such an effort to follow those who came before, even if in a different way. Thanks for sharing this incredibly personal and emotional journey and tribute.
A very down to earth and humble person. Enjoy your vacation in Philippines sir . Paying tribute to your grandfather was nostalgic :)
Woah! Your grandpa has a great heart of reminiscing his memories thru you. Awesome guy passing his love of Cebu,Philippines. You have a good heart...enjoy your travels with passion.
It's so cool that you got to stand in the same spot as your grandfather did... 80 years later.
Crazy, right!?
Imagine 80 years from now in 2098 your grandson would make the same trek to the Philippines and take a photo of himself where you once stood. THAT would be crazy, right?!
@@huetuber1204
So, the time span is always 80 years?
yeah it should be 80 yrs old old or else... 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤔
Amristar, yes.
It's a wonderful thought that a country that is much less heard of the world is a connection you and your grandfather both share. I hope you find love and warmth the same way your grandfather did in the Philippines.
You made cry on this video. I remember my grandfather. He was a ph airforce pilot and base commander in Mactan. He was a non-stop storyteller about the war and ghost.
I think the words you were looking for were meant to express how grateful you were to be able to honor your grandfather in that way. For him to survive one of humanity’s darkest hours and be able to watch his seed grow, get out there in the world and retrace some of his footsteps in a world he helped make better.....As an old man, there is no greater honor.
Bless up. Thank you for his service. I retired in 2002.
Thank you for your service!
Hi Richie rich... Thank you for your service !!! GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
sorry service for what?
FilAm here. Thanking your family for his service! God bless the 🇺🇸 and the Philippines 🇵🇭.
Thank you for serving us arm force,phil-am here too,because of people like you we are free
Oh, my! You are standing at the same spot your grandpa was standing in WWII. Too many strong emotions involved here, and it deeply touched my heart. This is incredibly remarkable! _and you have a similar smile as your grandpa...
I’ve watched so many travel vloggers for years now, and you are the most genuine travel vlogger there is so far. I wish your videos were longer. You are a delight to watch!
Thank you so much Jen! That means the world to me.
You look scary. You remind me of Chucky.
Amristar Oh, yeah? Let’s see what you look like. 😊
@@TheEverCuriousJen
Chucky
@@TheEverCuriousJen don't listen to nasty people like that. They purposely watch videos just to write inane comments. You are beautiful and I don't understand why he is comparing you to chucky.
How touching and sentimental, you pay homage and tribute to your grandpa by being in Cebu and in the exact place he was back then when he was about your age. It was like a mission accomplished, good job. Thanks for sharing vid, thumbs up.
It’s sort of a tribute to your grandfather, retracing a sweet reminder of the passing of time. Thank you for sharing vlog. Go! forth discover yourself to travel.
Thanks for watching Dennis, this is definitely a tribute to my grandfather!
I just admired foreign people who came to our place and love our culture.. I feel the excitement when you reached the capitol.. GODBLESS dude!
Dude that is so awesome that you found spot where your grandpa took those pictures. That something special knowing that your grandpa had a connection to where you are right now. Stuff special memories are made.
Absolutely Ryan, it was a crazy feeling! Thanks for watching.
one of the most touching videos that I have seen on youtube, thank you for honoring the military and your family, I have been to Cebu 4x and going back soon, the Filipinos have always been friendly and very helpful...Great video!!!
those pictures, your grandpas' war photo & yours, seemed like a happy conclusion for your personal mission to see those places in person.. I'm happy for you, it made your cebu journey more meaningful
This was something else man. Who would've thought way back 1945 up to the present year.. just mind blown.
I can only imagine how happy he'll be once he sees those recreated photos. Big props to your grandpa for his service and contribution for claiming the freedom we now enjoy today. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Very cool stuff about your grandfather. I was in the Navy for 20 years -- never visited the Philipines though. It's on my list.
I know just how you feel as my dad was a Lt. stationed way ahead of MacArthur's return. He lived in the jungles, helping to communicate with the resistance movement. Being a farm boy far away from home and a Catholic, he fell in love with the Filipino people. And when he did mention his service, which was only thru asking him repeatedly about his experience, he'd say, that the Pinoys he fought along side with, who made the tuba/jungle juice, and taught them how to survive in the jungles were fierce fighters and friends. As he was wounded twice in his years of service, he credits his Filipino friends with making it back home.
The awesome experience of walking in my fathers footsteps, paying respect to his fallen friends in the Taguig American cemetery, the unbelievable carnage, the sacrifice these men and women made leaves me awe struck. And as my 1st of a doxen trips was to see the lands he mentioned, it's the spirit of such friendly people that keeps me coming back for more. and if it wasn't for my kids and grand-kids, would move their permanently.
Sharing your moments where your lolo was (here in Cebu during WW2 )was something in your heart to feel his memories. The past n the present site. What a nostalgic history.
Wow this is amazing story about your grandad, its so emotional. The city is now completely different and to see the picture of your grandad when he was in Philippines.
i hope you had good memories like your grandfather did when he visited cebu... God bless... enjoy ur trip around the philippines
my grandpa was in the service too in WWII i can tell the feeling that you feel were feelings of fullfilment... thank you for visiting our place... God bless and more videos to come... MABUHAY KA!!!
Thank you very much!
Man, my heart goes to you! Your love for your grandpa is awesome! You got me teary eyed! 👍
This made me emotional. It was surreal seeing the pictures and experiencing it for yourself. It just shows how wonderful your family brought you up.
You traveled so many places but the picture of your grandfather that put tears in my eyes
Mine too Alexies!
Goodness. I chanced upon this video and saw a familiar structure: the Cebu Capitol. I recognized it because my grandfather was one of its architects. He was one of first pensionados (I'm sure you'll research that) and studied in the USA. He came back to be the government architect during the Quezon administration. So if anyone wonders why our government buildings look like old US government buildings, it's because my grandfather used them as inspiration. It's not a coincidence that the Cebu Capitol building looks like the Capitol in DC.
Thank you for sharing that information! What a blessing.
Joby Provido thank you for this info
Wow
Wowwwww same with juan arellano wow!
Your Lolo is the architect, Juan M. Arellano. He designed the Cebu Capitol with Pedro Siochi. Other Arellano designed buildings are the Metropolitan theater and the Manila Post Office.
Thanks to your grandfather for his bravery just to depend our country and thank you for hugging our culture..we filipino are so blessed to have you in our country..thankyou
That part where you found the spot, send chills all over my body in the best positive way. You can see just how much has changed! 😻😭
That’s so incredible that you got to visit the places where your grandfather went in WWII! Even better that you recreated his photo! It was so nice to see this personal story in your video! Definitely one of the best parts of traveling for sure!
This is like watching you travel the Time Tunnel in search of your grandpa's eventful past. Truly emotional segment. Man, you are one special travel vlogger. Just subscribed. Greetings from Arizona!
exactly amazing.. to think your grandfather was there and more decades after you were there to witnessed that so much has changes and to relate the feeling.
Thank you for sharing this experience with us. I know you will come home with many stories to tell. That is the amazing thing about traveling.
Absolutely Rose! Thank you so much for watching.
I'm from Cebu...
Just saw your video
WE FEEL YOUR JOY..
And while watching it specially on the part where u are standing on the garden where ur grand father stands in the photo..
tears in my eyes..
I would like to say THANK YOU
FOR WHAT YOUR GRAND FATHER
HAS DONE DURING THE LAST WAR ...TO HELP PHILIPPINES HAVE ITS FREEDOM AGAIN..
GREAT RESPECT TO YOUR GRAND FATHER..
MAY U BE BLESSED AND YOUR FAMILY ALWAYS.
THANK YOU FOR SHOWING THE WHOLE WORLD HOW BEAUTIFUL IS THE PHILIPPINES .
THANK U.💙💙💙
I'm subscribing ur channel now.
Great vlog... just perfect. 👌
Oh that is awesome, i felt very emotional watching the part of your grandfather’s photo and the memories it brings to you right in that moment that you were there. I am a Cebuana and that’s why I know all those places you are showing. Thank you for your awesome videos.
What a.beautiful story you had about your.grandfather ! He is like a hero ! You are very lucky you keep that photo for all those years ! Amazing story !
I would like to thank your Grandfather for his service. Amazing footage and great adventure. Have fun on your travels. 😀😀😀
I’m happy you were able to make the connection with your grandfather....I’m sure he was there with you in spirit.
All the emotions! Thank you for taking us with you during that personal experience!
The capitol is special for me.. this is where I am working.. I happen to know the people whom you talked to...hehe that's awesome... I'm following a lot of vloggers but you are the most genuine and articulate...which I like... may you have more vlogs sir
Two thumbs up for your You and your Grandfather....take care man and goodluck in your travels...
Tnx Gareth for exploring the phillippine and the positive side of my country..
Wow! I’m teary just watching this. Awesome that you get the chance to see the spot where your grandfather was during the war. Love history! Good job! 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼❤️❤️❤️
Awww watching this 2yrs after your visit and I’m touched by your love and respect for your grandpa. Is he still
around? I see you continue to tour the world. Stay safe!
WOW, it is like mission accomplished, 1945 was so long ago when your grandfather’s photo was taken, a lot of things changed, it was really interesting video, I like the mouthwatering lechon as well, I enjoyed the tour, thank you very much, massive thumbs up, more video please, MABUHAY
I haven't seen much of all your videos. But this is probably my favorite one as it you tried to recreate you grandfather's time in Cebu. Very emotional. I can tell he means a lot to you. Thank you to your grandfather's service in the navy.
That old photos of your grandfather, that's awesome man! For that, you earn a new sub. 👍
Nice of you guys to visit our country. Hope you did not encounter any unpleasant experience during your tour. Have a safe travel going back to your point of origin.
Great memories to cherish Gareth! Yummy lechon the end of the day!!
I wish I could end every day with Lechon : )
Thank you for sharing that special connection you have for our country. Thank you for the sacrifice and service that your grandfather gave to make our present time peaceful and safe for us. We are so lucky we never experienced the hardships their generation had to go through...
I am also working on a documentary about my great grandfather and retraced his steps as a leprologist. Went to Culion Island a month ago and like what you said, i was overwhelmed with emotions when i saw his photos taken in the 1920's and took photos at the same spot where he stood. Hope to meet you! I am a travel blogger also 😊
micamyx Cullion the island of no return of the Philippines.
Hi Gareth, I'm your new subscriber here in the US. I ran across your video being in Cebu. I'm from Cebu and I just want to say thanks so much to your grandfather's service. I grew up hearing my grandfather telling stories about the American soldiers. It was a mix of fun and sad stories. But overall he always had a great admiration for the American soldiers. Sadly he passed away few years ago. Your video is very touching. God bless you and stay safe there in the Philippines.
How about feeling , Connected. Your Grandfather's past instilled something in you, and you are carrying the future that he might have hoped and wholeheartedly served for. so as you stood there in those two special spots, you and you're Grandfather were together again.
I'm grateful for you sharing this.
To be honest, this video make my eyes watery. Feel happy to see you can find the most precious memories in your life. You are blessed @Gareth Leonard . Love to see more videos from you.
What a video! It really touched me the way you explain the feeling of being there so personal so special so magical. We all have missions to accomplish, and see yours really connects ❤️❤️❤️
You achieved what where your Grandpa Proud of ... Thanks for the service that he did in our country....Philippines...🇵🇭🇵🇭🇵🇭
This is definitely a special video. Did you post about this on your IG stories? I feel like I’d seen this before or a very similar story. My parents are from PH and I’ve been able to go back with them several times, each of them visiting different parts of their past younger life across the country much like this video shows. What a cool encounter! I’m sure your grandpa is just as excited as you were.
Imagine standing at the spot where your grandpa stood some 70 or more years ago! It's quite a journey of a lifetime! I do admire men in uniform. They do a great service to their country! This vlog is really something!
I like that you are really diving into the Philippine culture. You're right when you said it's a bit sad when one country explored and colonized another country because they do change the culture. I couldn't help but think what the Philippines would look like if we've been left alone to retain our original culture. Also, Banana Cue, is one of my favorite street food so it made me smile that you like it. Excellent video! Thank you.
What a wonderful way to validate and empower memories of a special man that you love and admire so much! What a great addition to your journey there in the Philippines! Thanks for the great video, and for sharing this experience!
i think the appropriate word that escaped you while you were feeling emotional about standing exactly where your grandpa stood 73 years ago was "Serendipitous."
Seren...what? Where'd you get that?
Exactly the word he's looking for, t'was at the tip of my tongue as well, thank God for you 😉👍💖
Nostalgia
Gareth, what an emotional trip. How wonderful the people were so helpful so you could locate the spot your grandfather stood.
I understand your emotions and feelings of accomplishment in being able to accomplish this task. What a keepsake to have a photo of you standing where he stood!
Gareth, that is very cool you found the place! I did the same thing last month looking for my grand fathers name on fuente osmeni rotunda..
That's amazing Dennis!!
Respect for elders. That is something uncommon nowadays. What a great tribute trip.
Gareth, that photo of your grandfather is awesome! It looked so much cleaner back then.
Cheers Tonio! Yes, it sure did!
I wonder if he met the Viagra man cuz he was somewhere in Fuente.
To stand on the very same spots where your progenitor stood 73 years ago is indeed an awesome experience. I wouldn't be surprised if you somehow felt connected to your grandfather, albeit for a brief moment, when you finally realized that you both were on the same place somewhere in time.
Such a great adventure and very emotional indeed, love your passion for travel and much love from the Philippines 😍 💖 🌹, got teary-eyed with the before and after photo of you and your grandfather, which I'm sure got you teary as well after you saw the transition, but after seeing the lechon cebu, this got me wailing hungry 😂😂😂
Thanks for the old pictures. I love looking at old and new pictures of the Philippines and compare how it evolve including the people. I miss home.
Would have been nice if you had a local with you to help ease you in areas like the local market. 😊 On a personal note, it is nice of you to go through that little "mission" of yours to trace back the locations where your of grandfather's photos were taken. I didn't expect you had that connection to our country 🇵🇭 through your grandfather. Very nice vlog! 👍😊
You are absolutely right Marilyn, a local connection always helps! Thank you for watching!
So cool. Finding the same spot your grandfather was. We are going to Cebu, then to Siargao in December.
You traced you grandfathers footsteps , that’s soo cool
Hello from California! but born in Cebu. Another great video! I'm grateful for your videos because it pulls my heart strings. My parents have passed but never forgotten. So much sacrifice. So much history.
I got teary-eyed while watching this...
We're even, I got teary-eyed editing this! Haha
I can't stopped my emotion too but am happy how he's doing and took his own pictures too
Very moving! Can’t help but feel the emotions you went thru being at the exact same place your Grandfather was at in 1945.. We appreciate his service and appreciate you sharing. Cheers!
im crying...nice video.
Love what you said in Magellan's cross - "sad to come and convert a whole culture" ... this was a poignant and beautiful travel piece of my own city!
I am from Iloilo City. Hope you enjoy roaming around here. You should eat La Paz Batchoy when you are here in Iloilo.
Stay tuned for next week's video featuring just that!! : )
Gareth Leonard I will definitely.
Yes...im looking forward with your videos...I hope you have a great time in Iloilo city...
I’m Smelling crab mentality.