Visual drama.

(From Philippine Daily Inquirer)

Byline: Eduardo M. Enriquez, Contributor

WHEN I was invited to join a day trip to Mt. Pinatubo, I didn't think twice.

I was informed that there wouldn't be much shade, so I should wear a light long-sleeved shirt and light pants; that because my feet would get wet, shoes and socks were out of the question and sandals were recommended; and that food and water would be provided.

Thus, the appointed morning (2:30 a.m. of Jan. 31) finds me in light nylon jogging pants, a T-shirt, and rubber athletic sandals with nylon straps. In my backpack is a light long-sleeved sweater; an instamatic camera; a light nylon cap; and a pair of sunglasses.

There are nine of us in the group, including Mhatz, representative of Causeway Tours.

Taking the North Expressway, the trip from Metro Manila to Barangay Santa Juliana in Capas, Tarlac, lasts over three hours.

Dawn has yet to break when the van finally stops and breakfast packs and bottles of water are handed out. I tuck into a bun of vegan siopao as Mhatz hands me a large bag of fruit. (I had informed her beforehand that I don't eat meat.)

The sky is thinning from black to blue when we board the jeepney …