During one soundless morning while waiting for the sunrise at Tabaco City pier, I found myself staring at the melancholy islet surrounded by blue water, which is about two kilometers away from the seashore and pier. As I stared at it, there's no sign of people… no houses nor buildings were seen. One waves and seabird were her only pals.

I felt that this islet was longing for someone to visit her. When I went home, the image of that islet was in my mind from the moment of waking up in the morning until I slept at night. The desire to visit that islet was too strong. I told my family about it. They told me the story that melancholy islet. Before it was filled with houses, happy and busy folks. A raging typhoon devastated the place killing inhabitants. The islet was abandoned, the islet was forsaken, she was left like a wrecked ship in a junkyard now, that her usefulness has ended. The years went by, the season changed, no one went to this islet. The story struck me more to visit her. I want to console that she was not forgotten and she is useful.

One fine day, we visited the islet. We crossed the sea by banca. On our way, we watched beneath the sea the seaweeds and jelly fishes that seemed to sway their bodies and gracefully danced to the rhythm of the current and waves, as if telling us they are happy we pass their place. What a wonderful sight - I also noticed fishes and other little sea creatures that gladly go with us. I slowly lowered my hand to water. I opened my palm to gently touch them. I felt their warm welcome. They kissed my hand and continue to guide us. They are good tourist guides.

When we reached the place, I was astonished. Wow! The islet was too beautiful as I have imagined it. What marvelous and wonderful spot!... the fine clean sand, crystal clear water that sparkled as the sun shines its light in it, smooth waves that gently swift and kisses the islet, the seabirds that nested in some mangroves together for a haven gladly sing, the bushes waves to welcome my family and me. The ripple tensely, they can hardly contain their happiness that we have come.

I lay on fine sand. I felt her warm embrace at me, I was entirely happy. This is something complete and great. We really enjoy our stay. The smell of clean salty water, and the caress of gently breeze - all of these have a soothing effect. The place is really ideal for picnic, relaxation and , meditation. Beside the marvelous place, you can enjoy seeing the panoramic view of Mayon Volcano, Tabaco City pier, San Miguel Island, and other views around.

The sun was beginning to set when we left the place. I turned my head to take a parting glance. Now, the islet is smiling. The whole islet radiates beauty and happiness. She knows that we will come back. This is the beginning of where she can see again happy folks visiting and reviving her beauty and usefulness…..This Marvelous islet I am referring is the "NATUNAWAN ISLAND" which means a vanished island.

But was it really vanished? . . . I think it's not!

Now I know that natunawan is always there.

This marvelous spot is waiting for you and me . . . Let's revive her beauty and usefulness… let us make her happy.

NATUNAWAN …… The future haven at Tabaco City.