Lugar Lang sa Libertad

Having a sense of place translates to better worldbuilding, it keeps the characters grounded and three-dimensional rather than solely existing for the purpose of being written. Aside from that, it helps the writer establish a starting point. A sense of place serves as a leverage and builds momentum for the writer, where they can derive an abundance of materials from it: personal experiences, childhood memories, and even trauma.

My "lugar lang" in writing is the second elementary school I attended. It was where I first realized I had a knack for storytelling, and where I found a place that wholeheartedly embraced the stories I shared. My very first fiction was crafted during 3rd grade, and my classmates would pass my notebook around class so they could read it (mainly because it was a comic). Looking back, that elementary school definitely felt more like a home than the "home" I grew up in. I'd often hide my creative works from my family, yet I toss my notebooks around in class without shame because my friends weren't scared of my not-so-provincial interests. I could visit many places in Bukidnon, but I'd immediately say "lugar lang!" to Manong driver if we'd pass by Libertad Elementary School. 

(Fun fact: "Libertad" is the Spanish word for "Freedom"—now that I think about it, it's quite a poetic coincidence. I indeed felt liberated in that school.)