By Prof. Enrique Soriano
As I find myself on the 5th day of walking the Camino through the breathtaking mountains of Austria and Southern Germany, I am nearing the 100-kilometer mark. The physical challenge is palpable, but with each step, I feel a deep sense of purpose and reflection. After five days, I am confident that by the end of this journey, I will surpass 250 kilometers—a feat that symbolizes much more than just distance covered.
This week’s pilgrimage holds a special significance. I am walking alongside a select group of clients who have become lifelong friends, and together, we are traversing paths that may be the first of their kind for Filipino pilgrims. While most Caminos are traditionally done in Spain, Portugal, or France, this unique route through Austria and Germany has added a fresh perspective to the pilgrimage experience.
Over the years, we have traversed several historic Camino routes, each with its own distinct challenges and insights. We began with the Camino Francés, the most iconic route, which starts at the French Pyrenees and stretches across northern Spain to Santiago de Compostela. Its rolling hills and scenic landscapes laid the foundation for the spiritual journeys that followed. The Camino Norte came next, offering stunning coastal views as we walked along Spain’s northern shores, a route less traveled but equally rewarding. Last year, we tackled the Via de la Plata, a path through the quiet countryside of southern Spain, marked by its solitude and depth. These routes have shaped our understanding of the pilgrimage, each offering new opportunities for reflection and growth.
Now on my fourth Camino, I return each year for the personal insights and spiritual renewal it offers. My dear friends and clients from Cebu were instrumental in bringing me into this tradition, and it has become a vital part of my life. It allows me to step away from the demands of daily life and dive deeply into reflection and prayer.
The history of this pilgrimage dates back to the 9th century when the tomb of St. James the Great was discovered in Santiago de Compostela. Throughout history, pilgrims have walked these sacred routes seeking both spiritual renewal and personal meaning. For me, the Camino provides the rare opportunity to disconnect from the everyday and rediscover the values and passions that truly matter.
But more than ever, this pilgrimage has become a space for prayer and reflection beyond personal growth. I am praying for a united country—one that can rise above political divides and foster peace and understanding. In a world that often feels fractured, I walk with the hope that our nation can find harmony and common ground, moving toward a future of unity and compassion.
Why do I return to the Camino year after year? It’s because life is fleeting, and we cannot wait for the perfect moment to seek meaning and adventure. The Camino reminds me that every challenge and every step is a gift. It’s a chance to live fully and authentically, embracing both the trials and blessings of each moment.
And so, as I near the 100-kilometer mark on this 5th day, I walk with confidence and hope. I know that by the end of this journey, I will surpass 250 kilometers—stronger not just in body, but in spirit. This journey, like every Camino, is a reminder to keep walking forward with purpose, one step at a time, year after year.
