A couple wore triumphant smiles as they reached Ilocos Norte after walking for 50 days from Batangas, covering over 470 kilometers, starting on December 6, 2023.

The couple, Mira and Jay Abrera, wanted to prove that difficulties are just in the mind.

"Kami ay naglakas ng loob na mag-asawa na maglakad kasi gusto namin ipakita sa tao na ang hirap ay sa isip lang, na kapag tayo’y may goal at may gustong gawin, huwag ipagpaliban," Jay said.

Their cart served as their go-kart, carrying clothes, belongings, money, and food.

Sometimes, they would bathe and use bathrooms at gas stations.

The support from people along the way was a significant help, they said.

"Nakita namin along the way ang mga tao na sumusuporta sa amin. Syempre masaya, di namin nararamdaman yung hirap. Sa gabi, nagpapahinga naman kami, [kapag] Sundays nagsisimba, at nagpapahinga maghapon," Mira said.

They received assistance from riders and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to ensure their safety on the road.

"Lahat ng madadaanan nila may mga riders na nagaabang sa kanila hanggang pagudpud, ganyan ang mga taga Ilocos Norte, matulungin, yan ang trademark natin dito," Louie Bonifacio, Leader of Force-Multiplier Riders of the Ilocos Norte Provincial Police Office, said.

The couple gained popularity on social media, attracting many people who took photos with them.

“Kung maglalakad nga ako sa barangay lang napapagod na ako, pero sila from Batangas, talagang nakaka-inspire," Grace Pasion, a resident, said.

Moving forward, the couple’s next target is to walk a total of 5,000 kilometers in their "Lakbay Pilipinas" journey to Cagayan.