For most people, traveling is a temporary escape—a chance to take a break from everyday responsibilities. But for Earvin John “EJ” Fabro, better known online as EJ Knows, travel became more than a hobby. It became a personal mission: to discover every corner of his own homeland before chasing destinations beyond it.
What began as simple hiking trips with friends in 2018 eventually grew into a three-year adventure that would take him across all 82 provinces of the Philippines.
“I used to believe that international travel was the biggest dream,” Fabro shared. “But when I started exploring the Philippines, I realized that there was still so much I hadn’t seen in my own country. Why look far away first when there is so much waiting to be discovered here?”
That realization became the beginning of a journey that would test his determination, patience, and passion for exploration.
A dream built through dedication
Completing all 82 provinces was not a simple achievement. Behind every destination was careful planning, budgeting, and sacrifice.
While traveling across the country, Fabro was also balancing several careers and responsibilities. He worked as a full-time engineer while also pursuing other ventures as a musician, financial advisor, business owner, health card agent, and content creator.
Many wondered how he managed to make time for everything.
“The secret is preparation,” he explained. “You need research, proper scheduling, and contingency plans. You can’t rely on just one plan because unexpected things will always happen.”
His journey began in his home province of Bulacan before expanding throughout Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Every trip required detailed route planning, searching for affordable transportation options, and adjusting to challenges brought by the pandemic’s aftermath.
Originally, he imagined ending his journey in Batanes—a meaningful final destination that would symbolize the completion of his mission. However, a travel opportunity changed his plans, and Dinagat Islands became the place where he officially completed his 82-province goal.
When he finally arrived in Dinagat, the moment carried a mix of emotions.
“It was overwhelming. I was tired, happy, and relieved at the same time. Finishing the journey felt like a major achievement, but I also realized that there were still so many places I wanted to experience.”
Beyond beautiful destinations
Throughout his travels, EJ Knows witnessed the many faces of the Philippines—from breathtaking landscapes and hidden beaches to unique cultures and communities that left lasting impressions.
He experienced sunrise views from mountains, discovered waters that looked like they belonged in postcards, and shared conversations and meals with locals who became part of his journey.
However, his adventure was not without difficulties.
One of the most unforgettable challenges happened while traveling to catch a flight during a storm.
“We got into a car accident on the way to the airport. My dashcam stopped working, and my family was already telling me not to continue with the trip,” he recalled. “It felt like every sign was telling me to stay home. But I still went—and that trip became one of my most memorable experiences.”
For Fabro, these moments became reminders that travel is not only about reaching destinations. It is also about overcoming uncertainty and learning from unexpected situations.
Seeing the Philippines through a different lens
After visiting every province, Fabro gained a deeper appreciation of the country’s natural beauty and cultural diversity. But he also saw the challenges faced by many local destinations.
“The Philippines is truly amazing. That is why people from other countries travel here,” he said. “But I have also seen places with incredible potential that are still waiting to be recognized and developed.”
He believes that travel plays an important role in helping people appreciate their own country.
Every province offered something different—its own traditions, stories, landscapes, and communities.
“Many things that people search for abroad can already be found here. Sometimes the problem is not that we lack beautiful places. The problem is that many people simply don’t know they exist.”
The adventure continues
Completing all 82 provinces was not the end of EJ Knows’ journey. Instead, it became a foundation for even bigger dreams.
His next goal is to explore more countries across Asia while also returning to some Philippine destinations where he hopes to spend more time.
Beyond collecting places, he wants to experience more festivals, climb more mountains, and continue sharing stories that inspire others to explore.
For Fabro, travel has never been about simply completing a checklist. It is about creating connections, discovering stories, and encouraging others to see the beauty that surrounds them.
“My journey was never just about me,” he said. “It was about showing people that there is so much to discover in the Philippines. If I was able to do this while managing work and other responsibilities, then others can do it too.”
With countless destinations still waiting and a passion for exploration stronger than ever, EJ Knows’ journey is far from finished. His next adventure may take him beyond the Philippines—but his love for the country that started it all will always remain at the heart of his story.