MANILA, Philippines – In some instances, there are people who strive to achieve a work-life balance between their professional and personal lives. Some intentionally use their vacation leave to take a break from work and travel.
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| Photo courtesy: Jan Oliver “Janus” de Leon, Facebook |
But what if work and travel can actually go hand in hand?
At just 35 years old, Jan Oliver “Janus” de Leon has already achieved what most Filipinos can only dream of—setting foot in all 82 provinces of the Philippines.
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A proud educator and the Dean of Review at the Dr. Carl Balita Review Center (CBRC), Janus has turned his professional duties into a personal mission to discover the archipelago’s rich culture, cuisine, and community.
Born and raised in Bataan, Janus took his first flight in 2010 to Cebu, a gift from his cousin after passing the board exam. A year later, having topped the licensure exam, he began his regular travels; not as a tourist, but as a national reviewer who brings hope to aspiring nurses and teachers across the country.
“Traveling at first was not a decision but a privilege by my company, CBRC,” he shares, in an exclusive interview with The Summit Express.
“It is due to its nationwide and international operations. As we teach nursing and teacher aspirants, we get to travel,” he emphasized.
What started as work-related trips eventually grew into a personal goal. In 2017, he completed visits to all 17 regions, and by July 20, 2025, he reached his final destination—Dinagat Islands, officially marking his journey across all 82 provinces.
According to Janus, he is now officially the 193rd Filipino to accomplish this remarkable feat, as recorded under Project 82, a travel movement encouraging people to visit all 82 Philippine provinces, promoting cultural immersion and appreciation beyond typical tourist destinations.
Yet, Janus isn't stopping there. With 23 countries already on his travel list, he aims to visit all 11 ASEAN nations; only Myanmar and Timor-Leste remain, and eventually set foot in at least 50 countries around the world.
“But the real goal of travelling is for yourself and others, “ he adds.
“Travel and Teach. Aspire and Inspire. I hope my travels inspire others to be great in life and one day, they will find themselves one with their dreams.”
Despite repeatedly visiting around 50 provinces annually for work, Janus makes sure to immerse himself in the local culture, tourist spots, and of course, local delicacies whenever it’s his first time in a new place.
Asked about his most unforgettable destinations, Janus gives a heartfelt response:
- Pampanga – for its rich and diverse cuisine
- Sulu, Basilan, and Tawi-Tawi – for their unmatched hospitality and vibrant culture
- Camiguin – for its natural beauty
- Negros Oriental and Occidental – for the peace and serenity they offer
- Batanes – for its breathtaking landscapes and simplicity of life
- Bicol – for its spirituality and connection with nature
- Ilocos – for its well-preserved cultural heritage
- Palawan, Aklan (Boracay), Dinagat Islands – for their world-class beaches
Of all these, Batanes left the most lasting impression. Stranded for almost two weeks due to a typhoon, Janus witnessed firsthand the genuine warmth and kindness of the Ivatans.
“I would say Batanes, its beauty is incomparable. We were stranded there for almost 2 weeks due to a typhoon and they made sure that we were accommodated and cared for,” he explained.
When it comes to travel expenses, Janus says it varies. “It really depends. There are provinces that you can visit with just 1k. On average ₱3,000-₱10,000,” he says.
But for him, the experience is always worth it.
As for his bucket list moving forward? He’s already crossed all the Philippine provinces off it— now, the world awaits.
“Every province is unique, beautiful and has something to offer. If given a chance, I want to relive every province again,” he said.
Apparently, this must be what they call "work-life balance."
— Noel Ed Richards, The Summit Express