At 79 years old, Atty. Dominador “Jimmy” D. Buhain, Chairman and President of Rex Education, is not only a pioneering force in Philippine publishing but also a passionate traveler who is also the first Filipino officially verified by the Philippine Global Explorers (PGE) to complete the journey of visiting all 82 provinces—a milestone that highlights his trailblazing spirit in the realm of travel.
In the 1960s, the then young Jimmy Buhain, son of the Rex Book Store founders, Jovita Buhain and Juanito Fontelera, joined as the first officer-in-charge and sales agent of the company and, as all things go, the rest is history. Atty. Buhain’s passion and dedication to the publishing industry have earned him the prestigious title of “The Godfather of Philippine Publishing” by the National Book Development Board.
This honor recognizes his pivotal role in the passage of the Book Publishing Development Act (RA 8047), a landmark achievement that continues to shape the future of publishing in the Philippines. Atty. Buhain’s contribution is a testament to his enduring impact and visionary leadership and his love for travel, adds another remarkable chapter to his inspiring legacy.
“Though obstacles would be around the challenge of visiting all the provinces, it is the best experience one could undertake to show his love for his country – the Philippines.”
atty. jimmy buhain on his accomplishment of visiting all of the 82 provinces of the philippines
82 Provinces, A Lifelong Dream Fulfilled
Atty. Buhain’s yearning for travel began early in life inspired by the idea of flight, likening himself to Peter Pan, but via airplanes. This passion to explore never waned and the dream culminated on June 12, 2006, when he marked Sulu and Tawi-Tawi as the last and final stop completing his journey to all of the 82 provinces of the Philippines. For him, this accomplishment wasn’t merely about visiting places—it was about showing love for his country. “Though obstacles would be around the challenge of visiting all the provinces, it is the best experience one could undertake to show his love for his country—the Philippines,” he shares.
A Love for Arts and Culture
When asked about his favorite province, Atty. Buhain appreciates them all but gives special preference to the Mountain Province. The reason? The innate talent of its people in showcasing arts in diverse media, from intricate crafts to cultural expressions, captured his admiration. Atty. Buhain is also an avid collector of limited edition books from more than 200 countries and artifacts such as paintings, sculptures, masks and little trinkets to name a few. All were gathered from his domestic and international travels and now housed at the Book Museum cum Ethnology Center in Marikina which is open for public visits.
Scaling New Heights
One of Atty. Buhain’s most memorable travel experiences was climbing Mount Pulag, known for its breathtaking sea of clouds and diverse scenic terrain. This adventure highlights his love for nature and his appreciation for the Philippines’ extraordinary landscapes. “Climbing Mount Pulag with its varied scenic terrain is one experience among many others in the Philippines that is uppermost in my mind.” said Atty. Buhain.
Advice for Aspiring Travelers
Atty. Buhain encourages others to embark on the journey of exploring all 82 provinces as it will truly show you the beauty of our beloved Philippines. His advice is simple yet profound: First is to embrace the challenges and obstacles—they are part of the adventure; and second, undertake the journey with love and respect for the Philippines, as it offers a deeper connection to the country and its people.
A Legacy of Leadership, Passion and a Life Well-Traveled
Beyond travel, Atty. Buhain’s leadership at Rex Education and his advocacy for Philippine publishing have cemented his place as a visionary. His accomplishments in both fields are a testament to his dedication to growth, learning, and exploration. As one of the first recipients of the Philippine Travel Masters Award (PTM) at the debut ceremony this coming December 8, Atty. Dominador “Jimmy” D. Buhain stands as a symbol of what it means to live a life filled with purpose, adventure, and an enduring love for the Philippines. His journey inspires others to explore, connect, and contribute to the country’s vibrant culture and heritage.
For more insights into his travels and legacy, you can visit his website www.ddbuhain.ph and facebook profile Jimmy Buhain.
