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Manila Stories 1: Poverty in Manila - "Until When" Stories

I am from Iloilo, Philippines but I have to take chances for some better career opportunities in Metro Manila. Reality hurts and the fact is undeniable. Yes, I got the best opportunity for work in the Metro (because I was fortunate to be sent to school with higher degrees) but I got the worst things to see as I walked through it's streets. It wasn't new to you and me but let me share 3 different stories of lives that I got to observe in my 1st week of stay.

Poverty is rampant in the Philippines and now is becoming to be one of the major concerns of the country. Solutions through laws passed by the government has been enough but corruption exhibited by the politicians and the people's uncooperative behavior are the hindrances that the country must overcome.

Everytime I step out from my temporary residence, this is the picture of poverty that welcomes the very first minute of my day.

They are siblings and I don't know where their parents are. With the piece of that carton, they stay and beg for alms from the walking professionals and students. Until when will they beg for alms?

It was nearing midnight when I saw this man. I thought of him as one of the paid ralliests against the government yet did not even have the idea of the cause they were fighting for. He was old and couldn't even tolerate a long walk which led him to sit on that side to rest. However, this guard who was just doing his job talked to him and told him to go home. The man left even if he was looking very tired and hungry.

Until when will this man join the rallies and just be contented with the little amount they receive?

When I went to a coffee shop, I saw this girl who was staring at the left-overs of the costumers and was hopeful that it will be given to her. She did not leave until the crew cleaned the tables. It was about past 10 in the evening that time and she was still awake searching for food.

Until when will she stay outside that coffee shop for the left overs?

The solution of poverty needs long term planning and the realization will take longer. It's a sad truth that my fellow Filipinos are experiencing these life challenges but I am powerless to eradicate it.

I will be encountering them everyday and I will be used to it as time goes by and I hope it will not last a lifetime.

Still, I am a Filipino and I am proud to be one. I love my country and will forever be proud of it.



Must read:
Manila Stories 2: Horse Tales
Manila Stories 3: Street Foods in Manila






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Location: Philippines

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