Manila’s bright spots, dark corners -

I HAVE BEEN LIVING in the City of Manila for a month exactly today. I have avoided this part of the metro for so long but now call it home. While I am suddenly immersed in its history, I am actually more interested to know if I have a future here. L’s work in the hospital means being on-call and proximity can save lives. Me, I am more flexible, and this is actually my 12th address to date.

But there’s something distinctly different about Maynila. Here, I have learned that walking on these unfamiliar streets is more a test of character than an exercise in debunking urban legends. For while I am made aware of Manila’s bright spots, I cannot ignore its dark corners. There seems to be more hotspots than historical places, more sinners than churches, and probably more slogans than changes. But in all these, I admit, the biggest draw is to have our loved ones around. 🙂

After all, there is no proxy for proximity. I have to be here.

One month since, I am still unaccustomed to all its roads, but have been all too familiar with its traffic. I am treated to a politician’s proof of change and newfangled look, but still cannot distinguish grit from grime on a beggar’s face in almost every corner. It helps to know that my roots were once stationed in these parts, and maybe, part of being here is to uncover their stories. It makes me think: What my parents must have had then as a young couple, I will have my turn now.

Oh, Manila. Please be kind to this familiar stranger. I am trying to make a home out of you.

Manila’s bright spots, dark corners

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