A tour around Manila

Trip Start Mar 04, 2008
1
8
Trip End Apr 18, 2008


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Flag of Philippines  ,
Saturday, March 22, 2008

The third week of work here in Manila is history.  It was a pretty simple week.  Besides bowling on Wednesday evening I just came back to the flat and read or watched television and talked to Kim and the kids on video every night.  I'm starting to learn my way around some of Manila and a lot of Alabang where we stay.  I've learned some words in the native language here.  A couple of guys from the office are giving me some tips.  Even though 90% of Filipinos speak English, it is their second language.  Their first is called Tagalog with the last g being silent and all vowels having the soft a sound.
Saturday a guy named Dave from the design team at work gave Derek, Pat and I a tour through many parts of Manila.  I have to tell you all that the difference between the 'haves' and 'have nots' in this country is striking.  There is not much of a middle class to speak of.  It exists, but just barely.  My photos you will see with this entry will show you what I am writing of
Upscale area
Upscale area
.  Saturday, I saw slums like that of which you would only see on 'Feed the Children' back at home.  Even the so called ghettos have it made in the shade back in the states.  At least in the US you can still get decent medical care, and the state will help you have food.  You still have running water and electricity.  There isn't anything like this in the states that I have ever seen.  In the poor areas children wonder the street begging from strangers, no parents to be seen. 
I just don't think I will ever be able to just sit and listen to someone complain about the US again.  Well, check out the photos.  I love you all.

'Till next time.  God bless.
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Comments

gildo
gildo on

More Photos!
Yes. What we need here is more photos! ;-)

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