Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Sunday, February 15, 2015
45
Update 45 by Roger
A much more comfortable night (for Roger) on the bus from Banaue to Manila...we ate at our hotel restaurant before leaving and had some fun with the cook and waitress when I complimented the cook and told her that we enjoyed the sizzling chicken with rice meal that she had fixed. They both giggled like schoolgirls so I asked "Will you be my Valentine?" More laughter and smiles.
Arrived early at the bus stop and had a chance to get settled in before the bus loaded up. It was good to get dressed up warmly because the AC was working well and we needed four layers of clothing to be comfortable for the 9 hour ride to Manila. The driver was very skillful as he zoomed around trucks, trikes, pedestrians, dogs, etc. and even one car that was swerving badly across the center line (drunk?) to get us safely to Manila at about 4 AM.
One taxi, then a jeepney (full of dozing Filipinos that could not keep their heads from flopping around so eventually they just rested their heads on the next guys shoulder), finally a trike and we were back in Antipolo to collect the bags we had left there on Monday and also to once again connect briefly with the staff and kids at Children's Garden. Many of the the boys welcomed another bear hug from "Papa & Mama Bear". But Aguton was most affected by our return. He had worked closely with me on many projects at CG and I know he was disappointed to see us go. I gave him some change for his piggy bank and one of my favorite shirts (blue plaid). He put a keychain (painting of a volcano) on my suitcase. It reads COSTA RICA on the back. Hard telling how it got here and in his possession but I think it must have been a valued item for him and consider it a special present. He is a special friend that I would like to see again. Dropped off near Papa John's Pizza so we enjoyed a very U.S. style lunch. You never know when the next good meal might be some ways off ! Besides, they had Coke Zero (Jane's new fav). Flew to Tacloban but weather prevented landing so back to Manila...will try again today.
Sent from my iPod Touch
A much more comfortable night (for Roger) on the bus from Banaue to Manila...we ate at our hotel restaurant before leaving and had some fun with the cook and waitress when I complimented the cook and told her that we enjoyed the sizzling chicken with rice meal that she had fixed. They both giggled like schoolgirls so I asked "Will you be my Valentine?" More laughter and smiles.
Arrived early at the bus stop and had a chance to get settled in before the bus loaded up. It was good to get dressed up warmly because the AC was working well and we needed four layers of clothing to be comfortable for the 9 hour ride to Manila. The driver was very skillful as he zoomed around trucks, trikes, pedestrians, dogs, etc. and even one car that was swerving badly across the center line (drunk?) to get us safely to Manila at about 4 AM.
One taxi, then a jeepney (full of dozing Filipinos that could not keep their heads from flopping around so eventually they just rested their heads on the next guys shoulder), finally a trike and we were back in Antipolo to collect the bags we had left there on Monday and also to once again connect briefly with the staff and kids at Children's Garden. Many of the the boys welcomed another bear hug from "Papa & Mama Bear". But Aguton was most affected by our return. He had worked closely with me on many projects at CG and I know he was disappointed to see us go. I gave him some change for his piggy bank and one of my favorite shirts (blue plaid). He put a keychain (painting of a volcano) on my suitcase. It reads COSTA RICA on the back. Hard telling how it got here and in his possession but I think it must have been a valued item for him and consider it a special present. He is a special friend that I would like to see again. Dropped off near Papa John's Pizza so we enjoyed a very U.S. style lunch. You never know when the next good meal might be some ways off ! Besides, they had Coke Zero (Jane's new fav). Flew to Tacloban but weather prevented landing so back to Manila...will try again today.
Sent from my iPod Touch
Saturday, February 14, 2015
45
Update 45 by Roger
A much more comfortable night (for Roger) on the bus from Banaue to Manila...we ate at our hotel restaurant before leaving and had some fun with the cook and waitress when I complimented the cook and told her that we enjoyed the sizzling chicken with rice meal that she had fixed. They both giggled like schoolgirls so I asked "Will you be my Valentine?" More laughter and smiles.
Arrived early at the bus stop and had a chance to get settled in before the bus loaded up. It was good to get dressed up warmly because the AC was working well and we needed four layers of clothing to be comfortable for the 9 hour ride to Manila. The driver was very skillful as he zoomed around trucks, trikes, pedestrians, dogs, etc. and even one car that was swerving badly across the center line (drunk?) to get us safely to Manila at about 4 AM.
One taxi, then a jeepney (full of dozing Filipinos that could not keep their heads from flopping around so eventually they just rested their heads on the next guys shoulder), finally a trike and we were back in Antipolo to collect the bags we had left there on Monday and also to once again connect briefly with the staff and kids at Children's Garden. Many of the the boys welcomed another bear hug from "Papa & Mama Bear". But Aguton was most affected by our return. He had worked closely with me on many projects at CG and I know he was disappointed to see us go. I gave him some change for his piggy bank and one of my favorite shirts (blue plaid). He put a keychain (painting of a volcano) on my suitcase. It reads COSTA RICA on the back. Hard telling how it got here and in his possession but I think it must have been a valued item for him and consider it a special present. He is a special friend that I would like to see again. Dropped off near Papa John's Pizza so we enjoyed a very U.S. style lunch. You never know when the next good meal might be some ways off ! Besides, they had Coke Zero (Jane's new fav). Flew to Tacloban but weather prevented landing so back to Manila...will try again today.
Sent from my iPod Touch
A much more comfortable night (for Roger) on the bus from Banaue to Manila...we ate at our hotel restaurant before leaving and had some fun with the cook and waitress when I complimented the cook and told her that we enjoyed the sizzling chicken with rice meal that she had fixed. They both giggled like schoolgirls so I asked "Will you be my Valentine?" More laughter and smiles.
Arrived early at the bus stop and had a chance to get settled in before the bus loaded up. It was good to get dressed up warmly because the AC was working well and we needed four layers of clothing to be comfortable for the 9 hour ride to Manila. The driver was very skillful as he zoomed around trucks, trikes, pedestrians, dogs, etc. and even one car that was swerving badly across the center line (drunk?) to get us safely to Manila at about 4 AM.
One taxi, then a jeepney (full of dozing Filipinos that could not keep their heads from flopping around so eventually they just rested their heads on the next guys shoulder), finally a trike and we were back in Antipolo to collect the bags we had left there on Monday and also to once again connect briefly with the staff and kids at Children's Garden. Many of the the boys welcomed another bear hug from "Papa & Mama Bear". But Aguton was most affected by our return. He had worked closely with me on many projects at CG and I know he was disappointed to see us go. I gave him some change for his piggy bank and one of my favorite shirts (blue plaid). He put a keychain (painting of a volcano) on my suitcase. It reads COSTA RICA on the back. Hard telling how it got here and in his possession but I think it must have been a valued item for him and consider it a special present. He is a special friend that I would like to see again. Dropped off near Papa John's Pizza so we enjoyed a very U.S. style lunch. You never know when the next good meal might be some ways off ! Besides, they had Coke Zero (Jane's new fav). Flew to Tacloban but weather prevented landing so back to Manila...will try again today.
Sent from my iPod Touch
43 &44
Update 43
It was one of those days when the day grabs you and you just hand on and enjoy the ride. We met up with our hired driver & 3 ne buddies & took off toward the Hapao hotsprings.....listening to country music which is sooo popular here. We drove past miles of more rice terraces...and I took tons more pictures as each time the van stopped, another unique and fabulous view just demanded a picture. Overwhelmed by the number of terraces here! When we got to the trail head, we hired a guide (as they are very convincing) and took off traversing across hundreds of terraces...becoming a speck in this web of terraces. The narrow path was between two paddies...on level with the path & the other about 4 ft below. Often a moat with running water ran beside us and several times we crossed over deep ravines...path the size of a big balance beam...carved out by the mountain streams. We passed farmers knee deep in the thick gray muck...with only a hoe to work the paddy. When I asked about water buffalo, the guide smiled & said, "Man is the water buffalo here" as the mountain terrain is too difficult & cost too great. Many fresh green patches of rice shoots...babies in their nursery...were ready for transplant which is only done by women...seems right that the women cares for the babies! We crossed a swinging bridge over a rushing stream and next to it was a sparkling clear pool formed by great boulders. Quickly we stripped down...and since we'd left our bathing suits in Antipolo...Rog in his boxers & me in my shorts & bra (which actually covered more than the bikini the other girls were wearing). ...and then stepped into "heaven." One end of the pool was too hot but the other end just right as a small bit of the mountain stream was being diverted into the pool. We soaked for over an hour...hadn't felt that clean since we left Hawaii ! All good thing must come to the end & so once dressed, we headed back this time through the forest area. I found several little ones whose eyes sparkled when I gave them a balloon. A treat for both of us! Coming out of the woods, we walked through the village of Hapao & noticed right away that it was better off than other villages...and there was hardly any litter !! Signs saying "Don't throw trash here" "Don't throw trash in paddy" ...even "Don't throw trash anywhere"...and waste baskets too. Our guide told us this town actually produces enough rice to export some. What a progressive village! By the time we got back to the van, we'd all decided to ask the driver to take us to Hungduan...to see terraces actually called "Spider Web." By now the road ws a series of tight curves...so we laughed when we saw an occasional curve ahead sign....thinking it made more sense to have straight ahead signs. We passed more miles of terraces with the homes clinging to the side of the mountain. How they don't topple down is beyond me...and where do the little kids play & how do they stay safe?? As we got closer to the top of the mountain, the clouds began to roll in and so when we reached the viewing point to see the Spider Web terraces...they were swallowed up by a cloud. Oh well, it had been a fabulous day ...our buddies said best they'd had in the Philippines...and like our tiger trip in India--it's more important to "See the Journey" than only the destination!!!
Update 44
As I sat in our hotel sitting room writing, a 50ish Japanese doctor started talking to me. He too is headed to Tacloban but only to see it. He kept saying, "You good people" when I told him we'd would be working there. Then he asked me to come to Japan & help where their tsunami hit...he showed me pictures & said it happened because of global warming...and that led to a discussion on that in which he pointed out USA use of fossil fuel. He asked me about Obama & GW Bush (saying he thought he was the worst US pres ever). Some how religion came up...he was Buddhist...so the two things you are never suppose to talk about...we did for about an hour. In the end, he shook my hand and said he was so honored to meet a "good ordinary American."
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Update 39 & 40
Update 39
We took off early today to go deeper into the mountains...farther into this culture & away from civilization...to Batad. Rog forgot about being Mr. Careful and climbed on top of the jeepney...I did not as someone had to live for the grandkids! We chugged up and around and down the mountains on roads that clung to the side. Rog said it was exhilarating and the views were fabulous. At the end of the road was a shop where we "rented" a walking stick and wonders of wonders--I got a cold Coke Zero! The rest of the way was on foot. We passed many workers who were building more road and then onto a narrow but well worn path...the one the Batad villagers use & have used for many years. About an hour later, we came out of the woods and everywhere you looked...terraces! I'd read if you'd line them up side by side, they'd reach half way around the world...and now I can fathom that. The small village of Batad was a bit farther and placed int eh center of the terraces. We stopped part way down the mountain at Hillside Inn where we gladly took off our hiking boots and sat admiring the panoramic view while we ate...Rog a Middle Eastern dish & me, pizza (well kinda like) and a Coke Light...who'd of thunk? Hearing the kids at a nearby school, I took off to check it out. The first grade teacher invited me in where the 22 kids were quietly copying from the board. They greeted me saying, "Welcome visitor" & then said the ABC's & counted to 10 for me. The classroom was neat with birthdays posted, neat work displayed and two large signs:
Lazy hands make a poor man but diligent hands bring wealth --If a little money does not go out, great money will not come in. Some lessons are never to early to learn! I peeked into the oldest kid's classroom--a 5th & 6th combination & only saw about 15 kids. I later heard only about half of them will go to Banaue for HS. So if you do the math, probably only 3 or 4 of the 22 first graders I met will go to HS.
We put our boots back on and step by step...each unique in size, shape & depth...we lowered ourselves into the midst of the terraces...surrounded on all sides...engulfed. Seeing them is one thing...being in them another. Almost mystical. We sat down often to just let it all soak in--okay, to rest. We watched the workers setting out seedlings, rebuilding the moats & trimming brush off the stone terraces. Endless. TIme less. Back at our Inn, we visited with 2 other couples are age...both guys had graduated from U of M...it is such a small world! One couple was from Montreal. The other from Boston...they travel about 50% of the year volunteering often with IVHQ. We swapped travel highlights & email addresses...who knows, we may end up travel with them sometime! Kindred souls all suffering from the same disease our Galapagos buddy labeled FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out).
Update 40
When we opened our hotel door this morning, brilliant sunshine lit up paddies so they looked like mirrors! Such beauty. We took off hiking in a different direction, never tiring of the views...only tiring of the up & down terrain. This route took us past the school. We sat down to rest & read the mission statement posted on the building...chuckling about the hours we both were required to work on them and how many buzz words had drifted even here: life long learners, student centered learning, productive citizens, highest potential. The first grade teacher I'd met earlier somehow noticed us & came out to say Hi & invited us in again. We asked if she wanted us to play a few games & she readily agreed so soon we were teaching the kids Head, Shoulder, Knees & Toes & Doggie, Doggie Where's Your Bone? and Itsy, Bitsy Spider. All of us loved it. The teacher wrote down the words saying she was glad to learn new games. Then the second grade teacher came & invited to her class...so again, we played games. Kids & classrooms are always a treat for me! (Loved this sign posted in the 2nd grade class: If you always spoon feed kids, they will only learn the shape of the spoon.) At noon, we headed back up & around the mountain so we could catch the jeepney that would be waiting for us around 3. It was a slow, grueling climb out....but it had been so worth it! We arrived back in Banaue in time for dinner at the Los Vegas restaurant where a Filipino was performing Elvis songs...pretty good impersonation really...and Rog earned brownie points by asking me to dance. Then we ran into some kids we'd met a couple times already & made arrangements to meet up tomorrow at 9 and head to some hot springs. It is neat how quickly fellow travelers bond regardless of age or nationalities. Wish it were more like that in the "real world."
We took off early today to go deeper into the mountains...farther into this culture & away from civilization...to Batad. Rog forgot about being Mr. Careful and climbed on top of the jeepney...I did not as someone had to live for the grandkids! We chugged up and around and down the mountains on roads that clung to the side. Rog said it was exhilarating and the views were fabulous. At the end of the road was a shop where we "rented" a walking stick and wonders of wonders--I got a cold Coke Zero! The rest of the way was on foot. We passed many workers who were building more road and then onto a narrow but well worn path...the one the Batad villagers use & have used for many years. About an hour later, we came out of the woods and everywhere you looked...terraces! I'd read if you'd line them up side by side, they'd reach half way around the world...and now I can fathom that. The small village of Batad was a bit farther and placed int eh center of the terraces. We stopped part way down the mountain at Hillside Inn where we gladly took off our hiking boots and sat admiring the panoramic view while we ate...Rog a Middle Eastern dish & me, pizza (well kinda like) and a Coke Light...who'd of thunk? Hearing the kids at a nearby school, I took off to check it out. The first grade teacher invited me in where the 22 kids were quietly copying from the board. They greeted me saying, "Welcome visitor" & then said the ABC's & counted to 10 for me. The classroom was neat with birthdays posted, neat work displayed and two large signs:
Lazy hands make a poor man but diligent hands bring wealth --If a little money does not go out, great money will not come in. Some lessons are never to early to learn! I peeked into the oldest kid's classroom--a 5th & 6th combination & only saw about 15 kids. I later heard only about half of them will go to Banaue for HS. So if you do the math, probably only 3 or 4 of the 22 first graders I met will go to HS.
We put our boots back on and step by step...each unique in size, shape & depth...we lowered ourselves into the midst of the terraces...surrounded on all sides...engulfed. Seeing them is one thing...being in them another. Almost mystical. We sat down often to just let it all soak in--okay, to rest. We watched the workers setting out seedlings, rebuilding the moats & trimming brush off the stone terraces. Endless. TIme less. Back at our Inn, we visited with 2 other couples are age...both guys had graduated from U of M...it is such a small world! One couple was from Montreal. The other from Boston...they travel about 50% of the year volunteering often with IVHQ. We swapped travel highlights & email addresses...who knows, we may end up travel with them sometime! Kindred souls all suffering from the same disease our Galapagos buddy labeled FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out).
Update 40
When we opened our hotel door this morning, brilliant sunshine lit up paddies so they looked like mirrors! Such beauty. We took off hiking in a different direction, never tiring of the views...only tiring of the up & down terrain. This route took us past the school. We sat down to rest & read the mission statement posted on the building...chuckling about the hours we both were required to work on them and how many buzz words had drifted even here: life long learners, student centered learning, productive citizens, highest potential. The first grade teacher I'd met earlier somehow noticed us & came out to say Hi & invited us in again. We asked if she wanted us to play a few games & she readily agreed so soon we were teaching the kids Head, Shoulder, Knees & Toes & Doggie, Doggie Where's Your Bone? and Itsy, Bitsy Spider. All of us loved it. The teacher wrote down the words saying she was glad to learn new games. Then the second grade teacher came & invited to her class...so again, we played games. Kids & classrooms are always a treat for me! (Loved this sign posted in the 2nd grade class: If you always spoon feed kids, they will only learn the shape of the spoon.) At noon, we headed back up & around the mountain so we could catch the jeepney that would be waiting for us around 3. It was a slow, grueling climb out....but it had been so worth it! We arrived back in Banaue in time for dinner at the Los Vegas restaurant where a Filipino was performing Elvis songs...pretty good impersonation really...and Rog earned brownie points by asking me to dance. Then we ran into some kids we'd met a couple times already & made arrangements to meet up tomorrow at 9 and head to some hot springs. It is neat how quickly fellow travelers bond regardless of age or nationalities. Wish it were more like that in the "real world."
38
Update 38
Learned much about the Ifugao religion from a local man who manned one of the many souvenir shops...without even asking! He told us:
they pray to many gods but all point up to the highest god, Kabunyan which points up to the same God as Christians. They freely accept both religions as both have the same basic value system and both believe in a higher power that watches over us.
A God for all.
Learned much about the Ifugao religion from a local man who manned one of the many souvenir shops...without even asking! He told us:
they pray to many gods but all point up to the highest god, Kabunyan which points up to the same God as Christians. They freely accept both religions as both have the same basic value system and both believe in a higher power that watches over us.
A God for all.
36 & 37
Update 36
It was packing time this morning, we are leaving our suitcases at CG & just traveling with our backpacks for the coming week. Cleaning up our condo was quick as it was basically bare. We climbed into the back of the CG van & by 9:30 was singing Onward Christian Solders ( in Tagalog--how do their words fit the melody so well?? Though I couldn't understand the sermon--the tone was accusatory--seems that's the norm in many places we've been to. Jaybee was translating for Rog--main message was be a vibrant & active Christian. After church, there was Sun School for the boys & we chatted with the minister. Then the boys piled inthe van & began chanting "Mang Inasal" & rocking the van...we'd told El we'd like to take the kids & staff to Man Inasal...where you get a 1/4 chicken, soup, drink & alllll you can eat rice! Word was out & the kids were revved up. What a blast to watch them mow down! It's a wonder there's any more rice left in Antipolo. 29 meals for less than $75. Sun p.m. was game time till about 4 when all the kids disappeared & soon we were called to the basement. A farewell son erupted...& so did my tears. Kids then individually told us what they wanted to thank us for...usually referring to us as Papa Bear & Mama Bear...though one of the girls choked up saying she felt like she had a Mommy & Daddy during our stay. They thanked us for teaching English, reading, computer learning games, fixing, painting, buying fruit,playing cards, basketball net & dinner out. But mostly they thanked us for being there each day & showing them we cared. They recognized we could have been off playing but choose to be with them. Small things in small ways...a Mother Teresa saying. Both of us tried to tell them what was in our hearts...we hope our words somehow help them heal a bit & build a stronger foundation to build their Christian life on. Then everyone circled us laying their hands on us & prayed. And once more we had to say good bye to people we'd come to love. Giving up hot showers, sleeping on 3" foam beds, washing our clothes out in a bucket, barking dogs & noisy motorcycles, sucing in exhaust & burning rubbish...actually seems like a very small price to pay for the richness of our time at CG.
El took us to catch a Manila bound taxi which took us to a bus station. And as if we weren't already feeling torn--Lydia, the cook & her son showed up...more thank you's, hugs & prayers...and a pillow with Psalms 40:1-2 ...God is our Refuge & Strength an ever present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear. We boarded the 10 pm bus headed for Banaue...and after reading the notes the kids had written us, we closed our eyes a bit overwhelmed by the day...hours later, we still had our eyes closed but it was nearly impossible to sleep as the plastic covered bus seats meant we kept slipping nearly off the seat. 9 hours & several cat naps later, we arrived at Banaue.
Update 37
As soon as we got to Banaue we saw them: the ancient (2000 yr old) & spectacular rice terraces that creeped up the mountains like a giant stairway...proving the most basic need for the Ifugao people. All built by hand without the aid of animals--unlike Machu Pichu where llama were used. Though it was named a World Heritage site in 1995, little has been done to assure their future & with more & more youth choosing to leave the labor intensive & subsistence life...like in China...their future is uncertain. Banaue is a busy town with many trekkers filling the hotels and keeping the local guides busy as they are necessary to traverse the vast mountain area. We wanted to learn more about the local Ifugao tribe so we went to the Banaue museum. Luckily, we were the only ones there & the 23 yr old who worked there willingly spent an hour or so answering our questions & explaining much about the culture. He himself had grown up in a traditional Ifugao hut...until his Dad deserted his family...then he had to find a job to help support his family. Soon he will be working in a local coal mine...crossing himself for safety each time he goes down. Here are a few things he shared:
-Ifugao men were heavily tattooed since the they were once head hunters & the tattoo could ID them if they lost their head. This practice in the 60's.
-Ifugao honor (not worship) their ancestors by putting their deceased body in a chair high above the hearth, picking off the dried body until only bones remained. Then the skull was mounted on the house & bones placed in nearby box. An animal is sacrificed (richer = bigger animal) as an offering & the meat is eaten by the villagers.
-Beetle nuts are chewed to give them energy & also it increases their body temperature needed in this colder area that sometimes dips to 10C. Still common as we see red teeth smiling at us often & NO SPITTING (the juice which leaves a permanent red stain) signs everywhere.
-Terraces are family owned & passed down to oldest son...sometimes 2 oldest depending size. No new ones are being built as all permanent water sources are being used. A rice farmer pays 50P ($1.25) a year income taxes. Also prop taxes but not sure $$.
-Rice here can only be planted once a year (vs. 2 or 3 times where fertilizer is used in the low lands). Rice is not exported as they can't grow enough here for their needs.
-Goats, pigs, ckns & dogs are raised for meat.
-Hoes are built on stilts with hearth on ground level, sleeping area on main floor with rice stored above that. Roofs are a dried grass...until recently when steel replaced most.
-Clothes use to be made from bark fibers & weaved...woman in striped skirts & men only wearing a long loin cloth (they call their lower ties..vs our neck tie)...and both carried better nut bag with long strings used to record days by tying one knot a day.
He told us much more ...but my favorite was his big grin when he said he loves going to visit his Grandpa who still lives in a traditional home... and being able to wear only his loin cloth again. We finished up the day watching a traditional dancing performance. Had to notice how little movement it contained--but after spending their days climbing the terraces & working in the paddies all day...they probably didn't have much energy to waste on dancing!
It was packing time this morning, we are leaving our suitcases at CG & just traveling with our backpacks for the coming week. Cleaning up our condo was quick as it was basically bare. We climbed into the back of the CG van & by 9:30 was singing Onward Christian Solders ( in Tagalog--how do their words fit the melody so well?? Though I couldn't understand the sermon--the tone was accusatory--seems that's the norm in many places we've been to. Jaybee was translating for Rog--main message was be a vibrant & active Christian. After church, there was Sun School for the boys & we chatted with the minister. Then the boys piled inthe van & began chanting "Mang Inasal" & rocking the van...we'd told El we'd like to take the kids & staff to Man Inasal...where you get a 1/4 chicken, soup, drink & alllll you can eat rice! Word was out & the kids were revved up. What a blast to watch them mow down! It's a wonder there's any more rice left in Antipolo. 29 meals for less than $75. Sun p.m. was game time till about 4 when all the kids disappeared & soon we were called to the basement. A farewell son erupted...& so did my tears. Kids then individually told us what they wanted to thank us for...usually referring to us as Papa Bear & Mama Bear...though one of the girls choked up saying she felt like she had a Mommy & Daddy during our stay. They thanked us for teaching English, reading, computer learning games, fixing, painting, buying fruit,playing cards, basketball net & dinner out. But mostly they thanked us for being there each day & showing them we cared. They recognized we could have been off playing but choose to be with them. Small things in small ways...a Mother Teresa saying. Both of us tried to tell them what was in our hearts...we hope our words somehow help them heal a bit & build a stronger foundation to build their Christian life on. Then everyone circled us laying their hands on us & prayed. And once more we had to say good bye to people we'd come to love. Giving up hot showers, sleeping on 3" foam beds, washing our clothes out in a bucket, barking dogs & noisy motorcycles, sucing in exhaust & burning rubbish...actually seems like a very small price to pay for the richness of our time at CG.
El took us to catch a Manila bound taxi which took us to a bus station. And as if we weren't already feeling torn--Lydia, the cook & her son showed up...more thank you's, hugs & prayers...and a pillow with Psalms 40:1-2 ...God is our Refuge & Strength an ever present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear. We boarded the 10 pm bus headed for Banaue...and after reading the notes the kids had written us, we closed our eyes a bit overwhelmed by the day...hours later, we still had our eyes closed but it was nearly impossible to sleep as the plastic covered bus seats meant we kept slipping nearly off the seat. 9 hours & several cat naps later, we arrived at Banaue.
Update 37
As soon as we got to Banaue we saw them: the ancient (2000 yr old) & spectacular rice terraces that creeped up the mountains like a giant stairway...proving the most basic need for the Ifugao people. All built by hand without the aid of animals--unlike Machu Pichu where llama were used. Though it was named a World Heritage site in 1995, little has been done to assure their future & with more & more youth choosing to leave the labor intensive & subsistence life...like in China...their future is uncertain. Banaue is a busy town with many trekkers filling the hotels and keeping the local guides busy as they are necessary to traverse the vast mountain area. We wanted to learn more about the local Ifugao tribe so we went to the Banaue museum. Luckily, we were the only ones there & the 23 yr old who worked there willingly spent an hour or so answering our questions & explaining much about the culture. He himself had grown up in a traditional Ifugao hut...until his Dad deserted his family...then he had to find a job to help support his family. Soon he will be working in a local coal mine...crossing himself for safety each time he goes down. Here are a few things he shared:
-Ifugao men were heavily tattooed since the they were once head hunters & the tattoo could ID them if they lost their head. This practice in the 60's.
-Ifugao honor (not worship) their ancestors by putting their deceased body in a chair high above the hearth, picking off the dried body until only bones remained. Then the skull was mounted on the house & bones placed in nearby box. An animal is sacrificed (richer = bigger animal) as an offering & the meat is eaten by the villagers.
-Beetle nuts are chewed to give them energy & also it increases their body temperature needed in this colder area that sometimes dips to 10C. Still common as we see red teeth smiling at us often & NO SPITTING (the juice which leaves a permanent red stain) signs everywhere.
-Terraces are family owned & passed down to oldest son...sometimes 2 oldest depending size. No new ones are being built as all permanent water sources are being used. A rice farmer pays 50P ($1.25) a year income taxes. Also prop taxes but not sure $$.
-Rice here can only be planted once a year (vs. 2 or 3 times where fertilizer is used in the low lands). Rice is not exported as they can't grow enough here for their needs.
-Goats, pigs, ckns & dogs are raised for meat.
-Hoes are built on stilts with hearth on ground level, sleeping area on main floor with rice stored above that. Roofs are a dried grass...until recently when steel replaced most.
-Clothes use to be made from bark fibers & weaved...woman in striped skirts & men only wearing a long loin cloth (they call their lower ties..vs our neck tie)...and both carried better nut bag with long strings used to record days by tying one knot a day.
He told us much more ...but my favorite was his big grin when he said he loves going to visit his Grandpa who still lives in a traditional home... and being able to wear only his loin cloth again. We finished up the day watching a traditional dancing performance. Had to notice how little movement it contained--but after spending their days climbing the terraces & working in the paddies all day...they probably didn't have much energy to waste on dancing!
Monday, February 9, 2015
33, 34 & 35
Update 33
"Me next" is what I hear often each day...and it's nice that my student pool keeps growing including boys who were too shy at first I chuckle to think how one boy asked me to teach him the F sound...a Filipino in Philippines. Several boys have stopped making wild guesses and now say, "Wait" as they try to sound out words...Ahhhh...I've always relished watching kids learn to read!! Rog is in high demand as Mr. Fix It...recent projects: cupbrd doors, hanging corkboard, reinforcing table legs & chair seats, fixing door frame. Often he makes a trip to the hardware store with a boy in tow. Yesterday it was Agathon who when Rog suggested a treat, said, "No--pants--get Daniel (who speaks better English)." With his pants & Daniel & Rog, they headed down a side street & deeper into a barrio. The farther they went, the more narrow the passage way until finally Rog could barely squeeze through...then it opened up to an area where boys were playing pool, women hunched over a mahjong set, kids running about, food cooking & several sewing. Agathon was measured & told to come back at 3. He was delighted with the results as Rog pd the $1.50 fee. Today JP went with Rog to the hardware store...when they got near, he said matter of factly, this is where I was a street boy. He is now studying for his HS exam, is a trusted & helpful big brother to many at CG & most respectful to staff & us. He has succeeded in his battle to break away from the strong chains the streets have on kids...freedom to do whatever they want...no boss....no rules....no chores. He has a future now. Alleluia!! Unfortunately, others have taken his place on the street. We left CG the same time Lydia the cook did and as we waited together together to catch a jeepney to town--she reached into her purse & handed us a letter from her son--the one in the "spitting contest" from earlier update. In meticulous cursive, he wrote:
"It is a blessing that my mother gets to work with such amazing people like you. I am very impressed with how God is using you to expand his kingdom. Like you, I also want to serve God. I am third year college student now and my mother's income can hardly support all my needs. For this reason, I seek help from your good hearts. Should you choose to give, I know God will bless you . By the grace of God, this person writing to you will someday be a dedicated servant of His and will be helping people exactly the same way you have helped him. " Guess you could say we gave a Pay Ahead donation. Lydia actually jumped...physically jumped for joy! Our days are filled with gems!
Update 34
Had a nice chat with a neighborhood shop owner. He'd spent 7 years on a cargo ship away from his family to earn the $$ to set up his shop. The shop fills the first floor & his home is above it. He introduced us to his wife, cousin & son...he is now a proud & happy man...finally. Last night we went in search of french fries...you can guess who's idea that was...we found some awesome ones & juicy burgers too. The owner seemed overly excited to have us there ...could be because we were the only ones in the restaurant...he asked if he could take our picture & us it for his website. This is actually not a rare occurrence here or in many of the places we've traveled...but it always takes us by surprise!
Update 35
CG was bussing with commotion & people when we arrived this a.m...the dentist was coming. The sponsoring group's name translated was "Help with No Return." They brought a mound of cold spaghetti & a sweet jello like dessert filled with corn. They loaded paper plates & our boys & many neighbors & church members chowed down. A portion of the basement was walled off with sheets & by 9 a.m. the first patient, a CG boy was getting a tooth pulled...almost everyone of the following 39 got at least one tooth pulled...one got 4...and never once did I hear a scream or moan or see anyone crying...just a lot of puffy cheeks! Incredible! Guess my high pain tolerance is no biggy around here. I visited with the Filipino dentist as I filed bags of amoxicillin & pain pills. He has volunteered his services often for 10 years now. He said it made his heart joyful...all I could think of was all those teeth in the waste basket. Rog and El (house dad) went to Robertson's Tool Store to spend the money DUMC's Women's Group had sent with us. Like a boy in a candy store, El loaded up on tools. He was thrilled to have what it will take to repair the van, motorcycle & things around the building...and to teach the boys to use them! We needed a break after this day, so we headed to the movies again. This time we saw Jupiter Ascending...basically an updated Star Wars with ships speeding through space barely missing each other & every imaginable object. As we rode home in a tricycle dodging a multitude of obstacles, Rog said, "Those space ships got nothing on us!"
Sent from my iPod Touch
Thursday, February 5, 2015
32
Update 32
First I need to make a correction: a friend was curious about the bible being recognized in the Philippine constitution, so he did some research and found there was nothing about the bible in their constitution--so slash that info thanks to Dan! Certainly don't ever consider me a totally reliable source as I only write what I hear from locals, I see and what I feel. I welcome corrections & comments & other perspectives!!!
Yesterday I spent the afternoon at the gov't facility for street kids, petty crimes & abused girls. Again we took a huge pot of some type of porridge that was quickly gobbled up. They still did not have propane so rice was being cooked--really burned--on an outside burner using wood.
As I entered the gates, a couple young boys raced toward me, grabbed my hand & held it to their foreheads (a very common form of respect that the CG boys show us everyday)...and then both tried to kiss me on the lips...I let them kiss me on the cheek and they said, "I love you. You are my best friend." They were well versed in what pulls the heart strings. We played games again...the CG teacher asked me to show her different ones from last week so she could learn them also...so we played London Bridges, 7 Up and Balloon Volleyball (good thing I usually have several balloons in my pocket!) The kids roll with laughter & though hard to control...it was a great time! Nardeth again read them a story while the kids gave her 100% attention. A color page and a piece of candy added to the joy of their day. Throughout, the time, I had to avoid lip kisses, ignore leg rubbing and my lap was always full. So was my heart.
Rog has been working on putting sliding doors under the counter in the kitchen...they said they needed it to pass a kitchen inspection. He also fixed a bad electric plug ...he is often interrupted by a boy asking for some help on their school work. I spent time with the two people here who tutor...showing them websites to use...the kids love playing on them and that's what I spend most of my days doing...sitting next to them reading aloud what is on the computer as they don't have it hooked to a speaker. Also working on math facts with many. They love the multiplication 9 trick! The cook told me that to get most any job, you needed a college education...even to work at McD or as a janitor...and college is not cheap!
A funny thing happened as the cook & I walked to buy some watermelon--I took her to negotiate the price & pick the best ones...she told that her son had won a "spitting" contest. I repeated "spitting" trying to act it out...and she said yes and he will be in another and if he wins, he will get to go to England...again I said, "spitting?"...she said, "Yes, he spit very good English!" Smile!!
Finally met an American who lives in the area here. He has a business in town. He asked how long we'd been in the Philippines and when I said 3 week, he asked if I was in culture shock...he said it took him 3 months before he would come out of his house!
First I need to make a correction: a friend was curious about the bible being recognized in the Philippine constitution, so he did some research and found there was nothing about the bible in their constitution--so slash that info thanks to Dan! Certainly don't ever consider me a totally reliable source as I only write what I hear from locals, I see and what I feel. I welcome corrections & comments & other perspectives!!!
Yesterday I spent the afternoon at the gov't facility for street kids, petty crimes & abused girls. Again we took a huge pot of some type of porridge that was quickly gobbled up. They still did not have propane so rice was being cooked--really burned--on an outside burner using wood.
As I entered the gates, a couple young boys raced toward me, grabbed my hand & held it to their foreheads (a very common form of respect that the CG boys show us everyday)...and then both tried to kiss me on the lips...I let them kiss me on the cheek and they said, "I love you. You are my best friend." They were well versed in what pulls the heart strings. We played games again...the CG teacher asked me to show her different ones from last week so she could learn them also...so we played London Bridges, 7 Up and Balloon Volleyball (good thing I usually have several balloons in my pocket!) The kids roll with laughter & though hard to control...it was a great time! Nardeth again read them a story while the kids gave her 100% attention. A color page and a piece of candy added to the joy of their day. Throughout, the time, I had to avoid lip kisses, ignore leg rubbing and my lap was always full. So was my heart.
Rog has been working on putting sliding doors under the counter in the kitchen...they said they needed it to pass a kitchen inspection. He also fixed a bad electric plug ...he is often interrupted by a boy asking for some help on their school work. I spent time with the two people here who tutor...showing them websites to use...the kids love playing on them and that's what I spend most of my days doing...sitting next to them reading aloud what is on the computer as they don't have it hooked to a speaker. Also working on math facts with many. They love the multiplication 9 trick! The cook told me that to get most any job, you needed a college education...even to work at McD or as a janitor...and college is not cheap!
A funny thing happened as the cook & I walked to buy some watermelon--I took her to negotiate the price & pick the best ones...she told that her son had won a "spitting" contest. I repeated "spitting" trying to act it out...and she said yes and he will be in another and if he wins, he will get to go to England...again I said, "spitting?"...she said, "Yes, he spit very good English!" Smile!!
Finally met an American who lives in the area here. He has a business in town. He asked how long we'd been in the Philippines and when I said 3 week, he asked if I was in culture shock...he said it took him 3 months before he would come out of his house!
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
30 & 31
Update 30
Rog has located a nearby bakery so after tasting their ware, we went to CG. The boys were dressed up and the CG van was filling up fast with many local people was well as CG boys. Three of the boys joined us and we caught a jeepney arriving at the church at the same time the van did. The pastor was Sharon's uncle and a former CG house parent. He introduced us to the first CG grad who later sang in the praise band. The pastor also runs a building business and has 10 CG grads working for him. The First hymn was in English and one DUMC sings, Blessed Be the Name. ..sung at full volume & gusto. Next several were in Tagalog but since the boys have been making me read some Tagalot, I could sing along...not understanding a word. The sermon title on the big screen was Called to Serve...and typical here, the pastor spoke mostly Tagalog but with some English intertwined so I heard...and many are hiding that you are Christians from M - Sat....why are you living if you don't serve...and our names as well as a couple other volunteers of CG & one working with Youth With A Mission (YWAM) from Holland. The congregation was mostly youth and less than 100. I spent a little time talking to the young YWAM volunteer. She said YWAM was in many countries and had many volunteers. We have met soo many volunteers from sooo many countries. What would the world be like if there were no volunteers????
Update 31
Just a little bit about few things:
Went with Billy & Sharon to a restaurant at the highest point in Antipolo for a overlook of Manila...and if that wasn't high enough...we walked the swinging bridge up another 200 yards swaying in the breeze while holding our breath...so guess you could say the view from there was breathtaking!
While discussing Philippine history with one of the boys, it was really weird when he got excited about their Independence Day...because it was independence from us...in my life time!
Minimum wage here is 466p for ten hour day...that's a little over $10
There is Gov't health insurance...though not the best. Some employers give better coverage to their employees. Some even give retirement pensions.
You can buy a single cigarette...and so many do...including the youngest CG boy (10) who got caught and was kicked out of school for 3 days!
Driving in the right lane is dangerous--though paved & even with a painted side line...they just paved around existing poles & trees & support wires...like it's no big problem to be driving along and come to a pole dead center. And how do they get away with no traffic lights????
Ketchup is made from bananas
When the stores close up at night and pull down their metal doors, a new street "store" is soon set up...selling shoes, cds, clothing, snack foods, etc...how do people find these "night stores??"...or do they just rely on whoever is passing by??
School: got to visit the elementary school with one of the CG boys as my guide. Talked to several of the uniformed teachers who welcomed me into their classrooms where the ABC's, days of week & months, number lines etc. were on the walls & lots, lots of noisy uniformed students were bouncing up & down in their seats. I did not pass a quiet classroom. The kids read aloud what was on the chalkboard...seemed to be a contest over who could read the loudest. Also looked at their report cards...basic & simple...Love of God was graded along with reading, math, English, etc.
The Philippine constitution recognizes the Bible as the truth.
Great food choices have been: flan, lumpia, pork/ckn on a stick and many rice dishes topped with garlic, hot peppers, veges, pork/fish/ckn and lots of well seasoned broth. The boys eat about 4 cups of rice with various toppings 3x a day!
Snacking on salty treats and sucking sugar treats is almost constant...and all those tiny colorful bags litter the streets and yards like over-sized confetti. Most treats cost 1p or 2p (2 or 4c)
We went to the movie, In The Woods..staring Meryl Streep & Johnny Deep. Felt like we'd stepped back into USA for the evening as the theater was first class and though the popcorn wasn't quite as tasty...it was so nice to munch. We both liked the movie...and cost for both of us & popcorn was about $10.
Crazy to see precooked & vacuumed packed corn on the cob in the grocery store...walk a block & see corn on the cob being grilled on homemade grills using bits of wood for fuel.
We stop often at a little neighborhood store who loves practicing his English and now stocks Coke Zero for me!
Rog has located a nearby bakery so after tasting their ware, we went to CG. The boys were dressed up and the CG van was filling up fast with many local people was well as CG boys. Three of the boys joined us and we caught a jeepney arriving at the church at the same time the van did. The pastor was Sharon's uncle and a former CG house parent. He introduced us to the first CG grad who later sang in the praise band. The pastor also runs a building business and has 10 CG grads working for him. The First hymn was in English and one DUMC sings, Blessed Be the Name. ..sung at full volume & gusto. Next several were in Tagalog but since the boys have been making me read some Tagalot, I could sing along...not understanding a word. The sermon title on the big screen was Called to Serve...and typical here, the pastor spoke mostly Tagalog but with some English intertwined so I heard...and many are hiding that you are Christians from M - Sat....why are you living if you don't serve...and our names as well as a couple other volunteers of CG & one working with Youth With A Mission (YWAM) from Holland. The congregation was mostly youth and less than 100. I spent a little time talking to the young YWAM volunteer. She said YWAM was in many countries and had many volunteers. We have met soo many volunteers from sooo many countries. What would the world be like if there were no volunteers????
Update 31
Just a little bit about few things:
Went with Billy & Sharon to a restaurant at the highest point in Antipolo for a overlook of Manila...and if that wasn't high enough...we walked the swinging bridge up another 200 yards swaying in the breeze while holding our breath...so guess you could say the view from there was breathtaking!
While discussing Philippine history with one of the boys, it was really weird when he got excited about their Independence Day...because it was independence from us...in my life time!
Minimum wage here is 466p for ten hour day...that's a little over $10
There is Gov't health insurance...though not the best. Some employers give better coverage to their employees. Some even give retirement pensions.
You can buy a single cigarette...and so many do...including the youngest CG boy (10) who got caught and was kicked out of school for 3 days!
Driving in the right lane is dangerous--though paved & even with a painted side line...they just paved around existing poles & trees & support wires...like it's no big problem to be driving along and come to a pole dead center. And how do they get away with no traffic lights????
Ketchup is made from bananas
When the stores close up at night and pull down their metal doors, a new street "store" is soon set up...selling shoes, cds, clothing, snack foods, etc...how do people find these "night stores??"...or do they just rely on whoever is passing by??
School: got to visit the elementary school with one of the CG boys as my guide. Talked to several of the uniformed teachers who welcomed me into their classrooms where the ABC's, days of week & months, number lines etc. were on the walls & lots, lots of noisy uniformed students were bouncing up & down in their seats. I did not pass a quiet classroom. The kids read aloud what was on the chalkboard...seemed to be a contest over who could read the loudest. Also looked at their report cards...basic & simple...Love of God was graded along with reading, math, English, etc.
The Philippine constitution recognizes the Bible as the truth.
Great food choices have been: flan, lumpia, pork/ckn on a stick and many rice dishes topped with garlic, hot peppers, veges, pork/fish/ckn and lots of well seasoned broth. The boys eat about 4 cups of rice with various toppings 3x a day!
Snacking on salty treats and sucking sugar treats is almost constant...and all those tiny colorful bags litter the streets and yards like over-sized confetti. Most treats cost 1p or 2p (2 or 4c)
We went to the movie, In The Woods..staring Meryl Streep & Johnny Deep. Felt like we'd stepped back into USA for the evening as the theater was first class and though the popcorn wasn't quite as tasty...it was so nice to munch. We both liked the movie...and cost for both of us & popcorn was about $10.
Crazy to see precooked & vacuumed packed corn on the cob in the grocery store...walk a block & see corn on the cob being grilled on homemade grills using bits of wood for fuel.
We stop often at a little neighborhood store who loves practicing his English and now stocks Coke Zero for me!
Monday, February 2, 2015
29
Update 29
At 5 a.m., Eyel (CG staff) pulled up and Chan was off...at 8 a.m., JP was here to work on cleaning up the yard...after filling 14 garbage bags ...yup it was that messy...we headed to CG. Since it was Saturday, boys were doing chores & washing clothes...but soon a few joined me for computer learning games. Rog & I took turns helping Jhanno (9th gr) work on his extra credit English work. It was extremely hard...often the question or answer selection made no sense...Jhanno worked almost 4 hours on it! Rog & Billy (USA vol) started working on designing homemade bunk beds. They think they can make them for 1/4 the cost of purchased ones. Best treat of the day was fried bananas with caramel sauce. Love the cook here! On Sunday, Rog located a nearby bakery so after tasting their ware, we went to CG. The boys were dressed up & the CG van was filling up fast with many local people as well as the boys. With 3 boys, we caught a jeepney and went to church where we met up with the rest. The pastor was Sharon's uncle & former CG house parent. He introduced us to the 1st CG grade who later sang in the praise band. The pastor also runs a building business and has 10 CG grads working for him. First hymn was in English & one DUMC sings, Blessed Be the Name...sang with amazing gusto...next several hymns were in Tagalog but since the boys had been teaching me, I could could along...without understanding the meaning. The sermon title displayed on the large screen was Called to Serve. Typical here, the past spoke mostly in Tagalog with some English here & there...so I heard bits & pieces. I heard: many are hiding that you are Christians from Mon-Sat... why are you living if you don't serve... and our names & some of the other names of volunteers. The congregation was mostly youth and less than 100. We met a young Dutch girl who is with Youth With A Mission (YWAM) which emphasis is training and mercy to underprivileged. She said YWAM is a widespread organization with lots of volunteers in many countries. What would this world be like if there were no local and international volunteers??? We spent the afternoon playing learning computer games and encouraging the boys who took turns playing basketball. Don't think that basketball had a minutes rest since we got home from church. No soccer around here! Around 6, we went with Billy & Sharon to Cloud 9--a restaurant on the top of a mountain. We hung tightly to the sides of the swinging ladder that went another 500' up to a tower & from there...after we caught our breathe...we could see the lights of Manila. We took the steps down and then had a delicious meal as we visited. On the way back, we stopped at the newest mall around. I can't figure out who shops in these malls...surely there must be many neighborhoods we have not seen! The grocery store there was as nice as any I've seen in USA--yet you walk a block from it and there are the little shops selling food items & other odds & ends...such contrast. Contrast seems to be a constant in many of the countries we've traveled. Though I see contrast in USA...it doesn't compare to depth & magnitude. I pray it never does.
Sunday, February 1, 2015
28
Update 28
First let me make correction on last update...I typed that Daryl had been a bigger on the street...meant beggar...I know I make many typo's and can't blame it all on these ancient overused keyboards and the many interruptions...so please overlook my errors!
Tidbits:
Philippines was named after Prince Phillip... and the people are called Filipinos....yet their language does not include the f sound and they do not pronounce the f sound!!
We see lots of dogs in cages here & as we walked by one, one of the boys said it was a Filipino dog & for birthday party. ..you can probably guess what that means. I asked, "Cats??" Yup, we eat them too. (Note to Karen & Terri, don't come to Philippines on your birthday!)
School: There are 3 sessions each school day: 6 -10, 10 - 2 and 2 - 6. All are taught by the same teacher and each session has at least 50 students in each!! (Note to my fellow elementary teachers---rejoice you don't teach here!!!)
Since litter surrounded our condo, we decided to clean it up some. A couple of the CG boys joined us. It soon became evident we needed a shovel..so quit for the day. I worked with some older guys today and each time I explained what a word meant, they'd say Wow! When I explained Pentecost saying it was like when they came to CG & became courageous about sharing their love of God, JP's eyes lite up and he grinned from ear to ear saying, "WOW, I DID have a Pentecost!" And always the boys left after many Thank Yous. Earlier I'd told one of the boys the 3 Bears story and used Rog as the example of Papa Bear, me as Mama Bear and Chan as Goldilocks. So later, one guy ran to me, interrupting my lesson saying, "Papa Bear, picture!" Figuring Rog wanted the camera, I gave it to him & went on with the lesson. A few minutes later he came back & showed me a picture of Rog getting a haircut by JayVee...I went to see & found Rog surrounded by boys grinning & pointing, "Papa Bear, haircut!" JayVee got paid 50p for a fine job!! Even trimmed his beard. Rog encouraged him to set up a barbershop, sell coffee & donuts and it would be a great avenue for him to minister to his customers. It seems most everyone hear has some little business. As you walk down the street you pass many small stores selling many things...and all just in front of their home or right in their home. At noon, Chan left on the back of a motorcycle driven by a local volunteer--2 other bikes with staff on them joined & off they went to see some countryside & eat lunch. She came back about 3 hours later with great pictures of rice fields & lakes. She'd love the fact that there was no such thing as traffic on a motorcycle...you just weave in and out. They even weaved their way through a parade in a small village. Here most people don't know how to drive & we haven't seen a girl driving yet. You do need a license. Later, toward evening, we took Chan for Halo Halo (translated means Mix-Mix) and is considered a favorite dessert). In USA I'd call it Hodge Podge. It's a mix of: shaved ice topped with coconut milk, purple Ube ice cream, red tapioca, green jello squares, sweet red & yellow beans, chunks of flan, candied banana with a wafer stick to boot! It's a favorite around here...Chan & Rog are now avid fans too! I really liked the flan...got a dish of plain flan...plain Jane, as usual. We picked up some popcorn & Tang for the boys to enjoy during their movie tonight (Fri treat) and when we got back, they were gathered ready to sing to Chan and then several boys told her how she'd helped them. Finally, all the boys stood around her, laying hands on her and prayed aloud...some in English but most in Tagalog...all with passion..they thanked God for her, prayed for her safety, faith and future. It was like sticking your wet finger in an electric socket...electrifying and yet at the same time very humbling. How quickly Chan had bonded with these boys...how tough to say good bye...
Thursday, January 29, 2015
26 & 27
Update 26
At 9 am we left our "resort" in the back of a truck driven by the house parent of CG. We dropped our stuff at our new "condo" on our way to CG. Bekah had sent me learning websites so I loaded a few and showed the CG teacher, Nordeth how to use them. Several boys got hooked right away. Chan & I taught English off & on till 2--then we went with several CG staff & kids to the gov't run facility. We brought 2 large bags of clothing and a huge pot of sticky rice to donate as it seems the gov't doesn't give them enough $$. Boys were cutting wood for cooking as they didn't have $$ for propane for their stoves. Chan went with Sharon to minister to the abused girls. A deeply moving hour for them. I went with Nordeth to where they kept the street kids brought there by the police. Parents can pick them up after 3 days--but most don't. The staff there was amazingly caring & often let the kids stay until they found an orphanage (often CG) for them or they wanted to return to the street--many in search of their family. When Nordeth prayed with them she asked them what they'd like to pray for--all said to return to their family. Heartbreak. Nordeth asked me to play games with them so we played Doggie, Doggie, Bluebird and Duck, Duck, Goose. Such joy filled the room. Then Nordeth gathered them and read them a story. She was so animated and read with such expression adding much background to each page....the kids were completely captivated! I had chills...in spite of the hot, humid weather. Each kid then got a coloring page & a few crayons, 2 suckers and a note from a Pennsylvania Sunday school class who had sent them along with a care box to CG. Several of the CG boys played basketball with kids who were there because they'd been caught stealing. Sharon is so wise to realize giving to other is often the most healing of all experiences. Sharon shared many of the boys stories & her experiences while eating later as we treated her to dinner out later. Then we shopped a bit to stock our new home that they boys had all set up for us when we returned. Beds were made up & floor mopped. A few cockroaches liked it too! Home, sweet, home.
Update 27
Another day so full of emotional moments. I'm exhausted. How can I capture these moments when they pile up on each other so quickly that I've hardly absorbed one when another one happens. kind of like huge ocean waves pounding my heart time after time. Johanna telling me with tears streaming down her face that her Dad left her & later cursed her for her beliefs...how since her parents had been one Muslin & other Catholic...she didn't know which God to choose...how she has never felt loved... til now. she hugged me & thanked me for giving her strength & love. And the cook here who is a single mom & feels she is glorifying God by cooking here & hopes to do it the rest of her life. Irvine who so wished his older brother could find love & peace in Jesus like he has. life. And the most poignant, Daryl who's prayer was that he could visit Taclabon again...the typhoon area & his former home and then turned to me and said, "Mammy, what does BE mean?" I asked how the word was used and he said, "BE hopeful. It's in my bible." Wow. How do you explain that to a kid who has lost so much and lived on the street as a bigger for years? I only hope my explanation brought him hope.
We met a few more volunteers today...know a 5 now & 4 are American other Australian. All long term and all with their own special faith journeys. Rog spent most of today & yesterday with a crew of boys eager to learn and pitching in whenever they could. They replaced screens & walls, fortified shelves & patched holes. He also does tutoring between jobs. Chan & I continue with our English & reading lessons and showing kids computer learning games. I went to a big supermarket (Meijer style) to buy fruit for the boys. It made the cook's eyes sparkle when she told the boys we had a surprise for them. Fruit is a real treat for them. But the real treat came when they surprised me with a birthday cake & sang a beautiful song accompanied by JP on the guitar. Now it was my turn to tear up! I got lots of tight hugs & high fives from each one. Chan & Rog were the master minds behind it...and everyone loved...especially me. At 8 pm, devotions started led by the former house parents. Though we could understand little, the sincerity of their voices as they sang & prayed spoke clearly. Two boys told their story (which was translated for us). Again I'm struck by how horrid their lives have been and how strong their faith is now. I honestly don't think I have ever felt God's love as overwhelmingly as they do--my comfortable & relatively easy life "shields" me from it...but having the opportunity to see it here...and in many other places we've traveled...to get a glimpse of that is such a blessing and through it, my faith deepens.
24 & 25
Update 24
Tidbits:
Manila is home to 12 million locally & about another 12 in the towns surrounding it and 6 million showed up for the Pope's mass on the Sunday before he left!
Many of the street kids & families ere taken to a "camp" while the Pope was here
Most pedicab drivers rent the pedicab for $3 per day and their rent for one month including elec & water is $375
Gotta love the fans on the front of many pedicabs--made out of plastic pop bottles.
It was time to get out of Manila...so we called a cab...first guy told us he would charge us P1700 (way more than we'd heard) When Rog tried to bargain he said no one would use meter...if we found one he'd do it for free. Rog walked up the street & talked to another driver who agreed to use his meter but charge p100 more... he told us to bring our luggage to him (probably didn't want to be confronted by first driver). The ride to Antipolo took us in and out of wealthy and poor areas...and sometimes through areas which were a mixture of both. We'd book a 4 bedroom at the Real Cove Resort & we're a little apprehensive when we arrived and found no other guest. Rog & Chan checked out the room while I waited with the luggage. They came back busting with laughter. Turns out we'd misunderstood. 4 bedroom-actually meant 4 beds in one room. And since the 4 bed room's bathroom had no toilet seat & was dirty...we settled into a 3 bed room--should say squeezed as only 1 person at time can leave their bed to get to the bathroom. Cold shower means short shower and no mirror means you just don't care what you look like! BYOT here means Bring Your Own TP and Bring Your Own Towel. On the plus side, we have 4 chilly pools all to ourselves. After our fit of laughter, we went in search of lunch first and then Children's Garden...the home for street boys we'd plan to help at. After asking around, we found both and were warmly welcomed by Sharon, the founder & spirited leader. She gave us the nickel tour introducing us to the boys along the way & then with gusto told us the story of Children's Garden (CG). In 2004, she and a friend roamed the streets befriending street kids...her heart ached for them so she began to pray for a way to help the boys become good men so they could be good husbands & fathers and thus break the cycle. In 2006, a lady gave her a building and her dream began to blossom. She said she has remained very close to God because she must lean on Him all the time...for money and direction. The boys decide on their own to come and leave as they will. Most leave at least once but most come back. Sharon welcomes them back with a forgiving heart, like the prodigal son. They are like a family where love of God & each other is strong and education is important. Now some of her "first boys" come back to work and minister to the new ones. All of them go weekly back to the streets, to a joil, hospital, and to a home for abused girls...to spend time loving, encouraging hope & praying with them. Inspiring! It was almost 5 by now and some boys asked us to play a card game which was a great way to get to know some of the boys. We left in time to pick up a few groceries at a fairly large grocery store & got a ride back to our "resort" where we sat on our beds & ate. Opening the cheese slices proved to be an almost impossible task as the cheese was so thing we literally had to scrape it off the plastic...which brought on more laughter.
Update 25
Day 2 in Antipolo started by riding a tricycle that chugged up the mountain & swerved around the sharp turns in and out of the traffic...a real live Disney ride! Breakfast was sugared pig fat--not to be confused with bacon-- and fried eggs. Rolls came with my meal so I told the waiter I'd asked for toast instead--he took my rolls & quite a while later, he returned with my same rolls...toasted! As Chan said, you just can't make up these stories. Soon after we got to CG we were surrounded by boys eager to learn from the books I'd brought with me. The rest of the day we were all teaching someone something. One guy practiced his guitar & played a song Chan loved so she sang along with him. A bit later, an older boy asked her to go with him to escort a younger kids to school. He held her hand and said, "They are all looking at you but don't be confused." Sharon invited us to stay in a rental condo nearby CG. It was newly built with only a sing & bathroom. She plans to let the boys over 18 live there with Billy, a USA volunteer who was staying for another year. Look like a better deal than our "resort" plus a lot cheaper so with help, we carried 3 mattresses, a fan, bucket, broom & a few dishes to our new home. We set out looking for dinner...found a Chinese restaurant and way over ordered. Stuffed ourselves & still walked out with a big left-over bag which we soon gave away. After another tricycle ride, we each fell into our our beds...Papa bear, Mama Bear and Goldilocks!
Sunday, January 25, 2015
23
Update 23
Met our first American while in Philippines; Chan!! She came laden with chocolate (Royce made in Japan) for my birthday! What a treat--both her & the chocolate! She'd been in route for 2 days but after a shower, we were off checking out Manila. First stop, the Paco Park church in time for a service. A wedding reception was also going on--elaborate as any in the states. Then we went searching for authentic FIlipino food. Rog & I had got a lead on one yesterday from a clerk--we told her we'd eaten Chinese, Swiss, French & American..but where should we go for Filipino?? We found the place she sent us and she was right. Chan & Rog were in foodie heaven...I went next door to a bakery & got some good cheesy bread. We crawled into a jeepney (15 cents each) arriving at Intramuros so Chan could check that out...we hired a pedicab to take us around...actually hired two as they told Rog he was too big to ride with Chan & I. Then we jumped on the LRT (elevated train - 30 cents each) arriving at M of C a bit after 3. Again, lots of visitors playing with the kids in the play yard...so we ducked into the nursery and soon all three were cuddling babies. An hour later, we went to greet some of the bigger kids doing what we could to stir up smiles. We were handed loaded dinner plates & assigned kids to feed. Lucky Chan got the "chow down" girl...I got the "spit out girl" which after an honest attempt, I gave up on as there was more on the floor than inside her belly! Later I saw two helpers trying to feed her. I moved on to another guy who ate better but after a few choking explosions, I put on an apron & got a cloth to wipe us both up. Note to self: wash that shirt out ASAP. It was harder saying goodbye today...last time. Their tomorrows will probably feel the same as today...but not mine. We were all tired...Chan exhausted...so we stopped at a Jollibee's (their McD want-a-be) & after looking around...went to McD. We have eaten McD quite often as there aren't lots of other choices other than street food or expensive hotel restaurants. We soon were in our hotel room & Chan in bed,,taking time only to check out today's pictures & eating a few bites of that delicious chocolate!. Sweet dreams tonight!!
Sent from my iPod Touch
Met our first American while in Philippines; Chan!! She came laden with chocolate (Royce made in Japan) for my birthday! What a treat--both her & the chocolate! She'd been in route for 2 days but after a shower, we were off checking out Manila. First stop, the Paco Park church in time for a service. A wedding reception was also going on--elaborate as any in the states. Then we went searching for authentic FIlipino food. Rog & I had got a lead on one yesterday from a clerk--we told her we'd eaten Chinese, Swiss, French & American..but where should we go for Filipino?? We found the place she sent us and she was right. Chan & Rog were in foodie heaven...I went next door to a bakery & got some good cheesy bread. We crawled into a jeepney (15 cents each) arriving at Intramuros so Chan could check that out...we hired a pedicab to take us around...actually hired two as they told Rog he was too big to ride with Chan & I. Then we jumped on the LRT (elevated train - 30 cents each) arriving at M of C a bit after 3. Again, lots of visitors playing with the kids in the play yard...so we ducked into the nursery and soon all three were cuddling babies. An hour later, we went to greet some of the bigger kids doing what we could to stir up smiles. We were handed loaded dinner plates & assigned kids to feed. Lucky Chan got the "chow down" girl...I got the "spit out girl" which after an honest attempt, I gave up on as there was more on the floor than inside her belly! Later I saw two helpers trying to feed her. I moved on to another guy who ate better but after a few choking explosions, I put on an apron & got a cloth to wipe us both up. Note to self: wash that shirt out ASAP. It was harder saying goodbye today...last time. Their tomorrows will probably feel the same as today...but not mine. We were all tired...Chan exhausted...so we stopped at a Jollibee's (their McD want-a-be) & after looking around...went to McD. We have eaten McD quite often as there aren't lots of other choices other than street food or expensive hotel restaurants. We soon were in our hotel room & Chan in bed,,taking time only to check out today's pictures & eating a few bites of that delicious chocolate!. Sweet dreams tonight!!
Sent from my iPod Touch
22
We are not allowed to take pictures at the Orphanage...and we truly appreciate that...so we captures these dear little ones by writing about them--as Rog did in his last update.
The one whose head is 3x the size but smiles & even has a faint laugh when you talk with him; brown eyes w/ buck teeth who could win any staring contest;
the dancer with the limp who loves me to twirl her as we dance;
The singer who though she can barely move about, can belt a song;
the boss with his key who now is the thumb war master;
the smiler who though her legs are bent like a pretzel seems to have a permanent smile on her face;
and in the nursery...the trouble maker, strong willed & a bully to the others;
the tiny 2 yr old girl who demands the majority of toys & loves playing peek-a-boo;
the twins just learning to coo;
the hugger who reaches for you immediately & never lets go until you put him down & then he cries;
the laugher who doubles over with the slightest tickle...
the list could go on and on. Each special. Each disabled & deserted...now loved by the Sister & the workers. Just before leaving today, I spoke to one of the Sisters mentioning there seemed to be more visitors since the Pope's visit. She said yes, the Pope called us to not just give $$$ and think that was enough. But only when we give time & touch these little ones...see their disabilities --then the children benefit---and we even more because then we can see our own disability within us...that's the children's gift to us. The Pope understands this--he has experienced this...as we have.
Sent from my iPod Touch
10, 11 & 12
Update 10
Headed to Intramuros area today--the historical site of what was known as "The Pearl of the East"--Manila before 1942 when the Japanese seized it & took control. MacArthur was commanded to leave the island, leaving behind 10,000 of his men with the words, "I shall return." Those men & thousands of Filipino soldiers were taken in prisoned & forced to walk w/o any provisions to Bataan --hundreds of miles--most did not make it. In 1945, MacArthur returned and in the deadliest battle in the Pacific--over 100,000 died--they were freed...but nothing remained of Manila. Though the Philippines have never experienced another war... in the words of a young tour guide "the city never regained it's beauty. " Walking the streets proved his point. We took off for M of C and once again spent time playing, caressing, holding and feeding the kids. How good it felt to make a few of them smile! I noticed the prayer we said everyday in Kolkata at M of C was posted on their wall: Dear Lord the Great Healer. I kneel before you since every perfect gift comes from you...give me the strength to lift up a part of the burden of my suffering fellowmen and the realization of the privilege that is mine. So very true.
Headed to Intramuros area today--the historical site of what was known as "The Pearl of the East"--Manila before 1942 when the Japanese seized it & took control. MacArthur was commanded to leave the island, leaving behind 10,000 of his men with the words, "I shall return." Those men & thousands of Filipino soldiers were taken in prisoned & forced to walk w/o any provisions to Bataan --hundreds of miles--most did not make it. In 1945, MacArthur returned and in the deadliest battle in the Pacific--over 100,000 died--they were freed...but nothing remained of Manila. Though the Philippines have never experienced another war... in the words of a young tour guide "the city never regained it's beauty. " Walking the streets proved his point. We took off for M of C and once again spent time playing, caressing, holding and feeding the kids. How good it felt to make a few of them smile! I noticed the prayer we said everyday in Kolkata at M of C was posted on their wall: Dear Lord the Great Healer. I kneel before you since every perfect gift comes from you...give me the strength to lift up a part of the burden of my suffering fellowmen and the realization of the privilege that is mine. So very true.
Update 11
Tidbits to remember:
In the evening, the males were separated from the females on their elevated transit trains. Clever way to curb sexual abuse!
Most everywhere there is a special line for seniors!!! Respect your elders is alive & strong here.
I've come to believe the broom--usually hand made--is the true symbol of perseverance in countries overflowing with poverty. The ability to sweep their tiny space in spite of the fact that again tomorrow, it will be littered & crumbling more is nothing short of amazing to me.
The many pedicabs with sidecars we rode in during the day became beds at night as did the multiple stands that lined the street.
Elsi classifies her mishap in these words: extreme sports injury: speed walking on jagged pot-holed cement while people watching. Don't you love her sense of humor??
Update 12
The Pope Frenzy has engulfed this city!! In the wee hours this morning, as we headed for the airport in a taxi, thousands headed to where the Pope will say Mass at 3:30 pm. The quiet crowd walked the street blocked to traffic...picture a scene from The Night of the Living Dead...but they were the living hopefuls! Our taxi driver sought his way to the airport creeping down side streets encountering closed roads at almost every turn...like the tiny ball in a huge maze game. When we finally got to the airport, the clerk asked if we'd seen the Pope. She beamed when she told us she'd seen him yesterday here at this airport and that his smile radiated throughout the airport & he didn't even look tired. As we waited to board, the TV was broadcasting the Pope's visit yesterday to Tacloban (where we will be Fev 14-28)...the site where typhoon Yolanda killed almost 8000 & annihilated the town. The Pope in a thin yellow raincoat that was whipping in the wind...the same raincoat worn thousands in the crowd...his glasses covered with raindrops spoke to the emotional crowd. "You are not alone. Jesus gave his Mother so we would not be orphans. Tell you Mother what is in your heart...he paused for several minutes. Many came to help you. They are now your brothers and sisters. " Then scanning the crowd with his kind eyes, he told them he spoke from his heart (which he did as he'd scraped his written message) and apologized that his words could not truly express his feelings clearly. It was crystal clear to me.
Just before we board, the broadcast switch to "live"showing the mass of people awaiting the Pope in Manila. A performer was singing You Raise Me Up...the crowd was holding up pictures of a smiling Pope Francis...and I was covered with goosebumps as I realized it was the same song that was playing at the Kenya orphanage where many of the Rafiki kids were first housed & we spent time with. What a blessing it has been to be here in Manila just now.
Will the Philippines return to "normal" when the Pope leaves?? I hope not. I hope his message of compassion for others brings a positive change for the desperate poor
19, 20, 21
Update 19 -by Roger
Daily we hop on a Jeepney and join about sixteen or twenty local travelers for a short ride-it is much too crowded for anyone to get up and carry money to the driver so bills and coins get passed along to the driver who somehow continues to drive and avoid motorcycles, buses, tricycles(full size), and pedestrians all while counting change and passing the change back again through several hands before it gets to the right person. He often holds bills in one hand and shifts gears with that one-coins are left on the dash in a huge pile that I would think might attract a snatcher but I haven't yet seen a conflict on a Jeepney.
Sent from my iPod Touch
Update 20 by Roger
A group of college students came to visit the kids at Missionaries of Charity today. I met their teacher and she asked what I thought of her country,
I quickly replied that the Philippines is a beautiful country. I could tell that she didn't believe that I was being honest with her. Well, was I? Sometimes it is necessary to see past some bad to see the good. I guess I choose to see the good. I hope that she can also do that.
For example, we see filthy children living and begging for food on the sidewalks while walking to our elevated train stop. I saw a little girl run behind a tricycle cab and push it along assisting the driver. It was fun for her and she laughed then returned to her place along the sidewalk to find something new to entertain her...an elderly lady walking up the stairs to the train did not pass by a cripple lying on the floor at the landing, she took an extra step or two to move closer to him and put a few coins in his cup. How many cripples must she see every day? How can she think that her effort is in any way going to change this world? But all the same she does it without a word. Many people have asked us what we are doing here in Manila and when we tell them they smile and say "Thank you!"
So many people have greeted us with a broad smile and a friendly word!
Update 21 by Roger
There are plenty of things to look past to see good here....people holding a towel over their mouth or wearing a gauze mask or a bandana over their face like a bad guy in a western movie just so they can filter the air a bit and not breathe in so much dust and exhaust. Others with hope run out and sleeping on a hard sidewalk without a cover or draped over a stone wall that has just enough flat surface to keep them from tumbling down to the ground. A stream that has become a smelly sewer is just a few feet from someone's window and clothesline. Then there is the boy up a tree next to Paco Park. He is picking small mangoes and dropping them down to a man below. The man offers one to us! They are Angel mangoes that may feed a starving person. It just feels wrong to even have it offered to us. And the lady who sat down beside Jane while we were waiting for a train...she started to peel a tangerine which put off a great smell. She also offered to share her tangerine. People here don't seem to begrudge another person who has more than they have but they do ask for help sometimes. We pass by some familiar faces along our way since we usually follow the same route to the Mission and several people along the way now smile and greet us as we go by.
Nicole has muscular dystrophy and is cared for by the nuns and their helpers at the Mission. She is kept clean and they feed her well but her limbs are stiff and useless to her. She lies in her bed or a wheelchair all of the time. When I spoke to her she moved her head about as if to try to control muscles that just won't do what she wants them to do. Speaking softly I reached out to brush her cheek gently with my hand and a fleeting smile passed over her face. After several days of visiting her I am sure she knows my voice and appreciates my hand softly on her cheek. I look forward to seeing her now and hope to again bring a smile to her face.
Jadee has been volunteering at the mission for about 9 years. She is filipino and is in her twenties? She comes after her work day (as a Nurse) with a big smile and hugs the kids then plays with them. They love her and call her "Mom". Jadee told me her family moved to Seattle and they would like her to join them there but she has a life here and chooses to stay in Manila. She will be going away for awhile as she has a scholarship to become a doctor, but her heart will stay here until she returns.
It is important to take pride in your work-whatever it is that you do. It seems that the people here do that. Workers at McDonald's and other restaurants dress neatly and act sharp. They try hard to do their best for everyone. It seems that all of the workers in the whole country have been trained to speak politely and look their best. It appears that those workers are just proud of their uniform and proud to be earning a living. The option of being unemployed here is not a good one.
We walk past a place where people are completing forms for job placement overseas. There are construction jobs in Japan, New Zealand, and also many other countries. These people are going to leave their homes and families to earn some money. They have little choice...corruption erodes the economy and destroys opportunity here.
We are blessed in so many ways and we don't usually even notice.
Saturday, January 24, 2015
16, 17 & 18
Update 16
As we left the hotel, a large group of HS students were on the corner...laughing & buying ice cream from a guy who probably quickly appeared sensing lots of sales. I asked what was going on...and the kids crowded around me & told me it was an Emergency drill. I asked them if that meant they were suppose to be quiet and listen for their teachers' directions...they looked surprised, burst out laughing and said "Yes!' After lots of high fives...we headed out. Rog has gotten real good at figuring out how to get around... we utilize the trains, jeepneys & pedicaps. The tougher part is navigating through the sea of people! Today our destination was the Ayala Museum...and just before we arrived, we crossed the line...the line between the poor & wealthy. Clean streets, landscaped medians & sidewalks, buildings boasting new designs & sparkling clean windows, doors & floors. Like we'd gone to another world. The stores rivaled the fanciest in the USA. The Ayala Museum was first class as well. Inside was an amazingly enormous display of gold jewelry excavated from tombs. Also, 60 detailed, handcrafted dioramas chronicled the history of the Philippines. The indigenous tribes were peaceful & adorned with gold as it filled their many mountain streams. Things changed when Magellan showed up. He was killed here but his men claimed the islands for Spain. Since then, this poor nation has been raped of its riches & dominated by Spain ,Japan and...sorry to say...USA and war torn for soooo many years. And finally, when they did regain their independence, WWII caused major devastation followed by a very corrupt dictatorship. It's a wonder the Filipino people ever learned to smile...yet that is exactly what they are famous for! Ironically, last night we watch a movie on TV first time here in Manila--it was an old American film about WWII--and the setting was the Philippines during the time after MacArthur left & before he returned. Having just learned much about that time period, we found the movie very interesting.
Here's a few more interesting things we have noted:
-You can buy a cream that will whiten your skin. (Why do we always want what the other guy has?)
-$1 USA money has the spending power of $5 here. (So you can buy 5x as much)
-headline of yesterday's paper: Don't breed like rabbits - Pope
-headline of today's paper: Pope blames poverty on 'god of money'
-another headline: Pope wanted to kick briber 'where the sun never shines'
Update 17
We have noticed that almost all pedicabs have bible or religious sayings painted on them...most having to do with hope & obeying without understanding...perhaps if faith is all you have, those quotes provide you with the strength to keep going. One I noticed yesterday was a quote from Matthew 8:26 --one we taught to kids in Ecuador & one that DUMC probably read this week. I thought about how differently those words might sound to the heart of that pedicap driver, the kids in Ecuador, the DUMC members...and me. "Why are ye fearful, or ye of little faith?"
I am again finding much joy in passing out balloons & nuts...such genuine smiles I get! I especially love it when I pass by the same kids later & see them gleefully playing with the balloons! Although it did scare me to see the balloon go into the busy street & see the kids chase it...but then, we see them in the streets all the time--they seem to have perfected the skill of dodging traffic soon after they learn to run!
Update 18
A common sight that has been bothering me is older caucasian men with young Filipino women--or should I say girls.. We saw the same thing in Thailand. Most the girls are not wearing a ring & some are pregnant. While talking to a few of the men, Rog learned some were here looking for a wife...one said his girl was willing to leave her 9 yr old daughter so she could come to USA...another said he'd taken his back to Sweden & she loved it there...another was looking for his second Filipino wife as the first didn't work out...and another was surprised Rog has an American wife! No doubt he'd be getting lots more massages if he hadn't married an American! In the airport there were several signs asking both locals & tourist to report any suspicious sightings of men with FIlipino children. What do they consider a child? Earlier I wrote about how this country was raped of it's riches--how much more tragic is the rape of its women & children today.
Sent from my iPod Touch
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)