Coming to Terms

As we all know by now, the torrential rains bring on a lot of disease and destruction to our country. It's about time we learned our lessons. By now, some areas have recovered from the floods but how many more are out there that have water waist deep?

The sun has shone a few days and life has probably become rosy... or rosier... I am one of those whose income depends on fair... no, great weather! A Mabuhay Guide's life doesn't really get off the ground unless he/she is on the road travelling, or guiding. It doesn't have to be far and wide. It could be at the next park, or landmark, or town but sunshine is always key. No matter how gung-ho guests are, they will refuse to go anywhere at the slightest hint of rain.

So I've recently been assigned on a tour to Intramuros. Everything was tidy and spic and span. It's just like the way I had seen in the last time. The guardias civil did mention that during the rains, they had to walk around in wellies as the water was knee high in some parts of Fort Santiago. I believe the Intramuros Administration has already accepted the fact that from time to time, the rains will come... the Pasig River will overflow... Intramuros will get flooded and everything will return to normal once the sun starts to shine. 

Ergo, the clean up! 

We have all got to accept that Manila is a low-lying area and covering up waterways with roads or erecting shanties along rivers and streams makes thing worse. Even during Spanish times, when Manila was flooded the wealthier families reveled in the flooded streets with small bancas festooned with buntings. We can still do the same thing provided the flood waters didn't carry leptospyrosis. But that's wishing for a lot.

Thankfully, my guests have all been fascinated with the history of the Philippines as opposed to the dingy shanties and the informal settlers in the areas. And why not? Intramuros can loom larger than the informal settlers living in it. At this point in time, the Ayuntamiento is nearlyfully restored, The Almacenes Reales has received its palitada in a peach color, The Manila Cathedral is undergoing restoration work and so is the Meastranza.

Since life is back to normal, for now at least, let's make life bearable. Earning a living is necessary. But cleaning up and restoring things to its normal state to sustain it is essential. Now if only I had more assignments...

By the way, I've also accepted the fact that wi-fi signals get all lousy in inclement weather... but my Suncell wi-fi has been the pits... I hope they work harder to deliver their advertising claims because right now I'm about ready to give it up...It's just horrible! Anyone from Suncell who's reading this I hope you can make up for it in some way...