I’m so happy when I and my family went to the PHILIPPINES. This country may not be the richest in their region, they may not have the best facilities and amenities for their people to enjoy. But Philippines have a unique thing that they can be proud to other country which is the incomparable trait that I’ve never found in any Asian countries.

 

We arrived at Mactan International Airport in the beautiful island of Cebu at around 9 in the morning from direct flight from the United States. At the arrival area of the airport two gents were waiting to lead us to the hotel where we will be staying. I am not expecting for a very luxurious ride that time, but though its cheap I was quite impressed, a cheap van with an unusual skin and customized headlights (there I was able to prove that the best finds are not always the most expensive).

 

The city center was quite clean compared to other Philippine cities I’ve visited I wanted to start my first day in the Philippines in a good mood. Taking for granted the unusual experiences I gasp over my window to take a look at the surrounding. I took pictures of those colorful cab-like vehicles which they call “jeepney”. I decided to open my cars window to have a bigger view of the city.  I saw a little kid smiling at me and afterwards waved at me trying to speak in English saying good morning. Although i wasn’t able to understand her, through her sweet smile, and lively wave, i know that she is welcoming me.

 

With just a minute left I was expecting to arrive to the hotel but as what the quotation says “always expect the unexpected”. I was so shocked when I’ve heard a big thud on the cars back and here we go, a motorcycle bumped the hotel service car we are riding. I thank god for no one was hurt.

 

We go out of the car to check everything including the driver of the motorcycle. I was so thankful for the driver was not in harm and the only thing damaged in the car was its auto light. Everything was settled for an hour and my stomach is aching and I am starving for waiting.

 

Instead of complaining, I sit, and just give a big sigh.

 

On our way, ive seen different people, and there is one thing in common with them, the smile. I forgot everything which had happened to us with just a smile. I told myself “yeah no doubt, Filipinos are happy people”. I asked myself, “if ordinary people can live happy even without the riches, then why people with so much money cannot.”