An Essay On My Croissant

Edrich John Samonte

2-13

Despite being born in another country, I was raised in Metro Manila. But the same could not be said about my parents, both my parents and their families are a native of a little island in the middle of Laguna de Bay, called Talim Island. And as such, we regularly go back there on holidays except Christmas and New Year, which we celebrate here at home.

Although the Island have much cleaner and fresher air, a cool breeze throughout the afternoon, and in general, a better environment, I still cannot say that it is better than Manila. For one, the City is much more modernized than our province; we have cars, computer with an internet connection, and more establishments and fast food chains. And it goes without saying; there are more job, career, and education opportunities in the City. But of course, the cost of living is way more expensive in Manila compared to Provinces, where in some occassions; you could even ask your neighbores for food and vegetables that they plant in their backyards.

Nevertheless, the place may change, but the same Filipinos inhabit them. The culture is more or less the same; people are still hospitable, and friendly. Almost everyone in the neigbourhood knows each other. Come the fiestas and other festivities, you would see people visiting each other’s houses and merrily celebrating.