squatters are a big problem in big towns and cities in the philippines, especially in manila. they settle on any spaces and build a community all their own. here are shanties built by migrants known to have come from far away provinces. in this photo they settled on the edge of the reclaimed lands on manila bay west of the city proper, the houses are invariably made out of flattened tin cans or hard carbdoard, usually a one-room affair for a family as large as seven or eight, with no access to running water or electricity. children here mostly don't go to school and are left to fend for themselves at such an early age.
tonight, i had dinner with a group of friends from my high school and we had a blast! lots of seafood and other good filipino dishes. there went my diet - up in air.
tried to make a go on commenting on people's projects, but i think my broadband connection is so limited i think i only have a teeny-weeny small connection. it's getting down to the wire and then home. i was told i missed the first snowfall in toronto. and i thought "really?!?!!"
I am impressed when people build what they need and do what they have to. It is sad that they have to but that is vain of me to think my life is better. So much better than sitting back and whining about how others should support you. In my mind anyway. I really like this- thanks.
It is so amazing what the drive for food and shelter will do. At first glance you don't even realize the poverty represented here! I'm glad you're having a great time. Don't worry about the diet- you can get that back on track when you get home!!
Sad to see the reality of these countries and how the people have to live . . but I must say that this view of the bay is gorgeous! Take care, summerfield. Enjoy the company of your good friends and good food.
fantastic statement on human creativity and drive to survive. love how it is set against such a lovely background. beautiful photo. wonderful to read you are having such a great time - and today you JOG!
the drive to survive is the mother of invention! this kind of shack and shanty-town building happens in every developing country...people move to find the potential for work and money. great social doc shot
