EARTHQUAKES, Forces of Nature

I accept the fact that there will be an earthquake because that event is inevitable and is part of the "Circle of Life". Forces of nature occur time after time, as we had learned even in our elementary days. God doesn't want us to suffer. He entrusted us to be the ones who can handle the difficulties. Of course, there will be casualties, but let's not afford to be one of them. Be prepared, in terms of survival and in terms of helping out the society to 'rise up from the debris'. Let's make a better Metro Manila after the devastation.

The Jewel of the Past - reaction paper for Urban Sociology

                     Intramuros used to be the heart of the country – it performed as the central business district, the “jewel of the empire”, therefore the most important city of our nation. It served as a military base, the seat of government, trade, institutions and religious activity. Basically, everything you need in a country is already inside those adobe walls. Its splendor before suddenly collapsed together with the devastation brought about by World War II. Hence, all the said institutions inside Intramuros were ruined. Reconstruction of the “jewel” was not easy so the institutions that used to be inside it were rebuilt on other places, leaving Intramuros a place of rubble and informal settlers started to infest the area. Thanks to Intramuros Administration, the walled city has been rebuilt but the life it used to have before cannot be brought back anymore since the institutions that used to be in Intramuros were moved to other places of Metro Manila. Those institutions greatly affect the urban growth since they have a control in the country so there was truly a collapse in the activeness of Intramuros in the modern era.

                     In contrary to its splendor before, Intramuros is now kind of “out of place” from its neighboring cities. Its prestige is not thoroughly comprehended and appreciated of almost everyone. The Intramuros from before is way different than it currently is. The lifestyle has completely changed. Only the walls are retained, but the glory and the activeness of the past is no longer alive. Being inside Intramuros is like being in a different dimension compared to the busy and noisy Manila city; it’s like a place for recluse. It doesn’t take part with the busyness of the urbanized environment. It doesn’t take part with the decisions of the government. It’s like the thick walls of Intramuros shielded itself from its external environment ever since the government institutions are gone in the area. It has its own life: for tourism, preservation of heritage so it is now considered a district; a defined portion of the state.

                     The reason why we cannot revive the activeness of Intramuros is because its conservative lifestyle cannot parallel with the outgoing, highly technological modern society which has completely neglected our cultural heritage. The key players which makes a city progressive (basically what Intramuros had before it collapsed) are now gone. Urban sprawls within the area also make the situation even worse (i.e.) informal settlers, unfamiliar companies and offices. If only there are no slum areas. If only the offices and companies were strategically located rather than being scattered here and there due to lot ownerships which are out of their control. If only the streets surrounding a historical landmark would give a clue or “introduction” of that landmark – some does, which gives the sense of space but because of the urban sprawls the walled city seems disorganized and the heritage is ruined. If only the residents living in it are living a life suited for Intramuros’ cultural character rather than a squatter-like lifestyle. Sari-sari stores and barbeque shops can be allowed, but the character or its architectural design should be relevant to the city, which would even improve the tourism. If only all the streets are properly managed, for some have stench and unwanted wastes. If only the horses appear healthy and appealing, and if pedicab’s design has relevance and is cheap. There are some beautiful parts in Intramuros but as one walks to another street, or even simply walk further in just one street, the beauty is not consistent. There should be consistency in order to bring back the prestige of what’s once the jewel of the nation. It would’ve been a nice suggestion to have all important government institutions back in the walled city to revive its grandeur but it is now impossible and costly, although it’s a nice idea.

You never did anything wrong, yet people still end up hurting you. But even so, have courage and be kind.

You are aware that people like them are everywhere. Liars, cheaters, opportunists, that has the ability to destroy your trust, and use your kindness for their selfish reasons. Whatever happens, do not stoop down to their level. They stumbled to the quicksand of sinfulness and cannot get back up. You who are standing on the right path and can see those quicksands should just continue along on your path. Even if they doesn't seem to be suffering and actually enjoying themselves in the company of many other people and it seems fun, DON'T JOIN THEM. Only brave people can resist temptations and continue doing what is right despite the awareness that others might take advantage. Whatever they do to others is what they do to God. It might hurt not belonging to any social group yet but, there are many people like you who are also alone in the company of lost souls.