This article was contributed to me by a friend. Here it goes.

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How are you my beloved Philippines? It’s been a long time I haven’t touched base with you. The last time I knew, you were Pearl of the Orient and the envy of our neighbor countries. You had the largest commercial airlines in Asia, a thriving manufacturing and financial center in the region and the most functional literate people in Asia next to Japan.


In a few minutes, the plane we’re boarding on will slice thru the runway of NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport). My family and I are excited to be with this country again, to meet our relatives and friends, to go to beautiful places in Manila and provinces, and to eat Filipino dishes. The airport is nice and you could feel the warm welcome by the airport people.


After all our baggages had been carried out, we gave a tip as a gesture of thanks to the porter as we boarded the vehicle en route going home. One thing I noticed though, the famous Sarao Jeep is not around on the terminal driveway. A long time ago this is the de-facto carrier of an ordinary Juan dela Cruz in going in and out of the country.

As we cruised along EDSA, I saw lots of Jeepneys or “Dyip” (Jeep is a brand product of Chrysler). It’s a pity, after being called “King of the Road” for so many years, this vehicle remains the same. There was no improvement in the design, safety and efficiency. This kind of vehicle will not make into competitive automobile industry. I thought someone has to help to make this once a Philippines’ pride, a contribution to the world of transportation. Way back in the 60’s this jeep maker, Sarao Motors Corporation became famous in Asia, just like Hyundai Engineering Co. who later became Hyundai Motors and it built cars in early ‘70s with the help of their government. Today, Hyundai is competing with well established corporations like Toyota, Honda, GM, Ford Motors etc. A feat that should be crowned to us had the government and private corporations joined hands to push for the nationalization of automotive industry in early ‘60s.


As we cruised along the highway, the infrastructure projects (like the LRT - Light Rail Transit System, MRT - Metro Rail Transit System, Manila Skyway) along expressway caught my attention. These are good projects for metro commuters and industrial / business complex around these areas. I’m seeing progress though. After a long drive, finally it stopped in front of our house. It’s time to hug, shake hands, and chat with people you missed so much.


The happiest part is distributing your “pasalubong” (give-aways) to your loved ones. It’s an awesome experience to feel you’re in the league of Santa Claus except it’s not Christmas. Kids are running back and forth, comparing with others what they received. The day seems it will never end with stories you have to share and of course stories you have to listen.


Continued on page 2…

(http://hubpages.com/_dyesebel10/hub/Vacation-and-Observations-about-Philippines-part-2)