The Philippines 2012 - Week Three

Two weeks have gone, and I only have a couple of weeks left in The Philippines. Big occasions took place that the first two weeks just passed by so quickly. It is now the day after my cousin's wedding, the first day of my third week in this country.

The week starts with something of an occasion as well. We went to my other cousin's house, the home where my mom and her siblings grew up in. The reason for many of my relatives to gather in this house is because it is my grandfather's, from my mother's side, death anniversary. For those who do not know, in Asia, it is not uncommon to prepare something for a death anniversary. Not celebrated in a way where you have a party, but in such a way where you offer them food, and sort of speak to them. Unfortunately, I never had the chance to meet him. For many many years, I've always wanted to meet him and ask him many questions. My mom has told me that he knew how to speak Japanese. I've been curious to know how he learned the language. For some reason, I would feel shy to ask my mother about this, which is why I am still clueless up to this day. Who knows, maybe I have some Japanese roots, which would be awesome! ;)

(On the table, there are food given to my late Grandfather)

 Later that day, when everything was done, my family and I left for Manila. We stayed at one of my cousins who live there. I was so relieved to find out that they have High-Speed Internet and Cable! I finally had the chance to catch up on some of the people I am very close with in Montreal, and watch the Olympics. 

The next day, we went to Mall of Asia, one of the biggest mall in the world. I rarely shop for clothing, but the clothing you can find in Asia are really nice. In the Philippines, the clothing are original and inexpensive (by converting Canadian Dollars to Philippine Peso), so I just had to shop. However, being myself, I still tried to save as much as I can. Except for one brand called KSwiss. I am a huge KSwiss lover, and well, in the Philippines, there are so many different styles and choices in comparison to what I would usually find in Canada. So I just had to buy shoes. I even convinced my dad and brother to buy a pair as well. 

(Uniqlo, sort of like the Forever 21 for Men!)

(A view of Mall of Asia)

Mid-way through ths week, the weather has been starting to go crazy. Many might probably know about it, it went in the news all over the world. Heavy storm and Typhoon warning was really affecting the country. Many floods occurred as well, especially in the Manila area. Luckily, our departure for our return to Batangas was quite clear. However, on the way, the weather would still go insane from time to time. We pass through Tagaytay to head back in Batangas. Tagaytay is high up in the moutains, quite a beautiful place actually, so whenever rain would drop, it would drop so hard that it was very difficult to see the road. However, everything went well, and we arrived safely back home.

"To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries." - Aldous Huxley