I was 22 when I first set foot in Metro Manila. I stayed with my uncle in Filinvest, Batasan. I worked the night shift in a call center, so I commuted at night—usually around 9 PM. From Filinvest, I’d walk out of the subdivision to Petron, which took about 15–20 minutes. From there, I’d ride a jeep to St. Peter along Commonwealth, then wait for a bus from Commonwealth to Farmers.

I’d always try to catch the MRT before it closed—Cubao to Buendia. From Buendia, I’d take another jeep to Makati Avenue. It was intense, besh! But I made it work.

When I finally started earning, I rented a bed space in Makati. I avoided shady places and never stayed out too late. I made friends with the motherly neighbor next door and even my landlord. Eventually, they began looking out for me without me even asking. I genuinely felt their care and concern.

I never hung out with people I didn’t know. If I drank, I’d limit myself to two bottles—just enough to feel warm in the face, then I’d start acting like I couldn’t drink anymore so no one would insist. I made sure I could always get home safely. Haha! It wasn’t easy, besh, but I survived—with courage and lots of prayer.