Manila Low-End

Manila - Streets, originally uploaded by jsigharas.

Walking along the streets of Makati City, Manila's business center, and yet another shopping district, it's easy to find yourself caught up in the very familiar westernized, commercial-crazed areas of Manila. But right next door (literally a few blocks away), especially near Pasig River, you'll find areas of an extreme contrast. Flimsy shantytowns exist in many areas of metro Manila. Nearly a third of Filipinos live in poverty, according to government statistics. Among the countries of Southeast Asia, the Philippines has one of the most visible divides between rich and poor. It's such a troubling thought to personally experience walking/driving through poverty stricken areas one minute, and strolling through mega-malls and fine-dining the next.