Promdi Life: How To Survive Manila

Don’t be so excited. Your provincial life will soon take a drastic turn as you go into the chaotic life of the city—Manila.

Everyone is excited about the mega-metropolis life. A typical promdi or probinsiyana would dream to experience the nightlife and the busy crowd of Manila, but most of us actually move out of our homes to chase our dreams.

Because they say that there are bigger opportunities away from home. 

When in Manila

Like a lot, I left home for college at the age of 18. Back then, I was thrilled at the idea of living alone. The slow-paced provincial life tired the hell out of me. It was a ticket to move away. 

However, I was unprepared for Metro Manila. Face it. The city is problematic. I’ll never get used to the traffic congestion. The anticipation and pursuit of a jeepney ride. Random children on the street would tug on your shirt, panhandling. Admit it. This is Manila, Philippines. The traffic jams, filthy air, crowded streets, and never-ending noise.

Nonetheless, here I am, trying to make it through each day away from my peaceful home.

I couldn’t help but arm myself with courage and determination. I had no choice but to develop my own strength and independence. Be prepared, even if I wasn’t prepared at all.

And in the blink of an eye, I was here blending with the crowd. 

How to cope 

• When going to unfamiliar places, read the signage. And don’t be afraid and shy to ask. Asking questions will be your guide to the big city of Manila.
• Act fearless. Act as if you’re not worried at all, even if you’re quivering with panic. You never know who might prey on you.
• Be vigilant. Look around, and don’t fall asleep. There are a lot of bad folks out there, make sure to be always attentive at all costs. 
• Ignore random people when they are asking for your personal details. We did not know the harm it might cause us later.
• Always stay in the crowd especially when you are alone strolling the city. Don’t go to secluded areas.
• Avoid making eye-contact with strangers for more than 10 seconds. We wouldn’t want another hypnotism session.
• Have a conversation with other people but do not be too dramatic.
• Lastly, walk confidently.

True, living in a metropolis is convenient, but my inner provincial self longs for the calm, slow, and tranquility of my hometown.

However, staying at our comfort zone indifinitely won’t help us grow. At times, we might shiver and panicked since we were in foreign areas without seeing familiar faces, but believe me. It will all be worth it as we tried to survive and adapt to our new life. It will teach us life lessons and offer us with more opportunities.

Moving away from home is a risk, but it will teach you the most valuable life lessons. So, take that risk. Be brave because that one scary move will drastically change your life forever.