Every Promdi's Struggle of Working or Studying in Manila

There is just this one time when we need to leave our comfort zone, follow our dreams, chase our destiny, and other cliché phrases about going after a better life. It may be because of the influence of old local movies but Filipinos have this belief that opportunity lies at the heart of our capital city, Manila. Though not entirely incorrect, this belief has set the minds of a lot of hopefuls from all over the country to try their skills, talents, wits, and luck in the big city to look for a job or study.

According to the latest census of the Philippine Statistic Authority (PSA), the National Capital Region has twelve percent of the country’s population. But this numbers were never enough to diminish the spirit of a promdi on his pursuit of a greener pasture. And who wouldn’t be attracted by its high-rise offices, wide shopping district, malls, and Universities with global reputation? Who wouldn’t love to hear about a success story that was scrapped from humble beginnings?

But there are always two sides to every coin. Manila has its dimmer side which, well, doesn’t live up to the promise that its prestigious side is bragging. Here are just some of the struggles that every promdi that studies/works in Manila has experienced at least once:

The scarcity of provincial buses during Fridays and long weekends.
So here you are now, jumping up and down ‘cause you can finally stay with your family this weekend. And what else is a better way to spoil the highly anticipated long weekend and rest day than miles and miles of other promdis waiting in line, not sure if a ride home will ever come?

Train, FX, and Jeepneys rides on hard mode.
While this may be universal to commuters, MRT and LRT will always be on hard mode for promdis. Imagine fighting your way in the MRT carts, carrying a bulky bag (clothes and easy to cook food), while trying not to draw too much attention so you can secure yourself from snatchers. Now try that while running after a jeepney.

Waking up waaaaaaaaay ahead of everyone.
It’s always a relief when classes are suspended when you are still lying in bed. Don’t you just hate it when classes are not suspended in time when there are storm signals? Now imagine a promdi trying to catch a class: Imagine how he prepared just to catch a ride, how early he has to wake up, and what he needs to endure just to hear the announcement back-firing at his dedication.

It’s a good thing that the growing numbers of Quezon City Condo and Cubao Condo has somehow helped promdis to not experiencing more of these misfortunes. While some of these stories we can relate to, these are only proofs that the way the success isn’t exactly easy.