This piece is a letter addressed to the place where generations of my family have tirelessly worked to provide goods, services, and smiles to the community.
To Passi Public Market,
I'm sorry for being away for nine years already. I know times have been difficult for both of us, but I always reminisce about our time together throughout my younger years.
I remember spending countless hours playing lagsanay and tagu-taguan with my cousins, friends, and you, running and hiding around your different stalls. I especially loved spending my weekend with you as I met new friends (usually children of my mom's suki) who have since become some of my closest.
I remember celebrating parties with you, whether it be for Christmas or just a random event. My mom and her vendor friends usually organize parties in your alleys when they feel festive or bored. There, I realized that you are more than just a place for buying and selling goods. You are a community that connects individuals from different ages and backgrounds.
I remember listening to stories my grandparents told us about their experiences with you. They spoke fondly about how they walked for hours to reach you, but such a sacrifice would not matter simply because of the warmth they received from their fellow vendors and customers. My grandparents expressed that if it were not for their age, they would love to be with you daily.
However, it saddens me to tell you that the city you and I call home faces a threat of severe flooding and possible submersion in a couple of decades. I read from Climate Central, a known research organization, that rising sea levels caused by climate change will put our beloved city in danger. But it's not just our city that's at risk - farmers and fishermen who supply you with vegetables and seafood will also be affected, even more than they are now, by the shift in rainfall patterns. Your vendors and customers are also on the line as it becomes difficult for them to reach you and sell because of the frequent typhoons and flooding. Your vendors and customers are also at risk, as frequent storms and flooding make it increasingly challenging for them to reach you.
While this news might be difficult, I know our people will come together and try to protect our home. Once we all do it, new opportunities will arise.
I will remember the sustainable practices your vendors and customers have implemented, from using biodegradable packaging to reducing food waste and practicing composting. I will remember the community-driven initiatives of your vendors and customers, from local cleanup drives and tree-planting campaigns to educational programs and public awareness campaigns.
You hold a special place in my heart and countless others who have grown alongside you. As we face this challenge in our city, I believe your people can work together to save our home and preserve the community you fostered. Remember how grateful my grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and I are of you for being a constant source of joy, relationship, and motivation.
Sincerely,
Angelo
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