Philippines

The Philippines deeply impacted me because of the visible poverty in many places and a way of life completely different from anything I had ever known. However, amidst this contrast, I discovered a humanity and joy that left a lasting impression on me. I was fascinated by their musical culture, the passion with which they experience live music, how it's part of their identity and their daily lives. I was also struck by a certain childlike attitude that many retain, a carefree approach to life, almost as if time stood still. Among tuk-tuks that seemed to be competing to see who could make the most noise and the abundant natural beauty, I understood that the Philippines is a place where everything is lived with a different intensity, without pretension, and with an authenticity that is hard to find elsewhere.