Night Cruising in Malate  

The last time I was in Manila, Baywalk was still there, but the current mayor had the stalls and restaurant demolished. We used to cruise Baywalk and then cross the road to Malate, known as Manila's most popular district. THe whole area comes alive as soon as the night falls. It is noticeable that Malate has undergone a lot of major changes. There are more pubs and restaurants but Aristocrat is still there now bigger and better. A large lit dancing fountain dominates the Remedios Circle where lots of people swarmed and some selling their products and wares.
We walked further down Adriatico, looking much like Patpong of Thailand sans the night markt stalls and seedy shows, (though we walked into one bar and saw a bit of pole dancers- we bolted out right away!)We could hear the cacophony of sounds coming from the bars as we walk along the streets. It was busy and there were hubbub of peddlers, vendors, hawkers and pretty girls handing flyers for their happy hour specials. Plastic garden chairs and table lined the sidewalks where they lure you to sit and have a beer or so.
We were looking for a cosy place with music or band and as we plod along checking each bar, a relentless little girl has been following us asking money for food. I told her I'll feed her instead and so we marched to the nearest Tapsilog, little did I know that there were 10 kids behind her! I was like a PiedPiper with rats following me! I fed them all and my mate had a good laugh and told me while I am at it, might as well put up an orphanage or adapt them! It must be midnight and these kids were still out in the streets. I wonder where their parents are and why they allow children as young as 5 be out peddling! I sent them home after eating and it felt good!