My Payatas Experience

article shared by Mau Balmes

Hearing that the group is going to Payatas made me think twice whether I’ll join them or just stay at home. This is because the first thing that crossed my mind when Payatas was mentioned is the idea of dump site – a filthy and foul smelling place. As a depressed area, I had an impression that it is a chaotic place and so not a safe place to be. And besides, there is nothing so special and interesting in the said area that is worth the trouble of visiting. However, despite all these apprehensions, I still decided to join the group in exploring and experiencing the locale. I was surprised to see that Payatas was not entirely a dump site.

The activity started with a mass together with pupils who are going to take their first communion. I was really impressed, delighted and touched when I heard one of the children sang the psalm because her voice was magnificent and suiting. Thereafter, we met the St. Benedict choir who were very accommodating. They toured us all over the place and even prepared a program and games for us. We were also able to visit four chapels in the area and listened to the person in charge about the activities in the respective chapels. After that, we returned to the Divine Providence Church to begin with the program and the games as well. I had so much fun in participating in the said games.

For lunch, we had a boodle fight. When fray Mel and Chris first told me about that kind of lunch, I really thought that they were just kidding. But to my dismay it was in fact true. I was really shocked and stunned to see the long table filled with rice all over and eggplants and okra on top of it. I really don’t fell eating but because I was really hungry, I had no choice but to partake of the banquet that was prepared for us.  Nevertheless, I still used a plate, after all the table cannot accommodate all of us eating at the same time. This is the first time I had experience this and in all fairness, I enjoyed it.

After feasting with the sumptuous lunch, we went on the program wherein selected members of St. Benedict choice together with our very own Aizel, Mhonic, Shaira and Jude presented a dance number which is really impressive and entertaining. We ended our activity with a prayer and simple sharing (Thanks Ate Shine for facilitating our group sharing). But just before we went back to Sto. Domingo, we once again took a glance of the dump site from far. I find it weird but for me the sight was actually amazing.

 At the end of this wonderful experience, I realized that even though Payatas was a depressed area, it was the only place I know with lots of chapels in its vicinity. It was also quite surprising to see that the people residing therein are actually active in participating in church activities. They are also pleasant to be with and really kind. I come to a realization that I should have not judge the people in Payatas simply because they are living in a depressed area. Most importantly, witnessing the kind of living they have back there, I appreciate all the blessings that God have continuously been showering now more than ever. I am really fortunate to have a happy and loving family, a decent shelter, delicious and nutritious food, and a privilege to study in a university. Lastly, this experience thought me to be a better and stronger person. I realized how foolish I felt whenever I was faced with petty problems which I thought and perceived to be so huge that I could not overcome. Now, I know that whatever situation I may be in, it is nothing as compared to what the people in Payatas is enduring everyday. I learned how to be strong and optimistic in life. For these, I am thankful that I decided to join the group in this once in a life time and life changing experience.