Category: Funny

Radio and LRT Adventure


I had an incredible afternoon! Allow me to share a humorous commuting experience before I thank the folks at DZAS.

The Stink Train

The commute to the radio station turned out to be quite amusing. I rode the LRT part of the way there. For those who are unfamiliar with Metro Manila, the LRT is the train–like a subway but built high above the roads. Theoretically, it is a convenient way to get from “point a” to “point b.” I said “theoretically” because my riding experiences have varied greatly. Sometimes the train is not too crowded and the air conditioner keeps passengers comfortable. Sometimes the train is absolutely packed and the air conditioner isn’t working too well. At times like this I am thankful for the Filipino’s impeccable personal hygiene (many Filipinos bathe twice a day).

I stepped on the train this afternoon, and I was relieved to feel the cold air inside. My relief quickly turned to disgust. As we left the station I realized that the entire car smelled like dog poo. I looked down and checked my shoes, wondering if I had accidentally carried something “extra” in the car with me. My fellow passengers were all holding their noses as we suffered and laughed together. I saw other passengers go through my same experience as they boarded–smiling, frowning, and then checking their shoes as they realize they’d entered a stink trap. I giggled intensely to myself–I almost cried from laughing (or maybe it was the smell). My greatest fear was that the smell would get in my clothes and I would nauseate everyone in the radio station. I’ve never been so happy to jump into a jeepney and smell the pollution of Manila.

The Radio Interview

I had a wonderful time with the radio show. LJ (the host) cracked a few jokes before we started–this helped me not be so nervous (remember, I’m a little shy sometimes). We got started and the two hours really flew by. I was so blessed by the listeners’ comments. I also enjoyed the opportunity to minister through answering their questions. I ended the interview by saying a prayer for our listeners, especially the students.

Thanks to everyone who listened. Special thanks to LJ and DZAS for inviting me! I’d love to come back!

Unforgettable Moments (that I’m not sure I want to remember)

“The gods too are fond of a joke.”
– Aristotle (384-322 B.C.)

I experienced an interesting case of mistaken identity late this morning. I was at SM Manila enjoying a doughnut after a late breakfast/early lunch. I noticed an older couple as I sat down to get my sugar and caffeine fix. They finished soon after I arrived, and each one passed by my table as they left. The gentleman passed by first, glancing my way and smiling at me. His wife soon followed. She also looked my way, but she passed by more slowly. “I thought you were Daniel Smith,” she said while softly chuckling. I quickly assured her that I was not, although it seemed she’d already figured it out.


I’ll explain this one for my American readers. Daniel Smith is a US Marine who was recently convicted of raping a Filipina. There’s a raging controversy right now regarding his custody and other issues (he is currently detained at the US Embassy). Needless to say, he’s not well liked here in the Philippines. I found it hilariously ironic that “Mr True Love Waits” here was confused with an accused rapist.

Believe it or not, I’ve heard worse. A few years back, a child approached me in Intramuros. “Sabi ng tatay ko, aswang ka daw” (my father said you are an aswang). I asked him to repeat himself just to make sure I understood him correctly. Later I asked my friend the meaning of “aswang.” I found out that the aswang is basically a vampire-like monster with wings–arguably the most feared creature in Filipino folklore.

One thing I can say: I am convinced that God has a sense of humor. I laughed to myself after the sweet little lola (grandmother) made her way out of Dunkin Doughnuts. I was tempted to look towards the heavens and say, “Good one–you really got me that time.” Perhaps God likes to remind us not to take ourselves too seriously.