21/03/2026
I was on a work-related trip from Thursday to Friday, and every time I rode a taxi, drivers would humbly say...
“Ma’am ikaw na bahala pila idungag nimo, miski gamay ra gud Ma'am kay mahal na kaayo ang gasolina. Salamat Maam."
Even before the oil price hike (because of the Iran–USA fiasco), I would always give extra tips to taxi drivers. But it hits different now --- hearing them ask for it, not out of habit, but out of need. You can feel it. The weight of it.
Then I go online and see posts --- business owners offering discounted, even free gasoline. People doing what they can, giving what they can, helping however they can. And it makes you stop for a moment.
Because in times like this, when everything feels expensive, uncertain, and a little heavier than usual, people are still choosing to show up for each other.
Quietly.
Sincerely.
Without needing recognition.
Maybe that’s the point. Not everyone can give a lot --- but everyone can give something.
A little extra tip.
A small act of kindness.
A bit of understanding.
Let’s look out for each other. Especially now.