Manila Street

Photo from abs-cbn website

Growing up with a strict and very protective father meant a lot. There was a time for everything. A time for eating, a time for studying our lessons, a time for watching tv, a time for sleeping, a time for hanging with our friends, etc. We had curfews. We had to go home before 6:00 PM or else my dad would get mad and we would have to listen to his long litany of why it is unsafe and dangerous to be out on the streets at nights. Not only that. We were also not allowed to accept suitors until we finished college. Admittedly, I misinterpreted my dad during my teenage years. I thought it was unfair, biased and unreasonable for him to impose such house rules. I obediently followed his rules and regulations but deep inside I was asking why I can’t do a lot of things while friends of the same age are free to attend late at night parties. I never really understood him until a neighbor who happens to be my friend got pregnant at the tender age of sixteen. I couldn’t believe that she was dropping high school because she was already on the family way. It was only then that I realized my dad had great intentions for me and my siblings. He didn’t want us to marry young. He simply wanted us to enjoy our childhood and have a beautiful future.

I am currently addicted with abs-cbn’s Katorse. This is the story of a fourteen year old barrio girl who got pregnant at a very young age. Every episode is full of realism and filled with interesting characters. The leading lady’s innocence is entertaining while her ignorance is often unbelievable. Unwanted pregnancy, family feuds, friendship, love, relationships, etc. Teenagers will learn a lot from this tv drama series Like why they should always listen to their parents’ advise and why there is a right time for falling in love.