Dogeaters

An article by the Associated Press highlights a unique initiative by the police commander aimed at residents of the Tondo district. In an effort to combat disease, he offers a reward of $5 for every 1,000 flies caught by the locals. Tondo is known for being used as a dumping ground, and the police commander believes that controlling the fly population is a simpler solution to mitigate disease risks than addressing the garbage.

Joey makes a hasty getaway on a crowded jeepney, ominously named “Guilty Mother.” The passengers’ stares make him uneasy, particularly that of an old woman clutching a caged white chicken, which Joey interprets as an ominous sign. He senses the driver’s gaze on him and decides to get off at an intersection. There, he briefly considers going to a church to confess his sins but recalls Uncle’s warning about churches, where nuns allegedly kidnap children. Ultimately, he resolves to seek Uncle’s advice.

At Uncle’s place, Uncle chastises Joey for his reckless actions, worried about being implicated in Senator Avila’s death. However, his curiosity is piqued by the amount of money Joey took from Rainer. Uncle’s temper flares as he reminds Joey of his upbringing and care under his roof.