 From daylight to sundown, every body who walks along Escolta Sta Cruz Manila sees him. Rain is the only restriction, in which he cannot but stay at home and pray that tomorrow may spare him some financial help, one constricted by today. In the morning his wife aids him to where he will whole-day play his harmonica and tap with his can-socked foot for the beats.
He hails from Masbate, the same tragic place where he lost his arms and eyesight because of Dynamite Fishing. He was 30 then. Prior though and even though he only finished the 3rd Grade, he has worked for his town as a Baranggay Chairman and for the City Mayor as well. A dedication that belongs to public service.
One of the most photographed characters in the streets as many claims. Vendors around him says that Manong Agapito is a very jolly person. Despite the hopelessness of his appearance , very enthusiastic in telling about his life to many. Though unfortunate in many of his attempts in living life, he never fails to highlight his triumphs and victory to those who patiently inquire.
 It has been 37 years that he sits in that corner in Sta Cruz. Skin burned and with nothing to see. At the end of another day, coins that rattled in his can remains the only prize Manong Agapito can take home. His music, in the tune of folk songs and fast tempo beats, dies down in the fading of the crowd. Her daughter arrives to pick him up to go home.
Tomorrow is another day. Another chance. Another performance.
Another time to beg for a little piece of hope.
Flickr Photo Reference:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/kamalayan/1416620580/
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