The IWU group had the opportunity to visit Manila, the capital of the Philippines, twice.During the first trip, Jessica, Hannah, Julia, and I visited the National Museum of Anthropology and SM Mall of Asi
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The National Museum of Anthropology features various beautifully crefated exhibits and collections which give insight into the cultural and linguistic diversity of the Phillipines. Admission is free and this is very significant to its accessibility by all and not only tourists. One of the first exhibits that I entered was Manlilikha ng Bayan Hall or National Living Treasures. Manlilikha ng Bayan represents an awrad that recognizes Filipinos who preserve traditional heritage and practices. I encountered inspiring individuals such as Manlilikha ng Bayan Uwang Ahadas whom was a Yakan Musician. Uwang Ahadas played kwintangan kayu. This music in particular is believed to encourage the growth of newly planted rice!
Manlilikha ng Bayan Masino Intaray was a Pala’wan Musician and Storyteller. Masino Intaray played the basal. The basal is often played during collective rice cooking (tambilaw). They also practed kulilal which is a lyrical poem that is often accompanied by a lute (kusyapi).
The SM Mall of Asia is the largest mall in the Phillipines and one of the largest in Asia. Here, the IRRI group was able to meet with Semaj and Chrishana who are interning at the Food and Nurtitiion Research Institute! We explored the mall by walking around and then came across Ramen Nagi where I ordered a spicy ramen dish that was extremely delicious and most likely the best ramen I have ever had.
During our second trip to Manila, we visited Greenhills Center with other IRRI scholars and staff. The group split and Jessica and I ventured to see if we could find souvenirs. The shopping center is huge! We ended up coming across a section that had several stands filled with souvenirs such as magnets, purses, jewlery and more. I ended up buying a magnet. Near this spot, were stands that sold incredible and vibrant paintings. I was able to watch an artist in action for some time. We then walked towards the stands which sold dried fruits and sweet goods. 
