by Tess Raposas
- Philippines -

Maria was 16 when she first came to visit the Philippines from California and decided to remain here. Witty and talented, she became a popular movie icon. Then barely in her twenties, she plunged into an early marriage with an upcoming politician from the north. Nineteen years later, her body was found slumped on the stairwell of the 13th floor where she had fallen from the 23rd floor of the condominium unit where she was staying. She was only 38. Why?

Maria was also a mother of six whose life became an archetype of marital wretchedness. Even if she had wanted out of her marriage, it would have been impossible for her to opt for divorce: the Philippines is one of only two countries in the world where divorce is not allowed. (The other country is Malta, another Catholic stronghold, like the Philippines.)

by Tess Raposas
- Philippines -

In coastal communities all over the Philippines, it is ironic that seawater is abundant everywhere but effectively, there’s not a drop of clean water to drink. But the problem exists throughout the country, and in fact, across the world. Residents must travel miles away to collect fresh water, which must be also be consumed sparingly because in the absence or shortage of this basic commodity. Children suffer the most. Not only are children usually assigned to be the handy collectors of water for many households, but they are also the most susceptible when it comes to water-borne diseases.

• Water, water everywhere, but not a drop to drink for many of the world's most improverished people.
Photograph by Debashis Basu. •

Lack of clean water and adequate sanitation facilities are realities that poor people in almost every corner of the world have to contend with every single day of their lives. They end up paying a very steep price for the lack of something so basic to well-being.

by Tess Raposas
Philippines

• Thousands flock to Obando Bulacan for its annual fertility festival. Photograph
by Darwin Go. •

The town of Obando, just 16 kilometers northwest of the capital, Manila, sits on flat, low-lying coastal plains bordering Manila Bay to the west. Fishing is the major means of livelihood, along with raising ducks, other poultry and hogs. There is also garment and jewelry making and some food processing. 14% of the population live in rural barangays (Tagalog for barrios, otherwise known as districts or wards, the smallest local government unit). The rest of the households make up the urban population. The average monthly income is slightly below what the Department of Social Welfare and Development has established as the minimum for a family of six.