All language subtitles for Manila In The Claws Of Light

Your name?

Julio Madiaga.

I was the one who came to you last week.

You told me to come back today.

Have you worked as a laborer before?

I have.

Where?

Cubao.

But the building is nearly finished.

They don't need laborers anymore.

Okay, you've got the job. But I don't like lazy people.

I'll give you P2.50 a day.

But my former employer paid me P3.00.

Then go work for him!

Okay. I really need this job.

Omeng!

Have him replace Gorio.

And put Gorio back in cement mixing.

Thank you, Mr Balajadia.

Thank you.

What happened?

It's probably out of hunger.

I haven't eaten since yesterday.

What happened to him?

He hasn't eaten anything yet. He probably fainted out of hunger.

Don't ever go to work on an empty stomach.

Why? What happened?

He hasn't eaten since yesterday and he collapsed.

Wait a moment.

What happened to his food?

What do you mean?

His food?

Idiot! He has nothing to eat.

That's nice.

Okay, let's get back to work.

Your work is waiting for you. Come on!

Come on. Let's all go back to work.

Here. Go eat something.

Just leave a little for me for lunch.

Thanks.

Just don't let the foreman catch you.

He'll get mad if he catches you.

Thanks, man.

I haven't smoked in a while.

So how did you end up here?

I don't know.

I came from a small town.

I was only a fisherman.

It's much more difficult here in the city.

It's nice to live here if you have money,

but if you have none you'll die.

Do you have any relatives here?

I don't know.

I probably have some but I don't know any of them.

Have you been here long?

About...seven months.

How do you manage to get by?

I brought some money with me.

And a few odd jobs here and there.

Where do you sleep?

Anywhere.

Your situation is difficult.

You should be thankful that you still have a body fit for work.

My body was like that when I first came here from the province.

Look at me now, I'm thin as a grill rack.

Why don't you look for a job other than this?

What other choice do I have?

Hey! There are people sleeping!

I'm just practicing.

Take Benny for example,

His hobby is singing.

But somehow he just ended up here.

He's lucky because he doesn't have a family to take care of.

But me, I have a wife and six children.

That's 8 mouths to feed.

How much is Mr. Balajadia paying you?

P7.00. That's P42 if I work all week.

How about you? How much is fatso giving you?

P2.50.

That greedy animal!

That's how much he gave me when I first started here.

Now that I've worked here for five months...

My rate has only increased by a peso and then there's "Taiwan".

Taiwan?

What is that?

That means that they sell you your wages.

This is how it goes:

On your payday,

Let's say this is your pay,

Then they'll tell you that they have no funds to pay you.

But there's "Taiwan".

Then they'll tell you that they will compensate for your pay.

But...

There's a 10% deduction.

And of course with us being poor

Always broke, and living from day to day

You would have no choice but to buy back your wages.

Even if you regret the deduction.

And what really hurts is that the money that is used to buy back your wages.

Is the same money that they should be paying you.

It's like being saut�ed in your own fat.

And if you complain, you'll get chastised at work.

And it's hard to get a job nowadays.

I'll be leaving tomorrow.

Mrs. Cruz will pick me up.

Is it too late to change your mind?

I will try to make it in Manila.

That is what my mother wants.

You can come to Manila too.

That's okay.

I'm better off here.

I will just wait for you.

Abobo, Francisco

Bandangiel, Maximo

Cocal, Willy

Dimagiba, Domingo.

Erosido, Edipolo

Joco, Benito

Labisares, Gido.

Madiaga, Julio

Why does it say P4.00 on this paper?

You think you know this better than me?

If I tell you to sign something, you should sign it.

I'm the one who knows how things work around here.

But...

You're starting to piss me off!

Natividad, Fortunato.

Why P4.00?

That's just how it is. We all have bigger salaries on paper.

It's magic.

Don't ever make the mistake of complaining again.

You'll get fired.

You can sleep here.

A lot of the workers sleep here so you won't be the only one.

What is this for?

Some money for cigarettes.

Thanks, man.

Ka Fran.

Gido.

Imo!

What's up?

Take care of him.

They'll take care of you, they will cook some rice later.

You're not sleeping here?

Nah, they're coming home to their families.

See you.

"A dancing crab in the river"

"That none has caught yet"

Eat something first.

Where is Imo anyway?

He's taking a bath at the back.

Imo! Dinner is ready!

Wait for me!

He's better than us, he's studying at school.

You should pursue your studies too.

If you don't, you'll be a laborer forever.

The times have changed.

Everyone needs a diploma nowadays.

The only way to get any respect is to finish school.

The only thing I dislike about you...

What is it that you don't like?

You don't know how to sing.

Idiot.

What about you? Do you have any plans to study?

I'm already old.

So what? There are people older than you who still study.

Maximo has virtually no hair left but he's still studying.

Idiot. Poking fun at my hair again.

How old are you anyway?

Twenty one.

Only 21?

Maximo is 33 and balding, but he still pursues his studies.

Idiots. 33?

I'm only 23!

23? That's a stretch.

You should pursue your studies.

Just look at me.

By taking 4 subjects here and there, I'm nearly finished.

It just takes persistence and a little brain power.

When did you stop studying?

I only finished elementary school.

Elementary?

Yeah, that's a little difficult.

That goes for you too, Benny.

You should study before you get old.

There is no future in this hell-hole.

I'll see you later guys.

Ba-bye.

Study well, my son.

Take care of your bald spot, it's awful cold outside.

Idiots!

In a way, I'm impressed with Imo.

Imo, Emo, Momo, Maximo

Max, Max, Max Chicken.

He's got ambition, that fool.

As for me, I'm content with this.

I have no problems.

How about you?

What?

Nothing.

What do you mean nothing?

What are you really asking for?

Why are you here?

I don't know.

You ran away from home?

Yes.

Same with me, I ran away too.

That was probably two years ago.

I was from Cebu.

But now I'm a Manila boy.

And you've still got that Visayan accent.

Wooh! That was hot!

Someday, I will eat better than this. Even better than steak and liver.

It's better in the province, at least you get to eat right.

Then why don't you go back?

There are times when I think of going back, but...

Nothing will become of you in the province.

What are you going to end up doing there?

I'll plow land.

I think of coming back every time, but it just never happens.

That's why I think I'm somewhat better off here.

All the hardships and pleasures can be found in the city.

Here, you can be happy with just 3 pesos in your pocket.

In the province, probably not.

That's true.

Even with little money, there are plenty of places to go to in the city.

And there are plenty of women.

Not only that,

Life may be difficult in the city,

But as long as you're here

There is always the possibility of one day hitting the jackpot.

That's right. Like me, if I ever make it as a singer here.

I'll hit the big time!

That is if you get lucky.

I'm sure of it!

In the province, if you were born with the plough,

Then you'll surely die with the plough.

So it's settled, I'm taking her to Manila.

So are you set to go to Manila?

But...

You'll have an easy time working there.

Plus, there are many workers who came from this town.

Free food, and 30 pesos every month.

Just think about it,

You can never hope to earn that kind of money in this town.

I'll even pay for your education afterwards.

That's right,

You can even send me money to help pay for your sibling's education.

Hey! What are you doing?

What about Imo? Where is he?

Why are you late?

I was just looking for Mr. Anoy, the electrician.

Why? Are you working for him?

I just gave back the newspaper I borrowed earlier.

Reading a newspaper?

Go on! Start working!

Lazy bums! I'm paying you to work!

Go ahead, sing.

Hey! It's too early for that.

Stop singing, or at least sing a better tune.

I wasn't singing for you.

Sing something else!

I'll sing something that you like.

How about "Thirst"?

"Thirst"? OK.

"My broken heart grieves"

That's it.

"forever..."

Watch out!

Let's go! Quick!

That's what happens when you're fooling around.

Let's move him slowly.

Be careful of his head.

Is he dead?

Call a cab, quick!

To Makati Medical Center?

No. Take him to PGH. It's free there.

Fuck! It doesn't matter where. Hurry!

Hurry up!

Be careful with his head.

Make way! Take him to the hospital.

You over there? What are you looking at?

Slacking off?

Go on! Get back to work!

What are you doing standing still?

Get back to work!

Useless bums!

What about you? Get back to work.

That goes for all of you.

What about you? What are you sitting around for?

Nothing, sir.

Go on. Get back to work.

Yes, sir.

Take off your shoes first.

You're lucky that you only got hit in the foot.

Yeah.

Poor Benny.

He was too carefree.

That hurts.

Don't touch it. It hurts.

It's swollen. Maybe you should just go home.

Something bad might happen to you.

I will just endure the pain.

I don't want to waste half a day.

It's worth P1.75.

He's dead.

What's gonna happen to Benny?

What do you mean?

He's dead. So he's finished.

Does he have any relatives here?

None.

If no one claims his body from the morgue,

His corpse will be sold to schools.

He'll get butchered by Med students.

Don't bother carrying anything heavy.

You should just use the shovel.

Your foot might get worse.

Thanks.

This is where we live, a squatter's area.

Who are you living with?

My father and my sister.

What about your mother?

She's dead.

How is life here?

Okay.

We get by somehow, so it's acceptable.

The sewers here look really dirty.

All sewers are dirty.

Atong, what happened to you?

Some lumber fell on my feet.

Be careful.

Okay.

What happened to you, Atong?

Lumber fell on my foot.

Help yourself. Don't be embarrassed.

We may be poor, but we eat regularly.

What about Perla?

She'll eat later.

She's still feeding Dad.

I envy the children.

At least they don't have any problems.

When they grow up, they'll be facing the same problems as ours.

Julio, you're taking too long!

I'm pushing as hard as I can!

You fell!

C'mon Julio. Stop that!

My father is paralyzed.

He was shot and the bullet hit his bone.

Why did he get shot?

Our land was taken away from us.

We own 5 hectares of farm land in Quezon City.

Giazon, a rich Spaniard, wanted to take it.

He wanted to force us out.

They gave us time to leave, but we never left.

Father was stubborn, he said that there will be bloodshed first.

When the bulldozers came, he fought them with his bolo.

But one of Giazon's men shot him.

How did they get the land of it was rightfully yours?

We didn't have any papers to prove ownership.

But Giazon did.

But Father insisted that the land is ours, we've lived there since the beginning.

Even our ancestors were born in that land.

But he couldn't be convinced. He wanted us out.

Want a Chinese girl? She's still a student and very young.

How about it? C'mon Mister.

She goes all the way.

C'mon Mister. It will be really good.

Look! The payer is here.

The payer is here!

Fall in line.

Manabat has no funds to pay you.

Really? If it's Taiwan, then it's Taiwan.

Quiet!

You should be happy that we're still paying you.

It's Taiwan, then.

Just go ahead.

Abobo, Francisco.

P6.00?

Yes it's P6.00. No discount.

I'll take it for P1.50.

My price is P6.00 and you want want it for 1.50?

Such a cheapskate.

-You should buy...
-What's wrong with asking for a discount?

-But you're asking for way too much!
-If you don't want my business then...

I don't want your money, you can shove it...

You're wasting my time.

I don't want to buy this anyway!

-Bitch!
-Just like you!

-Ugly hag!
-You're uglier!

-Come here!
-Or what!

-Wanna fight?
-Get out of here!

A cheapskate like you should shop in Divisoria.

Miss...

-Bitch!
-You're the bitch!

-Stuck-up bitch!
-Pest!

Miss.

I'm sorry, sir.

How much for that one?

This one? P9.00.

That's a fair price.

Let's meet halfway at P6.00.

It's just a polo shirt....

I can't give you this for P6.00, P8.00 would be fine.

That's too much, I can only give you P6.00.

But this is made from good material.

We can't afford it at your price.

It's a bargain. I won't make any profit if I sell the shirt for P6.00.

Sir! Come back!

I can sell it for P7.00.

How about P6.50?

P7.00 is as cheap as it gets.

Wait, Sir!

How about P6.80?

I'm sure we can agree on that price.

Okay, miss. Wrap it up.

If it wasn't this late, I wouldn't have given this to you at such low price.

You got a discount because it's almost closing time.

Julio?

Julio?

This is P6.00.

And that is a fixed price.

Police!

I can't give you this for anything less than P6.00.

Julio!

Why did you run after her?

I thought that she was the one who took Ligaya.

Ligaya? Who is she?

Just between you and me,

Ligaya is my girlfriend from back home.

What about the woman you were chasing?

She was the one who brought Ligaya here.

I don't know who that woman was.

They call her Mrs. Cruz.

She's fat, just like the woman I was chasing.

She came to our town to recruit women.

She said that they will be factory workers in Manila.

And that they can study too.

She recruited three women from our town.

And one of them is my girlfriend.

Where is she now?

I don't know.

I'm not sure.

Does your family know that you're here in Manila?

No, I left without telling anybody.

Your mother is probably very worried.

I lost my mother and father a long time ago.

That was way back when me and my siblings were still young,

Me and my my siblings were split between our uncles.

All four of us were separated.

The uncle who took me in has a bad temperament.

He was an alcoholic.

He's very abusive when he's drunk.

What now?

What do you mean?

What are you going to do?

I don't know.

What happened, man?

I lost my money.

How?

Someone brought a prostitute here.

At first, It was only Enteng who was interested.

I wasn't really interested.

But when the program started,

I felt differently about the whole thing.

How can I ignore it when it's happening right in front of me?

Who wouldn't be tempted at such a thing?

Where did they...?

Right there.

Gido has just finished, he was 6th in line.

Isn't that forbidden in here?

Forbidden? It's already happening!

How did they get inside?

Probably by splitting the profit with the guard.

Fucking vultures. Why do they let these devils in?

Brother.

Do you have any money left?

I really need some money to buy an exam book tomorrow.

Take this, I have 3 pesos.

What about your expenses?

Doesn't matter.

Thanks. I owe you.

I really need the money.

I'll pay you back next time.

Okay.

How was it?

Was it good?

It was good. I'm gonna shower.

How about you? You want some?

All for a cheap price.

Look, he's the last one.

Raquel!

Just look at her body.

That body!

Just take a look at her.

You don't want her?

I'll pass.

You might regret it.

No.

Okay, if you insist.

You might regret it.

Listen, everybody!

The building is nearly finished.

As you all know,

I have to lay off some of you.

Some of you are no longer needed.

The names that I will be calling are the ones who are laid off.

Francisco Abobo.

Andres Bugoy

Pedro Ramos.

Ruben Umali.

Pio De Leon.

Jose Manotoc.

Narciso Reyes.

Lito Nicdao.

Julio Madiaga.

(Speaking Chinese)

It's already broken. Just leave and I'll take care of it.

Ligaya.

Hey.

What happened to your girl?

What girl?

A certain...

Ligaya?

Who told you about her?

Atong did.

Ligaya is my girlfriend.

That was a long time ago.

But her mother didn't approve of me.

I was only a fisherman.

Her mother had high hopes for her.

One day, Mrs. Cruz arrived in our town.

She's a fat woman.

Like a pig.

She said that she was looking for women who wanted to work in Manila.

She promised them not only a steady job but also education.

She told the women stories about how good it is in Manila.

Especially if you're good looking.

She went to Ligaya's mother and convinced her to send Ligaya to Manila.

Ligaya didn't really want to go...

but she wanted to reach Manila.

She even asked me to come with her the last time we talked.

She wrote me a letter once.

But after a few letters, she didn't reply.

One day, a letter arrived for Ligaya's parents.

Her mother was in tears.

They said that Ligaya was missing.

Mrs. Cruz told them that Ligaya ran away without notice.

And that she was missing a pair of diamond earrings.

She said that Ligaya showed her no gratitude.

That filthy pig.

What about your girl?

That's why I came to Manila.

I had some money at first.

P137.00 to be exact.

I searched the entire city.

But...

I couldn't find her.

I must have scoured every corner of the city.

One day, In Pandacan...

I got mugged by a group of men.

I'm lucky that they didn't get my diary.

This is where I keep Ligaya's only letter.

What did you do then?

What else could I do?

I couldn't search for her with an empty stomach.

Thankfully, I found a job at a construction site in Cubao.

A huge building was being built just like the one here.

I became friends with Paul.

He was a co-worker.

He's also a student, just like you.

I told her about Ligaya.

He told me

That Mrs. Cruz probably isn't her real name.

She's only "Mrs. Cruz" when she's recruiting women.

And then he told me that Ligaya was probably beautiful.

I told him yes.

Ligaya is beautiful.

She is the most beautiful woman for me.

The most beautiful woman in our barrio.

So I followed Paul's advice,

I went to Doroteo Jose.

And I got lucky.

I saw Mrs. Cruz on my first day of looking.

She's a pig.

Her soul is probably the soul of a pig.

I followed her wherever she went.

But...

Nothing happened.

Until one day, I followed her...

I followed her until we reached Sta. Cruz. And then to Misericordia St.

Mrs. Cruz entered a store with a billboard that reads "Chua Tek"

I waited.

Probably for half an hour.

When Mrs. Cruz left, I approached the door.

(Chinese)

Who is it?

Does Ligaya live here?

Ligaya?

Ligaya Paraiso.

I don't know the name of the master's wife.

I'm new here.

But...

Who is it?

He's looking for someone named Ligaya Paraiso.

There is no one here who goes by that name.

What do you plan to do if it's really her?

I thought about it.

Is it possible...?

to inform the authorities?

The cops?

Are you crazy?

You can't just do that.

Especially if she's already married to that Chinaman.

I don't think you stand a chance.

Maybe if you have a lot money.

But he's Chinese, he's sure to have a lot more money than you.

About tomorrow,

Do you want to take my place at work?

I have an important meeting.

You should tell Mr. Balajadia first.

No, don't. He'll only get mad.

And he'll never give me permission.

But I'm still not going to work tomorrow.

What am I going to tell Mr. Balajadia?

Tell him that one of my relatives died.

Who died?

Don't be silly. No one died.

I'm going to apply for a new job tomorrow.

Where?

At an advertising company.

Wake up.

Wake up.

Hey.

You can't sleep here anymore.

Why?

According to Mr. Manabat,

The workers who were laid off can no longer sleep here.

It's Mr. Manabat's orders.

You can no longer sleep here.

Where are you gonna sleep tonight?

I don't know.

It doesn't matter.

I'd have let you sleep at my place but there's no more room.

I have six children.

You can sleep at my place.

That's what I was thinking too.

What about tomorrow?

What are you gonna do?

I don't know.

You're out of luck, Christmas is just around the corner.

I won't spend my salary so that I have some money for Christmas.

I can finally buy Perla some new clothes.

She hasn't worn anything new for a while.

At least she'll be happy this Christmas.

Right?

Yeah.

How much do they pay you for overtime?

It's the same as regular pay.

It's like half a day.

Overtime is only for four hours.

Shouldn't they be paying you more for overtime?

They should, but Manabat doesn't really follow those rules.

If you tell Fatso that,

He'll tell you that you don't have to work overtime.

It doesn't really matter. I need the overtime.

Remember that fool? He's probably happy this Christmas.

Who?

Imo.

That fool lucked out.

It's all about luck sometimes.

How much are they paying you?

Two hundred fifty.

Just think of it, P250?

When are we gonna touch that kind of money?

I don't know.

It's all about luck sometimes.

Coming home at this hour?

Did you have a lot of customers last night?

That's none of your business.

-Really? Let me touch that.
-Stop it!

Dirty old man.

You wretched man! Your son hasn't even eaten yet.

I don't know what to do.

Whatever happens happens.

Don't worry about it.

Thanks for letting me stay, Perla.

You can always come back again.

Okay.

You come back if you want.

Why do you have to go to Manila?

It's my mother's wish.

Mrs. Cruz even told me that she would pay for my studies.

Don't you want that?

She would also give me work.

I can even help out my mother.

Please Julio. It's not as if I'm going away forever.

Please...

Something bad might happen to you there.

Don't worry, Etis and Saling are coming too.

Pesky kid, I finally found you.

Sorry to bother you, sir

Thief! He stole my bag!

Quick! Run after him!

Thief!

Somebody call the cops!

He's getting away!

Help!

Call the cops!

I promise I won't do it again.

Hey Mister! Wait!

Mister!

Thanks!

The winner of Miss International is Ralphy White!

You're so lovely!

A man...

Let's follow him, quick!

Hey Mister!

Snob!

Looks like our plans won't go through.

Here he is.

Looks like you just woke up.

What do you want?

Nothing.

Do you have a light?

Do you frequent this area?

Why are you here?

I don't know.

I thought you needed a light?

I was kidding.

It's not easy to talk to strangers.

Cigarette?

It's dangerous in this area.

Especially if you're alone.

There are many snatchers.

I have nothing left for them to steal.

How about you? Why are you alone?

I know a lot of people here.

I have lots of friends.

What's your name anyway?

I'm Bobby Reyes.

I'm Julio.

Madiaga.

Do you have a place to go?

I have none.

Do you want to have a good time?

No thanks.

I'm broke.

I'll take care of everything.

That's okay, I just wanted to rest here.

This place is dangerous.

You'll probably end up in prison staying here.

If you want to, you can come to my apartment.

It's located in Ermita.

What do you do in construction?

I'm just a laborer.

How much do you earn?

P2.50 a day.

But in the payroll, it says P4.00.

The foreman deducts from it.

P2.50 a day? How do you get by with that money?

If you want to, you can live here until you find a place to stay.

I might be a nuisance to you.

And your apartment looks really good.

It's okay, that's not a problem.

Do you have family here?

They're in Valenzuela, Bulacan.

I work in Manila so I only come back once a week.

What do you do?

I work in a club.

Can you get me a job there?

It depends. You have to have some nice clothes.

Wait a minute.

Try this shirt on.

Maybe you can replace the shirt that you are wearing.

This is a bit much.

No, it's okay.

It's used but it still looks good.

Here's your pillow.

You can sleep in the floor for now.

I'm a bit embarrassed.

You've done so much for me.

Remember, you're my guest.

Okay?

Thanks.

I'll see you.

I'll call you later, Bobby.

Okay.

He's my friend.

Thanks.

Let's eat.

Why don't you wear the shirt that I gave you?

I have nowhere special to go.

So who was your guest?

Well, it's my job.

Don't worry, I'm not a faggot.

Maybe, that's what you're thinking.

It's my job.

I'm a call-boy.

What's a call-boy?

We're like those women who sell their bodies.

Like whores.

There are men who sell their bodies too.

Man-whores?

If I didn't do this, do you think I can afford this lifestyle?

What should I do for a living?

Work at a construction site?

P2.50 a day?

Not me.

What's wrong with it?

Our clients are people too.

Would I be able eat if it weren't for this job?

Don't worry man.

I won't force you to be like me.

But if you're looking for money, that won't be a problem.

Where we're going, you're going to need a strong stomach.

Since you used to work at construction, you probably can handle it.

Where is it?

It's in a nearby apartment, it's Cesar's place.

P20 is the least you can earn in a night.

You'll even earn more money if you work hard.

Wait a minute, man.

Why?

Nothing.

I thought I saw someone that I knew.

Come on, man. You were probably peeping.

Welcome to Scheherazade, the House of Leisure!

Bobby!

Welcome, you're friend's a cutie. Who is he?

Come in, don't be shy. Welcome Bobby!

This is our newest member.

His name is Julio.

That's Veronica.

There's our co-workers. There's Jerry.

That's Bert.

And that's Ferry.

Edgar.

Peter.

Ricky.

That's Lito, Pete.

There's more. There's Boy.

There's Ricky.

Hold on for a second.

Romy

And there's Jong.

Oh God, there are so many of you.

Can you call me later, maybe around 9:00?

OK.

Julio.

This is Cesar, the owner of this joint.

This is Julio.

How are you doing, Julio?

Is everything okay?

What now?

Come on over you two, the Sampaguita room is ready.

Any more vacant rooms, Veronica?

It will just be a minute.

So now what?

Do you want to work here?

Do you know what you have to do?

There is only one reason why people work here.

Money.

If that's what you're looking for, then you'll find it here.

It's easy.

All I need is a little cooperation.

You don't have to do anything that you don't want to do.

You can always negotiate.

Next!

What happened?

What?

The first time isn't the easiest.

Did he tell you that you don't have to do anything that you don't want to do?

It's true.

You're the one who tells the customers what you do and don't do.

You'll be okay.

Rikki! Come here you faggot.

We have a lot of new recruits.

Choose whichever one you want.

Go ahead, Rikki. We haven't seen you for such a long time.

Choose whoever you want.

We have a lot of new recruits.

Our discoveries come from different provinces.

Just take a look, there's Edgar with the mustache.

He's really good.

There's Ferry, he has such a nice body.

And then there's Boy, his long legs will drive you crazy.

There's also Bobby, he's a mestizo.

We have some new ones too.

There's Peter,

There's uh...

Romy, Johnson

Wait there's some more newbies, there's Mario.

There's more, you won't be disappointed.

What type of dish do you want tonight?

Pick your poison, my dear.

Even the puppy is excited.

He's our newest discovery, Julio.

He's really new, but don't worry.

We'll give him instructions before you take him in.

We know that you're really picky.

Which room do you want? The blue room?

Veronica, remember to give Julio some instructions.

We don't want Rikki to be disappointed.

We'll make the view better.

Make it good Julio. He's rich and you're his type.

Are you finished my dear?

Wait a moment, we'll fix your room.

What's your name?

Julio.

How old are you?

21.

Why?!?

I'm quite new to this.

Right, you're a newbie.

That's okay, I'll work on you.

Don't be shy.

Come on.

Give in.

It's no big deal.

Get over there, Bullet.

Bullet, stop that!

You naughty dog!

I told you not to lick Julio's feet.

You're pissing me off.

Can't you see that I'm busy?

Now you can play around, naughty dog.

Before I forget,

This is for you.

If you want to earn big bucks,

You should sing and dance.

You're pretty worthless otherwise.

Come on, Bullet.

Is anybody home?

Good morning.

Good morning to you too.

What do you need?

Is Paul around?

May I know who's asking?

I'm his friend, Julio.

Your friend is here.

Okay.

Julio!

What brings you here? Come in.

Thanks.

When were you laid off?

I haven't seen you in a while.

I know it's a bit sudden.

I was hoping that you could help me find work.

No problem, man.

Boss, do you want some...?
-No thanks.

How about it? She's very young.

Look, I even have her picture.

We don't have any money.

You can always ask for a loan. Right?

Look.

We said no.

Pussies.

Have you tried to ask them if Ligaya lives there?

I tried it once.

I've told you about it before.

We should try it again.

Okay.

But...they might recognize me.

Can you do it for me?

Sure, no problem.

What happened?

They said they didn't know who she is.

And if she does live there, the maid was probably wise to us by now.

Let's go.

It's hopeless.

We're wasting our time.

Good morning.

Come in.

Have a seat.

I'll leave you guys alone.

Have some coffee.

Any good news?

Sure, we have a new project.

Are you free next week, Julio?

Yes.

We hit the jackpot again.

Yeah, we've been asked to build some fences.

It's in Loyola Heights, Quezon city.

Where?

It's right near Ateneo, before Marikina.

It's a nice place, lots of rich people live there.

We're gonna work on a huge compound,

We'll need at least two more people.

Do you know anyone?

How about Atong?

Who?

I worked with him on La Madrid.

He's an industrious man.

I can vouch for him.

You're talked about him, right?

Yes. He always provided me with a helping hand.

Doesn't he have a job?

Probably. But I don't think he'll be there for long.

The building is almost finished.

Hey Julio! What's up?

Look, it's Julio.

How have you been?

We haven't seen you for such a long time.

Looks like you hit the big time.

How are you?

This is my friend Paul.

Eddie, this is Paul.

What brings you here?

Where's Atong?

Haven't you heard the news?

Atong is dead.

What?

It was last week,

What happened?

Balajadia was probably involved.

Atong had an argument with him.

He didn't give Atong his wages because of a broken porcelain tray.

Atong got mad.

He told him that the tray was already broken when he found it.

Atong got in a fight with Balajadia.

We heard that Atong ended up in the City Jail.

He died there.

They said that he was beaten badly in prison.

It turns out that Balajadia has a cousin working in the City Jail.

They live here now but they used to own land in Quezon City.

But they were forced out.

Why?

I'm not sure. Atong just told me about it in passing.

Compared to this place, we seem to be better off in Dos Castillas.

Yeah, once you've experienced life here, you'll realize how lucky you are.

I slept here once, there's plenty of mosquitoes and the smell...

The sewer?
-Yeah.

But Atong is such a good friend.

The last time I talked to him,

He told me that I could always go to him for help.

Come in.

Sit down.

Good morning.

Perla, I want you to meet my friend Paul.

Sit down.

He's the one who helped me get a job.

It was actually a friend of mine who hired him.

By the way, have you eaten?

We have.

Don't worry about us.

I just heard about what happened.

If I had heard about it earlier,

I could've attended the funeral.

Are you sure you've already eaten?

I can cook something really quick.

We're full.

What about the Atong's case?

Do you plan to pursue it?

There is no one who can take care of it.

I'm the only one in charge and I don't know what I'm doing.

There was a person who talked to me,

A detective.

He told me that he'll take care of it.

And that I will get the results later.

But i don't think they're doing anything.

It's a no win situation.

Why would they work on the case when they were the ones who were responsible?

The people here kept telling me...

That I should just keep quiet.

Because If I retaliate, something bad might happen to me.

It's because I'm practically alone.

There was a young man who lived here who was beaten badly by the police.

And when his parents complained,

The police came and threatened them.

What's your plan?

I have none.

I don't know.

We're gonna be leaving, Perla.

It's still early.

We'll come back later.

We're leaving.

Take this, Perla.

A little help from us.

Thanks.

This is from me, Perla.

It's nothing, really.

Take it.

Thank you.

You know what?

Perla's my type.

She looks like she's used to hardships.

A lot of men would go for women who are rich.

As for me, I like the poor ones better.

Sure.

Women who are used to eating dried fish,

They're content when you feed them smoked fish.

But women who are used to eating ham, when you feed them smoked fish

Then you're in trouble.

It's easier to please women who are used to hardships.

Why don't you pursue her?

She's like a sister to me.

You sure?
-Yeah.

Seriously?

I'm serious.

I might pursue her and you'll regret it.

No.

Ok.

Take this.

Thank you, sir.

Here's my share.

Thanks.

How much will you give her?

P10.00. Is that enough?

That's about right.

Let me add some more.

She'll think that it all came from me.

That's okay.

I'll just tell her that the other P10.00 came from you.

No, it's okay.

If you say so.

Do you have plans for tomorrow?

No. Why?

You should come with me.

Let's give our present to Perla,

Sure.

Excuse me. Do you know where Perla is?

Perla?

The daughter of the paralytic man?
-Yes.

She's gone.

And she probably won't come back.

I saw her last night.

She was in an ambulance.

Her father was burnt.

Where did they go?

No idea.

Are you a relative?

We're friends with her.

She wasn't here when the fire broke out.

I heard that she was running an errand at the time.

When she arrived, the fire is already out.

Where's Ligaya?

I don't know who you're talking about!

Let go of me!
-Ligaya Paraiso!

You recruited her from Marinduque.

I don't know anyone with that name!

Where is she, Mrs. Cruz?

Police!

A thief! Police!

Where's Ligaya?

What's going on?

He was trying to get my bag, Mr. Policeman.

You piece of shit!

That's not true. We know each other.

Shut up!

What about Mrs. Cruz?

You thieving piece of shit!

Let's go!

Do you have an ID?

This is not an ID.

That's the only one I have.

This won't do. Let's go.

You wanna fight me?

Then straighten up.

I did nothing wrong.

You were trying to steal someone's bag. Let's go.

Rascal.

Can I have my diary back?

No. I'm keeping this as evidence.

I have something important in there.

So you want to complain!

I'll knock your head out.

No, sir. I just have something important in there.

Wait for me here. I'm just gonna use the comfort room.

Miss, did you see a man with a blue shirt and a mustache?

Sure. He went in that direction.

If i ever see him again...

He's dead.

I wouldn't have minded if he only took my money, but Perla's?

and Ligaya's Letter...

I can never forget his face.

If I ever see that face again,

So you're broke.

If you ever need money.

Just ask.

Forget about it.

Two in a row!

A feisty one.

Go ahead, it will be a breeze.

He's smaller than you.

What now?

My friend is not afraid of you, but there is really no reason to fight.

How about shaking hands?

Why don't we go out drinking sometime?

Vent out our frustrations.

Okay?

Sure.

It's P2.00.

That's too much.

It has a long blade.

How about a discount?

How about P1.50?

P1.00.

P1.50.

P1.50 is a bit much.

Alright.

Hey.

You don't remember me?

You startled me.

You probably wronged someone. Guilty people startle easily.

I haven't seen you in a long time.

Where are you headed?

Nowhere.

Come with me, let's eat lunch.

Come on, it will be my treat.

I don't know.

Come on.

How's Omeng and the others?

I don't know. I haven't seen them in such a long time.

They're probably still working in construction.

You know what,

It's hard to get ahead if you continue to work in construction.

Have you heard the news about Atong?

Yeah.

I'm glad you mentioned it.

Can you clean this up?

I just heard about it recently.

Can you guess who told me about it?

Who?

Do you know Atong's sister?

Perla.

Oh, he brought you to his house too.

Yeah, where is she?

You met up with her?

She was the one who told me about Atong's death.

And the thing that happened to his Father during the fire.

Where is she now?

She lives in....Aling Etang's place.

In Makati.

Do you know about it?

Why? Where is it?

You don't know? It's where men go...

You know, men in heat.

I couldn't believe it when I first saw her.

I was surprised to see her there.

You should visit her sometime.

P20.00 and you're set.

P12 for the girl and P8 for the beer.

It's not too much.

You can afford it.

Did he do it with Perla?

What do you mean?

Did they get a room?

He's a son of a...

if he had sex with her.

She's the sister of his friend.

He wasn't clear about the sex part, he just told me that he talked with her.

What did Perla tell him?

Imo didn't mention anything about that.

Imo?

The one who told me about Perla.

We should visit her sometime.

Perla?

Yeah.

Are you crazy?

She'd be embarrassed if we visited her.

It's all my fault.

Why?

I have bad luck with women.

I liked her.

I should have told her how I felt.

This is the third time. Remember?

Ligaya?

How are you?

I'm fine.

Why are you here?

I've been looking for you for a long time.

You've changed.

Where can we talk?

It's up to you.

How are you?

I'm fine.

How about you?

I'm happy.

Because of you.

What happened to you?

I've lived in Manila for quite a while now.

About one year.

I've been looking for you.

You didn't write back.

We shouldn't talk here.

Where should we go?

Do you remember Mrs. Cruz?

She's Satan himself.

She brought me to a big house.

I don't know where.

The fences were wide.

The walls were tall.

There were big Acacia trees.

There were even guards at the gate.

Mrs. Cruz told me that we were going to talk to the manager of the factory.

And the fool that I am,

I follower all her orders.

And then she talked to this woman.

Looked like a witch.

And then...

They brought us to a...

a room...

Like an office.

They told us to wait for the manager there.

And then someone brought in a drink.

Orange?

I wasn't even halfway through the drink,

I felt dizzy.

Then I woke up in a bed.

I was with a Chinese man.

Ah Tek?

How did you know?

The house in Misericordia.

I've been observing that house.

I was hoping to find you there.

I followed Mrs. Cruz from Doroteo Jose.

The apartment that was in your letter.

And then,

She walked all the way to Misericordia.

And then I thought to myself that you lived there.

Yes.

Mrs. Cruz collects money from there.

Ah Tek pays me,

I lived in the big house for about two months.

Ah Tek visited me twice a week.

There were many of us.

I couldn't find the the others because...

I was confined in a room.

I was confined in a room which was like...

like a matchbox.

A room where no one who can hear you even if you scream.

But once I...

I sometimes hear...

Screaming. Crying.

And then one day,

Ah Tek told me,

that I'm lucky because he takes care of me.

You know.

It's like..

It's like I owe him something.

The fool confessed,

that he liked me.

The other women who lived there

They serve different men on a nightly basis.

3 or 4 men.

And I was the only one who wasn't injected with morphine.

And that I should be grateful to him because of that.

He said...

That I should thankful.

Because otherwise

I would crave morphine.

If I get injected with it.

I'll lose all my inhibitions.

I will be plaything for men

They will make me dance.

Dance naked.

But he doesn't want that to happen to me.

He liked me.

He has given me a lot.

He has spent a lot on me.

And he wants to set me free.

But, he liked me.

He doesn't want me to be like the others.

So he said that I wanted to...

He could take me away from that place.

I can go away with him.

But I have to follow his every whim.

Because if I didn't...

He will take me back.

It was sort of an ultimatum.

I didn't reply.

And then he called a woman outside.

The one who looked like a witch.

And then they brought me to a room.

They showed me the face of a woman,

a woman injected with morphine.

And then they brought me to another room.

They showed me another woman.

She wasn't injected with morphine, not yet...

She looked as if she was going crazy.

How does he treat you?

He's mostly nice.

He always consoles me and..

He buys me things.

A watch, a ring...

A bracelet.

But he doesn't let me out of the house.

I'm always inside.

If he leaves the house, there is always someone watching me.

How did you get out today?

He has only let me out recently.

Only this week.

Do you plan to go back home?

You should go back home. You're practically free.

If you wanted to, you can always go back home.

I can't just leave my baby.

How old is your baby?

Four months.

Did he marry you?

No.

It's better that way.

Before I forget,

How are they doing back home?

I don't know.

You know, I've written them around three times.

I sent them money.

But Ah Tek doesn't really let me hold any money.

He only gives me some if I really need it.

Do they know?

Back home? They don't know anything.

I've never told them the things that have happened to me.

All they know is that I'm doing well.

I never tell them where they can write to me.

Help me.

Help me.

Don't cry.

Don't cry.

I'll take care of it.

We'll escape.

We'll bring your baby along.

It's not easy. I've tried escaping before.

I was caught and he nearly killed me.

He told me that if he catches me again,

He'll kill me for sure.

I can't take my baby because of the nanny.

She sleeps beside my baby.

You can always try again.

How about tonight? Let's go home together.

That's not possible.

You don't know Ah Tek, he will really kill me.

If you really wanted to leave that place,

Then you'll try again no matter what happens to you.

You don't know how mad he gets.

If you really wanted to escape,

Then you'll try despite the consequences.

My poor baby, I don't know what will happen to her if I get caught.

If that's your train of thought, you'll never be able to leave that place.

So how about tonight?

I'll wait for you in the Arranque market.

There's a waiting area there.

I'll pretend to be waiting for a jeep.

It's not safe for me to be waiting at the front of your place.

A cop might notice me.

Maybe not tonight.

We'll just try.

I'll wait there even if you come or not.

So, around 12:00?

How long will you wait?

It's up to you.

Until 3 AM.

Okay.

Nothing?

Wake up.

What time is it?

5:00.

Get dressed, let's see a movie.

Come on now, it'll only take a while.

If you want, we can go to a cabaret in Grace Park.

I don't know how to dance.

You don't have to know how to dance.

Just grab one of the girls and go for her neck.

Touch her legs a little bit and you're set.

I don't know.

Come on!

Relax.

If you don't Grace park, we can always hang around in Pasay.

What are we gonna do there?

What else? Women.

They only charge P6.00.

You're not used to it?

It's a waste of money.

That's why I borrowed some money, so we can have a good time.

How much did you borrow?
-P30.

You should save it.

That reminds me, I still owe you P25.

Don't worry about it.

It's yours.

Maybe we can just eat out.

Eat some noodles, it's really good.

Just look at that person.

He thinks he owns the place.

Can you turn it down a bit? It's too loud.

The man who played it might get angry.

Just a bit.

That's what I don't like here, that damn jukebox.

Maybe we can go to another place?

I like the food here.

If it's not the jukebox,

then it's the bourgeois crowd.

Just look at those arrogant pricks.

Some more beer?

No, I'm set.

I'm full.

Don't be shy.
-I'm full.

You sure?

Cigarette?

You sure you don't want to go out?

Let's just go home.

Relax, man.

I know what's on you're mind.

It's Ligaya, isn't it?

Ah Tek warned her, right?

That he'll kill her if she tries to escape.

What do you think?

Did Ligaya try to escape?

You know in India, there are people who...

People who walk on burning coals.

And never feel a thing.

Fire walkers.

You think you can do that?

Can you snuff out the cigarette with the palm of your hand?

I'll get burnt for sure.

Then do it with mine.

You've only had one beer and you're already drunk.

Do it.

Come on.

Later.
-Come on.

I can't do it.

If you don't want to do it, then I'll do it myself.

Ligaya's dead.

They said that she fell down a flight of stairs.

Her head hit the concrete.

But according to the autopsy, she had marks on her neck.

This columnist wants a clean investigation to clarify the details of the incident.

Earlier today, when I borrowed some money.

I thought about looking around several funeral homes.

I was lucky to find her.

They say that burial is tomorrow.

That's what they told me.

I know what you're thinking right now,

But you need to cool off.

Let's make her burial peaceful.

Fight! Do not be afraid!

Down with capitalism!

Fight! Do not be afraid!

Are you going somewhere?

I'm just gonna walk around.

Aren't you tired?

Not yet.

By the way, this is the money that you lent me.

No, you might need it.

Just bring it back to whomever you owed it to.

Okay.

Alright, take care of yourself.

Don't worry about me.

Sure.

Thanks.

Where's Ah Tek?

What do you need?

Tell him that I want to talk to him.

Who are you, anyway?

Just tell him that someone is looking for him.

A friend.

Wait there.

Who are you and what do you need?

Help! Police!

He has an icepick!

What did he do?
-He killed a Chinaman.

Let's teach him a lesson!

Let's beat him up!

Beat him up!

He's helpless!

Get him!

*Subtitles by empire