I Went To Manila's Worst Slum. It Was Wild ( 

Learn 150+ languages with quality native-speaking teachers on italki 🎉. Buy $10 get $5 off for your first lesson using my code TOMMY : Web: go.italki.com/sabbaticalmar App: italki.app.link/sabbaticalmar

@tommy! I am your grab driver that time. Thank you for a wonderful time talking to you.

People in the Philippines are unbelievably hospitable, even towards people like me who have a fraction of your social skills. I was in the Visayas when the covid pandemic started and when the country suddenly locked down in an instant, I found some locals who were willing to take me on a tiny boat in the middle of the night to avoid the coast guard and get me over to cebu where I was able to hop on one of the last international flights leaving the airport. In retrospect, being locked down in the Philippines would've been way better than being locked down in the US, but still, awesome people!

Filipinos might just be the friendliest people in the world. I just received the best hospitality at a party in Croatia at a shared house of Filipinos. Will upload a vlog of my experience soon. Amazing people, so fun and kind.

I had a Filipino neighbour about 28 years ago. And to this day, I still think about how kind, amicable and personable she was. Years later I'd work in HK, and the first person to offer their help to guide me around, show me the spots etc.. was another Filipino. To Corrie and Homer; thank you for being some of the most gracious and kind people I have ever met. Life goes by rather quick, but you both have made my memories very sweet to recall.

I noticed some brothers apologized because of someone trying to harass you and they even offered you a drink. You were in safe hands then on.

As a Filipino I used to be indifferent or even dislike what we are, but seeing people outside our country appreciating the country for what it is, I learned that we have so good things to offer as well

I'm from New York and moved to Manila in Feb 2013. My wife is from the infamous Tondo and I spend time there obviously. Our first visit together, she pointed to two guys and called them "snatchers". I walked up to them, thankfully, they could speak English and I asked them, "I hear you are robbers, snatchers. Would you snatch or rob from me?" They started laughing and backing up. Shaking their head, one said, "No, you are too big. You hurt us!" I'm not that tall for an American but the wife says the way I walk people would think "military". Big, Bald & Black man does have it's privileges and benefits. It also helps to have a 22 inch neck and 52 inch shoulders! Great videos. Do I miss NYC? Sometimes, but this is my home now. I have no plans on returning.

During the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, Tondo was the most feared district in Manila. Yet, it got less dangerous starting in the 1980s and continuing now. Also, its reputation was created by bad film representations. But living in Tondo is fantastic. I must admit that I really miss the place where I spent my childhood, which I did there until I was 12 years old. The reason I adore this channel is because he never sugarcoats anything; what he says is as genuine as it gets.

I fell in love with the Philippines in the mid-70’s. I got married there in the 80’s and now my grandsons are Filipinos because my son also married a Filipina. There was something special about the place that drew me to it. Ingat!

My fiance is a Filipina. I'm from NC, USA. Our culture is very different but very similar. I speak English, Spanish and broken Tagalog. I agree with you that Filipinos are VERY Latin, and they're are also some very "gangster" Pinos. I love the Philippines so much. I became obsessed with their culture because my family used to house missionaries from all over the world but the majority of them came from the Philippines. They were so friendly, they taught me how to make Lumpia and some of their local languages.

I love that you make the effort with the language, share some historical info and are respectful and cool with the locals. Thanks for sharing.

I am a British foreigner living in Philippines. I wanted to experience the real Philippines. So I rented a tiny room in Tondo! And lived there for 1 month !! Also navotas baclaren libitard ect.. I have to day I was made very welcome always asked to join in social events and felt very very safe.. they are lovely welcoming people..

21:50 i bet it was a relief talking to that guy, nice and calm, sometimes people can be too excited.

This video really highlights the Philippine experience from a foreign perspective. Been there 5 times and married a Filipina. Love the people and the culture. Plan to retire there 1 day.

Its just refreshing to bump into a vlogger who knows the history of a country he visits.

I think Philippines is my favorite Asia country, then Japan, then Malayasia, then PNG. Love from America to all Filipinos watching.

Thanks! I am sorry to learn that your videos get demonetized. Great content, I love it. I don't know how you can do all of this travel but I'm here for it. National Geographic is missing out on a great storyteller.

the way you are able to interact with strangers and specific a hoard of curious children pretty much everywhere is totally beyond me und never fails to impress and warm my heart.

I have been to both Binondo and Tondo, all people were just friendly. There are always place you maybe not should visit night time alone. But over all people are always friendly, hospitable and helpful in Philippines. Greetings from Sweden!

I went to the Philippines for 3 weeks it was great . Very nice people and the food is great .

Filipinos are so hospitable and friendly!!!💗🥰

Respect for learning our language ahead of the time, some foreign vloggers dont put that much effort doing that before coming here

I lived and grew up in Tondo, it is dangerous only at night when drunks are coming home. I remember almost getting stabbed because a drunk pos chased me because I looked at him once. Nowadays its somewhat safe but please still be careful.

I was just in the Philippines in February. I’m down $5k but it was one of my best trips from all the time i’ve visited. I wasn’t born there but i learned the ilocano language. My parents are from Ilocos Norte and i’ve learned so much of my culture from the experiences i’ve got there. The plus side is that everything is so affordable. It was about 54-55 pesos to a dollar. My money went a long way there. Highly recommend going there. Just don’t go out at night to some rough areas. I’m glad that i had family that took me around there. I would love to go back ASAP

A little bit of a different tour in the Philippines for this one..

My first time seeing your vlog. I appreciate the fact that you are open to seeing behind the glitz and glamour of the City. By immersing yourself with the people to learn about the culture and your knowledge on the Country's history is really nice to hear. As a Filipina who's been away from my homeland, my heart aches to go home for good. Thank you for this heartfelt video.

Surprise surprise, my first day, my first walk from the Manila hotel, across the river. Into China town, straight into the garment market. 8:46 No problem at all. Never felt any danger.

Watching you chat with the kids having the time of your life was hilarious. It’s always fun to watch your videos, look forward to them more than anyone’s on RU-vid currently.

You just missed out, Chinese New Year in Binondo is the happening. And Binondo Church (Shrine of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz) is really worth a visit. It's dedicated to the Philippines' first saint, who was a missionary to Japan and martyred there. Asia's oldest university, University of Santo Tomas, is a short distance away. Many beautiful buildings there. It served as the internment camp for American and other foreign citizens during WWII.

Got to love it when this dude flexes his perfect mandarin! 😁

I just found your channel today and I’m so impressed, everything feels so authentic instead of the over edited videos others tend to give. Can’t wait to show your videos to my fiancé when he gets home keep on keeping on dude 💖

I'm a Canadian national. I lived in Binondo from 2004 to 2011. Never had a problem.

I'm glad that you show more than just the typical "Travel Channel" setup. I'd say that even Anthony Bourdain would approve of your content. RIP Tony.

The Philippines is such great country for making videos with it's friendly people and chaotic street scenes.

i left the PH when i was 12 (im in my 30s now) and every time i see a video like this, i feel strange. seeing the place again makes me feel like i missed out on the best time of my life. would've loved to have attended highschool and college in the PH atleast before moving to the US. its weird that i could feel both excitement and sadness at the same time when watching vids like this. but i cant help it, i miss my home country.

i've spent the first 14 years of my life in that place and have been to like 90% of the places you've visited in this vid granted that you were literally a kilometer from where I used to lived. This really sent me trip down memory lane

Thanks for staying true in your videos, some other travel vloggers are less genuine.

I love these videos. I don't know why it is that you don't have a few million followers. Your language skills are amazing. I'm super jealous. I wish I could travel but my health is not good, these videos are all I get. Thanks for making them Tommy.

Dope how you always give facts and info about the country you visit. That's what sets your channel apart. Keep going Bro 👑💯

My folks worked for an international organization and we lived near Tondo in the mid 2000s. When my Filipina grandma heard that our mom was bringing us kids with them to immerse us in Filipino culture she was happy but when she heard that we were going to be in Tondo WWII almost happened😂! We were told that we'd get kidnapped because we were foreigners but nothing bad happened. My siblings and I played with the neighborhood kids and made tons friends. I enjoyed all the Pinoy games! We were invited to parties and my dad would share drinks with the "tambays" 😂. I think it helped that my folks are fluent in Tagalog. We also learned to practice our broken Tagalog with our new friends. They were confused at first; white kids speaking Tagalog with a bisaya accent 😂 Anyway, there's danger everywhere even in wealthy neighborhoods and first world countries. The people in Tondo treated us like one of them and weren't fake. We made tons of friends that we still talk to today. I'll finally see them again next year! Although, my folks have worked in other slums in many parts of the world after Tondo, it was the first place that really made me aware of my privileges and always reminded me to give back. I was only 7 then and weren't aware of so many societal problems but I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to meet wonderful people that changed my outlook in life.

I found your channel about 2 months ago and I haven't stopped watching since. Your videos inspire me to do the same thing you're doing. #KnowledgeIsPower

Very awesome vlog. You are one of the few that truly experiences a country and talks about its history and people. Great video!

Hey Tommy! Thanks for taking us along on another great adventure! You are the man!

I have been to Manila many times and I was last here in July 2023. I’m from Australia! Manila is the most interesting place in the world and more interesting than New York or Paris or London and much better than Canada or China or Russia or even better than other countries in Asia if you know where to find interesting places in Manila and the lovely people. You have to ride a jeepney and visit metro Manila and Baclaren and Divisoria and Ermita and Malate etc etc and walk through the crowded streets and thousands of street food to get a taste of Manila. McCarthy is the heart of the business district. Also I have visited Cebu and Boracay and Bohol and also lucina etc etc.

An American, living in manila for the past six months, who was in HK visiting family around Christmas. Very cool to see you go to these places. Salamat po.

Not many people show this part of Manila. Hidden from tourist view and hardly known about. Thankyou for being true to your intentions and showing us these lesser known places. To be honest I get bored with all the huge Markets and Malls that are basically the same and a lot of tat. Safe travels and see yoy in the next one. ✌️👍🤞

Your a Risk taker and Adventurist! That's why I like watching your Vlog. I'm also happy that you try to communicate in the native Language compared to other Vlogers or Expats who has been living there for years and still don't know how to speak the Everyday Basic Phrases. Hats off to you Sir!

You're brave, you entered a place that even us Filipino don't do.

Thank you Mr. Sabbatical for visiting Divisoria where I grew up. More power to your channel. Hope you can stay longer.

Yo men your in the right place with your authenticity and real type of vlogs you can get million subs here in the philippines ! keep the hustle

When you got no response but smiles back at you that means they acknowledged it. Most of the Filipinos are shy and that is a common response.

This guy never fails to go in and get such wholesome content. He just walks around, chats up people and a great story and plot smacks him in the face every time haha. Terrific videos man I watch everyone that comes out

In the late 80s I went to Tondo because I was told I could get the highest exchange for my hundred dollar bills. I took a deep breath and went for it, not knowing if I'd get out alive or not. My experience was pretty much uneventful. The poverty I saw was heart-breaking, but we have the same slums here in the US. The controllers of this planet make sure poverty is everywhere because it makes for an easier to control population.

your insights take your videos 10 notches above all other of this type. love it dude. i'll be heading back to manila in june!

I love how humble and well informed you are about the places you travel to

Love your work. Keep enjoying yourself, get out there and live while you can.

The Filipinos are some of the most friendly people in the world 👍🏻

When i was a little kid in the early 90s my mum and I stayed with cousins in Tondo. Mum told me not to go out of the house unless i was with an adult lol. I had to walk through the port area after getting lost after visiting Intramuros about 10 years ago. It was the middle of the day but still had a sketchy feel to it. I love the Philippines, been many times but Manila is only a place to go for shopping and casino. Out in the provinces is where the best times are

Man...my head sushi chefs are from the philippines and ofc this is the country that i am planning to move to ..my professional culinary career will start there hopefully if not thai or japan but i have my eyes MAKATI....people are juat too friendly and i love that.

The best content about the Philippines. Very pinoy. We appreciate you trying those things and adjusting to what we used to do every day. Such a brave man and a great vlog!

My favorite place is the PHILIPPINES. Where you find the greatest people in the world. Mabuhay Sa Philippians

First time I watched your video and I immidiately said "That's it... I'm subscribing!" Dude! first time I saw an American braving the streets of the Tondo hood! Love to see how you interacted and reacted to the kids (even to those few hustlin to get your cap LOL). I also have an American buddy who plans to visit the Philippines and go to the same areas you went. Hopefully he enjoys when he gets here. Great content! Keep it up and looking forward to seeing more vids like this man.

My 1st time in Tondo was 2001. My wife's friend's lived on a construction lot in a plywood house. They offered us rice and I turned them down. My wife said "no, that will hurt their feelings". I was like they have so little tho but they in fact were happy

this is authentic as you can get, raw....you're awesome bro, keep it up.....philippines is a beautiful country to explore with. they are a happy people.

Really enjoyed seeing the way you interacted with the locals, especially the kids!!

Thanks for sharing Tommy. Enjoyed it. 👍🙂

pretty awesome! you're adding facts and history in your channel...great work ! keep it up!

You're the guy, "strike everywhere" kind of. 👍 Cool New Yorker, awesome. Some pesky street kids will bother you asking for some change, just don't mind them but what you said is right "Wala akong pera" and leave them. Oh I might add, I'm just amazed of how well you know about the history of the Philippines.

I lived in tondo for 2 years, it's where my daughter was born. It's changed a lot since I last visited. But even I was safe when I went out, but always had my friends s&w .38 and Dalwood 9mm with me.

wow im really impressed you really do your research and give great information during your vlogs!

YOUR VIDEOS ARE 🔥🔥🔥!

Thank you, you are one of my favorite RU-vidrs People in the Philippines are very hospitable. I haven't traveled to the Philippines yet. I hope I can in the future

Your vids are so much better than any other explorer I’ve watched on you tube keep up the good content mate from UK 👊🍺

I have relatives in Tondo. Its not what it is like in the 70s. Everywhere you go, there are some snatchers and gangs. But its not rampant anymore in the country especially Tondo. It depends where in particular. Tondo is a big place.

I will always be proud of my roots thanks for featuring this man its awesome

such an authentic walk on the streets of manila. 🙌 Wow you’ve gotten into one household for sabon and water !! ❤️

good to see you still at this bro!

Great vlog. It is extraordinary coz you went to Tondo and Chinatown firsthand, you researched and presented facts. Your vlogs are interesting and entertaining. Worth watching.

Been to the Philippines over ten times and ended up marrying a Filipina. Love it a great place with warm, hospitable people who know how to have fun.

It's funny because I was born and raised in Tondo then lived for years in Chicago which also had a rough history. I'm glad you are safe and had a great time though and we'd love to welcome you here again!

A word about Burgos Street; be respectful to the ladies. They are supporting family back home. This place isn’t even scandalous like Vancouver was in the 1990s to 2010s. No topless bars here, no drugs. It’s way tamer than New York’s time square was in the 1970s & 1980s.

OK, you got me! I subscribed... loving your good vibes, honesty and the New York swag my man! Keep it up!

Good to know you're safe even after being surrounded by street kids. Theyr pretty harmless but often have fast hands. That's what made the area so scary making other Filipinos wary and not visit specific places like Tondo

Mexico vibes. I would fit in here, instantly.

Great Video!You did your homework on the history of the Philippines!

Much respect to you, you are out there showing the whole world things aren't as bad as they tell you on TV, much much respect to your brother....

I just became attached to all your videos, after seeing the Philippines. Hopefully when everything settles I can travel like you.

You are showing the down to earth Philippines look like. Thank you for doing this video

sick video bro. Love your style.

As always......another great video! Thanks!

Lol. I lived in tondo when i was going tó college. Yes there was some nights i was going home and it was so sketchy but nothing ever happened to me. Back in the days yes. It was pretty bad. But now not as much.

There's a Manila slum walking video made by a local where he goes to a beach sewer and finds an ice cream vendor. After some haggling he buys the guy out and gives every kid a cone. Soon, the kids are lined up hundreds deep. Later in the slum, he buys out a fried chicken vendor. Every starving kid gets chicken. It made me cry to watch it. It was amazing to see how polite these street kids were.

Very nice video that I like ! Thank you for sharing . Happy Sunday to you !

thank you for sharing this video i miss all my troops and friends from Manila especially my old home grown TONDO. I live in a different city but I got friends everywhere I miss them all. Greetings from Sydney

I wish to visit the the slums someday!! Loved the video

watching other travel vloggers isnt the same. youre another caliber with your language and historical knowledge.

Yo Tommy, your channel is underrated. Great content bro!

Tommy brother spreads happiness wherever he goes

Awesome! Been there in that area several times while on vacation over the years and yes the filipino people are hospitable. Although the Philippines is a third world country and sometimes has a bad reputation, it is one of the best and most beautiful country to visit for the scenery, food and people! Thanks for sharing brother!