Inequality is highlighted... from squatter shanties between North and Quezon Avenues, middle class housing between Cubao and Santolan, to condominiums in Shaw and Boni and exclusive gated subdivision in Ortigas, Buendia, and Makati.
You can also observe the Philippine property boom in action, with several buildings and condominiums under construction over the horizon. There are new malls (you can't miss the enormous Trinoma) and shopping centers (notice Highway 54 in front of SM Megamall). Several mothballed projects are also resurrected.
Along the trip, you can also get a glimpse of problems over property. At the northeast corner of Aurora Avenue and EDSA is the most expensive swamp cabbage patch (kangkungan). The property is apparently owned by a big bookstore chain but is embroiled in a dispute. The property is in a prime location, at the intersection of two major highways and accessible by both MRT 2 and LRT 3. It is probably worth millions of pesos.
At the northwest corner of Ortigas Avenue and EDSA is another wasted property. It has been dug, preparing for the foundation of a skyscraper. However, it was later found that if construction continues the stability of nearby flyovers and MRT will be compromised. Construction was halted and now you have a deep ravine in the heart of the metropolis.
Here are other things to think about while riding the MRT:
1. Why is Ortigas station closer to SM Megamall than Robinson Galleria?
2. Why is Santolan station named, Santolan- Annapolis? Should the North Ave. Station be renamed North Ave- Trinoma?
3. Why are some stations underground? Is it because of soil quality, structural engineering or is it because residents of gated subdivisions don't want prying eyes?
