We came back from our four-day trip to Hong Kong and Shenzhen yesterday, around 12 midnight. Casting aside worries, we encountered no problems during our trip. No stares, no prejudice, nothing. Business as usual, so they say, even if some of the Hong Kong people knew we were Filipinos and even if news of the hostage crisis were being shown almost every 15 minutes on some public transportations. Really, if Filipinos would not stop worrying about travelling to Hong Kong because of the Manila hostage crisis, then, we'd be the ones who'd be harboring feelings of prejudice, and not the other way around. Don't create fears out of nothing; don't let your own ghosts haunt you. Seriously.
Well, I cannot fault most Filipinos for being afraid; it was fueled by the words of a Filipino consul in Hong Kong to not go there if Filipinos have apprehensions. Rather irresponsible if you ask me. However, it's but normal to have fears, but to overreact? Sheesh. Most of the times, it's better to believe in the goodness and fairness of mankind than be paranoid. Just try to think positive; negativity is the harbinger of bad luck if you ask me. Enjoy your travel to Hong Kong and China, as I did mine. Of course, always exercise prudence and common sense; you need it anywhere anyway.
To my countrymen, don't let your own fear and prejudice affect your planned itineraries to Hong Kong and China. After all, we're all human beings; let's not allow the monsters of our own creations dictate our lives. :-)
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