In the heart of Manila, a striking contrast unfolds as some of the city's poorest residents find refuge among the opulent tombs of the wealthy. De Los Santos, who grew up with 10 siblings in this unique environment, now raises two children of her own amid the grandeur of the cemetery. This cemetery serves not only as the final resting place for some of the nation's wealthiest individuals, including presidents, movie stars, and artists, but also as an unconventional home for hundreds of families across generations.
Many families first arrived in the cemetery as caretakers, hired by affluent families to maintain their ancestral tombs. Their responsibilities included warding off grave robbers and ensuring the tombs remained in pristine condition. Despite their critical role, caretakers earn a meager sum of about 50 pesos (US$0.85) per month from each tomb they tend to, culminating in an annual income of roughly 600 pesos (US$10.18).
To supplement their income, cemetery dwellers engage in various other activities. Some carve headstones, others dig graves, while many sweep tombs to eke out a living. This community, though financially impoverished, has found a semblance of stability among the ornate mausoleums that surround them.
De Los Santos debunks any notion of supernatural fears within the cemetery.
“You’re just fighting the addicts. People who can really do something bad to you when they’re on drugs. But ghosts … this is where we grew up. There really aren’t any.” – De Los Santos
Her words reflect the reality of life in a place where myths and misconceptions abound. For those like De Los Santos, the cemetery represents more than a place of death; it is a testament to resilience and adaptation in the face of dire circumstances.
The cemetery, located in the Philippine capital, offers a stark juxtaposition between the opulence of those interred and the destitution of those living amidst their graves. This unlikely community continues to thrive, bound together by shared experiences and a collective need for survival. Despite their humble means, these families have carved out a distinct way of life among Manila's most prestigious final resting places.
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