I remember reading a Reddit post that asked a question that despite the not-so-pleasant things in the Philippines, what are the best things about living in our country? With that, I believe this complements this week's prompt from the community Weekend-Experience initiated by 
The Philippines is well known for its tropical islands, amazing white sand beaches, lush green tall mountains, refreshing falls, and other breathtaking natural wonders. Growing up here in the Philippines, I have been able to witness all of these wonders, and as I visit more places locally, my love for my country continues to deepen.
Aside from the beautiful places you can visit here, you might fall in love with the beauty of Filipinos, both in terms of physical and internal qualities. Did you know that recently, two Filipinas brought home Miss Universe crowns because of their beauty and wits? Additionally, we are known worldwide for our hospitality. I can attest to that because every time we have a visitor, we make sure to serve them well. It would be embarrassing and seen as disrespectful if we ignored our guest.
However, aside from the things I mentioned above, the greatest thing about living in the Philippines is the free medicine, vitamins, and vaccines you can receive from healthcare centers. I consider these as significant because, as I came across a Reddit post and scrolled through the comments, I realized that these free healthcare services come at a cost in many other countries and can be financially burdensome.
From infancy, I've personally benefited from these free healthcare services. According to my mother, with the help of our healthcenter I completed the vaccines that protect me from diseases like Measles, Mumps, Hepatitis B, Polio, and other diseases that are now rare or eradicated. In fact, I have this small scar mark on my right shoulder that indicates multiple injections. My brother has this, and so do my other peers, showing that they also received the free vaccine program for infants from the Department of Health.
In addition to infant vaccinations, pregnant women can also receive free vitamins and supplements to aid in their pregnancy. One of the beneficiaries of this is my mother who had a free folate supplement from healthcenter while I’m in her belly. This is helpful because folate can help in reducing the risk of birth defects of the brain and spine during early pregnancy.
Moreover, aside from free medicine, vitamins, and vaccines, you can also have a free medical checkup from a licensed doctor! Recently, I had a heavy chest accompanied by a cough and fever, so I decided to visit the nearest healthcare center in our area. The doctor gave me a prescription and suggested that I can get some free medicine from our barangay by presenting my prescription. There was also someone with high blood pressure who received free medication as well.
Furthermore, due to the increasing number of individuals testing positive for HIV, there are now also some health centers that offer free HIV testing kits. Aside from these kits, they also provide maintenance treatments such as antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) for those who have tested positive for the disease. How great is that?
Despite the challenges our country faces let's take some time to look on the other side — the efforts of the government and the health department to improve the health of Filipinos are undeniable. From free medical checkups to free vitamins and medicine, these initiatives significantly reduce healthcare costs when we fall ill. Knowing that these services are not offered for free in many other countries, I believe this is one of the best aspects of living in the Philippines.
