TORONTO – I was born in the city of Manila, Philippines, and have been a city dweller ever since. When I immigrated to Toronto in the early 70s, a relative offered me lodging in the suburbs, but I respectfully declined. At the time, I was juggling two jobs. Both were in the city. And I was not about to add an exhausting commute to the picture. What figured into my decision was the knowledge that living in a city, whether in the Philippines or any country for that matter, has more advantages than disadvantages. Work opportunities are within reach. So are churches, supermarkets and schools. On a serious note, if there is a medical emergency, you can be transported to a downtown hospital within minutes.
