By Lori Griffith

Before Mt Pinatubo erupted in 1991, Clark Airbase in Pampanga was my home for 2 years. Of all my assignments in the Air Force, this was by far my favorite. 

When I learned that TBB was sending delegates to the Philippines, I was very excited and put my application in right away. I was beyond thrilled to be asked to join the delegation. 

My memories of my time in the Philippines are some of my fondest. And the food is so delicious. 

I remember the Filipinos as the kindest, most generous, hardest working people I have ever met. That has not changed. Everyone I have met on this trip still shows these same qualities. And the food is still delicious !

While the people have not changed, some things definitely have. All for the better.

It’s nice to have reliable electricity. There were many ‘brown outs’ when I was here before. They have upgraded their power grid so there is consistent power to remote places.

With more electricity you have more water treatment plants, more refrigeration and more air conditioning.

When I was here before, rarely did we get cold drinks. We hardly ever had fresh water on ice but now it is plentiful. And you can buy ice cream at the sari-sari stores! There is also enough reliable electricity for water heaters in the showers.

And I am very thankful that they have enough power now to run the air con. It’s hot here!

I have enjoyed this trip down memory lane and am thankful to TBB and IBEW local 481 for allowing me this opportunity!

I am thankful to be able to give back to the people that were so kind to me when I was stationed here.