Peping's Personal Blog

The Price of Inflation: A Jollibee Hotdog's Tale   Ten years ago, fresh out of college and into my first banking job in the Philippines, a Jollibee hotdog was a small luxury I could afford. It wasn't just any hotdog; it was a culinary event. An almost eight-inch behemoth of a steamed hotdog nestled in a soft bun, generously laden with cheese, mayonnaise, and ketchup – ayos indeed! It was a delicious treat, a comforting familiarity in the bustling city. The sheer size, the generous toppings, it was a memorable experience, a far cry from the typical hotdog bun. I wasn't even a huge fan of hotdog buns, but Jollibee's somehow transcended my usual preference.   Yesterday, a wave of nostalgia prompted me to order the same Jollibee hotdog. The experience, however, was markedly different. The hotdog, once a king-sized delight, was noticeably smaller. The cheese and mayonnaise, once overflowing, were now more restrained. The overall feeling was one of…diminish...

The Price of Nostalgia: A Reflection on Inflation and the Changing Times   Twenty years ago, the aroma of freshly grilled burgers and the comforting clatter of a cash register were the soundtrack to my evenings. As a part-time cashier at Wendy's in Glorietta 4 Cinema, Philippines, my world revolved around the familiar scent of fries and the satisfying crunch of a perfectly-made chicken sandwich. While my college classes occupied my days, Wendy's provided a haven for my evenings, a place where I could earn a little extra and indulge in a simple, affordable meal.   My go-to was the macaroni side salad. At just 23 pesos, less the employee discount, it was a filling and satisfying meal that sustained me through my five-hour shifts. The creamy blend of macaroni, vegetables, and thousand island dressing was a comforting symphony of flavors that I savored with every bite. It was a reminder of the simple pleasures of life, a time when a modest sum could provide...