Cool April

We've been experiencing unusually cool weather in late March and early April in Manila. I have no memory of when this last occurred but I'm pretty sure that this time of year it is usually already hot and humid not just in Manila but in other parts of the country as well. The exception seems to be the eastern regions of the country like Samar and Leyte in the Visayas and Agusan and Surigao in Mindanao where rains are typical in March. Those areas, however, have received a tremendous amount of precipitation that for them is unusual this time of year. In fact, Tacloban City in Leyte was flooded last month after continuous downpours in the province.

Meanwhile, there was little or no rain in Metro Manila. Instead, it was usually nice and sunny although on occasion there were some cloudy or gloomy days. But it was cool and breezy especially in the mornings and evenings so it was quite comfortable the past days. I am sure a lot of people took advantage of the nice weather by going outdoors or traveling to other parts of the country where it is even cooler like Tagaytay in Cavite or Baguio in Benguet. I was recently in Tagaytay and the weather there is perfect for families, barkadas or even lovers or honeymooners.

In the university, where the environment is conducive to outdoor activities, there have been increasing numbers of walkers, joggers, cyclists and others preferring to play or picnic in the many open areas in the campus. These areas include the Sunken Garden, the Lagoon and the Track & Field facilities in UP Diliman. I also took advantage of the cool weather by jogging regularly and enjoying the cool evening breeze.

I won't delve into the science of this cool weather we have been experiencing. But I'm sure this is partly explained by the arrival of spring in the northern parts of the globe, particularly in Siberia where the cold air eventually descends to Japan, Taiwan and then to the Philippines. This usually occurs in March but seldom does it continue until April. Thus, I am also quite sure that the temporary respite from the impending summer heat will soon pass. Until then, I shall enjoy the cool mornings and evenings and perhaps think about getting away on some trip once the heat finally arrives. To the beach perhaps? Or maybe a retreat to Singapore.