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An open letter to SEVENTEEN’s Joshua Hong

Dearest Joshua Hong of globally renowned K-pop boy group SEVENTEEN, 

To start this letter off, Filipino Carats just want to say thank you for the 2 nights they spent with you and the rest of SEVENTEEN—2 unforgettable nights that they spent singing, dancing, and vibing along with their ult group and being able to experience their talents up close and personal.

Filipino Carats’ love and respect for SEVENTEEN is truly immeasurable and they really did want to show that, especially during that time when you went to the Philippines with your mom during the Chuseok holidays. However, it surprised us to hear of your experience here in the Philippines, how you were scammed by one of our taxi drivers. Suffice to say, Filipino Carats felt bad to see one of their faves get taken advantage of in their own country.

For that, we’re truly sorry. We’re sorry that you out of all people had to experience that during your vacation in the Philippines, which may have soured your perspective of our country at the time. We’re (kind of) proud to say that the authorities are already trying to find the person responsible for that scam, and that your anecdote kinda did reach the national news (big thing). 

We also just want to say that we hope that you were able to enjoy your holidays here, despite your unpleasant experience with the taxi driver. Surely, it was fun going out and about in the city incognito as Joshua Hong and not as SEVENTEEN’s Joshua. To be able to spend time with one’s family after a long time of continuous working is a time that should be cherished and should not be ruined by sudden misfortunes. 

And if by chance, you, and the rest of the gang (or your family) decide to come back to the Philippines to go on another vacation, here are some suggestions that won’t break the bank (unlike the last time): 

1. You can learn a little about Philippine history in Intramuros, try out the famous restaurants there, and go bamboo biking around.  

Joshua Hong SEVENTEEN Philippines
Photo by Ray in Manila on flickr

2. You can look at some of the art at the National Museum of the Philippines, Ayala Museum, or some artifacts at the National Museum of Archaeology. 

Joshua Hong SEVENTEEN Philippines
Photos: National Musem & Viator

3. You can go to some of the Philippines’ most famous beaches like Boracay and Palawan, or even go to the most secluded ones (if you could find them). 

Joshua Hong SEVENTEEN Philippines
Photos: Hotels.com & Tripadvisor

4. You can visit the country’s “Summer Capital of the Philippines” Baguio City and go strawberry picking among many others. 

Joshua Hong SEVENTEEN Philippines
Photo: baguio.ph

5. You can go restaurant-hopping to try out some of the Philippines’ best dishes. 

Photo: serious eats

We obviously do not want the same baloney you experienced to happen to you again should you visit the country, but Filipino Carats do promise to always keep our space if there comes the time that we see you again, and to respect you as you are.  Should you give our country a chance again, we hope it would be worthwhile for you.

Thank you for you and for SEVENTEEN’s immense love for Filipino Carats and for your utmost dedication to your craft. Those are the reasons why you, SEVENTEEN, are so dear to our hearts. 

 

Love,

A Filipino Carat

 

 

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