Crime, corruption, urban squalor, natural disasters, and widespread poverty are among the oft-cited ills of living in our little Third World country. When we hear people complain about life in the Philippines, we often ask, "Why don't you leave, then?" They invariably come up with reasons for staying.

In this volume are compiled the many and varied answers to the question of not leaving. From business magnates to politicians, educators, professionals, students, and the Everyman—here are the reasons why "it's more fun in the Philippines," why even those who can afford to leave choose to stay.