The W. J. Manares' Reader

Iti and Pukaw

Once Iti, the extraterrestrial being, landed in Aklan, it was disoriented and confused. Iti had never seen anything like the lush green fields and picturesque landscapes of Aklan before. Iti's spaceship had malfunctioned, and it had crash-landed right in the midst of the oldest province of the Philippines.

As Iti wandered around aimlessly, it was fortunate enough to meet the son of Datu Manduyog, a mischievous and adventurous young boy named Pukaw. Pukaw had always dreamt of encountering extraterrestrial beings, so when he saw Iti, he couldn't believe his eyes.

The moment their eyes met, there was an instant connection between Iti and Pukaw. The alien being had a peculiar transparent body, shimmering with different colors, and a mischievous smile that matched Pukaw's own. They communicated through a combination of gestures, facial expressions, and with the help of a small gadget that Iti carried, which translated their different languages.

Iti explained that it had come from a distant planet called Narapia, where laughter was the most powerful source of energy. Iti had been sent to Earth on a mission to find a place where laughter was scarce and bring joy and happiness to its inhabitants. Aklan, with its rich history but serious demeanor, seemed like the perfect place.

With their shared purpose, Iti and Pukaw decided to collaborate and spread laughter across Aklan. They started by organizing elaborate pranks and hilarious acts, leaving the people of Aklan in fits of laughter. They invented a singing banana that made silly sounds, created a comedy festival that showcased local talents, and even taught the locals how to perform alien dances that had everyone in splits.

The people of Aklan had never experienced such joy and laughter before. The serious and reserved nature of the province was turned upside down, replaced by an infectious spirit of amusement and delight. Even the elderlies, who were always known for their solemnity, couldn't resist joining in the fun.

Word of Iti and Pukaw's magical antics spread, attracting visitors from neighboring provinces and even foreigners who wanted to witness the laughter-filled atmosphere of Aklan. They started calling the province the "Laughter Capital," and people started flocking there to experience the merriment firsthand.

Iti and Pukaw's laughter campaign continued for months, and the impact it had on the people of Aklan was immeasurable. The whole province was transformed into a joyful haven, where laughter echoed through the streets, and everyone had a smile on their face.

However, as the time came for Iti to return to Narapia, the people of Aklan couldn't bear the thought of losing their newfound happiness. They requested Iti to stay, promising to nurture the spirit of laughter and ensure it forever remained a part of their culture.

Overwhelmed by the love and warmth of the Aklanon people, Iti decided to stay. Iti and Pukaw became forever friends, continuing to bring laughter to the province and spreading joy to all who visited.