Philippines is a country of many different languages. Although Tagalog, the official language, is taught everywhere throughout the country, the local languages are what's really being spoken on the streets, in stores, at the market, while commuting, and in homes. If you really want to connect with the locals, the best way is to speak to them in their local languages.

If you are traveling through Western Visayas, chances are you will be surrounded by a language called Hiligaynon, alternatively referred to as Ilonggo. 

As the dominant language on the islands of Panay and Guimaras, as well as in the province of Negros Occidental, there are approximately 8.2 million native speakers of the language.

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The island of Molokai is often referred to as "The Most Hawaiian Island". Life there is slow and relaxed. It's rural and peaceful. It's like stepping back in time 50 years. It's a place like no other. 

The following pictures, taken by local photographer Ted Kanemitsu, and the stories that accompany them, reflect perfectly the spirit of that island.