Philippe Gougler begins his journey through the Philippines in its capital, Manila. An electric and bustling city, in which the Spanish, American, and Chinese influences that have marked its history are clearly visible. He makes his first encounter in the subway, through which he learns a lot about Filipino romantic relationships. Then, at nightfall, in a working-class neighborhood, he tastes the famous balut, a very special duck egg. In the small town of Legazpi, an astonishing day awaits him. He accompanies teachers who are moving their school from village to village on the rails. Then he leaves for the island of Negros, in the sugar region, near the city of Silay, where he boards the only steam train in the Philippines.