An American writer planning to publish a cynical travel and picture book about the Philippines visits the Mayon Volcano in Albay. A Filipino guide accompanies him on his trek up the mountain. The two run out of water and seek help from a family living at the foot of the volcano. The family let the American gargle and drink, and even filled up his jug. When the two are near the top, they encounter a group of people sitting around with bamboo poles. The guide tells the American that the place is called Tagdo (drops) and that the people are waiting in line to fetch water. The water comes from droplets of moisture caught by a banana leaf and dripped down to a small shallow well. It is the only source of water for miles around. The American sees the boy from the family who gave him water waiting in line. He realizes his mistake and is too struck to take a picture.