The Forbes Bridge under the Iloilo River

a poem by Roger B Rueda

1996.
As I looked down into the river
at the sound
of the boat
while I was crossing
the Forbes Bridge,
the water stared
blankly at me,
discarded
toothbrushes,
combs, cups,
and plastic
water bottles
so colourful
iridescence,
two young men
sitting side by side
at the back
of the raft,
chatting
and enjoying
the river view
while sending out.
2011.
Every time I look
down into the river
at the sound
of the boat
while I am crossing
the Forbes Bridge,
the waterway
is dotted
with shrubbery,
buildings,
and hoardings
that pierce
into the sky beneath.
I watch a flock
of birds
flapping their wings
under the bridge,
leaves whirling eddies behind.