As Apollo Bala stood in the queue for his Air Asia flight bound to Davao, he couldn't help but notice the three humble soldiers ahead of him. When it was their turn to check their luggage in, Apollo watched as the soldiers faced an unexpected challenge: excess baggage weight. Despite their best efforts to rearrange and lighten their load, they still found themselves with a 7-kilogram excess, primarily comprising their combat gear.

Moved by their plight, Apollo struck up a conversation with the soldiers, learning of their impending deployment to Cotabato and Marawi – regions fraught with danger and unrest. These men, he realized, were putting their lives on the line for the security and peace of their fellow Filipinos.

Feeling a sense of urgency, Apollo sought out the supervisor, hoping to appeal on behalf of the soldiers. He couldn't shake the feeling that these brave individuals deserved a bit of recognition and privilege for their service to the nation.

As he searched for the supervisor, Apollo witnessed an inspiring display of generosity from his fellow passengers. Kind-hearted travelers offered their extra baggage allowance to the soldiers, demonstrating the spirit of bayanihan – the Filipino tradition of community unity and support.

When it was Apollo's turn to check in, he was grateful to find that he had a spare 2 kilograms of luggage allowance. Without hesitation, he offered to carry the soldiers' shoes in his rucksack, a small gesture of gratitude for their selfless sacrifice.

Reflecting on the experience, Apollo realized the true meaning of heroism. These soldiers, he thought, were not just men in uniform; they were exemplary citizens, embodying the values of humility and service to their country.

As he boarded the plane, Apollo couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and admiration for the soldiers who stood ready to defend their homeland. He hoped that his small act of kindness would serve as a reminder to all airlines to consider the sacrifices made by those who serve their country.

Cheers to these heroes, Apollo thought as he settled into his seat. May they always be remembered and honored for their bravery and dedication to the country. And may all the airlines - not only in the Philippines but all over the world - show a bit of consideration for those who sacrifice so much for their country's sake.

Here's what Apollo Bala posted:

An open letter to Air Asia by a concerned netizen:

Hi Air Asia, 

I've been flying with you for quite sometime now and I am truly honoured to be your passenger. All your employees are indeed professional. 

I, somehow have some thoughts... I am on queue for my flight bound to Davao tonight (18-7-17) with flight no. Z2615. Ahead of me were 3 humble soldiers. When their turn came to check their luggage in, the lads got an excess with their luggage weight. Your staff somehow, did her job efficiently and followed the airline's protocol. So our 3 men without any complaints, stepped back and went to the side and sort their stuff out. But even if how hardly they tried, still there was a 7 kgs. excess in one of the soldiers'. Upon looking at their things, all we can see were their combat uniforms, which got me sooo curious and started to chat with them. 1 passenger suggested to have it cargoed but they cant do it as they have to travel straight to Cotabato and 2 of them are to head to Marawi. After learning where they are bound to, I felt like the need to talk to the Supervisor. I mean, these men are risking their lives for our security, our peace, our freedom... cant they be granted with lil bit of privilege? at least a free 7kgs luggage?

Before I went around to try to look for the Supervisor, kind hearted passengers started to offer their extra weight for our soldiers. With that, my heart melted. I was really captivated by the generosity and kindness these passengers shown. It was literally like Filipinos in Bayanihan. And when it was my turn, luckily enough with an extra 2kgs free, the soldier's shoes filled my rucksack in. 

I am blessed to somehow help them with their luggage, and that was a little thank you for the bigger job they are doing. But, we are even blessed to have these men who are ready to die for our freedom, for our land. Even if they were so called "men in uniform", they remained humble and followed simple airline rules. True heroes not just in war, but as an abiding citizens. Filipino citizens who deserve better at least for an extra few luggage weight. 

Cheers to our heroes! Our soldiers!

May all our airlines give somehow a lil bit consideration esp. to them who sacrifice for our country. 

God bless, The Philippines!