Julio Madiaga, a young fisherman from a small coastal village, arrives in the bustling city of Manila in search of his beloved Ligaya, who was lured there with the promise of a good job. Faced with the harsh realities of urban life, Julio struggles to find work and survives in a series of menial jobs while tirelessly searching for any clues about Ligaya's whereabouts. The city's overwhelming size and its indifferent populace depict a stark contrast to his former idyllic life by the sea. His journey is fraught with the trials of poverty, exploitation, and disillusionment, subtly showcasing the social injustices faced by the urban poor.

As he delves deeper into the city's underbelly, Julio witnesses widespread corruption and moral decay, making his search even more daunting. Each encounter brings him closer to understanding the true nature of Ligaya's predicament but also exposes him to greater dangers. Julio's relentless pursuit places him in various risky situations, shedding light on the many facets of human suffering and resilience within Manila's grim urban landscape. His unwavering determination symbolizes a quest for love and justice in an unforgiving environment where such virtues are scarce.