Pinoy Unlimited

To All The Kids Who Were Born In The 1950's, 60's, 70's And Early 80's

noreply@blogger.com (rgl76) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 16:43:00 +0000

First, some of us survived being born to mothers who did not have an OB-Gyne and drank San Miguel Beer while they carried us.

While pregnant, they took cold or cough medicine, ate isaw and didn't worry about diabetes.

Then after all that trauma, our baby cribs were made of hard wood covered with lead-based paints, pati na yung walker natin, matigas na kahoy din at wala pang gulong.

We had no soft cushy cribs that play music, no disposable diapers (lampin lang), and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets, no kneepads, sometimes wala pang preno yung bisikleta.

As children, we would ride in hot un-airconditioned buses with wooden seats (yung JD bus na pula), or cars with no airconditioning and no seat belts (ngayon lahat may aircon na).

Riding on the back of a carabao on a breezy summer day was considered a treat ngayon hindi na nakakakita ng kalabaw ang mga bata).

We drank water from the garden hose and NOT from a bottle purchased from 711 (minsan straight from the faucet or poso).

We shared one soft drink bottle with four of our friends, and NO ONE actually died from this. Or contacted hepatitis.

We ate rice with star margarine, drank raw eggs straight from the shell, and drank softdrinks with real sugar in it (hindi diet coke), but we weren't sick or overweight kasi nga......

WE WERE ALWAYS OUTSIDE PLAYING!!

We would leave home in the morning and play all day, and get back when the streetlights came on. Sarap mag patintero, tumbang preso, habulan at taguan.

No one was able to reach us all day (di uso ang cellphone, walang beepers. And yes, we were O.K.

We would spend hours building our wooden trolleys (yung bearing ang gulong) or plywood slides out of scraps and then ride down the street, only to find out we forgot the brakes! After hitting the sidewalk or falling into a canal (sewage channel) a few times, we learned to solve the problem ourselves with our bare and dirty hands .

We did not have Playstations, Nintendo's, X-boxes, no video games at all, no 100 channels on cable, no DVD movies, no surround stereo, no IPOD's, no cellphones, no computers, no Internet, no chat rooms, and no Friendsters..........WE HAD REAL FRIENDS and we went outside to actually talk and play with them!

We fell out of trees, got cut, broke bones and teeth and there were no stupid lawsuits from these accidents. The only rubbing we get is from our friends with the words..masakit ba? Pero pag galit yung kalaro mo...ang sasabihin sa iyo...beh buti nga!

We played marbles (jolens) in the dirt, washed our hands just a little and ate dirty ice cream and fish balls. We were not afraid of getting germs in our stomachs.

We had to live with homemade "guns" gawa sa kahoy, tinali ng rubberband, sumpit, tirador at kung ano ano pa na puedeng makasakitan...pero masaya pa rin ang lahat.

We made up games with sticks (syatong) and cans (tumbang preso) and although we were told they were dangerous, wala naman tayong binulag o napatay. Paminsan-minsan may nabubukulan lang.

We walked, rode bikes, or took tricycles to a friend's house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just yelled for them to jump out the window!

Mini basketball teams had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn't pass had to learn to deal with the disappointment. Wala yang mga childhood depression at damaged self esteem ek-ek na yan. Ang pikon, talo.

Ang magulang ay nandoon lang para tingnan kung ayos lang ang mga bata, hindi para makialam at makipag-away sa ibang parents.

That generation of ours has produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers, creative thinkers and successful professionals ever! They are the CEO's, Engineers, Doctors and Military Generals of today.

The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas.

We had failure, success and responsibility. We learned from our mistakes the hard way.

You might want to share this with others who've had the luck to grow up as real kids. We were lucky indeed.

And if you like, forward it to your kids too, so they will know how brave their parents were.

It kind of makes you wanna go out and climb a tree, doesn't it?!

Source : Istorya.net

Top 10 Pinoy Komiks Characters

noreply@blogger.com (rgl76) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 17:59:00 +0000

These are the most popular characters in the Pinoy komiks industry, having appeared in various forms of art other than komiks (such as film, theater, musicals, etc). Indeed, they have acquired the status of pop icons, so that they almost become movie superstars with loyal followers.

Here then are our choices for the Top 10 All-Time Classic Pinoy Komiks Characters:

1. Kenkoy - Created by Tony Velasquez, the Father of Philippine Komiks, Kenkoy is the very first komiks superstar, having been born in the Liwayway comics in 1929. His name has become synonymous with "a funny person".

2. Darna - Created by Mars Ravelo, Darna is our country's Wonder Woman, as she has been represented not only in komiks but in several movies, musical, and plays as well.

3. Zsazsa Zaturnnah - No other komiks character created such tremendous media attention than Zsazsa Zaturnnah had. Presumably the "first superhero gay komiks character", Zaturnnah has changed the way we Filipinos look at superheroes.

4. Bondying - He made us laugh with his wit and smart ways in life, even though he was a full-grown man who dressed in polka-dotted baby's shirt, talked baby-blabber, and sucking a large bottle of milk!

5. Barok - The famous innocent caveman who lived in Stone Age Philippines is one of Bert Sarile's most memorable creations. Barok is beloved by all Filipinos!

6. Polgas - The wise and philosophical pet dog of the obese Sungcal family in the hilarious Pugad Baboy strip by Pol Medina, Jr.

7. Mang Kepweng - Are you sick or brokenheasarted? Mang Kepweng can heal your malady with potion, oils, herbs, and an overdose of witty laughter. Mang Kepweng is truly one of the most popular Pinoy komiks characters.

8. Kulafu - The very first Tarzan-like character in Philippine Komiks, whose "kingdom" was a deep jungle in the Visayas, battled evil men as well as dragons and siokoy. This famous creation by Francisco Reyes now lives on in the label of a famous Tsinoy Sioktong called Vino Kulafu.

9. Asyong Aksaya - Larry Alcala's hilarious parody of the Filipinos' senseless expenditures is bitingly reflected in the character of Asyong Aksaya, a wacky millionaire who lights a cigarette with a wad of bills.

10. Zuma - His green skin has the menacing look of a snake which he can summon anytime he wants to. His snake-haired head and a couple of phytons dangling from his shoulders are his most memorable trademarks. Every Filipino knew him as the father of Anak ni Zuma, who were Galema and Dino. Zuma gets his strength and vigor by eating the hearts of virgins he had seduced.

Source : WikiPilipinas

Filipino Inventors

noreply@blogger.com (rgl76) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 13:53:00 +0000

Karaoke Inventor
Roberto del Rosario, a Filipino is claiming the right for the invention of the Sing-Along-System (SAS) that eventually led to the development of Karaoke, a Japanese term for "singing without accompaniment". Among del Rosario's other inventions were the Trebel Voice Color Code (VCC), the piano tuner's guide, the piano keyboard stressing device, the voice color tape, and the one-man-band (OMB). The OMB was later developed as the Sing-Along-System (SAS).

Inventor of Incubator
Fe del Mundo, the first Asian to have entered the prestigious Harvard University's School of Medicine, is also credited for her studies that led to the invention of incubator and jaundice relieving device. Del Mundo, an International Pediatric Association (IPA) awardee, is an alumna of the University of the Philippines (UP) College of Medicine. Since 1941, she has contributed more than 100 articles to medical journals in the U.S., Philippines and India. In 1966, she received the Elizabeth Blackwell Award, for her "outstanding service to mankind". In 1977, she was bestowed the Ramon Magsaysay Award for outstanding public service.

Water-Powered Car
For more than three decades now, Daniel Dingel has been claiming that his car can run with water as fuel. An article from the Philippine Daily Inquirer said that Dingle built his engine as early as 1969. Dingel built a car reactor that uses electricity from a 12-volt car battery to split the ordinary tap water into hydrogen and oxygen components. The hydrogen can then be used to power the car engine.

Dingel said that a number of foreign car companies have expressed interest in his invention. The officials of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) have dismissed Dingel's water-powered car as a hoax. In return, Dingel accused them of conspiring with oil producing countries. Dingel, however, was the not the only man on earth who is testing water as an alternative fuel. American inventors Rudolf Gunnerman and Stanley Meyer and the researchers of the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory have been pursuing similar experiments.

Moon Buggy Inventor
Filipinos consider Eduardo San Juan as the inventor of the Lunar Rover, or more popularly known as the Moon Buggy. The Moon Buggy was the car used by Neil Armstrong and other astronauts when they first explored the moon in 1969. Eduardo San Juan, a graduate of Mapua Institute of Technology (MIT), worked for Lockheed Corporation and conceptualized the design of the Moon Buggy that the Apollo astronauts used while in the moon. As a NASA engineer, San Juan reportedly used his Filipino ingenuity to build a vehicle that would run outside the Earth's atmosphere. He constructed his model using homemade materials. In 1978, San Juan received one of the Ten Outstanding Men (TOM) awards in science and technology.

San Juan, however, was not listed as the inventor of the Moon Buggy in American scientific journals. It said the vehicle was designed and constructed by a group of space engineers. In Poland, the Moon Buggy is attributed to a Polish inventor. Worse, the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) does not recognize Flores in its roster of outstanding Filipino scientists.

Space Engineer
On June 25, 2002, the provincial government of Cavite awarded Edward Caro a plaque of recognition for his 42 years of service at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in the United States where he helped launch the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission or the Explorer. Caro, 70 and a native of Cavite retired from NASA in 2001. In return, NASA during the same year conferred Caro the Distinguished Science medal, reportedly the highest honor it gives to its employees. (Source: Philippine Star)

Fluorescent Lamp Inventor
Many Filipinos acknowledge Agapito Flores as the inventor of the fluorescent lamp, which is the most widely used source of lighting in the world today. The fluorescent lamp reportedly got its name from Flores. Written articles about Flores said he was born in Bantayan Island in Cebu. The fluorescent lamp, however, was not invented in a particular year. It was the product of 79 years of the development of the lighting method that began with the invention of the electric light bulb by Thomas Edison.

Among the other inventors who claimed credit for developing the fluorescent lamp were French physicist A. E. Becquerel (1867), Nikola Tesla, Albert Hall (1927), Mark Winsor and Edmund Germer. French inventor Andre Claude was recognized for developing the fluorescent tubular lighting systems. Yet, he was not officially recognized as the inventor of fluorescent lamp. It was reported that the General Electric and Westinghouse obtained Claude's patent rights and developed the fluorescent lamp that we know today.

According to Filipino scientists, fluorescent lamp was not named after Flores. The term fluorescence first cropped up as early as 1852 when English mathematician-physicist George Gabriel Stokes discovered a luminous material called "fluorspar", which he coined with "escence". The National Academy of Science and Technology also dismissed Flores being the inventor of fluorescent lamp as a myth. "No scientific report, no valid statement, no rigorous documents can be used to credit Flores for the discovery of the fluorescent lamp. We have tried to correct this misconception, but the media (for one) and our textbooks (for another) keep using the Flores example," a Filipino scientist wrote in her column at the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

The fluorescent lamps were introduced into the U.S. market in 1938. Still, Filipinos recognize Agapito Flores as the inventor of the product that illuminated the world.

Videophone Inventor
Gregorio Zara of Lipa City and a graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology invented the videophone and developed the Zara Effect or Electrical Kinetic Resistance.

He Discovered Erythromycin
A Filipino scientist reportedly discovered erythromycin in 1949. He was Dr. Abelardo Aguilar who died in 1993 without being recognized and rewarded for his discovery. Reports said Aguilar discovered the antibiotic from the Aspergillus species of fungi in 1949 and sent samples to Indiana-based pharmaceutical firm Eli Lilly Co. The drug firm allegedly registered the propriety name Iloson for the antibiotic in honor of Iloilo province where Aguilar discovered it. In 1952, Eli Lilly Co. began the commercial distribution of Iloson, which was sold as an alternative to penicillin. Erythromycin, the generic name of Iloson, was reportedly the first successful macrolide antibiotic introduced in the US.

Computer Guru
Diosdado Banatao, a native of Iguig, Cagayan and an electrical engineering graduate from Mapua Institute of Technology in Manila is credited for eight major contributions to the Information Technology. Banatao is most known for introducing the first single-chip graphical user interface accelerator that made computers work a lot faster and for helping develop the Ethernet controller chip that made Internet possible. In 1989, he pioneered the local bus concept for personal computers and in the following year developed the First Windows accelerator chip. Intel is now using the chips and technologies developed by Banatao. He now runs his own semiconductor company, Mostron and Chips & Technology, which is based in California's Silicon Valley. (Source: Filipinas Magazine)

Modular Housing Inventor
Edgardo Vazquez won a World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) gold medal in 1995 for developing a modular housing system. Such a system called Vazbuilt is reportedly capable of building within weeks a house with prefabricated materials that can withstand typhoons and earthquakes. Ironically, Vasquez is not getting enough support from the Philippine government to propagate his technology, which could help provide shelter to some five million Filipino families without their own homes. Vazquez is the national president of the Filipino Inventors Society.

Inventor of Fuel Products
In 1996, Rudy Lantano Sr., a scientist from the Philippine Department of Science and Technology (DOST), won the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) gold medal for developing Super Bunker Formula-L, a revolutionary fuel half-composed of water. The mix burns faster and emits pollutants, 95 percent less than those released to the air by traditional fuel products. The inventor said his invention is a result of blending new ingredients and additives with ordinary oil products through agitation and mixing, which is a very safe process. The initial plan was to commercially produce two million liters of Alco-Diesel, two million liters of Lan-Gas and an unlimited quantity of Super Bunker Formula-L each day for customers in Luzon.

Natural Gas Vehicle
The Department of Energy (DOE) has developed a vehicle that runs on natural gas, whose rich deposits remain untapped under the Philippine seabed. The project's main objective is to look into the potential of natural gas as an alternative fuel to conventional petrol and diesel for the transport sector. The natural gas vehicle (NVG) has been road-tested in Isabela where an existing natural gas supply from the PNOC Gas Plant is located. Test runs have also been made in Cagayan, Ifugao and Mountain Province. The test vehicle used was the Isuzu Hi-Lander 4JA-1, direct injected diesel engine. The use of natural gas as a fuel is cheaper. On a gallon-equivalent basis, natural gas costs an average of 15 to 40 percent less than gasoline and diesel. There are over one million NVGs in the world today, according to the International Association for Natural Gas Vehicles.

Lamp Fixing Invention
A Filipino inventor has developed a technology, which could revive a busted lamp (pundido) and give it more years of functional life than those of new ones. Acclaimed by the Filipino Inventors Society as timely and revolutionary, the Nutec system can prolong the life of fluorescent lamps up to seven years. Nutec was developed by New World Technology, headed by president Eric Ngo and chosen as the "Product of the Year" at the Worldbex 2000 Building and Construction Exposition held at the Manila Hotel. Engineer Benjamin S. Santos, national president of the Inventors Society, called Nutec a timely invention.

"Tubig Talino"
The Department of Science and Technology claimed that it has developed "Tubig Talino", an iodine-rich drinking water that treats micronutrient deficiencies responsible for goiter, mental and physical retardation, and birth defects. "Tubig Talino" is actually a mixture of 20 liters of water and 15 ml of "Water Plus + I2". Consumption of five glasses a day of this iodine fortification in drinking water is expected to provide 120 micrograms of iodine, which meets 100 percent of the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of a male adult.

Mole Remover
In 2000, Rolando dela Cruz developed an ingenuous formula that could easily remove deeply grown moles or warts from the skin without leaving marks or hurting the patient. His formula was extracted from cashew nut (Annacardium occidentale), which is common in the Philippines. The formula won for dela Cruz a gold medal in International Invention, Innovation, Industrial Design and Technology Exhibition in Kuala Lumpur in September 2000. In March 1997, dela Cruz established RCC Amazing Touch International Inc., which runs clinics engaged "in a non-surgical removal of warts, moles and other skin growths, giving the skin renewed energy and vitality without painful and costly surgery."

Feminine Hygiene Product Inventor
Dr. Virgilio Malang won a gold medal for his invention "Psidium Guajava Effervescing Gynecological Insert", a silver medal for his "Patient Side-Turning Hospital Bed", and three bonze medals for his inventions "external vaginal cleanser", "light refracting earpick", and "broom's way of hanging" at the Seoul International Fair in held South Korea in December 2002. There were 385 inventions from 30 countries that joined the competitions.

Who Developed Patis?
Contrary to popular belief, there was no fish sauce or Patis yet during the Spanish occupation. Patis began to become a part of most Filipinos' diet only after the Japanese occupation. Here is an account of how an enterprising lady discovered the fermentation of Patis. Immediately after the war, the family of Ruperta David or Aling Tentay started a dried fish business. One day, Aling Tentay stored in jars some salted fish that turned into fragments even before they dried. While in jars, the fish fragments turned into a liquid substance that tasted like our Patis today. Thus the beginning of the thriving Patis business of Aling Tentay, which was officially registered in 1949 and is known today as Tentay Food and Sauces Inc. (Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer)

A Showcase of Ingenuity
Nothing perhaps has been associated with Filipino technology as much as the country's pride - jeepney. The word "jeep" evolved from the military designation, general-purpose or G.P., of a light vehicle first used by the Americans in World War II. Developed by the U.S. Army Quartermaster Corps, this vehicle was powered by a four-cylinder engine and was classified as a quarter-ton truck in carrying capacity. It had served as a command vehicle, reconnaissance car, and ammunition carrier.

The American soldiers brought these vehicles to the Philippines in the 1940s. After the war, these vehicles were left by the Americans and converted by the Filipinos into public utility vehicles. Employing artistic and indigenous designs, the Filipinos came up with a longer, well-decorated, techni-colored and sleeker vehicle, which they later called jeepney. From the standard military jeep, the body was extended to accommodate between 20 to 30 passengers. Modern jeepneys now sport very colorful and intricate paintings, fancy adornments, and metallic decors reflective of Filipino sentiments, values, and culture. The town of Las Pinas has been recognized as the jeepney-producing center in the country. Today, public utility jeepneys or PUJs serve as the primary means of transportation in most provinces. For this, the Philippines came to be known as the "land of the jeepneys".

Other Noted Scientists

Among the other noted Filipino inventors and scientists are Benjamin Almeda who was acknowledged for his food-processing machine; Teodula Afrika for nata de coco; Ramon Agpoon for dragon fire stove; Adriano Alfonso for cultured cement; Laurelio Anasco for "dormitron"; Arturo Baluyot for Philippine-made airplane; Guillermo Barredo for Maharlika water heater; Pelagio Bautista for hydrosil; Dr. George Camara for experiments on teleophthalmology; Carlos Casas, stand-alone amplifier called Voca CDX 1001 Superamp; Gonzalo Catan Jr. for green charcoal; Roberto Celis for multipurpose portable survival kit; Rolando Cruz for emergency water heater;

Ernesto Darang for shake-and-serve nurser; Armen Dator for magic street sweeper; Maria Carlita Rex Doran for ampalaya solution against HIV; Jaime Escolano for fiber-processing machine; Pepito Fajicular for multipurpose routing machine; Leonardo Gasendo for salt evaporator; Ramon Gustilo for artificial bone replacement systems; Oscar Ibarra for studies on algorithm and computing; Samuel Ignacio for early warning device for vehicles; Marc Loinaz for one-chip video camera; Jacinto Ledesma for rocking dental chair; Cipriano Lim for safety switch box; Dr. E. V. Macalalag Jr. for universalurinary stone solvent;

Antonio Madrid for charcoal furnace; Felix Maramba for coconut oil-fueled power generator; Jose Navato for digital fever detector; Maria Ylagan Orosa for developing banana catsup and pineapple vinegar; Francisco Quisumbing for Quink pen ink; Jose Rodriguez for research on leprosy; Felipe Santillan for rotary dryer; Cornelio Seno for "Pressure Fuild Machine"; Manuel Silos for siloscope; Juanito Simon for Tribotech; Camilo Tabalba for telephone electronic; Ned Teves for endotracheal tube cardiac monitor; Juan Urbano for fountain pen; Carmen Velasquez for research on Philippine fish species; and Dr. Gregorio Zara for TV-telephone.

Needing Support
The Council on Philippine Affairs (Copa) has blamed the government for driving Filipino inventors away from the country. At least four cases were cited for this, namely:

Ben Santos, the inventor of the "zero oil waste recycling" was subjected to interrogation by the Economic Intelligence and Investigation Bureau (EIIB) for alleged economic sabotage.

Rudy Arambulo, the inventor of multi-shock bullet, has failed to convince the national police and the military to purchase his product.

Johnson Fong, who has re-engineered carbonless paper, had to export his product first, re-label it and bring it back to the Philippines as an import in order to be accepted in the country.

Roberto del Rosario, the inventor of sing-along system, had to fight for his right over the karaoke system which most Filipinos think was a Japanese invention. The Philippines was reportedly the second largest market of karaoke, yet del Rosario did not receive his due share.

"This is our colonial mentality at work. This reflects how little faith we have in ourselves. We are indeed our own worst enemies. Others may shoot themselves in the foot. We like to chop our own heads in the most unusual way possible," a Copa official said. (Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer)

Source : TxtMania.com

Philippine National Symbols or Mga Pambansang Sagisag Ng Pilipinas

noreply@blogger.com (rgl76) — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 20:55:00 +0000

Symbols can signify many things and domination, nationalism and national identity are no exclusion. The most common symbols of sovereignty and nationhood are the national flag and national anthem but there many others, such as a pledge of allegiance. We give you the complete list of our Philippine National Symbols or Pambansang Sagisag ng Pilipinas that has been recognized by Filipinos.

Pambansang Puno or Philippine National Tree
Narra or Angsana (Pterocarpus indicus)

Narra tree is a striking, large and strong shady tree. It is one of the most wanted wood for furniture but because there are only a few trees left, cutting down a Narra tree is no longer allowed. It is mostly found in Bicol, Mindanao and the Cagayan Valley forests. The Narra trees grow all over the Philippine islands and are mostly found and grown in Bicol, Mindanao and the Cagayan Valley forests.

Pambansang Dahon or Philippine National Leaf
Anahaw or Fan Palm (Livistona rotundifolia in Latin)

The Filipino word "Anahaw" (ana-how) are nice-looking, tropical palm known for its round fan-shaped leaves. Its leaf has some uses like: to fan yourself during hot days. The Tagalogs of Quezon Province even use it to wrap their brown and delicious tikoy. Anahaw leaves are also a widespread symbol in the Philippines that is often used in awards and medals to represent high achievement, strength, and loyalty. The Anahaw leaf features a large, round outline and is glossy green in color. It spreads out grandly from the center of the shaft and opens to a full crest divided shallowly at the ends and is known to be one of the most beautiful plant in the Philippines.

Pambansang Prutas or Philippine National Fruit
Mangga (Mangifera indica)

Philippine Mango is a bizarre tropical fruit prevalently known to be yellow in color which achieves its addictive taste through its scrupulous harvest procedures. Philippine Mango is recognized worldwide for its best qualities, which cannot be beaten by any kind of mangoes around the globe. It is a wonder fruit of versatile ways to enjoy its taste. Green mango can be served as a salad constituent, while golden yellow mango has diversities of ways to relish its uniqueness. It can be served as plain, processed, dried or frozen, this delicious fruit is world known for its sweetest character. Philippine mango is an ideal dessert served in many ways and has been known as the “Fruit of the Gods”.

Pambansang Ibon or Philippine National Bird
Agila ng Pilipinas or Philippine Eagle (Pithecophaga jeffery)

Philippine Eagle or also known as the monkey eating eagle stands over 3 feet (1m) tall. It has a large, sharp, curved beak. It has feathers that seem to bristle on its head. It is a giant forest raptor and is considered excellent hunters. It is considered one of the largest and most powerful eagles in the world and one of the world's rarest and definitely one of the world’s most seriously endangered vertebrate bird kind with only about 500 birds in the wild. It lives in tropical rain forests and it lays only one or two eggs each year. There are only a few of them now because of the disappearance of trees in our mountains.

Pambansang Hayop or Philippine National Animal
Kalabaw or Carabao or water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

The carabao or kalabaw in Filipino is a tamed type of water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis or sometimes bubalus carabanesis) in the Philippines. Being the farm animal of choice for pulling the plow and cart used to tow farm produce to the market, carabaos are warmly associated with farmers. Its life span is 18 to 20 years and the female carabao can deliver one calf each year

Pambansang Isda or Philippine National Fish
Bangus or Milkfish (Chanos chanos)

Deboned milkfish, or "boneless bangus," has become popular in stores and markets because milkfish is known for being bonier than other food fish in the Philippines. Bangus is a popular table fare among Filipinos. To the biologist, it is a naturally strong fish since it is capable in adapting and thrives even in the limited, unusual environment of the fishpond. This feature is not frequently found in most other fish class.

Pambansang Bulaklak or Philippine National Flower Sampaguita or Arabian Jasmine (Jasminium sambac)

Philippine Sampaguita flower is a white, star-shaped blossom which has a sweet fragrance. It opens at night and droops in less than a day. The white flowers are often made into wreath and its extract made into perfumes. Sampaguita is not a tree but a woody vine. The flower called was accepted as the National Flower of Philippines in 1934 which also happens to be the National Flower of Indonesia.

Pambansang Pagkain or Philippine National Dish Lechon or Roasted Pig

The lechon is a very popular and famous food among Filipinos. Lechon (litson in tagalong) is roasted whole pig cooked over burning charcoals. It is a dish that is almost a fixed part and menu centerpiece of any Filipino celebration which is usually prepared for fiestas, family celebrations (like parties and marriages) and also a favorite dish during Christmas. Lechon is the Spanish name for pig, in the Philippines it means a spit-roasted pig. Lechon is prepared by filling the inside of the animal pig with herbs and vegetables. The pigs are slowly hand roasted on top of charcoal for hours till their skin turns into reddish brown and the inside flesh becomes tender. Philippine Lechon is often served with a thick liver sauce cooked with vinegar, sugar and herbs.

Pambansang Tirahan or Philippine National House Bahay Kubo or Nipa Hut

Bahay kubo is a shelter made out of bamboo and palm leaves. It is a good place to take rest and eat typical food in the farm because of its material which allows good ventilation. The roof of the first Philippine houses, nipa huts, or bahay kubo, were high inclined and typically open gabled to allow for ventilation. The steeply sloping pitch also protected from the wind and rain in the typhoon season. The roof also provides wide extension roof space to provide shade from the hot sun.

Pambansang Sayaw or Philippine National Dance Tinikling

The Tinikling is a dance from the Philippines which includes two people hitting bamboo poles or piece of wood, using them to beat, tap, and slide on the ground and against each other in harmonization with one or more dancers who will step over and dance in between the poles. When the bamboo closes, the dancers must be fast enough to not get their foot or feet caught. As the tinikling dance continues the banging of the bamboo becomes faster and harder, the sound of clashing bamboo excites the crowd and the quickness of feet demonstrated by the dancers awes them. The tinikling name came from birds locally known as Tikling. The term tinikling literally means "tikling-like".

Philippine National Costume for Men
Barong Tagalog

Barong Tagalog is an untucked or loose shirt of delicate fabric showing Chinese, airy tropical appearance Indo-Malayan and elongated effect of Hindu influences and the decorative captivity of European men's clothing. The barong appears to have preserved its fundamental look since it was first worn. Almost unnoticeably, through the years, the barong's round neck, straight long sleeves and mid-thigh hemline were resourcefully customized with collar, cuffs and side slits.

Pambansang Kasuotan Para sa Mga Babae or Philippine National Costume for Women
Baro at Saya

Baro't Saya is a collarless blouse and skirt which means baro at saya (blouse and skirt). From the original, half-naked style, the bare upper torso was slowly covered with a short-sleeved, collarless blouse called "baro". The whole look has developed into a many-layered collection of the kimona or inner shirt, the baro outershirt with its typically delicate materials, fine embroidery and wide sleeves.

Pambansang Laro or Philippine National Sport or Game
Sipa

Philippine Sipa is hacky-sack game but, instead of a footbag, a metal stud, coin-like object (washer) with a tail or a bunch of rubberbands or colorful threads attached and knotted together is used. This is then kicked (sipa) into the air by the player as many times as he can without the "sipa" falling on the floor.

Pambansang Bayani or Philippine National Hero
Dr. Jose Rizal

José Protasio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda was born on June 19, 1861 in Calamba, Laguna. He wrote the books Noli Me Tangere, El Filibusterismo, and the poem Mi Ultimo Adios. He was very intelligent; he is a Filipino polymath, nationalist, author, eye doctor and the most well-known advocate for reforms in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial era. His monument now stands in Rizal Park, Manila Philippines. The anniversary of Rizal's death is remembered as a Philippine holiday called Rizal Day. Rizal's 1896 military trial and execution made him a martyr of the Philippine Revolution.

Pambansang Sasakyan or Philippine National Vehicle
Kalesa

Philippine kalesa is a horse-driven carriage that looks like an inclined cart, was introduced during the 18th century. The kalesa has two round wheels on each side and two rows of seats that can accommodate four persons. The driver sits on a block of wood located at the front of the cart near the horse. This was one of the methods of transportation introduced in the Philippines in the 18th century by the Spaniards that only nobles and high ranked Spanish officials could afford. The Ilustrados, who are the rich Filipinos who had their own businesses, used the kalesa not only for traveling but as a way of transporting their goods as well. They are hardly ever used in the streets nowadays except in tourist spots and some rural areas.

Philippine National Gem
South Sea Pearls

The color of south sea pearls is white to golden. Their extraordinary sizes are normally large which is between 9mm to as much as 19mm which made Philippine pearls very expensive. South Sea Pearl is very valuable. Its beauty and elegant gleam honor its reputation as "the queen of pearls". There are two basic groups of Philippine South Sea cultured pearls: white and black. Their colors range from white and silvery blue to pale gold. The golden or light-yellowish varieties abound in Philippine and Indonesian waters while white or silvery hues occur mainly in Australian waters.

Pambansang Sapin Sa Paa or Philippine National Footwear
Bakya or Wooden Clogs

Bakya or wooden clogs footwear is made from local light wood like santol and laniti. It is cut to the desired foot size before being shaven until smooth. The side of the bakya is thick enough to be carved with floral, geometric or landscape designs. Afterwards, the bakya could then be painted or varnished. Uppers of plastic or rubber will then be fixed firmly using clavitos or tiny nails and the bakya is now ready to wear. The word bakya may also be used in the Philippines to indicate something that is of "low-class", "unsophisticated" or "cheap".

Pambansang Awit or Philippine National Anthem - Lupang Hinirang

The entire song is translated into English as "Land of the Morning". In English, Lupang Hinirang is Beloved Country and Filipinas in Spanish. Julian Felipe from Cavite composed the music to our national hymn. Jose Palma wrote the poem entitled Filipinas. We sing our Philippine national hymn to indicate our unity as a nation. It is generally sung during flag-raising ceremonies and whenever there is an official and important event. Filipinos place their right hand on their left chest as they sing the Philippine national anthem, Lupang Hinirang and we remember our heroes who gave their lives for our independence.

Pambansang Wika or Philippine National Language - Filipino

Philippine National Motto - Maka-Diyos, Maka-Tao, Makakalikasan, at Makabansa (For the Love of God, People, Nature and Country)

Philippine National Pledges - Patriotic Pledge and Pledge of Allegiance to the Philippine Flag

Philippine Narional Patriotic Song - Pilipinas Kong Mahal, Bayan Ko

Source : PhilippineCountry.com

Philippine Fiestas and Holidays

noreply@blogger.com (rgl76) — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 22:24:00 +0000

The fiesta is part and parcel of Filipino culture. Through good times and bad times, the fiesta must go on. Each city and barrio has at least one local festival of its own, usually on the feast of its patron saint, so that there is always a fiesta going on somewhere in the country. But the biggest and most elaborate festival of all is Christmas, a season celebrated with all the pomp and pageantry the fun-loving Filipino can manage.

ATI-ATIHAN
Kalibo, Aklan
13-19 January

The Ati-Atihan Festival commemorates the 13th century land deal between 10 migrating Bornean chieftains and the aboriginal Ati King Marikudo. It also honors the town patron, the infant Sto. Niño.

The ceaseless, rhythmic pounding of drums get to you, and before you know it you are on the street, shuffling your feet, shaking your head, waving your hands - and joining thousands of soot-blacked, gaily-costumed revelers in an ancient ritual of mindless merriment. A familiar battle cry reaches your ears, and amidst all this confusion you remember where you are: Kalibo, Aklan. "Viva, Sto. Niño!"

The Ati-Atihan celebration is echoed in many parts of the country.

SINULOG
Cebu City
18-19 January

Cebu City's fiesta of fiestas. Characterized by its peculiar two-steps-forward-and-one-step-backward shuffle, thus simulating the Holy Child of the shores, the Sinulog is a century-old tradition observed in the part of Visayas region. The prayer-dance is synchronized to the beat of drums and shouts of "Pit Se?or! Viva Sto. Ni?o!" Feel free to dance with the best of them, grooving all the way to the grand final presentation at the Cebu City Sports Center.

DINAGYANG
Iloilo City
25-26 January

Merry mayhem breaks loose in Iloilo City during this weekend, when Ilonggos leave everything behind to join in the fiesta of the year. All inhibitions are dropped: boring everyday clothes are exchanged for "Ati" warrior costumes and black body paint. Shields and "weapons" are held amidst the pounding rhythm of drums, the costumed Ilonggos put their best feet forward in celebration of…..Dinagyang!

PANAGBENGA
Baguio Flower Festival
23 February - 3 March

It's flower season in the city of Pines - perfect timing for an all-out fiesta in the streets. The Baguio folk take a break on these days to revel in the cool climate and the unique culture of the city. Multi-hued costumes are worn, mimicking the various blooms of the highland region (or any of its 11 ethnic tribes). These are flowerbeds - disguised, of course, as the Panagbenga parade floats.

KAAMULAN
Malaybalay, Bukidnon
28 February - 1 March

Expect the Bukidnon to go tribal from the first to the second week of March, when the streets of Malaybalay take on that familiar fiesta theme. Banners, banderitas, and beer will be norm, as well as the sweet, haunting sound of native music. An early morning pamuhat ritual kicks off the festivities, to be followed by an ethnic food fest, trade fairs, and a lot of native dancing. The fiesta is part and parcel of Filipino culture. Through good times and bad times, the fiesta must go on. Each city and barrio has at least one local festival of its own, usually on the feast of its patron saint, so that there is always a fiesta going on somewhere in the country. But the biggest and most elaborate festival of all is Christmas, a season celebrated with all the pomp and pageantry the fun-loving Filipino can manage.

MORIONES
Marinduque
13-20 February

The island of Marinduque prides itself in being the "Lenten Capital of the Philippines", and it is easy to understand why. Come the seven days of Holy Week, the people of the island take part in the age-old ritual of the "Moriones". Colorful warrior costumes are worn, topped with finely carved masks depicting the fierce Roman soldiers of Christ's time. All these are done to depict the story of the conversion of Longuinus, the centurion who pierced Jesus' side - and his subsequent beheading.

CUTUD LENTEN RITES
San Fernando, Pampanga
16-18 April

Prayer of a different meaning during the Lenten season, when villagers of San Pedro, Cutud, engage in the act of self-flagellation. This ancient ritual is performed in the morning of Good Friday during the Holy Week. Backs, arms, and legs are cut and then struck with burillo whips. The climax to this occasion happens at midday, when penitents are literally nailed to their waiting crosses.

PAHIYAS/MAYON/AGAWAN
Quezon
11-15 May

Flowers come out in May, but these aren't the only things flaunted during this merry month. Down south in the town of Lucban, Quezon, there's also the kiping - a colorful, translucent rice tortilla that serves as an edible ornament of sorts. You will see lots of these at the Pahiyas Festival, an annual celebration held to usher in a bountiful harvest, and smashing good times.

It's a free-for-all, grab-all-you-can affair with suman-sweet, sticky native rice cakes-as the center of contention. It is also the grand prize, so feel free to join the fray. Rest assured, whether you get handfuls or just a mere mouthful, the Mayohan sa Tayabas will leave you wanting for more - suman, of course!

Sariaya's own version of the San Isidro festival showcases the creativity and ingenuity of the townsfolk in their craft and culinary tradition.

FLORES DE MAYO / SANTACRUZAN
Nationwide
May

A parade of the town's loveliest ladies, depicting the search and discovery of Christ's Cross by Queen Helena and Constantine.

MUDPACK FESTIVAL
Murcia, Negros Occidental
24 June

Oneness with nature is the underlying theme behind Murcia's annual mud-moving spectacle. Check on its murky highlight - a lively street dancing parade with the participant wearing nothing but mudpacks (well, almost...). It's a surefire way to mix our ecological concerns with good, clean, cloddy fun - just be sure to shower afterwards!

PINYAHAN SA DAET
Daet, Camarines Norte
15-24 June

Sweet, succulent pineapple is the fruit of choice for the people of Daet, Camarines Norte. In fact, they loved it so much that they made a festival in its honor. Join the locals as they celebrate the Pineapple Festival featuring a colorful street presentation complemented by art exhibits, trade fair, cultural dances, and sport events. Feel rich when you go for a visit at Paracale Gold Mines, and be acquainted with some Bicol heroes like Vinzon and Panganiban and Lucban.

PARADA NG LECHON
Balayan, Batangas
24 June

A different sight and flavor are introduced in June with a festival in Balayan, Batangas, popularly known as the "Parada Ng Lechon". These succulent roasted pork form the highlight of the occasion, decked out in their platforms with all kinds of d?cor. Since the festival coincides with the feast of St. John the Baptist, be prepared to get wet as people ob Expect the Bukidnon to go tribal from the first to the second week of March, when the streets of Malaybalay take on that familiar fiesta theme. Banners, banderitas, and beer will be norm, as well as the sweet, haunting sound of native music. An early morning pamuhat ritual kicks off the festivities, to be followed by an ethnic food fest, trade fairs, and a lot of native dancing.

TACLOBAN PINTADOS FESTIVAL
Tacloban City
29 June

Back during pre-Hispanic years, tattoos signified courage among the natives of Tacloban. These days they symbolize a cultural revival, and a wild, wacky fiesta called the Pintados. Join the town residents as they deck themselves out in body paint, mimicking the warriors of old while dancing to the frenetic beat of drums.

SANDUGO FESTIVAL
Tagbilaran City
1-2 July

The Spanish colonization of the Philippines began with a blood-sealed peace treaty on the shores of Bohol. This historic event is remembered today with an all-out fiesta at the island's capital city. Check out the Sandugo street dancing parade featuring ten colorfully-dressed groups dancing to the beat of drums. There's also a traditional Filipino carnival, a martial arts festival, and Miss Bohol Sandugo Beauty Pageant, among the dozen of other exciting activities.

KINABAYO FESTIVAL
Dapitan City
25 July

An exotic and colorful pageant re-enacting the Spanish-Moorish wars, particularly the Battle of Covadonga where the Spanish forces under General Pelagio took their last stand against Saracan. They were able to reverse the tide through the miraculous apparition of St. James. The addition of local color and innovation has made this annual revelry a popular attraction which brings thousands of visitors to the city.

KADAYAWAN SA DABAW
Davao City
20-24 August

Davao's annual festival, Kadayawan Sa Dadaw promises another weekend of fanfare and fun - tribal style. Watch as the festivities reach a glorious climax on Saturday morning: that's when the Kadayawan parade is held, featuring colorful, orchid-bedecked floats and more than a dozen "ethnic" groups dancing to the beat of wooden drums.

BONOK-BONOK FESTIVAL & SILOP CAVE ADVENTURE Surigao City
9 September

Behind Surigao's multi-faceted culture is its original tribal background. The Surigaonons go back to their roots this month as they celebrate their heritage with a loud, rowdy street dancing parade.

PEÑAFRANCIA VIVA LA VIRGEN
Naga City
20 September

Bicol Region's biggest celebration is an annual affair that combines religion with culture and tradition, packing it all in a 9-day fiesta of biblical proportions. Stay until sundown for stirring climax: the fluvial parade as it makes its way down the river, surrounded by a sea of glowing candles - a fitting end of this truly spiritual occasion.

ZAMBOANGA HERMOSA FESTIVAL
Zamboanga City
10-12 October

All roads in Mindanao lead to Zamboanga, as the "City of Flowers" celebrates its grand, annual Hermosa Festival. The vintas, those colorful native sea boats, once again make their appearance in a fast-paced, race-till-you-drop regatta. There's also a wealth of cultural and flower shows, art exhibits, and trade fairs. It's an all-out celebration of life - Chavacano style!

MASSKARA FESTIVAL
Bacolod City
14-21 October

The carnival spirit fills the air as masked participants donning fabulous costumes dance there way around the city's main thoroughfares. This annual event reflects Bacolenos' love for fun and gaiety. Coinciding with the city's character day celebration, the festival features carnivals, fairs and madri-gras style street dancing.

LANZONES FESTIVAL
Camiguin
25-28 October

Camiguin Island's favorite fruit becomes the object of adoration in this superb street dancing extravaganza. Watch the streets of Mambajao become colorful, lively stages as the Camiguinons strut their stuff; dressed in the costumes of the Mindanao tribes, and carrying bunches of sweet, sumptuous lanzones. Everyone is welcome to join the fun - it is a come-as-you-are, eat-all-you-can, and dance-till-you-can affair.

PINTA FLORES FESTIVAL
San Carlos City
3-5 November

This city in the sugar-producing island of Negros Occidental honors its patron saint, San Carlos Borromeo, with a pageant where participants with floral painted bodies dance in rhythmic beat as they wind through the major streets. The festival is inspired by the tattooed Negrenses of pre-colonial times.

FEAST OF SAN CLEMENTE / HIGANTES
Angono, Rizal
23 November

A fiesta of "gigantic" proportions, this one is highlighted by a grand procession featuring the higantes, ten-feet papier-m?che puppets, surrounded by a crowd of drenched, water-fighting revelers. Better bring your squirt gun if you want to join the fun. It is a water-logged event that is sure to leave you wet n' wild - and wanting for more.

SHARIFF KABUNSUAN FESTIVAL
Cotabato City
15-19 December

Cotabato City's Moslem population celebrates the arrival of Islam to the region with a series of fun-filled activities. No need to go native to enjoy these - there's a fluvial parade, an outrigger boat race, as well as various musical and athletics events.

GIANT LANTERN FESTIVAL
San Fernando, Pampanga
3 December

San Fernando makes the biggest, most spectacular lanterns, at around 40 feet in diameter and bearing thousands of light bulbs a piece. Watch them all in their twinkling, blinking, flashing glory in this grand Christmas exhibit.

Sources : AsiaRecipe.com, Flickr.com

Filipino Supersititons: Truth and Consequences

noreply@blogger.com (rgl76) — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 16:02:00 +0000

The Filipino culture is rich with superstitions about anything and everything. These superstitions have interesting roots. According to Dr. Sonia M. Zaide, author of 'The Philippines: A Unique Nation', India was very influential on Filipino superstitions. Dr. Zaide mentions a few such superstitions: 1) a maiden who sings while cooking will marry a widower, 2) a lady eating twin bananas will give birth to twins and 3) when one dreams of teeth falling out that means a loved one will die.

Some of these superstitions also cross over into other cultures. The tradition of wearing polka dots and filling up your pockets with coins during the New Year seems related to Chinese superstition. In both Filipino and Peruvian culture, dumping your purse on the floor can mean that you will go poor. This may have something to do with the Spanish influence on both countries.

Here is a quick list of some Filipino superstitions that are so deeply ingrained into our mind-sets that sometimes, one has no choice but to follow them.

New Year's Eve/Day

* Fill up your canisters with rice, sugar, flour, salt, etc. on New Year's Eve. You'll live a plenty for the coming year.

* Don't eat chicken on New Year's Eve/Day. You'll live like chickens; if they don't scratch on the ground, they won't eat.

*Open your windows on New Year's Eve for prosperity during the entire year.

* Refrain from borrowing money on New Year’s Day if you don’t want to be indebted the entire year.

* Wear polka dotted clothes on New Year’s Day. It’s a sign of money.

* Businessmen think that good sale on New Year's Day brings luck for the whole year.

* Toss some coins for the children for good luck.

* Place coins on the window sill on New Year’s Eve and Day for good luck.

* Keep plenty of cash in your wallet or pockets to have plenty of money for the year.

* Avoid pouting on New Year’s Day so as not to pout all year round.

Homes/Structure

* Homeowner throws coins on housewarming day to bring luck.

* Count the steps of the house; make sure it's not 13. This is "bilang Hudas" and it's bad luck.

* Make sure the master bedroom is constructed so that it faces the east or has a window facing that direction.

* Open the east window in the morning to let God's grace in.

* Place some coins in the foundation of the cornerstone; or keep them below the master bedroom. However, don't put them by the doorstep or wealth will go away.

* Avoid doors that look like thorough fares.

* When moving into a new home, see to it that rice is brought in first.

* Have your home blessed for safety and good fortune.

* Enthrone a statue of Christ the King; Sacred Heart of Jesus, and Immaculate Heart of Mary or have the statue of the Infant Jesus in the house. Make sure they face the door to greet your guests.

* Toss coins on house warming day for good luck.

* Friends coming to a new home must enter through the front doors.

* Don't buy a house that's directly at the T intersection, it's a bad omen signifying that you'll always be pushed.

* If a shooting star is sighted, there might be a fire. It's good luck if you're able to say tomorrow's day name before the shooting star disappears and a chance to win the "huweteng” game.

* Hang braided/strands of garlic to drive bad spirit away.

Party, Health, Food

* Serve rice noodles on your birthday; it means long life.

* When a spoon falls down, it means a female guest is coming. If a fork falls down, it means a male guest is coming.

* When cooking and the stove flame are dancing/singing; expect that guests are coming.

* When a cat rubs its face with its paws, look at the direction it's facing; that's where your guests are coming from.

* Don't sing while cooking; you might marry an old man.

* Don't take the last piece of food on the platter; you might become an old maid or remain a bachelor.

* Don't clean up the dining table until everyone is finished eating. If the last one is still available', (unmarried) he/she may not get married anymore.

* Don't wash the food container your neighbor brought over; she may not bring you anymore food later.

* When eating is rushed, make sure that the plate used is turned around several times before leaving the dining table, so that the person won't get in an accident.

* Don't eat the food you brought over to the neighbor, you might get skin disease.

* Don't send food home because of spoilage but rather because you want to share.

* If you don't want the food on your plate, don't push your plate away. You may lose your food forever.

* Don't eat too many peanuts or you'll grow pimples.

* When someone is hiccupping, it means that he/she had stolen some eggs from the neighbors hen nest.

* Don't pick your pimples or they'll spread all over your face.

* Don't peep at people while dressing up; you might get a sty.

* If carabao milk and fruits are parts of a meal; be sure that carabao milk is drank first, before eating sour food/fruits, so you won't have stomach ache.

*Don't eat sour fruits while menstruating, you'll have stomach cramps.

* Do not drink coffee; it will retard your growth.

* Do not eat "penoy;" you might end up in the "psychopathic."

* If a fish bone is stuck in your mouth, a breach born person has a healing power that removes it.

* Don't sleep with your hair wet; it will affect your eye sight.

* Don't shower/bathe while menstruating; heat will go to your head, and your blood pressure will rise.

* Don't shower/bathe after ironing a bunch of clothes; you'll get sick.

* Don't just lie down after running; the heat will go straight to your head and will affect your brain.

* Rest your feet before taking a bath; your veins will shrink and you'll have rheumatism.

* Eat cucumbers; they are good for your skin.

* Do not eat mangoes if you have skin rashes or chicken pox; this will worsen the itching of your skin.

* Do not cut your fingernails and toenails on Fridays; you could have bangnails.

* Never open your umbrella in the house; centipedes will fall off the ceiling.

Wedding/Marriage/Childbearing

* Lovers must not give rosary or necklace to each other, if it breaks, the relationship might also get broken

* The bride or groom whose candle lasts longer will have a longer life to live.

* Bride: When the priest gives the signal "stand up or kneel down", make sure, you make the first move. This is so the husband does not completely rule over you.

* Never try on your wedding gown; it's a sign that the wedding may be cancelled.

* The Bride and groom shouldn't be traveling to distant places before the wedding; they are accident prone at this time.

* "Sukob sa taon" (within same calendar year) marriages among brothers and sisters must be avoided. There will always be life competitions between the two couples.

* If you were the oldest child, avoid marrying another oldest child. Both of you would tend to lead the other that could lead to problems in life. This is true to the youngest child marrying another youngest child. They'll both feel like wanted to be given attention.

* If you were the youngest child, it's best to marry an oldest child. There will be better understanding between the two of you.

* It's not good to marry someone who has a mole on the face where tears normally flow.

* It's good luck if you marry someone who has a mole on the palms or just below the nostrils.

* Don't ever turn down any offer to sponsor a baptismal, confirmation or wedding. It's a blessing.

* Don't mend or hem clothes while they are on your body if you don't want to bear a child without an anus.

* Eat makopa if you want your child to have rosy cheeks.

* Don't eat "duhat" (blackberry) while attempting to conceive or else your baby will have dark complexion.

* Women with larger hips have an easier time having babies.

* If a pregnant woman's stomach is rounded, she is likely to have a girl; if it's pointed, she's likely to have a boy.

* A pregnant woman will have a girl if when seated and tries to stand up, she starts walking with the right foot; if she uses the left foot, she'll have a boy.

* Expectant mothers must not eat twin bananas to avoid having twin babies.

* Apply lipstick on the baby’s forehead so that the child won’t be “usog.”

* Do not construct a house if the mother is expecting or trying to get pregnant.

* Do not eat ginger root when trying to conceive to avoid having a baby with extra finger or toe.

* If a baby has large earlobes, it means that it will live longer life.

* To stop the baby from bottle feeding or breast feeding; rub fish bile on the nipple.

* When an infant or baby comes to your house for the first time give him/her a small bag of rice to take home so that the child won’t go hungry.

* When coming indoors after an afternoon's game/play with a child; mention or call the child's name before entering the house. It's believed that the child's spirit might be left
outdoors and this would cause the child to have a sleepless night.

* Wrap the newly born baby's umbilical cord, paper and pencil in a plastic bag; throw the bag in the river and watch what happens. If it goes far, it means that the child will go to
distant places and if it's caught by twigs in the water the child may only stay in its hometown/country.

Intelligence/Education
* Don't sit on your books or you'll get dumb.

* Carry books on your head; you'll get smart.

* Use your book as a pillow; you'll get smart.

* Press the book or notebook on your forehead; it helps you in memorizing its contents.

* Wide forehead signifies intelligence.

* If you want your child to be intelligent, have an intelligent person give your baby its first haircut; then keep some in a bible, dictionary or a book.

Dead, Death, and Dying

* When a dog is howling, making a spooky cry, it means that death is coming to someone.

*A beautiful flower or candle scent smelled in a home after a death of a beloved, means there's a spirit of the dead visiting who wants the relatives to know he/she's around. Pray for his/her soul.

* When someone is dying, say "JESUS" out loud so the dying person will hear it and repeat the word for his salvation.

* If a pregnant woman is a close relative of the dead, make sure that she leaves the house first before the body is taken to be buried. She might have a difficult time delivering the baby if she doesn't. (Many visitations are held in homes, and from there the dead are taken to the cemetery.)

* When sending a rosary with the corpse; cut it into pieces. This is believed to hinder anymore tragedy in the family.

* Take the shoes off the corpse; to lessen the spirit's weight in its journey to heaven.

* If the dead person is a mother/father to an infant or a little child, pick up the child and pass him or her over the coffin, so the spirit won't appear to the child.

* A succor asked of the dead is very powerful.

* Don't carry your hands on top of your head; one of your parents might die.

* When you are dreaming and a dead person asks you to come along with him/her, DON'T go.

* It's a bad omen if you dream of riding in a boat.

* If you dreamt of yourself dying; bite the trunk of the tree in your backyard so that bad omen would go to the tree instead of to you.

* If someone dreamt of loosing a tooth, it means that someone in the family might be dying.

* When the funeral procession is passing by your house, awaken the person sleeping; otherwise he/she may be the next one to die.

* If a butterfly comes flattering around inside someone’s house, it means that the spirit of a loved one that had passed away is visiting or reminding the family to pray for the dead; it may also be a reminder that a death anniversary is coming soon.

* Dress all infants in bright red when someone in the family dies so that the spirit of the dead does not appear to the child.

Money/Gift Giving/Receiving
* When giving a purse/wallet as a gift, put some coins/notes in it.

* When transferring contents from an old purse/wallet to a new one, do not invert purse/wallet. It might run empty.

* Never leave a purse on the floor; always set it on something, or your budget might run low.

* It's good to be discrete about your finances but never say "I have no money," or else you might lose money and will really NOT have any money.

* 99 centavos is not a peso. 99 cents is not a dollar.

* Don't accept footwear from a friend; he/she might be stepping on your toes later.

* Don’t accept knives as gift; offer a small amount of money.

Moles

* A birth mark around the eye means you are appealing to guys.

* A birth mark on the chest means you are a true lover.

* If someone has a mole on the sole of the foot, it means that person loves to walk all the time.

* If someone has a mole on his back, it means that the person wants to lie around and be plain lazy.

* A mole on the eyebrows means good luck in business.

* A mole on the palm means good luck.

Other Beliefs

* Don't play with spiders; you'll have a difficult time in life

* Never discard dirty, old clothes; wash them first.

* Don't sweep the ground at dusk; the Virgin Mary is taking a walk and might catch the dust in her eyes.

*It's a bad luck to meet a black cat on a Friday morning.

* Breaking a mirror or glass is a bad omen.

* Having a disabled or handicapped child is your luck; caring for the child will give you more fortune.

* When you bit your lip/tongue, it means you're the subject of a conversation.

* When your nose itches, it means that someone is kissing your photo.

* Pull an eyelash to cure a sty.

* When thundering or lighting, recite this “Sancta Maria, Mater Christi, Sanctifica, Salve me.”

Source : Bahay-Kubo

The Best Things About Being Pinoy

noreply@blogger.com (rgl76) — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 14:09:00 +0000

FROM the 1896 Revolution to the first Philippine Republic, the Commonwealth period, the EDSA Revolt, and the tiger cub economy, history marches on. Thankfully, however, some things never change. Like the classics, things irresistibly Pinoy mark us for life. They're the indelible stamp of our identity, the undeniable affinity that binds us like twins. They celebrate the good in us, the best of our culture and the infinite possibilities we are all capable of. Some are so self-explanatory you only need mention them for fellow Pinoys to swoon or drool.

Here, from all over this Centennial-crazed country and in no particular order, are a hundred of the best things that make us unmistakably Pinoy.

1. Merienda: Where else is it normal to eat five times a day?

2. Sawsawan: Assorted sauces that guarantee freedom of choice, enough room for experimentation and maximum tolerance for diverse tastes. Favorites: toyo't calamansi, suka at sili, patis.

3. Kuwan, ano: At a loss for words? Try these and marvel at how Pinoys understand exactly what you want.

4. Pinoy humor and irreverence: If you're api and you know it, crack a joke. Nothing personal, really.

5. Tingi: Thank goodness for small entrepreneurs. Where else can we buy cigarettes, soap, condiments and life's essentials in small affordable amounts?

6. Spirituality: Even before the Spaniards came, ethnic tribes had their own anitos, bathalas and assorted deities, pointing to a strong relationship with the Creator, who or whatever it may be.

7. Po, opo, mano po: Speech suffixes that define courtesy, deference, filial respect--a balm to the spirit in these aggressive times.

8. Pasalubong: Our way of sharing the vicarious thrills and delights of a trip, and a wonderful excuse to shop without the customary guilt.

9. Beaches! With 7107 islands, we have miles and miles of shoreline piled high with fine white sand, lapped by warm waters, and nibbled by exotic tropical fish. From the stormy seas of Batanes to the emerald isles of Palawan--over here, life is truly a beach.

10. Bagoong: Darkly mysterious, this smelly fish or shrimp paste typifies the underlying theme of most ethnic foods: disgustingly unhygienic, unbearably stinky and simply irresistible.

11. Bayanihan: Yes, the internationally-renowned dance company, but also this habit of pitching in still common in small communities. Just have that cold beer and some pulutan ready for the troops.

12. The Balikbayan box Another way of sharing life's bounty, no matter if it seems like we're fleeing Pol Pot everytime we head home from anywhere in the globe. The most wonderful part is that, more often than not, the contents are carted home to be distributed.

13. Pilipino komiks: Not to mention "Hiwaga," "Aliwan," "Tagalog Classics," "Liwayway" and"Bulaklak" magazines. Pulpy publications that gave us Darna, Facifica Falayfay, Lagalag, Kulafu, Kenkoy, Dyesebel, characters of a time both innocent and worldly.

14. Folk songs: They come unbidden and spring, full blown, like a second language, at the slightest nudge from the too-loud stereo of a passing jeepney or tricycle.

15. Fiesta. Eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow is just another day, shrugs the poor man who, once a year, honors a patron saint with this sumptuous, no-holds-barred spread. It's a Pinoy celebration at its pious and riotous best.

16. Aswang, manananggal, kapre. The whole underworld of Filipino lower mythology recalls our uniquely bizarre childhood, that is, before political correctness kicked in. Still, their rich adventures pepper our storytelling.

17. Jeepneys. Colorful, fast, reckless, a vehicle of postwar Pinoy ingenuity, this Everyman's communal cadillac makes for a cheap, interesting ride. If the driver's a daredevil (as they usually are), hang on to your seat.

18. Dinuguan. Blood stew, a bloodcurdling idea, until you try it with puto. Best when mined with jalapeño peppers. Messy but delicious.

19. Santacruzan. More than just a beauty contest, this one has religious overtones, a tableau of St. Helena's and Constantine's search for the Cross that seamlessly blends piety, pageantry and ritual. Plus, it's the perfect excuse to show off the prettiest ladies--and the most beautiful gowns.

20. Balut. Unhatched duck's embryo, another unspeakable ethnic food to outsiders, but oh, to indulge in guilty pleasures! Sprinkle some salt and suck out that soup, with gusto.

21. Pakidala. A personalized door-to-door remittance and delivery system for overseas Filipino workers who don't trust the banking system, and who expect a family update from the courier, as well.

22. Choc-nut. Crumbly peanut chocolate bars that defined childhood ecstasy before M & M's and Hersheys.

23. Kamayan style. To eat with one's hand and eschew spoon, fork and table manners--ah, heaven.

24. Chicharon. Pork, fish or chicken crackling. There is in the crunch a hint of the extravagant, the decadent and the pedestrian. Perfect with vinegar, sublime with beer.

25. Pinoy hospitality. Just about everyone gets a hearty "Kain tayo!" invitation to break bread with whoever has food to share, no matter how skimpy or austere it is.

26. Adobo, kare-kare, sinigang and other lutong bahay stuff. Home-cooked meals that have the stamp of approval from several generations, who swear by closely-guarded cooking secrets and family recipes.

27. Lola Basyang. The voice one heard spinning tales over the radio, before movies and television curtailed imagination and defined grown-up tastes.

28. Pambahay. Home is where one can let it all hang out, where clothes do not make a man or woman but rather define their level of comfort.

29. Tricycle and trisikad, the poor Pinoy's taxicab that delivers you at your doorstep for as little as P3, with a complimentary dusting of polluted air.

30. Dirty ice cream. Very Pinoy flavors that make up for the risk: munggo, langka, ube, mais, keso, macapuno. Plus there's the colorful cart that recalls jeepney art.

31. Yayas. The trusted Filipino nanny who, ironically, has become a major Philippine export as overseas contract workers. A good one is almost like a surrogate parent--if you don't mind the accent and the predilection for afternoon soap and movie stars.

32. Sarsi. Pinoy rootbeer, the enduring taste of childhood. Our grandfathers had them with an egg beaten in.

33. Pinoy fruits. Atis, guyabano, chesa, mabolo, lanzones, durian, langka, makopa, dalanghita, siniguelas, suha, chico, papaya, singkamas--the possibilities!

34. Filipino celebrities. Movie stars, broadcasters, beauty queens, public officials, all-around controversial figures: Aurora Pijuan, Cardinal Sin, Carlos P. Romulo, Charito Solis, Cory Aquino, Emilio Aguinaldo, the Eraserheads, Fidel V. Ramos, Francis Magalona, Gloria Diaz, Manuel L. Quezon, Margie Moran, Melanie Marquez, Ninoy Aquino, Nora Aunor, Pitoy Moreno, Ramon Magsysay, Richard Gomez, San Lorenzo Ruiz, Sharon Cuneta, Gemma Cruz, Erap, Tiya Dely, Mel and Jay, Gary V.

35. World class Pinoys who put us on the global map: Lea Salonga, Paeng Nepomuceno, Eugene Torre, Luisito Espinosa, Lydia de Vega-Mercado, Jocelyn Enriquez, Elma Muros, Onyok Velasco, Efren "Bata" Reyes, Lilia Calderon-Clemente, Loida Nicolas-Lewis, Josie Natori.

36. Pinoy tastes. A dietitian's nightmare: too sweet, too salty, too fatty, as in burong talangka, itlog na maalat, crab fat (aligue), bokayo, kutchinta, sapin-sapin, halo-halo, pastilyas, palitaw, pulburon, longganisa, tuyo, ensaymada, ube haleya, sweetened macapuno and garbanzos. Remember, we're the guys who put sugar (horrors) in our spaghetti sauce. Yum!

37. The sights. Banaue Rice Terraces, Boracay, Bohol's Chocolate Hills, Corregidor Island, Fort Santiago, the Hundred Islands, the Las Piñas Bamboo Organ, Rizal Park, Mt. Banahaw, Mayon Volcano, Taal Volcano. A land of contrasts and ever-changing landscapes.

38. Gayuma, agimat and anting-anting. Love potions and amulets. How the socially-disadvantaged Pinoy copes.

39. Barangay Ginebra, Jaworski, PBA, MBA and basketball. How the verticaly-challenged Pinoy compensates, via a national sports obsession that reduces fans to tears and fistfights.

40. People Power at EDSA. When everyone became a hero and changed Philippine history overnight.

41. San Miguel Beer and pulutan. "Isa pa nga!" and the Philippines' most popular, world-renowned beer goes well with peanuts, corniks, tapa, chicharon, usa, barbecue, sisig, and all manner of spicy, crunchy and cholesterol-rich chasers.

42. Resiliency. We've survived 400 years of Spanish rule, the US bases, Marcos, the 1990 earthquake, lahar, lambada, Robin Padilla, and Tamagochi. We'll survive Erap.

43. Yoyo. Truly Filipino in origin, this hunting tool, weapon, toy and merchandising vehicle remains the best way to "walk the dog" and "rock the baby," using just a piece of string.

44. Pinoy games: Pabitin, palosebo, basagan ng palayok. A few basic rules make individual cunning and persistence a premium, and guarantee a good time for all.

45. Ninoy Aquino. For saying that "the Filipino is worth dying for" and proving it.

46. Balagtasan. The verbal joust that brings out rhyme, reason and passion on a public stage.

47. Tabo. All-powerful, ever-useful, hygienically-triumphant device to scoop water out of a bucket and help the true Pinoy answer nature's call. Helps maintain our famously stringent toilet habits.

48. Pandesal. Despite its shrinking size, still a good buy. Goes well with any filling, best when hot.

49. Jollibee. Truly Pinoy in taste and sensibility, and a corporate icon that we can be quite proud of. Do you know that it's invaded the Middle East, as well?

50. The butanding, the dolphins and other creatures in our blessed waters. They're Pinoys, too, and they're here to stay. Now if some folks would just stop turning them into daing.

51. Pakikisama. It's what makes people stay longer at parties, have another drink, join pals in sickness and health. You can get dead drunk and still make it home.

52. Sing-a-long. Filipinos love to sing, and thank God a lot of us do it well!

53. Kayumanggi. Neither pale nor dark, our skin tone is beautifully healthy, the color of a rich earth or a mahogany tree growing towards the sun.

54. Handwoven cloth and native weaves. Colorful, environment-friendly alternatives to polyester that feature skillful workmanship and a rich indigenous culture behind every thread. From the pinukpok of the north to the malong of the south, it's the fiber of who we are.

55. Movies. Still the cheapest form of entertainment, especially if you watch the same movie several times.

56. Bahala na. We cope with uncertainty by embracing it, and are thus enabled to play life by ear.

57. Papaitan. An offal stew flavored with bile, admittedly an acquired taste, but pointing to our national ability to acquire a taste for almost anything.

58. English. Whether carabao or Arr-neoww-accented, it doubles our chances in the global marketplace.

59. The Press. Irresponsible, sensational, often inaccurate, but still the liveliest in Asia. Otherwise, we'd all be glued to TV.

60. Divisoria. Smelly, crowded, a pickpocket's paradise, but you can get anything here, often at rock-bottom prices. The sensory overload is a bonus.

61. Barong Tagalog. Enables men to look formal and dignified without having to strangle themselves with a necktie. Worn well, it makes any ordinary Juan look marvelously makisig.

62. Filipinas. They make the best friends, lovers, wives. Too bad they can't say the same for Filipinos.

63. Filipinos. So maybe they're bolero and macho with an occasional streak of generic infidelity; they do know how to make a woman feel like one.

64. Catholicism. What fun would sin be without guilt? Jesus Christ is firmly planted on Philippine soil.

65. Dolphy. Our favorite, ultra-durable comedian gives the beleaguered Pinoy everyman an odd dignity, even in drag.

66. Style. Something we often prefer over substance. But every Filipino claims it as a birthright.

67. Bad taste. Clear plastic covers on the vinyl-upholstered sofa, posters of poker-playing dogs masquerading as art, overaccessorized jeepneys and altars--the list is endless, and wealth only seems to magnify it.

68. Mangoes. Crisp and tart, or lusciously ripe, they evoke memories of family outings and endless sunshine in a heart-shaped package.

69. Unbridled optimism. Why we rank so low on the suicide scale.

70. Street food: Barbecue, lugaw, banana-cue, fishballs, IUD (chicken entrails), adidas (chicken feet), warm taho. Forget hepatitis; here's cheap, tasty food with gritty ambience.

71. The siesta. Snoozing in the middle of the day is smart, not lazy.

72. Honorifics and courteous titles: Kuya, ate, diko, ditse, ineng, totoy, Ingkong, Aling, Mang, etc. No exact English translation, but these words connote respect, deference and the value placed on kinship.

73. Heroes and people who stood up for truth and freedom. Lapu-lapu started it all, and other heroes and revolutionaries followed: Diego Silang, Macario Sakay, Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Apolinario Mabini, Melchora Aquino, Gregorio del Pilar, Gabriela Silang, Miguel Malvar, Francisco Balagtas, Juan Luna, Marcelo H. del Pilar, Panday Pira, Emilio Jacinto, Raha Suliman, Antonio Luna, Gomburza, Emilio Aguinaldo, the heroes of Bataan and Corregidor, Pepe Diokno, Satur Ocampo, Dean Armando Malay, Evelio Javier, Ninoy Aquino, Lola Rosa and other comfort women who spoke up, honest cabbie Emilio Advincula, Rona Mahilum, the women lawyers who didn't let Jalosjos get away with rape.

74. Flora and fauna. The sea cow (dugong), the tarsier, calamian deer, bearcat, Philippine eagle, sampaguita, ilang-ilang, camia, pandan, the creatures that make our archipelago unique.

75. Pilipino songs, OPM and composers: "Ama Namin," "Lupang Hinirang," "Gaano Ko Ikaw Kamahal," "Ngayon at Kailanman," "Anak," "Handog,""Hindi Kita Malilimutan," "Ang Pasko ay Sumapit"; Ryan Cayabyab, George Canseco, Restie Umali, Levi Celerio, Manuel Francisco, Freddie Aguilar, and Florante--living examples of our musical gift.

76. Metro Aides. They started out as Imelda Marcos' groupies, but have gallantly proven their worth. Against all odds, they continuously prove that cleanliness is next to godliness--especially now that those darned candidates' posters have to be scraped off the face of Manila!

77. Sari-sari store. There's one in every corner, offering everything from bananas and floor wax to Band-Aid and bakya.

78. Philippine National Red Cross. PAWS. Caritas. Fund drives. They help us help each other.

79. Favorite TV shows through the years: "Tawag ng Tanghalan," "John and Marsha," "Champoy," "Ryan, Ryan Musikahan," "Kuwarta o Kahon," "Public Forum/Life," "Student Canteen," "Eat Bulaga." In the age of inane variety shows, they have redeemed Philippine television.

80. Quirks of language that can drive crazy any tourist listening in: "Bababa ba?" "Bababa!"

81. "Sayang!" "Naman!" "Kadiri!" "Ano ba!?" "pala." Expressions that defy translation but wring out feelings genuinely Pinoy.

82. Cockfighting. Filipino men love it more than their wives (sometimes).

83. Dr. Jose Rizal. A category in himself. Hero, medicine man, genius, athlete, sculptor, fictionist, poet, essayist, husband, lover, samaritan, martyr. Truly someone to emulate and be proud of, anytime, anywhere.

84. Nora Aunor. Short, dark and homely-looking, she redefined our rigid concept of how leading ladies should look.

85. Noranian or Vilmanian. Defines the friendly rivalry between Ate Guy Aunor and Ate Vi Santos and for many years, the only way to be for many Filipino fans.

86. Filipino Christmas. The world's longest holiday season. A perfect excuse to mix our love for feasting, gift-giving and music and wrap it up with a touch of religion.

87. Relatives and kababayan abroad. The best refuge against loneliness, discrimination and confusion in a foreign place. Distant relatives and fellow Pinoys readily roll out the welcome mat even on the basis of a phone introduction or referral.

88. Festivals: Sinulog, Ati-atihan, Moriones. Sounds, colors, pagan frenzy and Christian overtones.

89. Folk dances. Tinikling, pandanggo sa ilaw, kariñosa, kuratsa, itik-itik, alitaptap, rigodon. All the right moves and a distinct rhythm.

90. Native wear and costumes. Baro't saya, tapis, terno, saya, salakot, bakya. Lovely form and ingenious function in the way we dress.

91. Sunday family gatherings. Or, close family ties that never get severed. You don't have to win the lotto or be a president to have 10,000 relatives. Everyone's family tree extends all over the archipelago, and it's at its best in times of crisis; notice how food, hostesses, money, and moral support materialize during a wake?

92. Calesa and karitela. The colorful and leisurely way to negotiate narrow streets when loaded down with a year's provisions.

93. Quality of life. Where else can an ordinary employee afford a stay-in helper, a yaya, unlimited movies, eat-all-you-can buffets, the latest fashion (Baclaran nga lang), even Viagra in the black market?

94. All Saints' Day. In honoring our dead, we also prove that we know how to live.

95. Handicrafts. Shellcraft, rattancraft, abaca novelties, woodcarvings, banig placemats and bags, bamboo windchimes, etc. Portable memories of home. Hindi lang pang-turista, pang-balikbayan pa!

96. Pinoy greens. Sitaw. Okra. Ampalaya. Gabi. Munggo. Dahon ng Sili. Kangkong. Luya. Talong. Sigarillas. Bataw. Patani. Lutong bahay will never be the same without them.

97. OCWs. The lengths (and miles) we'd go for a better life for our family, as proven by these modern-day heroes of the economy.

98. The Filipino artist. From Luna's magnificent "Spoliarium" and Amorsolo's sun-kissed ricefields, to Ang Kiukok's jarring abstractions and Borlongan's haunting ghosts, and everybody else in between. Hang a Filipino painting on your wall, and you're hanging one of Asia's best.

99. Tagalog soap operas. From "Gulong ng Palad" and "Flor de Luna" to today's incarnations like "Mula sa Puso"--they're the story of our lives, and we feel strongly for them, MariMar notwithstanding.

100. Midnight madness, weekends sales, bangketas and baratillos. It's retail therapy at its best, with Filipinos braving traffic, crowds, and human deluge to find a bargain.

101. Language creativity. "Tadbalik", "yosi", "dehins". Acronyms like "M.U." (mag-un, ala Bisaya) or, KSP. HHWWPSSP (holding hands while walking pa sway-sway pa). Pauso words or phrases like "Chicken!", "Ahhh-mmmm", "Apir", "Kaka ka" etc.

102. Ice Candy ICE KENDI (or as some would say, "ice kinde"). Any Pinoy neighborhood will have at least one household that sells this cool, refreshing stick of flavored ice. Guaranteed ultimate satisfaction as you suck the flavor out of this homemade frozen delight. A big hit during the summer season. Flavor? You name, we'll make it!

Source: Bayani.com

Wit of the Filipino

noreply@blogger.com (rgl76) — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 15:24:00 +0000

By Nury Vittachi
From The Far Eastern Economic Review

THERE’S A SIGN ON Congressional Avenue in Manila that says: “Parking for Costumers Only.” This may be a misspelling of “customer.” But the Philippine capital is so full of theatrical, brightly dressed individuals that I prefer to think it may actually mean what it says. This week, we’ll take a reading tour of one of the most spirited communities in Asia. The Philippines is full of wordplay. The local accent, in which F and P are fairly interchangeable, is often used very cleverly, such as at the flower shop in Diliman called Petal Attraction.

Much of the wordplay in the Philippines is deliberate, with retailers favouring witty names, often based on Western celebrities and movies. Reader Elgar Esteban found a bread shop called Anita Bakery, a 24-hour restaurant called Doris Day and Night, a garment shop called Elizabeth Tailoring and a hairdresser called Felix The Cut.

Smart travellers can decipher initially baffling signs by simply trying out a Taglish (Tagalog-English) accent, such as that used on a sign at a restaurant in Cebu: “We Hab Sop-Drink In Can An In Batol.” A sewing accessories shop called Beads And Pieces also makes use of the local accent.

Of course, there are also many signs with oddly chosen words, but they are usually so entertaining that it would be a tragedy to “correct” them. A reader named Antonio “Tonyboy” Ramon T. Ongsiako (now there’s a truly Filipino name) found the following: In a restaurant in Baguio: “Wanted: Boy Waitress;” on a highway in Pampanga: “We Make Modern Antique Furniture;” on the window of a photography shop in Cabanatuan: “We Shoot You While You Wait;” on the glass wall of an eatery in Panay Avenue in Manila: “Wanted: Waiter, Cashier, Washier.”

Some of the notices one sees are thought-provoking. A shoe store in Pangasinan has a sign saying: “We Sell Imported Robber Shoes.” Could these be the sneakiest sort of sneakers? On a house in Jaro, Iloilo, one finds a sign saying: “House For Rent, Fully Furnaced.” Tonyboy commented, “Boy, it must be hot in there.”

Occasionally, the signs are quite poignant. Reader Gunilla Edlund saw one at a ferry pier outside Davao, southern Philippines, which said: “Adults:1USD; Child: 50 cents; Cadavers: subject to negotiation.” But most are purely witty, and display a love of Americana. Reader Robert Harland spotted a bakery named Bread Pitt, a Makati fast-food place selling maruya (banana fritters) called Maruya Carey, a water-engineering firm called Christopher Plumbing, a boutique called The Way We Wear, a video rental shop called Leon King Video Rental, a restaurant in the Cainta district of Rizal called Caintacky Fried Chicken, a local burger restaurant called Mang Donald’s, a doughnut shop called MacDonuts, a shop selling lumpia (meat parcels) in Makati called Wrap and Roll, and two butchers called Meating Place and Meatropolis.

Tourists from Europe may be intrigued to discover shops called Holland Hopia and Poland Hopia. Both sell a type of Chinese pastry called hopia. What’s the story? The names are explained thus: Holland Hopia is the domain of a man named Ho and Poland Hopia is run by a man named Po.

People in the Philippines also redesign English to be more efficient.”The creative confusion between language and culture leads to more than just simple unintentional errors in syntax, but in the adoption of new words,” says reader Rob Goodfellow. He came across a sign that said “House Fersallarend.” Why use five words (house for sale or rent) when two will do?

Tonyboy Ongsiako explains why there was so much wit in the Philippines. “We come from a country where you require a sense of humour to survive,” he says. “We have a 24-hour comedy show here called the government and a huge reserve of comedians made up mostly of politicians and bad actors.”

Source: A Pinoy Blog About Nothing