Filipino Mentality: Behavior, Beliefs, Traits, and Traditions [Archive] - Page 7

philippine_eagle

November 24th, 2007, 10:25 AM

Here is a good article I found on the Flickr website. These are words from an expatriate who made several visits to RP before settling permanently. It is a bitter pill to swallow but I would have to agree with the majority of what was stated.

BE PROUD TO BE A FILIPINO*
By Barth Suretsky
Undated

My decision to move to Manila was not a precipitous one. I used to
work in New York as an outside agent for PAL, and I have been coming
to the Philippines since August, 1982. I was so impressed with the
country, and with the interesting people I met, some of which have
become very close friends to this day, that I asked for and was
granted a year’s sabbatical from my teaching job in order to live in
the Philippines.

I arrived here on August 21, 1983, several hours after Ninoy Aquino
was shot, and remained here until June of 1984. During that year I
visited many parts of the country, from as far north as Laoag to as
far south as Zamboanga, and including Palawan. I became deeply
immersed in the history and culture of the archipelago, and an avid
collector of tribal antiquities from both northern Luzon, and
Mindanao.

In subsequent years I visited the Philippines in 1985, 1987, and
1991, before deciding to move here permanently in 1998. I love this
country, but not uncritically, and that is the purpose of this
article. First, however, I will say that I would not consider living
anywhere else in Asia, no matter how attractive certain aspects of
other neighboring countries may be.

To begin with, and this is most important, with all its faults, the
Philippines is still a democracy, more so than any other nation in
Southeast Asia. Despite gross corruption, the legal system generally
works, and if ever confronted with having to employ it, I would feel
much more safe trusting the courts here than in any other place in
the surrounding area.

The press here is unquestionably the most unfettered and
freewheeling in Asia, and I do not believe that is hyperbole in any
way! And if any one thing can be used as a yardstick to measure the
extent of the democratic process in any given country in the world,
it is the extent to which the press is free.

But the Philippines is a flawed democracy nevertheless, and the flaws
are deeply rooted in the Philippine psyche. I will elaborate… The
basic problem seems to me, after many years of observation, to be a
national inferiority complex, a disturbing lack of pride in being
Filipino.

Toward the end of April I spent eight days in Vietnam, visiting
Hanoi, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City. I am certainly no expert on
Vietnam, but what I saw could not be denied: I saw a country ravaged
as no other country has been in this century by thirty years of
continuous and incredibly barbaric warfare. When the Vietnam War
ended in April, 1975, the country was totally devastated. Yet in the
past twenty-five years the nation has healed and rebuilt itself
almost miraculously! The countryside has been replanted and
reforested. Hanoi and HCMC have been beautifully restored.

The opera house in Hanoi is a splendid restoration of the original,
modeled after the Opera in Paris, and the gorgeous Second Empire
theater, on the main square of HCMC is as it was when built by the
French a century ago. The streets are tree-lined, clean, and
conducive for strolling. Cafes in the French style proliferate on
the wide boulevards of HCMC. I am not praising the government of
Vietnam, which still has a long way to travel on the road to
democracy, but I do praise, and praise unstintingly, the pride of
the Vietnamese people
.
It is due to this pride in being Vietnamese that has enabled its
citizenry to undertake the miracle of restoration that I have
described above. When I returned to Manila I became so depressed
that I was actually physically ill for days thereafter.

Why? Well, let’s go back to a period when the Philippines resembled
the Vietnam of 1975. It was 1945, the end of World War II, and
Manila, as well as many other cities, lay in ruins. (As a matter of
fact, it may not be generally known, but Manila was the second most
destroyed city in the entire war; only Warsaw was more demolished!)

But to compare Manila in 1970, twenty-five years after the end of
the war, with HCMC, twenty-five years after the end of its war, is a
sad exercise indeed. Far from restoring the city to its former
glory, by 1970 Manila was well on its way to being the most tawdry
city in Southeast Asia. And since that time the situation has
deteriorated alarmingly. We have a city full of street people,
beggars, and squatters. We have a city that floods sections
whenever there is a rainstorm, and that loses electricity with every
clap of thunder. We have a city full of potholes, and on these
unrepaired roads we have a traffic situation second to none in the
world for sheer unmanageability.

We have rude drivers, taxis that routinely refuse to take passengers
because of “many trappic!” The roads are also cursed with pollution-
spewing buses in disreputable states of repair, and that ultimate
anachronism, the jeepney! We have an educational system that allows
children to attend schools without desks or books to accommodate
them. Teachers, even college professors, are paid salaries so
disgracefully low that it’s a wonder that anyone would want to go
into the teaching profession in the first place. We have a war in
Mindanao that nobody seems to have a clue how to settle.

The only policy to deal with the war seems to be to react to what
happens daily, with no long range plan whatever. I could go on and
on, but it is an endeavor so filled with futility that it hurts me
to go on. It hurts me because, in spite of everything, I love the
Philippines

Maybe it will sound simplistic, but to go back to what I said above,
it is my unshakable belief that the fundamental thing wrong with this
country is a lack of pride in being Filipino. A friend once remarked
to me, laconically: “All Filipinos want to be something else. The
poor ones want to be American, and the rich ones all want to be
Spaniards. Nobody wants to be Filipino.”

That statement would appear to be a rather simplistic one, and
perhaps it is. However, I know one Filipino who refuses to enter a
theater until the national anthem has stopped being played because
he doesn’t want to honor his own country, and I know another one who
thinks that history stopped dead in 1898 when the Spaniards
departed!

While it is certainly true that these represent extreme examples of
national denial, the truth is not a pretty picture. Filipinos tend
to worship, almost slavishly, everything foreign. If it comes from
Italy or France it has to be better than anything made here.

If the idea is American or German it has to be superior to anything
that Filipinos can think up for themselves. Foreigners are looked up
to and idolized. Foreigners can go anywhere without question. In my
own personal experience I remember attending recently an affair at a
major museum here. I had forgotten to bring my invitation. But while
Filipinos entering the museum were checked for invitations, I was
simply waived through. This sort of thing happens so often here that
it just accepted routine.

All of these things, the illogical respect given to foreigners
simply because they are not Filipinos, the distrust and even
disrespect shown to any homegrown merchandise, the neglect of
anything Philippine, the rudeness of taxi drivers, the ill-manners
shown by many Filipinos are all symptomatic of a lack of self-love,
of respect for and love of the country in which they were born, and
worst of all, a static mind-set in regard to finding ways to improve
the situation.

Most Filipinos, when confronted with evidence of governmental
corruption, political chicanery, or gross exploitation on the part
of the business community, simply shrug their shoulders,
mutter “bahala na,” and let it go at that. It is an
oversimplification to say this, but it is not without a grain of
truth to say that Filipinos feel downtrodden because they allow
themselves to feel downtrodden. No pride.

One of the most egregious examples of this lack of pride, this
uncaring attitude to their own past or past culture, is the wretched
state of surviving architectural landmarks in Manila and elsewhere.
During the American period many beautiful and imposing buildings
were built, in what we now call the “art deco” style (although,
incidentally, that was not a contemporary term; it was coined only
in the 1960s). These were beautiful edifices, mostly erected during,
or just before, the Commonwealth period.

Three, which are still standing, are the Jai Alai Building, the
Metropolitan Theater, and the Rizal Stadium. Fortunately, due to the
truly noble efforts of my friend John Silva, the Jai Alai Building
will now be saved. But unless something is done to the most
beautiful and original of these three masterpieces of pre-war
Philippine architecture, the Metropolitan Theater, it will
disintegrate. The Rizal Stadium is in equally wretched shape.

When the wreckers’ ball destroyed Frank Lloyd Wright’s Imperial
Hotel in Tokyo, and New York City’s most magnificent building,
Pennsylvania Station, both in 1963, Ada Louise Huxtable, then the
architectural critic of The New York Times, wrote: “A disposable
culture loses the right to call itself a civilization at all!” How
right she was! (Fortunately, the destruction of Pennsylvania Station
proved to be the sacrificial catalyst that resulted in the creation
of New York’s Landmark Commission. Would that such a commission be
created for Manila…)

Are there historical reasons for this lack of national pride? We can
say that until the arrival of the Spaniards there was no sense of a
unified archipelago constituted as one country. True. We can also
say that the high cultures of other nations in the region seemed,
unfortunately, to have bypassed the Philippines; there are no
Angkors, no Ayuttayas, no
Borobudurs. True.

Centuries of contact with the high cultures” of the Khmers and the
Chinese had, except for the proliferation of Song dynasty pottery
found throughout the archipelago, no noticeable effect. True.

But all that aside, what was here? To begin with, the ancient rice
terraces, now threatened with disintegration, incidentally, was an
incredible feat of engineering for so-called “primitive” people. As
a matter of fact, when I first saw them in 1984, I was almost as awe-
stricken as I was when I first laid eyes on the astonishing Inca
city of Machu Picchu, high in the Peruvian Andes.

The degree of artistry exhibited by the various tribes of the
Cordillera of Luzon is testimony to a remarkable culture, second to
none in the Southeast Asian region. As for Mindanao, at the other
end of the archipelago, an equally high degree of artistry has been
manifest for centuries in woodcarving, weaving and metalwork.

However, the most shocking aspect of this lack of national pride,
even identity, endemic in the average Filipino, is the appalling
ignorance of the history of the archipelago since unified by Spain
and named Filipinas.

The remarkable stories concerning the Galleon de Manila, the
courageous repulsion of Dutch and British invaders from the 16th
through the 18th centuries, even the origins of the Independence
movement of the late 19th century, are hardly known by the average
Filipino in any meaningful way.

And thanks to fifty years of American brainwashing, it is few and
far between the number of Filipinos who really know - or even care -
about the duplicity employed by the Americans and Spaniards to sell
out and make meaningless the very independent state that Aguinaldo
declared on June 12, 1898.

A people without a sense of history is a people doomed to be unaware
of their own identity. It is sad to say, but true, that the vast
majority of Filipinos fall in this category. Without a sense of who
you are, how can you possibly take any pride in who you are?

These are not oversimplifications. On the contrary, these are the
root problems of the Philippine inferiority complex referred to
above. Until the Filipino takes pride in being Filipino these ills
of the soul will never be cured.

If what I have written here can help, even in the smallest way, to
make the Filipino aware of just who he is, who he was, and who he
can be, I will be one happy expat indeed!*****

SamwiseGamgee

November 24th, 2007, 12:26 PM

^^ Nice article. Sad, but true.

dreamtime07

November 25th, 2007, 03:21 PM

History: Book sheds light on America's "hidden" Philippine war
Paul A. Kramer
http://www.jhu.edu/~jhumag/0406web/wholly.html#war

Historian Paul A. Kramer's new book describes a war waged by American soldiers in a distant country. Promoting its troops as liberators, not occupiers, the U.S. assumed control of the capital city, then fought to assert its authority over the countryside. American troops quickly decimated the opposing army, then found themselves confronted by an insurrection that used guerrilla tactics to fight on for years. U.S. soldiers committed atrocities and tortured prisoners. American authorities tried to tightly control news reports, but soldiers' letters describing torture and other abuses found their way into U.S. newspapers, fanning significant American domestic opposition to the conflict. The war caused widespread civilian casualties, and more than once was declared over, despite the continuation of fighting.

Sound familiar?

Actually, the war Kramer describes is not the one in Iraq. It was fought in the Philippines from 1899 to 1902 (with sporadic fighting as late as 1913). It is the subject of his new book, The Blood of Government: Race, Empire, the United States, and the Philippines (University of North Carolina Press, 2006). "It's a forgotten war. It's actually a hidden war. There was an active process of suppressing this war from American memory, especially by labeling it as an 'insurrection' or an 'insurgency' against legitimate U.S. authority," says Kramer, a Johns Hopkins associate professor of history.

In December 1898, the United States formally ended the Spanish-Cuban-American War by signing the Treaty of Paris, which included the purchase of the Philippines from Spain. Under the leadership of Emilio Aguinaldo, the Philippines already had declared itself an independent nation, but the United States disregarded that, intending to govern the country as a colony. Fighting broke out in February 1899, and in three years cost the lives of approximately 4,200 Americans, 16,000 Filipino combatants, and by conservative estimates at least 250,000 Filipino civilians.

Kramer says that the United States was motivated in part by commerce. The country had just emerged from its worst economic depression to date, and American businessmen were convinced that the only way to avoid another such experience was to force the opening of overseas markets, especially in China. The way to do that, they believed, was by the intimidating projection of military force, which would require naval bases and coaling stations in places like the Philippines. There was another consideration, as well, says Kramer: "By the turn of the century, colonies had become part of what defined a modern nation-state. They were enormous sources of national prestige. And they were what defined you as European, and as white — you can conquer non-white subjects."

In soldiers' letters and journals, Kramer traces the racializing of the war. For a brief period, Filipino elites tried to cultivate favorable relationships with American troops and administrators. During this time of fraternization, Americans spoke favorably of Filipino culture and manners. But once warfare began, U.S. soldiers began referring to Filipinos as "black devils," "nggers," and "gugus," forerunner of the epithet "gooks." In 1900, Republican senator Albert Beveridge of Indiana couched the war in terms of the wider cause of "English-speaking and Teutonic peoples" to become "the master organizers of the world."

Kramer's cause, in large part, was to limn these racial aspects of the war and the 45-year occupation that followed, plus counter earlier historians' sanitizing of American imperial aspirations. "There was an attempt to minimize this war, because it was so ugly and brutal and seemed to many to run against the United States' stated ideals of supporting self-government," he says. In previous historical accounts, the war was not American conquest, it was "expansion," a sort of natural process. Says Kramer, "In 'expansion,' there are no power relations, no victims, no violence. 'Expansion' is a neutral descriptive term."

The historian is measured when drawing parallels to the current war in Iraq, but doesn't ignore them. "One of the main rationales for the Philippine-American war was that it was being waged by the United States not for its own sake, but on behalf of civilization, using that language as a kind of dispensation that exempted the U.S. from international law and human rights norms. I think the similarities are there." — DK

dreamtime07

November 25th, 2007, 03:23 PM

I think this thread should be named "Filipino Nationalism"

dreamtime07

November 25th, 2007, 03:24 PM

WHAT WE FILIPINOS SHOULD KNOW:
http://thefilipinomind.blogspot.com/2007/08/americas-hidden-philippine-war.html

"The HISTORY of the past interests us only in so far as it illuminates the HISTORY of the present." Ernest Dimnet, 1866-1954, French Clergyman & Author of "The Art of Thinking" (1928)

We Filipinos grew up and were schooled in books, including those on Philippine history, written primarily by American and/or Americanized Filipino authors. History, come to think about it if seriously studied, provides one an understanding of a people, a place, a culture. A history to understand ourselves: why are we what we are? what brought us here - to our current predicament?

Thinking about what transpired in the past provides a history buff a way of linking isolated, if not apparently unrelated events or historical milestones and therefore gives meaning and direction to the “who, what, when, where, how and why” questions concerning such past events. Learning and understanding history help provide a fresh perspective, the identification of a common thread, on recent and current events. Such obtained knowledge when applied to society can help formulate some and fundamental, even radical but necessary, approaches to problem solving of society’s current ills.

As to our Philippine history, I believe and think that the 50-year American intervention, occupation and colonization of our homeland need a deeper rethinking if one wants to understand the seemingly confusing and incomprehensibly perennial predicament of Filipinos in the Philippines.

The restudy of Philippine-American History by us Filipinos should aptly begin with the unknown and underlying rationalization and/or justification by Social Darwinism; the ignored and glossed over shift to expansionism by the formerly anti-imperialist and isolationist America; most especially its dominant racist mindset for both market- and military-driven expansions explained away by the so-called Manifest Destiny towards the Pacific Rim during the later decades of the 19th century.

Note that decades before, America declared and warned the Europeans, through its Monroe Doctrine, that the western hemisphere -all the Americas- was its sole domain, its "backyard."

The gradual shift at the turn of the 20th century from American isolationism to American imperialism, joining the exclusive imperialist club of England, France, Spain,etc. as the new global bully in the block, was demonstrated with the arrival of American armed forces in the Philippine islands, the latter's political trickery towards the Katipuneros.

The native Filipinos who had (have to this day) naïve sentimentality thus faith in the American revolutionary heritage led to their failure to perceive the fading of so-called heritage and the rising new American reality.The new American reality of imperialism, the ordinary American does not recognize/realize it due to his ignorance, imposed its subsequent brutal war against the Filipino natives, and with the subtle Americanization (cultural imperialism) of the Filipino natives -through public education--a new, more efficient and effective method, i.e. cheaper and not requiring American occupation troops in foreign soil (with native military substitutes beholden to the American military) and long-lasting way of re-colonization, i.e. neocolonialism aka neoliberalism, that strongly persists up to the present.

As a footnote, George Bush in his brief visit and speech to the Philippine Congress in 2003 spoke of our homeland as a model for Iraq. Thus America today pursues Iraqi occupation by American troops, now trapped in a quagmire as in Vietnam, after its brief but amoral intervention and invasion, and trying to impose its self-righteous belief that it has the best way for all civilizations and societies; an excuse for its ultimate goal of controlling Iraqi Oil, the second largest proven oil reserve in the world (second to Saudi Arabia). During the 2003 invasion, it is worth remembering that one of the very first places that the US troops took over is the Iraqi Oil Ministry and of course, all its documents.

And the Bush administration can do so thanks to the dominance of a similar ignorance of the American mind.

jgacis

November 26th, 2007, 04:25 AM

^^Your political ideologies is exactly the reason why filipinos find it so difficult to be "proud" of their country.

Until filipinos learn to stop viewing the past as the "reason" for our current national state, IMO filipinos will get nowhere.

America, in my opinion, for better or worse, has done a better job than the Spaniards have done to our nation.

There is no need for "re-thinking" for what matters now is how filipinos can make the best use of the resources we have now in moving ahead...

beads_strawberries

November 26th, 2007, 06:25 AM

philippine_eagle

November 26th, 2007, 08:09 AM

^^ I guess you're right. Some of us are so busy looking back at our past blaming people and institutions to the point of forgetting that we cannot always go back and blame everyone for our miseries.

Sometimes, we have to know whether or not it's time to stop lingering in the past. Finding closure for everything is not always the solution to our problems.

I agree with you there. Unfortunately many people, especially the masa, do not even know much of our history and that most of them do not even read books. It seems that they are only living to survive rather than living to progress but this is no excuse. People can be poor in material wealth but it doesn't mean that they should be poor inside. This 'pauper' mendicant, or dependent mentality is prevalent nationwide as a result of flawed catholic values. It seems that the masa don't even care anymore that's why u see so many children in dilapidated areas. They would worry about their families rather than have concern for the country.
There should be more co-operation and not quarreling or debating. Nationalism instills co-operation and this is one of our best hopes for the future. We should aim confidently for First World status.

jgacis

November 26th, 2007, 10:52 AM

Now that the Philippines is economically growing, I hope our leaders can make our nation more prosperous..

The GMA administration, IMO did an initial (and only initially) good job in helping reduce our national debt, which in turn has improved our credit rating scores (thus attracting more foreign investments).

Now, we need to focus our surplus and stronger currency on social services and infrastructure (legal and financial).

What good is it to have world-class skyscrapers when you have spaghetti wires, homeless people, and poor drainage surrounding these buildings.

It's great we are attracting foreign investments, but that only makes our peso superficially strong. Internal growth is what's really necessary to make a true strong peso.

What we lack is our human investments. Education for our children and better social services will provide great impact in our continued growth. Long-term investments are the key. Only then I think can filipinos be really proud of who they are...

dreamtime07

November 26th, 2007, 11:56 AM

bitoy

November 26th, 2007, 01:13 PM

^^ That's why putting your comments or opinion about the article that you posted is a nice thing to do, otherwise, people would think that you agree or you accept the message that the article is tying to convey to the readers.

Rene Ybardolaza

November 28th, 2007, 06:38 AM

I agree with you there. Unfortunately many people, especially the masa, do not even know much of our history and that most of them do not even read books. It seems that they are only living to survive rather than living to progress but this is no excuse. People can be poor in material wealth but it doesn't mean that they should be poor inside. This 'pauper' mendicant, or dependent mentality is prevalent nationwide as a result of flawed catholic values. It seems that the masa don't even care anymore that's why u see so many children in dilapidated areas. They would worry about their families rather than have concern for the country.
There should be more co-operation and not quarreling or debating. Nationalism instills co-operation and this is one of our best hopes for the future. We should aim confidently for First World status.

When you talk about the Masa like this, do you really know what its like to live like one? When was the last time you tried to sleep and hunger kept you awake most of the night? Easy to blame the Masa for prostituting morals, values, national pride, so they can survive for another day. its really simple. You can't eat Filipino pride. That's not in the Masa menu.

Now flip the coin over. What are few and the proud (those with full bellies) doing to make the country better other than talk about it? What sacrifice have you done lately for the betterment of others, not oneself?

Speaking as a full-belly, I have not done enough and I'm guilty as charged, but you won't see me blaming the next Juan De La Cruz down the street.

bariQ

November 28th, 2007, 06:57 AM

so in conclusion kasalanan ni full belly at no belly. :D

mahalin natin ang ating bansa :D

beads_strawberries

November 28th, 2007, 08:23 AM

Maybe we should start reviving the issue of nationalism. That is where we are lacking. Apparently, some of us are already feeling hopeless that we just turn to apathy on what we're heading.

Reviving nationalism, if only it can be truly practiced by all of us, will truly make us proud being a citizen of this country.

jonno

November 28th, 2007, 09:34 AM

...
What we lack is our human investments. Education for our children and better social services will provide great impact in our continued growth. Long-term investments are the key. Only then I think can filipinos be really proud of who they are...

Correct. In Australia, the newly elected Prime Minister Kevin Rudd would launch his "education revolution" as promised by his Australian Labour Party during the campaign. The "revolution" is timetabled (ex. all Australian Year 11 and 12 students would have free access to PC's and broadband internet by the end of 2008).

Rene Ybardolaza

November 28th, 2007, 05:10 PM

Many years ago, when India was still cozying up with the Soviets and BPO was not in their vocabulary, I befriended this young Indian who I met while in the US Army. He told me about how difficult life is in India. Young people could not find jobs so they continue to go to school - college, master degrees, etc.

There is no shortage of educated people in the Philippines. What we are lacking are opportunities in the country for people to create value within. This is the reason why our biggest export is human resources. Most OFWs and immigrants are leaving the country for economic reasons, not for lack of pride or love for the country.

We are in the same situation as India two decades ago. India (and China) turned their situation around by learning how to harness the power of their people within and creating industries that create jobs. What we need to do is continue to work on improving our systems, infrastructure, laws. Every little bit counts. For example, here in the U.S., it takes an average of 6 days to jump legal hurdles to create a business entity. In the Philippines, it took us 2-3 months to do the same.

I visited Beijing a month ago and was very impressed with what I saw. Given all the news we hear about China's successes lately, there is still poverty. India's majority remain poorer than our poor in the Philippines. It's a long and arduous path but they are making progress. Based on recent financial measures, Philippines is on its way as well.

Filipinos are not lacking of pride. Try critizing a Filipino for being one sometime and see if you get a positive response.

philippine_eagle

November 29th, 2007, 03:52 AM

Ordinary citizens of the country should call or petition all opposition groups to unite with the current Arroyo government regarding major issues. I find it hard to believe that they oppose federalism. I understand the Philippines has been making progress on the economic front but the country cannot make real socio-economic progress unless partisan politics is made redundant. Anyway corruption does not just happen in the Philippines. China, India, Vietnam and other progressive nations have them as well; no government is perfect. Political unity is the key to achieve the common good.

jgacis

November 29th, 2007, 04:08 AM

Correct. In Australia, the newly elected Prime Minister Kevin Rudd would launch his "education revolution" as promised by his Australian Labour Party during the campaign. The "revolution" is timetabled (ex. all Australian Year 11 and 12 students would have free access to PC's and broadband internet by the end of 2008).

I think that's great that leaders in Australia are making efforts to promote changes in their educational system.

But I'm just curious, can this also work for the Philippines?

In my opinion, our poor educational history and lack of schools/supplies have been ingrained in our cultural minds for decades. It will take a while and alot of coordination among the people/agencies (not just money) to initiate changes in our educational system.

For example, lack of textbooks is one thing, but when textbooks contain errors this is totally unacceptable. Now, we are more than two steps back in trying to find and correct our current problems. Corrupted textbook procurements, partisan politics, and the final dab of your typical "lack of money" complaints does nothing but place the death trap for educational reform.

I think that with our economic growth, the GMA administration should start placing alot more funds into our educational system and start building thousands of classrooms. Prosperous filipino corporations can also help out in a "non-profit" sort of way, which in essence, will help subsidize government funds and alleviate the damages from past corrupted fiscal management of educational funds. Corporations need to realize it will benefit them in the long-run by increasing their chances of having a strong pool of local qualified candidates for their companies. We should even destroy the old schools and replace it with better ones if we have to due to area security, location, and/or building codes. Teacher standards need to be improved, but at the same time we should start paying our teachers more for these improved standards and expected better service. We, as a society, should also not expect immediate results and not listen to all the BS in the media. We need to be patience (years maybe) for net results, but we need to pay close attention every year for our educational quality (textbook conditions, school attendance, teacher/student ratios, academic performance, etc.). Instead of watching all the negativity in the news, filipino parents need to place more efforts in supporting their children learn (such as more reading time together and discussing how education can help one learn more skills for a better career). Instead, I hear more filipinos complain how a college degree doesn't guarantee a better job. While sometimes true, that is not what an education is all about. It's about developing one's mind and skills to prepare for the challenges in the future.

The article you posted is interesting, especially with efforts in increasing broadband access to the students. But what good is that here in the Philippines (for now) if all we hear are hundreds of students (if not more) starving and can't even study? Some only go to school for their food programs. How pathetic and embarassing is that?

Of course our schools can't be the meal providers and act as surrogate family members providing for our kids. But that just goes to show that mistakes in the past, decades ago, are still affecting us today. So if we want to see change, progress will take time but net results will take years. We do need to start today.

If filipinos can see their future more instead of only looking at the past and present, in which education helps (by developing one's mind and skills), only then can we be more proud of ourselves and have a better sense of nationalism for this country....

jgacis

November 29th, 2007, 04:17 AM

There is no shortage of educated people in the Philippines. What we are lacking are opportunities in the country for people to create value within. This is the reason why our biggest export is human resources. Most OFWs and immigrants are leaving the country for economic reasons, not for lack of pride or love for the country.

Good points you have.

But I think there isn't enough educated people in the Philippines.

I believe a country with a strong pool of educated people can provide internal reform, OPPORTUNITIES, and change.

I do agree about the exodus of talented people leaving the country (brain drain), but that's why we CONTINUE to have a SHORTAGE of educated people in the Philippines, thus affecting our leadership..(all the educated ones are gone!!! :nuts:).....

We need more schools, more teachers, and human resources (educated thoughts) IN the Philippines to create more opportunities....

philippine_eagle

November 29th, 2007, 05:06 AM

Good points you have.

But I think there isn't enough educated people in the Philippines.

I believe a country with a strong pool of educated people can provide internal reform, OPPORTUNITIES, and change.

I do agree about the exodus of talented people leaving the country (brain drain), but that's why we CONTINUE to have a SHORTAGE of educated people in the Philippines, thus affecting our leadership..(all the educated ones are gone!!! :nuts:).....

We need more schools, more teachers, and human resources (educated thoughts) IN the Philippines to create more opportunities....

Their should be a programme to send the country's poor out of the country. That's if the nation they will be sent to would agree to such a policy. What the poor have missed out on opportunities in RP, they would likely find overseas. They should be given a fresh start again. I know this is not a possibility but the point is is that most of the skilled workers and the middle class should stay in the Philippines otherwise it just adds to the problem of brain drain.

Ironically, I know of one relative who complains about the skills shortage in RP but wants to migrate himself for work in Australia. It's frustrating to see wealthy, comfortable nations such as Australia, USA or UAE, continue to poach workers from countries where they need them the most. They should train their own workers.

jgacis

November 29th, 2007, 11:15 PM

Their should be a programme to send the country's poor out of the country. That's if the nation they will be sent to would agree to such a policy. What the poor have missed out on opportunities in RP, they would likely find overseas. They should be given a fresh start again. I know this is not a possibility but the point is is that most of the skilled workers and the middle class should stay in the Philippines otherwise it just adds to the problem of brain drain.

Ironically, I know of one relative who complains about the skills shortage in RP but wants to migrate himself for work in Australia. It's frustrating to see wealthy, comfortable nations such as Australia, USA or UAE, continue to poach workers from countries where they need them the most. They should train their own workers.

I understand your frustrations but you shouldn't see other "wealthy" nations as "POACHING" skilled migrant workers. Those workers have every freedom and opportunity to choose where they want to go to like everyone else.

Also, you can't expect government to regulate how private companies hire their employees. There are federal rules, but mainly to protect basic human rights and welfare. You can't expect government to do more than that unless you want to live in a dictatorship regime.

Please don't blame other countries. The Philippines receives millions of dollars in federal and private aid from international resources. Filipinos should strengthen their management and leadership in government, getting rid of those who are incompetent and corrupt.

It is a problem that talented filipinos are leaving the country. But is this necessarily a bad thing? Every educated filipino who leaves the Philippines allows another available spot in the Philippines for the next filipino in line. Since there isn't many opportunities sometimes, people have to do what they have to do. Don't expect them to think like you.

Also remember, opportunities are not always TANGIBLE. In other words, it's not something physical you can see, touch, or feel. Many times opportunity is realized through a mental process. Higher education allows one to "see" opportunities as life progresses. "Seeing" opportunities depends on how one thinks, their experiences, their education, and most importantly....THEIR ATTITUDE IN LIFE....

bariQ

November 29th, 2007, 11:16 PM

i am pinoy and pride :D

leechtat

November 29th, 2007, 11:38 PM

sorry ha, i know this is an honest question.. but this question evokes bigotry... grabe... this is the same thought process why we as a nation cannot progress..

be proud to be pinoy! the world stage doesn't always showcase us, but all around the world there are pinoy; we can compete globally, most of us are very smart!

it is time to erase this stigma in our subconscious...

edit: i did not read the article at first, i've read that some where i think.... i agree that many lack pride.. but now, we are unraveling. this generation will move things forward. its time we live up to what we can actually do...

earlat

November 30th, 2007, 12:29 AM

Being the second happiest Asian country makes me proud of being a Filipino. :banana:

alliele

November 30th, 2007, 01:46 AM

yes, I'm still proud being a Filipino. kasi kung hindi, eh di matagal na sana akong nagpapaka-sasa sa abroad. but i chose to stay here kasi maganda naman ang buhay ko dito.

mga tulad ni Trillanes ang sumisira sa image ng mga Pinoy. :bash:

garzland

November 30th, 2007, 04:10 AM

I'm proud of my heritage... It's just that most of us Filipinos really lack of pride which makes our country rotten...

crappypants

November 30th, 2007, 06:29 AM

the title of the thread should be changed. it attracts stupid onlookers.
If you're contributing to the corruption and sorry state of the country you shouldn't be proud. if you're a productive Filipino citizen you should be proud regardless if you're Filipino or not. it's the politicians who should be ashamed but the concept of the word is lost in their grey mater.

kiretoce

December 30th, 2007, 04:27 AM

The Color of Man (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ceb/2007/12/30/oped/erma.m..cuizon.sun.star.essay.html)

Some years back in a ride towards the suburbs of Sydney, I watched men working on one side of the road, drilling. “Look, Filipinos!” I exclaimed. “They do hire Asians to do road work here, don’t they?”

My sister and her husband didn’t say a word. So I looked again and I realized I was looking at Australian laborers (originally white!) now with skin made dark from working too often under the Australian summer sun late in the year.

Balikbayans from the US on visits here are seen by relatives as having grown fairer than ever, or are they seeing things?

But the world is really getting smaller, the colors mixing, showing more and more obviously that we are only one race, no matter the shade. The whites in Asia would eventually change color according to the environment. It’s said that skin color has nothing to do with inherited culture but is the result of the effect in man of the atmosphere he has chosen to live in at the beginning of time.

The Bible says there’s only one human race. In fact, in ancient times, skin color in relation to races wasn’t anything to talk about. There was no racial prejudice, whether in color or in the differences of culture. And certainly, there was no law passed by any Roman politician forbidding intermarriages of different races or color, or preventing immigration from any one country by closing the gates.

In ancient times, according to most sources, Egyptians then were referred to as black. Greek historian Herodotus said they were "dark-skinned and woolly-haired."

But they were white…so complain others.

A recent AP news item about whites now being a minority in 1 out of 10 American counties talks about a new racial tension over there, especially because of increase in illegal immigration, and also with more Blacks and Hispanics on a birthing binge.

The matter of skin color became an issue only about 200 years ago. Today, if a painter would produce an image of an Egyptian emperor, he would have to guess his color or bring on a debate.

In fact, there’s this King Tut (Egyptian Pharaoh Tutankhamen) exhibit which has elicited different reactions as to the color of his skin. Some say he was black, others say he was white.

What came out was the theory that in Tut’s time, Egyptians mostly had very dark skin, like Africans are. But during the debate, anthropologist author Nina Jablonski said that “our best guess is that he (Tut) was probably neither lily white nor ebony black. He was probably somewhere in between.” In other words, he was like modern Egyptians---some Arabic-looking, others African, the happy mix attributed to the Nile River which allowed frequent contacts of people.

It’s just like the way climate and environment could have helped develop the outward color or shaped the cultures of people who at the outset were one race.

Ancient people about 100,000 years ago migrated out of Africa into the rest of the world, adapting to their new environments, perhaps undergoing pigmentation changes.

In the biblical story of the Tower of Babel, the world broke up into “races” along the diversity of culture as soon as God punished men for trying to reach heaven through a physical structure. Suddenly men and women found themselves in a “confusion of tongues.” People must have turned into clusters of strangers, each group unable to understand the other. Imagine them walking apart from the Tower, into some strange far places on earth.

And now the world is trying to get back together again, mixing color, as people in one tower. On one true celebration of the Epiphany, it will happen, no matter what color.

kiretoce

January 11th, 2008, 04:54 AM

Filipinos most generous gift-givers in Asia during Christmas; But they stick to budget (http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/breakingnews/view/20080109-111343/Filipinos-most-generous-gift-givers-in-Asia-during-Christmas)

MANILA, Philippines -- Filipinos are the most generous gift-givers in Asia during the Christmas season but presents tend to be low-cost as they stick to a budget, according to an informal survey of GE Money.

The Connecticut-based consumer financial services unit of General Electric Co. polled some 2,000 employees of GE Money Asia and joint-venture firms wherein it has interest, "to better understand the people and the communities where we live and work."

Respondents belonged to 19 nationalities and worked in GE Money Asia organizations in Japan, Thailand, Korea, the Philippines, Singapore China and Indonesia.

However, GE Money was quick to clarify that the comparison, conducted in November and early December, was not apple-to-apple as different numbers of people by age, sex, marital status, and nationality were used.

Local respondents, who comprised seven percent of the total, showed that 78 percent of Filipinos planned to buy the most number of gifts at least six items.

Also, poll results showed that Filipinos were the most family-oriented with regard to the celebrations as 95 percent of them said they would spend Christmas with "close family."

Being the largest population of Christians in the region, 68 percent of Filipinos said they would attend church or services. In comparison, 48 percent of Singaporeans said they would go out for Christmas dinner while 40 percent of the Japanese said they would stay at home.

Among Filipinos, the most popular gift they wished to receive was money, just like the Singaporeans and the Thais.

Accessories like watches were popular for all nationalities polled except the Filipinos.

Buying gifts for everyone was the top choice among Filipinos, Singaporeans and Koreans while at least a fifth of Thais, Japanese and Chinese did not buy gifts at all.

Still, 84 percent of Filipinos said they planned to spend for Christmas at less or about the same amount as in the previous year, with 28 percent citing economic conditions as a reason.

More than half or 52 percent of Filipinos used cash to buy Christmas gifts, unlike the plastic-savvy Koreans of whom 91 percent used credit cards.

Among Filipinos, the top source of funds for Christmas shopping was the annual bonuses, unlike with other nationalities who used their regular salaries.

Even then, 52 percent of Filipinos made a budget for Christmas shopping and stick to it while 63 percent of Thais bought on impulse.

For Filipinos, 43 percent said their budget was between $200 and $500 while 33 percent said they had $200 or less.

If money was not a problem, Filipinos and Japanese would prefer to have a new home while the others wished to travel.

Eric Montelibano, assistant vice president of GE Money Bank Philippines, explained that GE Money Asia has been conducting surveys to better understand the people in the communities employees live and work.

"It's GE Money's commitment to understand how people live their lives, at work and in leisure, and the role that consumer finance can play to help them achieve their goals," Montelibano said.

leechtat

January 12th, 2008, 05:32 PM

what is the most effective glutathione pill , and where to buy?

amigo32

January 13th, 2008, 04:12 AM

sa palengke, hehehe. MET and Lucida both are popular brands selling like hotcakes, sa mercury at watson over the counter lang yan.

kiretoce

January 14th, 2008, 05:36 AM

Language and citizenship (http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/13/yehey/opinion/20080113opi1.html)

The Philippines has more than 90 languages but one—Filipino (or Tagalog)—dominates domestic movies. One gets the impression all Filipinos come from one region, the Tagalog-speaking provinces in southern and central Luzon.

The other languages are often used for comic effect. For a perverse reason, our producers and directors find humor in, say, the Visayan languages in the south or the Ilocano or Capampangan in the north.

Dialogue or lines in the non-Filipino/Tagalog languages are often assigned to comedians for laughs. Either the language is obtuse to Tagalog speakers, or the accent is considered hilarious.

The lines often go to secondary characters, a maid, a sidekick, a supporting cast—the ordinary Joes whose job is to play foil to the lead actors.

Some comics in fact have turned their identification with a language or accent into a career, such as Leo Martinez (Batangas), Elizabeth Ramsey (Visayan) or the late Bert Marcelo (Bulacan).

Using skewed or ungrammatical English for laughs is also an asset, which partly explains the popularity of former actor and president Joseph Estrada.

What else is considered funny in Filipino movies? An ugly face or any physical defect. Toilet humor is always good material.

Moviemakers may argue it is logical to use Filipino because the majority speaks the language.

Granted. But there are thousands of stories in the regions and the rural Philippines that could be told in a second major language in part or in whole to capture realism and the diversity in the national life.

Thousands of migrant families have moved to metro Manila, each bringing its roots, culture and language. Surely, an imaginative producer would have the insight and the enterprise to tell a story in a rich language other than Filipino/Tagalog.

This has been done in the past by a few trailblazers. In 2004, Cesar Montano produced and directed Panaghoy sa Suba (Cry of the River) in Cebuano with subtitles.

If the producers do not have the imagination to film the varieties of the national experience in another language, they should at least reject the rusty formula of using a non-Tagalog tongue to make audiences laugh.

At the metro Manila film festival, the character who plays the grandmother in Sakal, Sakali, Saklolo asks the yaya, “Bakit pinapalaki n’yong Bisaya ang apo ko [Why are you raising my grandchild to be a Visaya]?” The mother butts in and tells the maid, “Dapat Tagalog para Pinoy (Use Tagalog because it’s Pinoy].”

Sen. Aquilino Pimentel was incensed by this foolishness and called it a slur on Visayans. So were other moviegoers. Star Ci*ne*ma produced the movie. It should apologize for the insult.

Tor

January 16th, 2008, 06:56 PM

Looking at the forums of our neighbouring countries (Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore) and seeing all those impressive infrastructure developments happening there which are really quite impressive (and expensive), where do you think would this put us in a few years from now?

Aren't you worried that we'll all just wake up one day and our beloved country would just look like their toilet or something?

this really worries me. . .

kiretoce

January 16th, 2008, 07:04 PM

The gap has been widened, we are now tasked to playing catch up.

bitoy

January 16th, 2008, 07:09 PM

Are we being left behind?

It is very complicated to think about it... :D

Seriously, are you really worried?

Mahaba sana sasabihin ko, pero when you think of our country of being a toilet or something in the future, I think, you have no idea of what a country really is. :wink2:

I need to go to the bathroom tuloy... :lol:

Tor

January 16th, 2008, 07:09 PM

^ That's really, really sad. What could have been the cause for it? I do have my own opinion, but I want to know from the regulars here. I realised we’re just full of blueprints, talks and wild imaginations. :D

BTW, will you fix the title please? Typo error and I can't fix it anymore.

kiretoce

January 16th, 2008, 07:11 PM

^^ Check the thread title, is that what you wanted it to be?

Tor

January 16th, 2008, 07:13 PM

Are we being left behind?

Mahaba sana sasabihin ko, pero when you think of our country of being a toilet or something in the future, I think, you have no idea of what a country really is.

Lol.... sorry, can't find a word to perfectly depict it thus the toilet. But I'm talking about infrastructure here relative to theirs.

Tor

January 16th, 2008, 07:14 PM

just remove the "being". thanks :)

Lili

January 16th, 2008, 07:15 PM

Yeah, I think that the Philippines needs to step up and up the ante. Our country used to be way ahead of our ASEAN neighbors.

bitoy

January 16th, 2008, 07:20 PM

Ok, I'm back from...nakaraos na... :lol:

Seriously, being left behind as you say in building structures and other essential needs of the country's citizens is really a very complicated matter. Just from other threads here, you'll find some suggestions and accusations that lead/point to the government and mainly to its people as the cause.
My last observation of the Filipinos is that most of us are still passive on the situations around us. Dumating ang pera ni mama o ni papa from Saudi, ayos na!..makakain ng tatlong beses.. ayos na rin.. parang ganoon ang nakita ko the last time I was there.
Kaya in a few more years... malamang ganoon pa rin.. :D

Lili

January 16th, 2008, 08:01 PM

^^ I think it has something to do with ethics, particularly, work ethics and the lack of rewards for discipline, clean-living, hard work and motivation in the Philippines.

Is it any wonder that when Pinoys are abroad, they become more motivated and hard-working? That's because they get and experience direct results of their hard work. It also boils down to basic human psychology -- the system of rewards and punishment.

In the Philippines, the "bata-bata" system is so strong such that it de-motivates others to strive harder and just work on their connections or dole-outs. The corrupt gets away with it and becomes richer for it.

The same with our education system, students who are "sipsip" or "pa-charming" without being meritorious may get higher grades from their teachers. The students get disenchanted at an early age. Our academic system then suffers.

So, the infrastructure is only a physical manifestation of an underlying problem in the system -- of that "invisible force" --for lack of a better term, what is called by Marx as superstructure.

(i.e. superstructure is the set of socio-psychological feedback loops that maintain a coherent and meaningful structure in a given society, or part thereof. It can include the culture, institutions, power structures, roles, and rituals of the society. It is that which, through conditioned behaviors (both interpersonal and situational), enforces a set of constraints and guidelines on human activity in a stable and effective fashion, such that it engenders a society's characteristic organization, and it is that characteristic organization itself.)

le Reine

January 16th, 2008, 08:20 PM

^^the wonders of carrot and stick approach. :lol:

bitoy

January 16th, 2008, 08:59 PM

^^the wonders of carrot and stick approach. :lol:

Ganoon na nga...kaso baka hindi carrot yung nasa dulo ng stick, kamote yata. :lol:

^^ I think it has something to do with ethics, particularly, work ethics and the lack of rewards for discipline, clean-living, hard work and motivation in the Philippines.

Is it any wonder that when Pinoys are abroad, they become more motivated and hard-working? That's because they get and experience direct results of their hard work. It also boils down to basic human psychology -- the system of rewards and punishment.

In the Philippines, the "bata-bata" system is so strong such that it de-motivates others to strive harder and just work on their connections or dole-outs. The corrupt gets away with it and becomes richer for it.

The same with our education system, students who are "sipsip" or "pa-charming" without being meritorious may get higher grades from their teachers. The students get disenchanted at an early age. Our academic system then suffers.

So, the infrastructure is only a physical manifestation of an underlying problem in the system -- of that "invisible force" --for lack of a better term, what is called by Marx as superstructure.

(i.e. superstructure is the set of socio-psychological feedback loops that maintain a coherent and meaningful structure in a given society, or part thereof. It can include the culture, institutions, power structures, roles, and rituals of the society. It is that which, through conditioned behaviors (both interpersonal and situational), enforces a set of constraints and guidelines on human activity in a stable and effective fashion, such that it engenders a society's characteristic organization, and it is that characteristic organization itself.)

Jolens! -- Tumpak!

Interview sa isang batang contestant sa noontime TV show:

Announcer: Ineng, ano ang pangarap mo pag laki mo?

Batang Babae: Ang maging dancer po ng Wowoweeeeeeee!

:lol: :nuts:

ok..ok... may pangarap yung bata... wag niyo nang gatungan pa!

Hehehe, napaguusapan lang ito, don't get me wrong, I'm not pulling down the hopes and dreams of the Filipinos... maraming improvement talaga in the last 20 years or so... and hopefully we could ask for more or do more. :D

metrosuburban

January 16th, 2008, 10:11 PM

kiretoce

January 17th, 2008, 12:09 AM

"Goals without plans are just wishes."

Sadly, that quote rings true when it comes to the Philippines. There are so many lofty goals and aspirations but no one wants to move a finger to make them possible. Most are just waiting for handouts, and some downright expect them. They like to live like royalty yet won't want to dirty their manicured hands for in their minds it's beneath their station. Yet when the hand that feeds them stops, they all cry foul, whine, and beg for attention. It's a never ending cycle so it seems at this point. :ohno:

le Reine

January 17th, 2008, 12:30 AM

^^exactly!

pau_p1

January 17th, 2008, 04:11 AM

I agree with that!

Anyways, I don't think we're left behind... some other countries just past us by... we still have neighbors that are in a worse conditions than us.. they also experience bad politics, they have wars and insurgencies, they don't exactly have peace and order, some has even have bigger unemployment rates and higher rates of hungry people...

crappypants

January 17th, 2008, 08:07 AM

ngayon mo lang ba napansin? masyadong mabagal ang kilos.

kiretoce

January 17th, 2008, 04:15 PM

Threads merged. :colgate:

evangelistik

January 17th, 2008, 06:07 PM

"There are many things we do not want in this world. Let us not just mourn them; let us change them."

- Marcos

bukid

January 17th, 2008, 07:28 PM

Don't cry for me, Pilipinas...

the truth is i never left you..

all through my wild days, my mad existence...

i kept my promise...

don't keep your distance...

:D

sensya na nalasing yata ako.

pi_malejana

January 19th, 2008, 07:05 AM

"There are many things we do not want in this world. Let us not just mourn them; let us change them."

- Marcos

i like that qoute..:) and the one who said it..:lol::nuts:

AH-7Raja

January 20th, 2008, 12:15 AM

i like that qoute..:) and the one who said it..:lol::nuts:

yupyup :lol:

leechtat

January 20th, 2008, 06:44 AM

"There are many things we do not want in this world. Let us not just mourn them; let us change them."

- Marcos

as for me, the major problem is that most of us lack national pride. it all boils down to that..

also, we should not only point out the deficiencies of our country. for we already know them, right? we should ask ourselves a follow-up question:

"since i notice this problem, what can i do to solve it?" <-- this should always be the case, since it's tiring to hear nonsensical rants that leads nowhere..

a thread should be started to provide not only our observations but probable solutions that will end this problem..

diz

January 20th, 2008, 06:52 AM

first of all, this thread should be changed to "Is Philippines worth fighting for?" and the answer of course is yes.

If the people had national pride and helped the government by say, not littering, then the government would spend less time on doing the things it shouldn't be doing like cleaning the streets, and using that money for other essentials.

So, fellow forumers, listen to the words of our former dictator Marcos himself and be brave and take the streets and urge the people to have national pride. Give out free hugs as well. :D Ahh.. wala lang again. I hope you do though. :D :D

crappypants

January 20th, 2008, 09:24 AM

the solution is to kill all these politicians.

kiretoce

January 20th, 2008, 10:13 AM

^^ You have the honor of firing the first shot Marites. So, who will it be? ;)

crappypants

January 20th, 2008, 10:24 AM

bwa ha ha, i will just put them all in one room and bomb them, kill all birds with one stone. they're just all like Heathers.

kiretoce

January 20th, 2008, 10:37 AM

^^ :lol: I like how your mind works! :okay:

amigo32

January 20th, 2008, 12:46 PM

genius! hehehe

dinabaw

January 20th, 2008, 12:54 PM

^^ You have the honor of firing the first shot Marites. So, who will it be? ;)

well will start to A to Z :lol:

le Reine

January 20th, 2008, 03:41 PM

I guess I know who the royal executioner is.

kiretoce

January 20th, 2008, 06:29 PM

^^ :rofl:

Askal82

January 20th, 2008, 07:07 PM

bwa ha ha, i will just put them all in one room and bomb them, kill all birds with one stone. they're just all like Heathers.

I guess I know who the royal executioner is.

:lol::lol::lol:

AH-7Raja

January 20th, 2008, 10:31 PM

Ganoon na nga...kaso baka hindi carrot yung nasa dulo ng stick, kamote yata. :lol:

jackfruit! langka! :lol:

medpaisa19

January 21st, 2008, 08:12 PM

interesting thread never knew people use skin whitening products to bleach the whole skin (execpt Michael Jackson or to fade dark spots in the skin) I find it funny because in my culture people like the tan color, and there is even a saying when ur too white like uhmmm Cartagena ( a sea-side resort city) is calling your name.
I just found one of my first culture difference between the Philippines and Colombia.

kiretoce

January 21st, 2008, 08:18 PM

LordCarnal

January 23rd, 2008, 06:08 PM

Watch this video, hopefully this will inspire all the Filipinos

Video by BigFoot Entertainment

E1tGCYfKRC8

..

Raven83

January 23rd, 2008, 07:55 PM

Josepepe

January 23rd, 2008, 08:16 PM

^^ We can blame it on the class system during our colonial past. The lighter your skin is the higher your station in life is, therefore skin-whitening products are big business because of the propagation of such ideals that you can only be beautiful and/or successful the paler you get. And the main culprit is the media. Most if not all personalities on TV/showbiz have skin that are as white as a sheet, not really representative of the cross-section of mainstream Filipino society.

They look ugly. I watched media personalities with what passes for "white" skin and they dont look Filipinos at all. They look like a bad version of chinese. Its disgusting.

A people without pride and would rather imitate foreigners and only has shame for the authentic skin pigmentation of their own people are not worthy of respect. Thats why foreigners dont have a high regard for us because we disrespect our identity. We go to the extent of "mutilating" our looks because to us the foreigner is always better. This sycophant attitude is debilitating. Especially on whats supposed to be beautiful. Even this concept is borrowed from foreigners.

Nagpapaloko sa negosyo ng mga inchik na naglalako ng kanilang producto. Ang mga pinoy puro gago namang bumibili at pinapayaman sila. Ang papangit na nila tuloy.

Ayan mukha tuloy kulay ng tiyan ng palaka o bangkay sa morgue ang mga mukha eh puro pango naman ang ilong. Nasusuka ako.

For me Brown is Number One. Kahit pango ang ilong ko.

Dek Thai

January 23rd, 2008, 09:56 PM

I don't think Philippines has left behind. You guys should think about other developing countries, but never look down on them. In a single day, they make less than a dollar. Lately,I have been traveling to some countries that people have no time to relax at all. The only thing they can think about is that how to survive for tomorrow.

kiretoce

January 24th, 2008, 04:03 AM

^^ Maybe "left behind" isn't a good way of putting things into perspective for it means that the Philippines has stalled, stopped progressing, and is not going anywhere. Let's just say that it's "trailing" which gives it a more positive spin, meaning, that we're still in the race and running with the pack, just not leading it.

le Reine

January 24th, 2008, 04:11 AM

^^agree:okay:

amigo32

January 24th, 2008, 03:41 PM

funny

mwg12a

January 24th, 2008, 03:52 PM

@ Josepepe^^^^ Actually, I have noticed that these issue are not solely prevalent among filipinos. Alot of our neighboring asian countries are trying to look more caucasian, since they are already light skinned, they would resort more into cosmetic surgery to alter the shape of their faces and body, such as their eyes, lips etc. Have you noticed how the Japanese and Koreans started to look differently as well? Blonde hair, blue or brown contact eye lenses etc.. are some of the things they comonly do to change their "looks". And these does not just apply on women, even a number of their men try to change how they look as well.

I think these are all influences of the western media especially in America. Have you noticed how alot of black women uses hair extensions, mostly blonde hair. And yes, there are some few blacks like Michael Jackson became more caucasian looking now comparing to his child star years when he was just emerging to be a popular pop star. But, in fairness to the black people, there is this condition that really changed the pigmentation of their skin. I think this is what Michael Jackson reasoned out when the media started asking him about his transformation, he said he is suffering from this condition. "albino"....

The only funny thing is that while most non-caucasians are trying to get a much more lighter skin, our caucasian counterpart are all trying their best to look darker. Isn't it ironic?

mwg12a

January 24th, 2008, 04:07 PM

A lot of foreigners like our colour. Pero marami rin sa kanila ang mapanlait. Di alam ng lahat sa 'tin na maraming teenager na puti na nilalait nila ang Asians and orientals the way we look.

Kids are kids. Kids are always mean towards almost anything they see under their noses. I'm not worried about these things. I have not noticed these things here in midwest considering the minorities here are really minorities in an 85%* predominantly white population. Trust me, i live in the whitiest city in the Whole US. if not 2nd most white city in america...
I myself prefer my own natural skin tone, but that's probably because I'm already in the happy median. My wife is naturally light skinned, no matter how long she sits under the sun, she won't get that tan, she just turn red. Unlike myself I can get a good tan without even trying and in winter, I get that lighter skin. The only thing I don't like with my skin is that, it's not even, my face and arms gets darker in summer time because I drive around alot, I always have this tan line which is very noticeable when I take my shirt off.

kiretoce

January 24th, 2008, 04:52 PM

But, in fairness to the black people, there is this condition that really changed the pigmentation of their skin. I think this is what Michael Jackson reasoned out when the media started asking him about his transformation, he said he is suffering from this condition. "albino"....?

It's called Vitiligo.

Vitiligo, or leukoderma is a chronic skin condition that causes loss of pigment, resulting in irregular pale patches of skin. The precise cause of vitiligo is complex and not fully understood. There is some evidence suggesting it is caused by a combination of auto-immune, genetic, and environmental factors. The population incidence worldwide is considered to be between 1% and 2%.

According to Diseases Database: "A disorder consisting of areas of macular depigmentation, commonly on extensor aspects of extremities, on the face or neck, and in skin folds. Age of onset is often in young adulthood and the condition tends to progress gradually with lesions enlarging and extending until a quiescent state is reached."

SOURCE (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitiligo)

The only funny thing is that while most non-caucasians are trying to get a much more lighter skin, our caucasian counterpart are all trying their best to look darker. Isn't it ironic?

It's human nature to want what you can't/don't have. :colgate:

I myself prefer my own natural skin tone, but that's probably because I'm already in the happy median. My wife is naturally light skinned, no matter how long she sits under the sun, she won't get that tan, she just turn red. Unlike myself I can get a good tan without even trying and in winter, I get that lighter skin. The only thing I don't like with my skin is that, it's not even, my face and arms gets darker in summer time because I drive around alot, I always have this tan line which is very noticeable when I take my shirt off.

:yes: True. When I lived up north, the shade of my skin in winter would be paler than when it's summer time. Now, living down south, I have an all year tan; although, like you I do have a "farmer's tan," wherein my arms and neck are obviously darker than the rest of my torso. :lol:

Nabartek

January 28th, 2008, 08:39 PM

Honestly, I don't buy the perception that liking whiter skin is colonial mentality. If it is colonial mentality, anong tawag mo sa mga mapuputi na gustong magpatan o naiingit sa mga tan? Mental Coloniality??

I had a an acquaintance who lived in Saudi Arabia for years and she told me that many arabs prefer lighter skins din daw. Colonial menality? It's more of 'exotic' look. Hindi ba type na type ngayon ng mga Pinoy/Pinay yung Chino kaya ang daming nagkakacrush na mga Pinoy/Pinay sa mga Koreans actors/actresses.

Admittedly I use whitenign prdocuts. Hindi sa dahil gusto kong pumuti, kundi dahil sa hilig kong magpaaraw, di na pantay yung kulay ko. Sabi nga ng pinsan ko na bata, malayong masmaputi yung legs ko kesa sa kamay at mukha ko. Kumbaga, I'm just treating the dark spots.

Lili

January 28th, 2008, 09:40 PM

^ mental coloniality. :lol:

Maybe it had something to do with the Aryan caste of India.

Josepepe

January 29th, 2008, 03:59 AM

^ mental coloniality. :lol:

Maybe it had something to do with the Aryan caste of India.

I think its a mental disorder.

Mga chekwa o koreano siguro may tradition ng kaputian na "tulad ng tiyan palaka". Pero ang Filipino ..... hindi bagay. Nagmumukang tsonggo na galing ibang planeta.

Kaya kayong pinoy at pinay na mahilig sa whitening products dapat mahiya kayo. Tinatakwil ninyo ang ninuno ninyo.

Ipagmalaki ninyo ang tunay ninyong kulay. Dahil ito ang tunay na exotic indi ang lahing chekwa o di ba koreano sa pelicula. Peke ang tangos ng ilong. Ika nga eh nakukuha sa tupperware surgery.

Bangkaw

leechtat

January 29th, 2008, 03:52 PM

there is this condition that really changed the pigmentation of their skin. I think this is what Michael Jackson reasoned out when the media started asking him about his transformation, he said he is suffering from this condition. "albino"....

Vitiligo is what MJ advised the press.

edit: kinorect ko pa.. nasabi na pala ni master mod kiretoce.. hehe.

I think its a mental disorder.

Mga chekwa o koreano siguro may tradition ng kaputian na "tulad ng tiyan palaka". Pero ang Filipino ..... hindi bagay. Nagmumukang tsonggo na galing ibang planeta.

Kaya kayong pinoy at pinay na mahilig sa whitening products dapat mahiya kayo. Tinatakwil ninyo ang ninuno ninyo. Bangkaw

sir josepepe.. wag ka naman magalit (parang galit ka ate.. hehe)..

the times are changing.. lets just go with the flow... imho, if those people who use whitening products to get lighter skin becomes happy over the process.. so be it, even if some people, such as yourself, regard them as "kulay tiyan ng palakang tsonggos.. at least they are happy.. to each his own, right? :cheers:

and the mental disorder you thought they have, the closest would be BDD.. but still its a long shot.. its just vanity, imho..

Nabartek

January 30th, 2008, 03:31 AM

Masyado ka namang against sa skin whitening prods, Manong Pepe.

parang hair dye, hair relax, hair straightening, hotoil, spa and bust enlargement lang yan noh.

Nabartek

January 30th, 2008, 03:37 AM

^It's frustrating that our local film makers never learned from the Desperate Housewives uproar.

Cariño: Ingenious indigenous

The committee was listing down indigenous representations in the city, and they were the usual suspects: Ibaloi, Kankanaey, Kalinga, Bontoc, etc. I was among those who threw in Muslim. Somebody said Korean, and so it went...

That's too dumb...not unless most Koreans become Filipino citizens. 0_o

kiretoce

January 30th, 2008, 06:37 PM

Modern opium (http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view/20080131-115844/Modern-opium)

MANILA, Philippines -- It’s easy to read newspapers nowadays. With their pages chock-full of ads, you’ll finish reading even before you exhale.

It’s not difficult to become beautiful either. If you believe the ads, you can be the official Philippine entry in the Miss or Mister Asia-Pacific/ International/ World/ Universe contests this year. Who knows how many awards we will win?

Every loyal Filipino consumer living outside the Tabon Cave faces a daily onslaught of ads for health, beauty and wellness products. From TV, radio and print to balloons and the Internet, the attack shows no sign of abating. An army of whitening creams, soaps and lotions, hair-straightening shampoos, hair-softening conditioners, and hair-stiffening gels are fighting over our hard-earned money. An artillery of services is pounding our senses numb (weight-loss programs, mezo-therapy, diamond peel, liposuction, hair removal, wrinkle removal, wellness and spa treatments, 3-in-1, 6-in-1, all-in-one). The beautiful thing about this war is that Dawn Zulueta is leading it.

The Filipino has always been meticulous about personal hygiene and beauty. Pigafetta first noted this when he and his group came upon the islands. But the present fad goes beyond hygiene. It smacks of mass hysteria.

Before, only posh stores like Rustan’s sold beauty products. Now, even Liana’s supermarket sells them. Back then, you could count with your fingers the really beautiful people gracing the local papers. Nora Aunor became the messiah who brought hope to millions of brown-skinned masses. But the fascination didn’t last long; Filipinos really desire a “mestiza” look and businesses are listening. So it won’t be long now before the next Ms Philippines is a former house help. Or the next Bench models come from members of Fejodap.

Others may see this as narcissism, but I see this as a true revolution, less violent than Mao’s, but more radical than what communism offers. This is the Dawn of a new day. Charm is no longer a monopoly of the Forbes Park/Ayala Alabang crowd. The playing field has been leveled. “Yaya” [nannies] of the world, unite! You have nothing to lose but your dark skin!

New media have pushed our consciousness of the known world. More products have emerged from the forests of Sumatra to the empires of beauty in Milan, New York, Paris. Lower trade barriers also brought in an armada of products, from whitening salt from Thailand to shampoos invented in suspiciously clean research laboratories in Switzerland.

Billboard prices must be very low compared to other media, and this could be the reason they have practically covered the sky along major roads in Manila. Moreover, stiff competition forces a company to look for creative ways to win people’s hearts and money. In times of shrinking income, think small. The winning formula? Beauty in a sachet. If cellphone loads can be sold under P10, why can’t beauty and the feeling of confidence and power it brings? Of course, we cannot overlook the entrepreneurial spirit of Filipinos, led by the visionary leadership of Dr. Rolando Hortaleza of Splash Corp., and Dr Vicky Belo of the Belo Medical Group and Intelligent Skin Care.

I don’t question the intentions of these corporations. Who wouldn’t love Charles Revlon who said that he didn’t sell beauty products but hope? Or Dr. Vicky Belo who is on a mission to erase ugliness in the Philippines, one face at a time? Perhaps researchers have discovered that Filipinos think fair skin as the panacea to all their problems, that it is God’s greatest gift to mankind next to unlimitext.

But before we get drunk on freedom from the dark side, and wake up dazed and naked, it’s good to remember what former Czech President Vaclav Havel said: In revolution, disillusionment often follows euphoria. Let’s have a reality check. Our models have fair skin to begin with. They were born fair and they will die fair. Of course, this is not fair! But they are telling us: Buy tons of this lotion and you will have the fairness of Francine Prieto. Use a gazillion of these soap bars and you’ll look like Pauleen Luna. But I still have to hear of a “palengkera” [female public-market vendor] turning into a darling of lensmen and skin-care giants.

I heard Unilever tried to buck the trend with its worldwide “Campaign for Real Beauty.” What the Dutch giant tells us is that beauty does not depend on fair skin, slim waistline, or long, shiny hair; it depends on whether you use Dove soap or not (just kidding). They call it inner beauty. To prove their claim, they installed a huge billboard along EDSA highway, in Guadalupe, showing a huge lady who could very well be the girlfriend of King Kong. It asked, “Extra Large or Extra Sexy? Text your vote!” Extra Sexy was leading at first, but the company pulled down the ad when Extra Large took charge. I suppose the evidence was just too big to ignore. But I congratulate the firm for going beyond the cheap beauty bandwagon.

They are selling hope, but could it be false? Communism and socialism also offered hope for more than half a century, with disastrous results. One can argue that false hope is better than no hope at all. But I don’t think it’s false. Dark and fat Filipinos really turn white and slim! It’s a miracle that could rival the ones narrated in the Bible. The problem is the assignment of values, which shows how deeply drugged we are with cheap beauty. There is a glaring misallocation of resources. If our test scores in math and science are on a free fall, then something is wrong with corporate and personal responsibility. Last time I checked the aptitude tests, our grade schoolers were still ahead of the whale sharks of Donsol. Thank God! Imagine if our politicians took the test.

These business conglomerates spend billions on advertising. Why don’t these giants sponsor poor kids to study chemistry or fashion design or automotive mechanics? Wouldn’t it be nice to hear a successful fellow saying: “I got my PhD in Astrophysics, thanks to Likas Papaya” or “I am now running my own search engine company, thanks to Marie France.”

Or they could start projects to support a languishing province, like growing exotic plants that darken hair and whiten skin at the same time.

Movie and TV icons can also do social work, like giving milk and scholarships to poor but bright students. I’m sure there are companies and models and actors who are already doing something like this, but much more needs to be done.

Let’s turn this enchantment into a real revolution.

harveharve

February 4th, 2008, 08:34 PM

If you know of any Bisaya myths, urban legends, mythological creatures, please add to this thread. :banana: :banana: :banana:

This one is from Metro-Cebu and Province

Bakunawa
In most of the Visayan areas and even in Bicol, the serpent-dragon known as Bakunawa or spelled alternatively as Bacunawa comes every so often to take a bite out of the moon. This was the way our ancestors explained lunar eclipses. The only way to save the moon from being eaten entirely is to make a loud ruckus to drive away the Bacunawa from its feeding frenzy. It works every time since the moon is still here! hehe :banana:

Agta
Unsa man ning agta? Suma sa atong mga katiguwangan, usa ni siya ka "dili-ingon-nato". Nagpuyo kini siya sa mga punu-an sa mga dagkong kahoy ug nag-yopyop ug tinostos. Sulti sa mga katiguwangan, lapas og napulo ka pulgada kining agta ug itom ang panit, balhiboon sab kuno. Duha ka epekto kon ang kahoy ninyo naay agta, usa, ma-bwisit ang inyong banay kon inyo kining mapalagot, o, makadala ni siya ug swerte sa inyong banay kong mahimo ni siyang higala ninyo.

What's an Agta? According to the old folks, he is a engkanto or a mythological creature. He usually lives among the branches of trees and loves to smoke cigars, locally known as tinos-tos. He is appoximately 10 feet in height, dark colored complexion and hairy (a local version of bigfoot perhaps?) People say that there are two possibilities as to what might happen if ever you have one in your own backyard, either, it will bring you misfortune or great luck if you are able to gain his trust and friendship.

Balay sa dwendi.
These are now known as termite mounds but in the days of yore, our ancestors claimed it was the home of the dwendi and the gate-way to their dimension.

Ah-po.
Remember the time when we were young, our grandfolks would tell us to say "Tabi, Ah-po" whenever we spit, piss or throw something at night? That was one way of protecting oneself from the wrath of the dili-ingon nato.

Dili Ingon Nato (Those who are different from us)
This was a common term to denote those of paranormal origin.

Kikik.
Binuhi sa usa ka aswang. Mao ni siya ang magpahibaw nga naay aswang umaabot.

An aswang's familiar. Tells of the coming of an aswang.

Kabog
Dako kaayo nga kwaknit.
A huge bat. Probably a giant flying fox.

Para sa mga naka-eskwela ug USC South Gradeschool/Girls High School.

MINDA MORA.
Usa daw ni siya ka-stage actress na gi-rape ug gipatay sa mga guards sa sulod sa USC Cultural Center. Ang iyang kalag naa pa daw didto. This may be classified as an urban legend.

Para sa mga naka-eskwela ug USC Boys High SChool.
Pari na walay ulo. Maglakaw lakaw kilid sa Gymn sa boys high, samtang dili pa ni siya makit-an, naay itom na iring na imong mga kit-an una.

Para sa naka-eskela ug Cebu Doc ug naka-estar sa Cebu Doc Hospital.
This is a variation of the story I heard from a nurse friend:
Naay usa ka-doctor na musakay unta sa elevator, kanang duol sa clinic ni Yong Larrazabal (I once taught at CDC, I know this story by heart), kilid lang sa ER ba. Anway, pag-abli sa elevator naay duha ka-tawo sa sulod. Ang usa nag-tindog ug nag-sul-ob ug laboratory gown. Ang usa naa sa sawog, kay nakuyapan. Gidagan ni Doc ang taw na nakuyapan sa ER na naa ra kilid. Kadtong na-uli-an na ang tawo, iyang gipangutana na-unsa to siya, nisulti siya na naa siyang nakit-an nga patay na pero naglakawlakaw pa, ug nag-sul-ob ug orange tag. (this orange tag means you're dead and your body is now in the morgue waiting for disposal). Nagkatawa ang doctor kay basin nag-binuang ra. Mibalik siya sa may elevator ug misakay pag-abli. Naa tong tawo na kuyog adtong nakuyapan. Nagstorya sila bahin adtong nakuyapan ug nakakita daw ug ungo tong tawhana. Pagsulti ni doc na nag-sul-ob daw ug orange tag ang iyang nakit-an, gisaka sa tawo sulod sa elevator ang iyang kamot ug misulti, "parehas niini?" Namugnaw siya kay mao tong tawhana na iyang gi-declare na Dead on arrival pipila ka oras na nilabay. Ug siya, nakuyapan.

Para sa naka-eskwela ug USJR Main Campus sa Magallanes.
Sa 5th floor (murag San Agustin Building man tingali o dili sa San Nicolas Building, kalimot na ko), ni-adtong mga 1950s, gidunggab sa usa ka lalaki ang iyang uyab gamit ang usa ka ballpen sa sulod sa CR. Mulagobo gyapon daw ang CR hangtod karon sumala sa akong amahan nga nag-high school didto. Adtong panahona, wala pa ang Basak Campus.

Sa San Agustin Building sa USJR, naay usa ka babaye na milukso padulong sa iyang kamatayon diha sa usa ka bintana. Mga 1960's daw ni, sumala ni Atty. Job Pagusara.

Robinsons
Sa pagkahuman na gitukod ning Robinsons, naay mga istorya miguwas nga naay binuhi nga Bitin (halas) ang mga tag-iya sa Robinsons ug ang mga customers na mugamit sa mga dressing rooms, i-flush padulong didto sa halwa na gipuy-an sa bitin ilawm sa building.

Sigbin (in leyte and samar, it is known as the Amamayong)
Sumala ni Budoy, AW! Dili lang si Budoy! Sumala sa mga taw, kining sigbin muguwas ra ni inig gabii aron musupsup ug dugo sa ilang mga biktima. Ang kakuyaw lang kuno ani, kay ang imo mang shadow ang iyang trippingan apan ikaw ang mahutdan ug dugo! sumala sa mga taga-bukid na nakakita na aning sigbin, mura daw ni siya ug kanding nga walay sungay, ug pwerting baho-a na makasuka gud ka, dako sad diay kaayo ni ug dunggan na mag-pakpak. Mao na, sumala sa mga taga poblacion, mura daw ug kangaroo ang hitsura. Muguwas daw ni siya inig Holy Week para mangita ug mga bata na iyang patyon-nonon. Ug ang ilang mga kasingkasing himu-on ug kalaki (anting anting for our tagawg brethren)

Sigbinan
Naa kunoy mga banay na naay binuhi na sigbin, ang tawag nila kay mga Sigbinan na naay gahum sa pag-controlar nila.

Para sa mga taga Talisay, Campo 4, 6, 7 ug 8 ug tanang mga taga Salot (South of Cebu). MARIA CACAOSi Maria Cacao, usa ni siya ka diwata na nagpuyo sa usa ka langob diha sa bukid sa Lantoy. (I really forgot where this mountain is located, somewhere in the vicinity of Talisay), guwas sa iyang langob, daghan kaayong mga punu-an sa Cacao. Ilado ni siya ug ang iyang bana na si Mangao, na naa silay barko na gold. Sa una, ang mga tulay diha sa sapa sa Mananga, kalit lang na maanod sa sapa, sulti sa mga lumulupyo dihang dapita sa Mananga, ni-agi ang barko nila ni Ma. Cacao ug ang iyang bana aron mamaligya sa ilang mga porcelana diha sa lungsod, masangit man ilang barko sa mga tulay, hala, idasdas man kuno ni Mangao, mao na, manga-anod ning mga tulaya!

Anak sa Liking Kawayan.
Kon wala kay amahan, (in other words, a bastard), kon natawo ka sa in before the 1960s, tawgon ka ug Anak sa Liking Kawayan. Kay ang unang mga tawo sa piliipinas wala man dauy mga ginikanan, gi-anak sila sa LIking kawayan.

If you are an illegitimate child, you were called the Broken Bamboo's Child.

Manoktok (in english, Door Knockers, this time, this story would be in English)
Before World War II, our grandparents would claim that in the middle of the night, 2 old people and 1 young woman, clad in robes, would knock at your door in the middle of the night. These three bear news that someone in the household is about to die, usually the eldest member in the household, or an ill family member. Their visits are more prevalent during times of outbreaks of Cholera and other infectious diseases. In the Visayas (not necessarily Cebu) homeowners would paint white crosses on their doors to stop these three from knocking thereon, hence, these three started knocking on government buildings, churches and hospitals. They claimed that after the war, their visits diminished or stopped altogether. This was explained in this manner: after the war, most of the buildings and houses were destroyed, hence, they had no more doors to knock on.

Gaba (dharma/karma)
Gabâ or gabaa, for the Cebuano people, is the concept of a non-human and non-divine, immanent retribution. A sort of negative karma, it is generally seen as an evil effect on a person because of their wrongdoings or transgressions. The word has later been recycled for translating "divine retribution" or "divine fury" in the Cebuano edition of the Bible. It is also translated as nemesis.

Barang
A witch (Bruja) paid to cause sickness and death. In Lapulapu, I heard there is one such woman who does this job quite well. In Cebu City, there used to be one in Labangon and in Mabolo. So far, I have not heard anything about them, except for the one in Lapulapu. From what I've gathered, the client is expected to supply the barang with a picture, strands of hair, or anything that belongs to the person to be victimized. After babbling a few oraccions (incantations, in latin, supposedly) and with the use of black candles and spirit guides, the victim would succumb to sever sickness and possibly die, depending on the request of the client. This is of course done for a fee. Last time I heard, it's Php5,000.00, now, it may be higher. The way to combat Barang is to seek the services of another Barang. If the victim's Barang wins, the deathdealer's Barang would succumb to his/her own sorcery. Another form of safeguarding oneself from the powers of the Barang would be to wear something that has a diamond, I don't know why, but that's how it works, or so I've been told.

Urom
When you're asleep, you feel pins and needles all over your body, you are aware of your surroundings and feel as if a presense is in your room or somebody or something is sitting on top of you and pinning you down. You cannot move, you cannot scream. Some people do actually die from it. Americans call it night terrors. We call it in Cebu as Urom. People claim uromon ka if you had too much to eat before going to bed.

Daman
Sleepwalking or sleep talking. Usually brought about by stress.

Kalag mu-sud sa Ku'un(Kulun)/Kaldero.
Our grandfolks would tell us to eat dinner otherwise, at night, when we are asleep, our spirits would go the kitchen to look for food in the Ku'un (clay pot, back then) or in the pots and pans, sometimes, the spirit would get trapped under the pot while looking for food. When day breaks and your spirit is not back in your body, you'll be found dead in your sleep.

Tabonan ang samin kon mag kilat
It is said that when we have thunderstorms we should cover all our mirrors, otherwise, you're inviting lightning to strike the mirror or your house.

Il Tenore

February 5th, 2008, 03:00 AM

^^all of these must be included in our Philippine Literature...

habagatcentral1

February 5th, 2008, 06:18 AM

Can we also add up Panayanon myths too? Masyado naman guro restricted ang Bisaya as referring only to Cebuanos alone, as Ati people of Panay and Negros are also calling us "Bisaya" too, regardless of ethno-linguistic group that we belong. We're also living in the Visayas too...the Western Side that is.

Anyway, I'll share my Panayanon folklore later. This may also answer why Capiz or Iloilo is always to be blamed for the "aswangs" and the like.

harveharve

February 5th, 2008, 02:44 PM

habagatcentral1

February 6th, 2008, 05:30 AM

^^ Unya lang bai. Obscure na kaayo sa akong huna-huna ang mga teachings sa mga profs ko, hehehe!! :D

habagatcentral1

February 6th, 2008, 03:37 PM

Dr. Alicia P Magos of UP Visayas studied about the indigenous people known as Panayanon-Bukidnon. Perhaps, they are the roots of the Ilonggos, Aklanons, Antiquenos and Capiznons since they share almost the same beliefs as the lowlanders although integrated with Christianized and Westernized beliefs.

The Panayanon-Bukidnon's area is located in the mountainous interior of Central Panay. One of their beliefs which surprisingly still being believed by any modern Ilonggo or Panayanon of the lowlands. This is the 7 Layers of the Panayanon Universe and the creatures that dwell with it.

I'll translate it into common Hiligaynon that i know, hehe!

First Level: Ranig-Ranig
Tungtungan sang sangatanan kag wala naga-tener didto.

Second Level: Tubignon
Diri naga-tener ang mga kalag sang kadagatan. Isa sa mga sapat-sapat sini ay ang kataw nga gintunga nga babayi sa ibabaw kag isda sa ubos nya nga parte sang lawas, daw sirena ugaling malain ang batasan. Isa man diri ang syukoy nga kon sa diin lalaki sini kag law-ay man.

Ikatatlo nga Lebel: Idalumnon
Diri nagatener ang mga kalag ukon sapat-sapat sang idalum sang duta. Halimbawa sang mga nagatener diri ya ang lulid (daw ulod nga may ulo sang baboy), tibsukan (daw biik nga may malaba nga sungat nga ginausar sini nga pangkutkot ipaidalum), tulayhang (daw kasag nga gamay nga naga-tener sa mga shells nga wala unod)..ini mga alaga sang engkantu.

4th Level: Lupan-on
Diri na nagatener ang mga mortal nga tawo kaupod ang mga engkantu.
Ang mga lupan-on nga daw tawo ang itsura:

Muwa - daw tigulang nga laki ukon bayi nga gakawat sing mga gamit sa balay ukon paray.
Tamawo - Panayanon version sang mga fairies sang mga taga-Nakatundan, ang lalaki ni ay nagapatay sang mga babayi nga mortal. Kalabanan sini, ang mga tamawo ang nagadala sa mga tawo sa ila nga ginhari-an. Ang mga tawo, makabalik lang sa ila nga kalibutan kon makig-bato man sila sa mga tamawo sa isa ka dwelo.
Murokpok - isa ka putot kag may ara nga kulot nga buhok nga mamana lang sa mga nagtalang sa dalan.
Kapri - parehas sa ginapati-an sang mga Tagalog, ini ya may dala nga tabako kag nagatener man sa isa ka daku nga puno.
Mangigilaw - itsura nga tinunga nga tawo kag amu.
Mantiw - mataas kag maniwang nga sapat-sapat.
Kamu-Kamu - dwende nga parehas sing nuno sa punso sang mga Tagalog. Ini nakapungko sa isa ka bato ukon termite mound.
Aswang sa Talon - bulbulon kag may malaba nga dila.Ang mga lupan-on nga sapat-sapat ang hitsura:

Bawa - madamu ini sang porma pero ini may daku nga baba nga kon sa diin pwede suyupon ang biktima.
Sigbin - parehas sa mga Sugbuhanon, ini naga-lain sing hitsura nga daw ayam nga may dila sing man-og kag lawas sang kanding.
Tay-hu - tunga tawo kag tunga kabayo, ini gapamasyar sa mga bakhawan. Daw parehas sini ang tikbalang sang mga Tagalog ugaling ang ibabaw nga lawas ang porma tawo.5th Layer: Kahanginan
Ang kahanginan ukon atmospera sa babaw sang duta ukon kalibutan. Ini ang teritoryo sang mga ispirtu nga makalupad.

Burulakaw - isa ka babayi nga may ara nga malaba nga buhok nga daw galupad nga bola sang kalayo.
Mulang - daw isa ka daku nga pis-pis nga nagadakma sang dungan sa isa ka lapsag ukon bata kon gagwa sini sa balay kon gab-i.
Hubot - isa ka daku nga pis-pis nga daw may pakpak sang kabug.
Bentohangin - daw galupad nga kabayo ugaling ang ubos nga parte sang lawas ay porma nga daw ubos man nga parte sang tawo.6th Layer: Ibabawnon
Diri nagapuyo ang mga espiritu sang mga nagkalamatay, mga espiritu sang mga babaylan ukon maalam kag ang dungan sang indi pa nabata nga lapsag. Sa pinaka-babaw nga parte sang ibabawnon, diri makit-an ang bakunawa, isa ka sapat nga parehas sang dragon sang mga Intsik, ini ang naga-kontrol sa paghulag sang kalangitan.

7th Layer: Langitnon
Ini ang kalangitan sa mga Kristyano, diri nagapuyo ang Makaako, subong ini gaparehas sang Dios nga Amay sang mga Kristyano.

*Reference: Magos, Alice. Seven Layers of the Panayanon Universe. Iloilo: A Rich and Noble Land. 2007: Lopez Foundation: Manila, Philippines.

SUV111

February 6th, 2008, 05:44 PM

SUV111

February 6th, 2008, 05:56 PM

Animo

February 6th, 2008, 06:21 PM

Anything Bisaya is welcome, not just Cebuano oi :)
Western, Central and Eastern Visayas :) :) :) share na! :cheers:

Unsaon mani na ang Mindanao Bisaya man sad! Oy represent! :cheers:

:lol:

P.S. Pareja lang kadaghanan ang sa Visayas ug sa Mindanao.

harveharve

February 6th, 2008, 06:37 PM

Unsaon mani na ang Mindanao Bisaya man sad! Oy represent! :cheers:

:lol:

P.S. Pareja lang kadaghanan ang sa Visayas ug sa Mindanao.

hahahaha:lol: Mindanao nga binisaya myths asa naman mo oi? :banana:

Animo

February 6th, 2008, 06:49 PM

^^ This are the common ones that I know from Davao del Sur. I think it's also the same for the other regions.

Kalag mu-sud sa Ku'un(Kulun)/Kaldero.
Tabonan ang samin kon mag kilat
Barang
Gaba
Sigbin
Kikik/ Ikik
Kwaknit
Tabi-tabi
Agta
Amao/Aswang

kyle@1008

February 6th, 2008, 11:47 PM

http://www.geocities.com/tpbnt/bubogpix.jpg
bubog in Silay, where they say that this "tres marias" is an entry point of the third dimension. a lot of accidents happened in this area...and some even saw weird and extraordinary figures like white kalabaw in the middle of the night, white lady crossing towards the trees and some say that when they pass through this area, you should blow your horn so as to signal the spirits that you are asking permission to pass through coz if not. You will notice the road will split and you will crash

friends of mine did a documentary on that tree... they got EVP on the tape, and what's funny was that they charged two camera batteries ( we're masscomm students, we don't forget that sort of thing particularly when the docu is our whole term grade) and those batteries would drain after a few minutes of footage, catching EVPs telling them to go...
and what's even wierder is the fact that those batteries worked after they left the area...

>>> anyways they're still plenty of stories, we even frightened bernie with that :lol:

death327

February 7th, 2008, 12:20 AM

Hmmm...I will try to visit that place ^^^ Maybe I can talk to the folks living in those trees. It might be the portal of shinigamis. :D

Btw, anyone here knows about santermo?

habagatcentral1

February 7th, 2008, 03:50 AM

tinyente gimo story, is it true?... di ba its also a part of panay story about witches?

Tiniente Gimo's story is a very political black propaganda story as according to the natives of Dueñas, Iloilo....where Tiniente Gimo and the story is set.

Bombo Radyo made it famous and therefore was believed by the city dwellers as well. Or we could trace this out from the "belief" that Tinyente Gimo cooked up his daughter in a kawa. Another version is that due to a famine (in which Gimo has the only corn remaining in the town), the townspeople made stories kuno that there was a child found dead in Gimo's cornfields with the victim's innards gone. This forced Gimo to clear up his name and give a share of corn to the townsfolk.

Guillermo Labang as his real name is, was a prominent figure in Dueñasnon politics of the late or early 20th Century. Actually, his decendants still live in the outskirts of poblacion. We had an interview with one of his grandchildren which has a stigma over media people who colored Dueñas and their family badly.

ABSCBN became persona-non-grata in Dueñas as a resolution done by the municipal councul because of a broken promise of clearing up their name from the stereotyping that they are "People of the Airport" (you know what I mean ;))

SUV111

February 7th, 2008, 05:10 PM

friends of mine did a documentary on that tree... they got EVP on the tape, and what's funny was that they charged two camera batteries ( we're masscomm students, we don't forget that sort of thing particularly when the docu is our whole term grade) and those batteries would drain after a few minutes of footage, catching EVPs telling them to go...
and what's even wierder is the fact that those batteries worked after they left the area...

>>> anyways they're still plenty of stories, we even frightened bernie with that :lol:

hahahahaha!!! youre giving me the creeps. :) just take a look at the place now, its being developed into a subdivision yet, the trees are still there...never been touched. :) hahahaha!!!

I saw one video in youtube, the people who were doing a documentary speaks bisaya, they managed to get a footage of the trees and an accident in front of it.

harveharve

February 7th, 2008, 05:43 PM

^^^^

Mao ni siya?

Jxq8vzjEHok
part 1

JkpwuXb94dI
part 2

SUV111

February 8th, 2008, 03:36 AM

^^^^

Mao ni siya?

Jxq8vzjEHok
part 1

JkpwuXb94dI
part 2

yup...mao ni harve...hehehehe thanks :)

SugarFreak

February 8th, 2008, 07:39 AM

Il Tenore

February 8th, 2008, 11:16 PM

^^kaw talaga! hehe!

Fundador

February 9th, 2008, 03:19 AM

^^totoo ba yan?:lol:

habagatcentral1

February 9th, 2008, 03:40 AM

SUV111

February 9th, 2008, 04:01 AM

^^totoo ba yan?:lol:

i guess totoo...coz we experienced something when we passed there...buti na lang parang tinulungan kami nun. its really a scary place...unang tingin pa lang napa ka eerie na.

SugarFreak

February 9th, 2008, 04:04 AM

^^kaw talaga! hehe!

hahah,,,fever na ako diyan...basta wala lang iwanan pag hayan na ang mga kalaban kasi baka lalong lalaban ako

SUV111

February 9th, 2008, 05:50 AM

^^ if somebody here got a copy of the pic taken at UNO-R please share it here...

that pic was taken by a nursing student who can see dead people. He saw the ghost in wheel chair and the ones pushing the wheelchair is a headless person...the pic was so clear that you can even see the entire figure and their bloody skin

eonynx

February 10th, 2008, 09:32 AM

whatever happened to that "maria labo" story?

Fundador

February 10th, 2008, 11:16 AM

i guess totoo...coz we experienced something when we passed there...buti na lang parang tinulungan kami nun. its really a scary place...unang tingin pa lang napa ka eerie na.

Very interesting:lol:

Fundador

February 10th, 2008, 11:27 AM

I would say Dumanggas in Iloilo, sa isang Baranggay I've been there, and was told to be careful with the people I talk to, and never to stay out late at night or walk alone down the dirt path especially on a full moon because ...this is what I was told..ewan kung totoo ang aswang I was told that ang mga tao doon are somehow blood relatives.:ohno:

habagatcentral1

February 10th, 2008, 11:40 AM

flesh_is_weak

February 10th, 2008, 12:15 PM

What about the "tamawo ship". I think almost every other town in the island of Panay has this account of the "bulawang barko" or golden ship which plies the rivers of Panay. Suprisingly, they traverse where there is an underground river but they can be seen by the public sometimes for days.

Cebu has Maria Cacao, a fairy who is said to sail an enchanted ship, which was said to responsible for the breaking in two of the Old Mananga Bridge in Talisay when the ship traversed the Mananga River one day...

She is said to be a trader of sorts who specializes on Cacao (Cocoa) and others say also gold and other precious metals...a more morbid version of her legend goes that the grinders of her ships engines are fueled by the bodies of human children that are fed to it :devil::devil::devil:

habagatcentral1

February 10th, 2008, 12:30 PM

And in Antique, you've got O'Layra. Popularized by a radio show yet it resembles so much of the golden ship of the tamawos.

The existing babaylanes in the hinterlands said that the Isle of Panay is enchanted by the one described in the folktales and the Panayanon Universe.

SUV111

February 10th, 2008, 01:05 PM

Pacific_leopard

February 10th, 2008, 03:01 PM

^^ gusto mo post ko pic ko para scary? joke joke.ehehe

gen1

February 10th, 2008, 05:18 PM

saan ba ang bayan na pinakamaraming aswang ?

pupuntahan ko, magaganda raw ang mga aswang :lol:

dodong

February 10th, 2008, 09:59 PM

habagatcentral1

February 11th, 2008, 04:37 AM

^^ Hehe!!! But say this to any Dumangasnon, Dueñasnon and Capiznon and they might have either of the 4 possible reactions:

1.) Wala lang. They'll just smile and laugh at the jokes pinpointed in their town and townsfolk, and move on to the next topic. :D

2.) Accepted. They will even add up new information about the story of aswang.

3.) Denial. May it be courteous denial or an outrage. :no:

4.) The whole barangay or townsfolk may have an uprising, carrying torches, pitchforks and municipal ordinances to drive away the jokers. :runaway:

But for several years that I've stayed here, the myths of 'aswang' is fading away and instead replaced by urban legends such as ghosts and white ladies.

Most of the "aswang tales" in Panay have been directed to propaganda either by jelous townsfolk, Spanish friars condemning the babaylanes or people who can't do anything in their lives. Its merely a propaganda mixed with mysticism and superstition to make it a more effective propaganda.

SUV111

February 11th, 2008, 05:42 AM

^^ gusto mo post ko pic ko para scary? joke joke.ehehe

hahahaha!!! pero I'm serious...mas maganda kung may ghost pics tayo dito :) :nuts::nuts:

SUV111

February 11th, 2008, 05:45 AM

saan ba ang bayan na pinakamaraming aswang ?

pupuntahan ko, magaganda raw ang mga aswang :lol:

according sa mga narinig ko...Capiz and Siquijor daw ang may mga ganyan...and also duenas...but i dont think its true...sabi nila Dumangas maraming aswang daw...i stayed there before for a week and holy week pa kung saan pinakamalakas daw sila...naku...inabangan ko talaga...pero wala talaga :) hahahaha

SugarFreak

February 11th, 2008, 06:31 AM

saan ba ang bayan na pinakamaraming aswang ?

pupuntahan ko, magaganda raw ang mga aswang :lol:

sa siquijor daw marami don...sama ako

harveharve

February 11th, 2008, 09:48 AM

http://info.org.il/irrelevant/philippines_ghost.jpg
I'm not quite sure where this pic was taken...

harveharve

February 11th, 2008, 09:55 AM

http://www.gypsygirlshop.com/items/aswang_10.jpg
A typical aswang/mananggal (penanggalan in Indonesia).
http://www.enworld.org/cc/gallery/images/large/penanggalan.jpg
Here is the Indonesian counterpart of our very own nightmare. hehe puparehas ra noh?

harveharve

February 11th, 2008, 10:02 AM

http://www.alienufoart.com/images/1Ghost.jpg
This one is from Bacolod.

Hi! My name is Lolali Saripada from Philippines.
This Photo was taken a year ago at St. Mary's Home For The Aged in Bacolod City, Philippines on October 14, 2003 around 4PM. I would like to share this in your website and I cac attest that this Photo is real because I was the one who took it during my 2 weeks training at the Home For The Aged as a Caregiver. I don't think it was a bad film or just bad weather. It was very sunny when I took this picture of the old man who lives there, is one of the elderly we take care of. We took care of the elderly for 2 weeks in order to get our diploma as a Caregiver. This was a really a remote area and the buildings where the Elderly Home stands was near the mountain. I hope you publish this on your website.
Thanks and More Power,
Submitted by: Lolali Saripada
Copyright 2004, Lori McDonald."

Fundador

February 11th, 2008, 04:44 PM

^^ Taas kilay ng mga taga-Dumangas nyan. Its also the same branding as of the people of Dueñas, Iloilo and the whole province of Capiz. In other words, the propaganda was effective to create stereotyping.

Capiz is rumored to have a number of aswang and my lolas told me that Aswang can be revealed, with the use of a bottle of a special oil made from coconut :lol:

Fundador

February 11th, 2008, 04:56 PM

kaya pala iba ang kilos ng asawa ko sa gabi...lalo na kung patay ang ilaw sa kwarto namin. taga dumangas sya.:lol:

meron din kami bahay sa Dumanggas..:lol::lol: naka bili lang ng bahay sa Patlad Dumanggas:lol: pero hindi talaga kami taga doon..bakasyonan lang :nuts:sa city kmi ngayon nakatira kaya cgurado akong hindi kami aswang yey:lol::banana::banana::banana:

SUV111

February 12th, 2008, 12:40 PM

http://www.alienufoart.com/images/1Ghost.jpg
This one is from Bacolod.

saw this harves :) hehehehe is this true?

benchjade

February 12th, 2008, 12:57 PM

naniniwala din pala ang mga indonesian sa aswang

habagatcentral1

February 12th, 2008, 01:08 PM

Capiz is rumored to have a number of aswang and my lolas told me that Aswang can be revealed, with the use of a bottle of a special oil made from coconut :lol:

Ang mahiwagang "lana" na kumulo sa gitna ng taping nila Jay Taruc sa Capiz sa I-Witness. :D

icarusrising

February 12th, 2008, 01:26 PM

One time I was vacationing in Antique, an aswang was supposedly "caught" in Iloilo. Being the city kid I was, I was shocked to listen as she was being interviewed on radio. I didn't want to listen but every house I went to, people were listening with interest. What I can remember from her conversation with the broadcaster was that she made "ginamos" out of some kids. I think they were her relatives too- niece and nephew. She cut them to pieces, salted them and put them in jars. :runaway:

SUV111

February 12th, 2008, 01:45 PM

Fundador

February 12th, 2008, 04:14 PM

Ang mahiwagang "lana" na kumulo sa gitna ng taping nila Jay Taruc sa Capiz sa I-Witness. :D

Yup maliban sa kumukulong lana:lol: You can distinguish also an Aswang attack if you sprinkle salt to the dead body, and you will find trunk ng saging instead of the dead body, which i think Aswang replaced and devour the real one:lol:

Fundador

February 12th, 2008, 04:17 PM

hahahaha!!! i wonder how does it tastes...:) but according to my professor in anatomy before, human flesh is much cleaner than the animal meat :)

yup i think their favorite food are body parts especially liver and heart.:lol:

icarusrising

February 12th, 2008, 04:23 PM

hahahaha!!! i wonder how does it taste...:) but according to my professor in anatomy before, human flesh is much cleaner than the animal meat :)

Salty? Kasi inasinan eh... :lol:

When I was in 1st year high school... in QC ito, we had an FHP teacher who recounted of how meat she bought from the talipapa remained tough despite hours of boiling. Puzzled, she said she brought it to a medical facility. Upon examination... the meat turned out to be human flesh. :eek2:

red_jasper

February 14th, 2008, 06:16 AM

Thursday, February 14, 2008
Legaspi: Aswangs, Anyone? (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/bac/2008/02/14/oped/carlos.legaspi.jr..questions.that.matter.html)
By Carlos Legaspi, Jr.
Questions that matter

A FEW days ago, news broke out that there is an "aswang" roaming around the city of Silay.

Many residents identified the thing as "taong Manwit." A few years back a couple was beheaded for being suspected as "aswangs." Lately, news of aswangs is in the papers. But do these middle world creatures really exist?

Whenever these issues crop up, I am reminded that there might be issues of greater concern that is being covered up by this human-interest story. However, we feast on this story rather on issues of greater concern. We tend to forget the oil price hikes, the national scandal, the release of criminals, the requests of the mutineers, the call of the Bishop to protect the environment, the useless promises of GMA, to mention some pressing issues covered-up by the story of "aswangs".

I recall my Metaphysics professor telling us that "Aswangs" really exist. He told us that there are three classifications of the existence of aswangs. First, "Aswangs" are pigments of the imagination. Second, "Aswangs" are cannibals. And third, "Aswangs are like us.

The first class of "aswangs" are not dangerous. They are like Spiderman, Superman, Batman, Mikey Mouse, Power Puff Girls and Godzilla. They are simply products of our imagination. They become realistic because the human mind has the power to project. The human mind is more powerful than the Over Head Projector (OHP). It can project 3-dimensional images. For this reason, we can see 3-dimensional Capri , white Lady, elves, Tikbalangs, and mananangals. These are all creatures found on our folklores. Books are often good in producing creatures from the middle world or in Philosophy, the Preternatural World. All these beings are just product of our imagination. They exist in our subconscious mind and in the middle world. Amulets, incantations and potions are made to war off these beings. If one does not believe on these creatures. Surely, he will never see one.

The second type of "Aswang" are the cannibals. Cannibals are being that eat their own kind. What do we call a dog that eats its puppies, a chicken that eats her chicks and a swine eating its piglets? We call these creatures -"ASWANG". So, a man eating another man is also called -"aswang". These are not to be feared in the Philippines , for we do not eat our own kind.

The last classification is the one to be feared of. They are the ones that eat our intestines and livers. They are the ones that no amount of amulets and potions can destroy. These are the beings that are seen only during the 15th and the 30th of the month reporting for civil service. These are the creatures known as "Ghost employees". They really destroy the very economic fiber of our society. These are the ones that should be feared. They are the real causes of poverty that creates the two other classes of aswangs. These are to be hunted down and be burned at stake. Who created them? The system- it is the system of governance that created these creatures and we allow them to lurk in our midst.

Lastly, I am very much weary hearing news about aswangs or vampires roaming around. The next time I hear this, I would think that there is a greater issue being covered-up whether by the national government or the local government. I hope that today's aswangs would not have their capes on real issues.

On the lighter side, a happy valentine's day to one and all. Let us all be vigilant of the last classification of aswangs.

St. Ezekiel Moreno and Pope John Paul II, pray for us.

paul_radley

February 14th, 2008, 07:58 AM

I have been a rather lurking presence on these forums for the last couple of years and I've decided, with the help of a little bit of wine, that I'm going to start contributing a little more, given that I have the time to do so.

I come to the Philippine Forums nearly everyday that I can. My mother is Filipino and owns property around the metro area and in her home province of Cagayan. She is definitely a true Ilocana. I haven't been back to the Philippines for years now, so this is a way of keeping touch, I suppose and also, a good way to keep abreast of the developments around Metro Manila.

Something that I have noticed, to a little dismay I must admit, is that there seems to be a general disappointment within the Filipino community when it comes to actually being a full blooded Filipino. I just don't comprehend this subject fully and I am thinking about actually writing a dissertation of sorts on this subject.

Before this becomes too verbose, I will phrase this issue in one question: Why does there seem to be a problem with the Filipino identity and being Filipino? What does it mean to be Filipino today, in the global sense? I myself am only half Filipino and I try to touch base every day with the ethnic and cultural extraction of my mother. I like telling people that I am half Filipino and half Irish. But what I do not understand is that many, many Filipinos almost need to state they are only 3/4 Filipino, 1/4 Spanish or 80% Filipino and 20% Arab, etc., to feel validated and accepted in a certain circumstance.

What is it that we attribute this quasi-identity crisis to? Is it the colonial past of the Philippines? Maybe the position of the modern day Filipino as a cosmopolitan person, reaching to be a member of an integrated, dynamic society? Or is it the socio-economic/social set-up of the Philippines, whose elite is partly composed of direct Spanish descendants? I have spent many years travelling around the world with my family and have been exposed to many Filipino communities around the world, including those which exist in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Ireland, Thailand and various cities in the United States. One thing in common that I have found amongst Filipino populations is an almost contradictory pride in being Filipino that exists hand in hand with (what seems to be) a desire to be partly something else.

Now, I may be wrong and I do NOT mean to offend or to single anyone out, by any means. This is just a question that I have been thinking about quite critically for a while yet have found no substantative answer to. I am very interested in sociology and the societal forces that shape in individual. So...(finally)...

Let's discuss this, please. :)

Manila-X

February 14th, 2008, 08:06 AM

That's pretty tough. Anyway, I consider myself Filipino even if I'm not a citizen of The Philippines or have a Philippine passport.

I'm half-Filipino as well but I can speak the language and adapt the culture. Does that make me Pinoy :)

But Filipinos are mixed. You either have malay, spanish or chinese blood.

paul_radley

February 14th, 2008, 08:10 AM

kiretoce

February 14th, 2008, 08:26 AM

I know I'll get some grief for saying this (again!), being a Filipino is a state of mind. There isn't a definitive way to tell who/what are Filipinos physically, for we have the darkest of the dark-skinned, and the palest of the pale-skinned, and everything in between that consider themselves Filipinos. It's a well known fact that modern day Filipinos are a product of a myriad of cultures and ethnicities that have converged and came together, and that's where the confusion stems from. Like that old adage, "Filipinos have Asiatic features, have Latin/Hispanic last names (majority at least) and temperament, and speaks American slang." Now if you have a cultural/ethnic background as diverse as that, you'd be confused to as to what your roots really are.

You can only be a Filipino sa isip, sa salita, at sa gawa.

Manila-X

February 14th, 2008, 08:29 AM

Well if you've one parent that is Filipino and you can speak the language, eat bagoong and diningding then I suppose that'll answer your question...I don't have either a passport or citizenship (one and the same thing really, as a passport is a symbol of citizenship) but even so, I'm still half Filipino.

The question, I do think, is deeper than that though...it's not simply about a passport/citizenship.

Its my dad whos Pinoy and he's from Zambales. I can speak the language but I rarely eat Filipino food, grew up in western cuisine :D

When I see, to be Filipino is more the bloodline and culture. When I see it, being a Filipino is if you can identify yourself with the culture despite being a citizen of another country or even not having any Filipino blood

Manila-X

February 14th, 2008, 08:31 AM

One thing I noticed it alot of half-Filipinos can identify more with the Filipino side kinda like how most half-African American identify themselves.

bariQ

February 14th, 2008, 09:01 AM

i remember there was a thread about imschfdgd or something like that. that they have a need to be associated with other people because being just filipino is ordinary...

chocolato1000

February 14th, 2008, 09:02 AM

tracing one's root might be important, but there's no way I will let my ancestors confuse me who I am today...everytime people ask me who I am, I always reply "I am a Filipino," no matter what my ethnic background, what I look like or what i speak.

http://pic60.picturetrail.com/VOL1698/10588304/18969014/303955711.jpg

kiretoce

February 14th, 2008, 02:20 PM

i remember there was a thread about imschfdgd or something like that. that they have a need to be associated with other people because being just filipino is ordinary...

:yes: Yup, it's the Do you have the IMSCF Syndrome thread.

Both threads have been merged. :colgate:

amigo32

February 14th, 2008, 03:25 PM

I have a IMSF Syndrome. hehehe No letter C.

SUV111

February 15th, 2008, 05:04 AM

b'z2;18406862"]Thursday, February 14, 2008
Legaspi: Aswangs, Anyone? (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/bac/2008/02/14/oped/carlos.legaspi.jr..questions.that.matter.html)
By Carlos Legaspi, Jr.
Questions that matter

A FEW days ago, news broke out that there is an "aswang" roaming around the city of Silay.

Many residents identified the thing as "taong Manwit." A few years back a couple was beheaded for being suspected as "aswangs." Lately, news of aswangs is in the papers. But do these middle world creatures really exist?

Whenever these issues crop up, I am reminded that there might be issues of greater concern that is being covered up by this human-interest story. However, we feast on this story rather on issues of greater concern. We tend to forget the oil price hikes, the national scandal, the release of criminals, the requests of the mutineers, the call of the Bishop to protect the environment, the useless promises of GMA, to mention some pressing issues covered-up by the story of "aswangs".

I recall my Metaphysics professor telling us that "Aswangs" really exist. He told us that there are three classifications of the existence of aswangs. First, "Aswangs" are pigments of the imagination. Second, "Aswangs" are cannibals. And third, "Aswangs are like us.

The first class of "aswangs" are not dangerous. They are like Spiderman, Superman, Batman, Mikey Mouse, Power Puff Girls and Godzilla. They are simply products of our imagination. They become realistic because the human mind has the power to project. The human mind is more powerful than the Over Head Projector (OHP). It can project 3-dimensional images. For this reason, we can see 3-dimensional Capri , white Lady, elves, Tikbalangs, and mananangals. These are all creatures found on our folklores. Books are often good in producing creatures from the middle world or in Philosophy, the Preternatural World. All these beings are just product of our imagination. They exist in our subconscious mind and in the middle world. Amulets, incantations and potions are made to war off these beings. If one does not believe on these creatures. Surely, he will never see one.

The second type of "Aswang" are the cannibals. Cannibals are being that eat their own kind. What do we call a dog that eats its puppies, a chicken that eats her chicks and a swine eating its piglets? We call these creatures -"ASWANG". So, a man eating another man is also called -"aswang". These are not to be feared in the Philippines , for we do not eat our own kind.

The last classification is the one to be feared of. They are the ones that eat our intestines and livers. They are the ones that no amount of amulets and potions can destroy. These are the beings that are seen only during the 15th and the 30th of the month reporting for civil service. These are the creatures known as "Ghost employees". They really destroy the very economic fiber of our society. These are the ones that should be feared. They are the real causes of poverty that creates the two other classes of aswangs. These are to be hunted down and be burned at stake. Who created them? The system- it is the system of governance that created these creatures and we allow them to lurk in our midst.

Lastly, I am very much weary hearing news about aswangs or vampires roaming around. The next time I hear this, I would think that there is a greater issue being covered-up whether by the national government or the local government. I hope that today's aswangs would not have their capes on real issues.

On the lighter side, a happy valentine's day to one and all. Let us all be vigilant of the last classification of aswangs.

St. Ezekiel Moreno and Pope John Paul II, pray for us.

can somebody post here something about panlaban sa aswang aside from bawang and holy water...what are other alternatives to fight dark forces. I heard from a friend who knows someting about supernatural beings that aswang daw can go inside the church but cant take the sacrament of eucharist.

kyle@1008

February 15th, 2008, 08:20 AM

SUV111

February 15th, 2008, 09:48 AM

^^ depends on what kind you're fighting against...

most supernatural beings according to mythos can't cross the threshold without being invited in...

salt is also a good defence, a circle of salt to be exact..

and an amulet inscribed with the name Senoy, Sansenoy, and Semangelof,.. or thhe name can be uttered.. this is according to jewish folklore,..

wow kyle!!!! do you have any translation of those words?... sometimes its difficult to utter words you dont know...it might be something to summon evil spirits. :) hehehehe

I read in an article before that one defense would be strength in spirit. :) it was stressed that fear is the entry point of the evil ones to conquer a human being. its their door for you to be manipulated by spirits. is it true that "saway" or tanso can also be used to drive away aswang?

icarusrising

February 15th, 2008, 01:53 PM

^^ Probably came from the belief that metal disrupts magic. The manananggal would have a hard time flying if there were lots of sampayans copper or otherwise. :lol:

SUV111

February 15th, 2008, 03:17 PM

^^ Probably came from the belief that metal disrupts magic. The manananggal would have a hard time flying if there were lots of sampayans copper or otherwise. :lol:

correct and also the bamboos...

red_jasper

February 16th, 2008, 02:34 AM

^^ AFAIK, SALT is used to defend against "engkanto"/"dili ingon nato".
i have a high school friend who always carry salt with her 'cause "gi-abyan" daw s'ya ug "dili ingon nato" :)

newborn babies are usually made to wear those "pulseras" with red beads ("tambal sa buyag") to defend them against "buyag" from "engkantos" 'cause those beings supposedly abhor the color RED...

then there's always the ever reliable (?) BAWANG/AHOS for ASWANGs :)

icarusrising

February 16th, 2008, 05:26 PM

^^ I see. So copper is doubly effective. It's not only metallic but reddish as well.

I've seen a Philippine movie wherein blood (a red substance) formed into a circle was used as a barrier against the onslaught of evil spirits. Those who were inside couldn't be harmed.

gen1

February 17th, 2008, 06:05 PM

silver is better than copper. Aswangs are allergic to silver and will instantly disintegrate when pierced by silver bullets.

they said so in Blade I, II, and III.

:lol:

red_jasper

February 18th, 2008, 02:20 AM

parang made of copper yata ang bullet shells (?)
i've noticed some parents would bore a tiny hole on an empty bullet shell, thread a nylon cord into it and tie the thing around a baby boy's waist.
(in NorMin, we call it "habak", maybe from "hawak" = waist)
this, i think is a variation of the "pulseras" of red beads :)

icarusrising

February 18th, 2008, 05:35 PM

silver is better than copper. Aswangs are allergic to silver and will instantly disintegrate when pierced by silver bullets.

they said so in Blade I, II, and III.

:lol:

Magastos naman yan. Silver bullets are said to be the werewolves' bane too.

gen1

February 19th, 2008, 12:22 AM

they actually sell silver plated bullets at makati cinema square :)

red_jasper

February 19th, 2008, 02:17 AM

on another note...
a friend of mine once said that DIAMONDs will also provide protection of some kind.
siguro nabasa nya to:

The Magick of Gems and Stones (http://www.geocities.com/gardenwitchry/gems/gems.html)

PROPERTIES

Protection - agate, alum, amber, apache tear, calcite, carnelian, cat's-eye, chalcedony, chrysoprase, citrine, coral, crystal quartz, diamond, emerald, flint, fossils, garnet, holey stones, jade jasper, jet, lapis lazuli, lava, lepidolite, malachite, marble, mica, moonstone, mother-of-pearl, obsidian, olivine, onyx, pearl, petrified wood, pumice, ruby, salt sard, sardonyx, serpentine, staurolite, sulfur, sunstone, tiger's-eye, topaz, black tourmaline, red tourmaline, turquoise, clear zircon, red zircon

icarusrising

February 19th, 2008, 01:17 PM

Metals are said to counter magic while crystals have the ability to contain and channel energy. Metals appear naturally as crystals though. Pyrite or iron sulfide, for example, appears as cubes.

SUV111

February 20th, 2008, 12:35 PM

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2157/2278745197_3c533a0926.jpg?v=0

i took this photo yesterday when i went to a nearby town in Bacolod...i was wondering if the figure appeared on the pic is a ghost.

Cushite

February 20th, 2008, 06:59 PM

It's rather strange that anyone, in 2008 would think that King Tut (Tutankhamen) was so-called "white" when his family were indigenous Africans. How in the world can anyone think that a people with a African language, living in Africa with African customs can be European? This is nothing more than modern Euro mental illness that has affected people on a global level. Whiteness, is not indigenous to Africa and it's about time that people learn to research information and stop being educated by movies and television.

http://www.myspace.com/thecushite

chocolato1000

February 21st, 2008, 02:14 PM

sa theory ng human evolution, lahat ng tao ay nagmula sa africa.

kiretoce

February 21st, 2008, 04:49 PM

Couldn't find an appropriate thread to post in for this article, figured this is the closest thing related to it.

Read below.

===========================================================================

The recipe for "pie-verty" (http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/feb/22/yehey/opinion/20080222opi5.html)

I wanted to attend the rally at Ayala last week but I was still recuperating from high fever, so I just decided to witness all the action on TV. Watching made me hungry so I decided to cook; and what I whipped up was something as sweet and easy as pie!

For the pie-filling, you will just need the following:

1 kilo of corrupted pork (in a barrel)

1 cup balimbing leaves, crushed

1 pack chis-mix

Fat crab mentality

3 quarts greed

Bunch of sour grape

Essence of colonial mentality

+ kilo spineless poly-crusticians

Boil some water. Wait until it becomes so hot, like the heads of Filipinos—sick, starving, and tired of our leaders’ antics who have always promised a better country when everything just turns worse each day. When the water is hot enough, stir it the way Jun Lozada stirred the anger of the Filipinos toward the glaringly corrupt government system. Gradually put in a quart of greed. As they say, “moderate the greed;” so pour that greed one quart at a time.

Grab the corrupted pork from the barrel that doesn’t really have any nutritional value. Better if the pork was stolen and beaten so badly by the butchers who siphon away everything they could. Leave this corruption problem simmer for years on fire.

Then get some balimbing leaves, which our country’s quite famous for. Smell how awful they are, like some old trapos without principle. Crush these balimbing leaves with all your might before adding it in. That’s exactly what balimbings merit—being crushed and put into a boiling pot for them to taste their own brew!

To add some spice to the concoction, open the pack of chis-mix. This makes the world go round and it’s a highly profitable product. Make sure everything gets into the brew. Don’t spill anything unless you want to get back at someone. But brewing up rumors about other people is even much better! Make sure that it doesn’t fire up ala flambé because chis-mix can be really fiery, to the point of destroying lives and reputations. As they say, where there’s smoke, there’s fire; there’s always some truth to chis-mix, but it usually gets out of hand.

Where there’s chis-mix, there’s crab mentality. Put the crabs in slowly, and keep stirring until you smell its nasty scent. We always try to pull each other down, that’s why nothing happens to us. We just cannot accept that some people make it. Instead of just focusing more one how to better our crafts and abilities, we’d rather lambaste other people in order to uplift ourselves. In the end, we all get destroyed. When you see the defeated crab all cooked, pour in another quart of greed, for we all know that greed, apart from envy, is the main reason why we love that crab mentality.

Add a few drops of essence of colonial mentality and watch the concoction bubble and boil. I guarantee you; this is gonna be way better than any Filipino delicacy. After all, a lot of people only know for Western culture, Chinese goods, black music and pirated foreign movies. This ingredient is very essential in making the perfect pie-verty filling smell so scrumptious!

Pluck the best sour grapes from the bunch and add it in. This is the favorite ingredient of politicians who do not get their way. They turn into sour grapes and put on their turncoats and start propaganda against the ones who did not give in to their self-seeking behests.

Before dropping the last ingredient, add in that final quart of greed. This will bring out the flavor of the spineless poly-crusticians, which doesn’t amount to anything. Poly-crusticians don’t have visions; they just go wherever there is sustenance. I doubt if there is even grey between its ears. Reminds me of those we put in office. Most of them are spineless that they cannot stand on their scruples. But then again, they do not even have scruples to begin with.

After you’ve finished your filling, dough whatever you wanna dough. That’s the simple recipe for National Disaster and Poverty. A lesson in Philippine Politics: You can have your pie and eat it too.