Contest Entry - Being Filipino

Mszcheysser is having a contest just for her Philippine readers. I decided to enter since the concept is interesting plus I've nothing better to do because it's been raining crazy the past two days. Anyways, on to the contest...

5 things about being Filipino. You are Filipino if...

1. You have strong family ties

You know the saying that blood is thicker than water? Well it certainly rings true to Filipinos. Filipinos, in general, have strong family ties. One household may include the father, mother, children, grandmother and grandfather. In some cases, even siblings of grandparents, or even the aunt or uncle. In the province, your grandparents will probably tell you that you are related to about every person you meet there.


2. “Mano po”“Mano” is a basic Filipino custom to show respect to the elders done by placing the back of the hand of the elder to the forehead of the one paying respect.


3. Using the term “Comfort Room” instead of Restroom

A funny thing happened to me. I was shopping with my cousins at Macy’s and I badly needed to go to a restroom. I approached one of the sales clerks and asked where the ‘comfort room” was. The lady stared at me blankly, looking confused. I asked again, this time using the term “rest room” and she burst out laughing, telling me that she was already thinking that I was referring to some weird place.

4. You have the biggest luggage in your flight, and may even include a humongous carton box called the "balikbayan box"

What can I say? Filipinos are very, very crafty. Since airlines have certain baggage allowances, what better way to take home your "pasalubong" or presents than to fit it all in a carton box. You'll be surprised how much stuff can fit in that box. Haha.


5. You eat “balut”

Unfortunately, I haven’t eaten one yet. But a balut is a Filipino delicacy which is an undeveloped duck egg.


And to end this entry is my look consisting of the Philippine flag's colors