Fish, what? That was Tashi’s reaction when my brother – on one of their ’strolling Manila’ moments – asked him if he wanted to try fishballs. Per my brother’s observation, Tashi was a little hesitant on trying it (he later on told us he thought my brother was referring to the fish’s balls and since … More Filipino Street Food Fishballs
When Chatty Pinay told me her father was going to the cock arena to show off his cock, I knew exactly what she meant and I tried desperately to be an adult. I know cock fighting (or sabong as it is called in the Philippines, or if it’s illegal or not in an official cockpit … More Cockfight
A quack in the Philippines is quite different from what the term means in a Western context. We have to put it in a specific context to create a relational identification though it may not be entirely accurate.In the Western context, a quack doctor is someone who either uses unproven or unorthodox techniques or medicinals … More Quack Doctor
Bamboo skewers or walis tingting (stick that comes from the midriff of a coconut leaf) serve as the battleground. The warriors are placed at both ends of the stick and gently pushed toward each other. The death match begins with both kids hoping their spider would be the one to live to fight again. Just … More Filipino kid’s bloodsport aka spider fighting – Part 2
Growing up in a family with mostly male cousins, both on my father and mother side, was equally challenging and interesting. I wasn’t treated special just ‘coz I’m a girl. I had to be one of the boys to be able to join their games and activities, including spider fighting. Spider fighting is a popular … More Filipino kid’s bloodsport aka spider fighting – Part 1
Kevin can be quite the practical joker. First I thought I misunderstood him. Then from the look of the grin on his face I thought he was kidding around.Now maybe I misunderstood, but from what I remember, I was told that someone had brought evil spirits with them and those evil spirits were upsetting … More Saliva, good for what ails you part 2
My introduction to Philippines Folklore was not the aswang. That would come a couple years later. My first encounter was actually my sponsored child’s mother. I’ve sponsored a child (Allyn Bongat) through an organization called Children International for 12 years now. Children International allows sponsors to visit sponsored children and my first visit was scheduled … More Saliva, good for what ails you part 1
Being among the many Filipinos living in the United States, I am one of those who were blessed to have found a home away from home. America is a great country. A wonderful place to live. The land of opportunities where dreams happen. A place for greener pasture for some, a refuge for others. Unlike … More America, my home away from home
Elena For Reels 