My favorite gifts to share with friends and family are shells and pretty stones I find at the beach, small paintings, watercolor bookmarks and buns or pastries from the local bakery!
Caution and Care
Filipino people care deeply about the safety and wellbeing of their friends and guests. In place of saying “good-bye” when parting ways, people will say “ingat” in Tagalog or “halong” in Kinaray-a. Both of these phrases mean “take care!” Another way Filipino people express their concern is by ensuring those around them are comfortable. When I attend an event with a friend or neighbor, they will be sure to periodically ask, “Do you need anything?” or “Are you happy and not bored?” People are quick to bring guests drinks and snacks, and occasionally check that they have had enough to eat.
Having a kasama, (buddy or partner) is a must before you venture around a new place or after the sun sets. At night, if I plan to walk five minutes from my house to get a snack, my host mom will ask me if I would like for a neighbor to join me. Usually, my family’s dog Gino will tag along, trotting next to me as I walk around in the evenings!
Chores and Errands
One of the ways I have noticed Filipino people express care is through helping me with chores or errands. If I need to make a trip to the post office or bank, my coworkers will offer to drive me. When shipments of seeds or fishing gear arrive at my office, all coworkers team up to carry and distribute the materials, even if it is not directly related to their own responsibilities. While traveling for work with my supervisor, she will insist I let her pay for my bus ticket or tricycle fare.
