Which is your favorite church in the Philippines architecturally? And why?

 

Bjorn Von Possel

This is really, really hard. There are a bunch of beautiful churches all over the country and it’s easy to fill out a top ten just with an eye-test.

For this answer I’m going to go with two churches, not necessarily because they’re any better than the others, but because they just differ from the usual layout of the other churches.

My first is the Miag-ao church in Iloilo.

I mean, just look at that façade. Even from the distance of this far-away shot, you can still discern a bunch of detail in the stonework, Another thing I love about this church is the almost symmetry of the uneven bell towers.

Most Philippine churches only have a single bell-tower, and the fact that not only does Miag-ao have two, but being uneven as well, just shows a lot of character to me.

My other pick is the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist in Sibonga, Cebu.

It’s huuuuuuuuge.

How do Filipinos from urban areas view Filipinos from rural areas and vice versa?

 

By: Holly Benedicto

Middle-class brown Filipino from a developing nation

Bisaya. Lived in Northern/Southern Luzon and Northern/Southern Mindanao. Has travelled all over the Philippines, some Asian countries and the United States. Scientific background. Has worked in multi-cultural teams, most extensively with Americans. Knows three (3) Filipino dialects.

I have lived in cities in the Philippines all my life and am now in Metro Manila. We spent summers in a rural coastal town as a child.

Filipinos from rural areas are simple and to a degree, lucky, because they are near beaches that we city-dwellers, only dream of going to on occasion. I do wish I was like them, satisfied with the simple life. I have been used to the faster pace in the city and its conveniences that rural living does not appeal to me. I wish we had internet in those areas. Imagine working from home just a few steps away from the beach.

I wouldn’t say people in the rural areas are “less than”. They may not be as sharp or quick-witted in conversation compared to their city-educated peers, but they don’t work in corporate where it’s a necessity.

They may not be as ambitious or driven as the city counterparts because their city counterparts have bazillion bills to pay and need money, while they live with their parents in homes that their great grandparents put up (I’m referring to the rural middle-class to rich). They have little to no worries beyond what to eat and raising children. There is no house or car mortgage to worry about. And if they lose internet access, it’s fine. Their jobs don’t depend on it.

They may not be as “worldly”, or experienced in a variety of cultures like city-dwellers who get to have turkish, chinese, italian food delivered to them through an app. They may not have book collections, or Netflix that will help them think and understsnd western ideals. But they swim beaches or climb trees like no finicky city-dweller can. I have never climbed a tree, and am a poor swimmer.

City and rural dwellers were designed to fit the environment they live in. We can’t look at both from the lens of one and say one is superior. We all die at the end, just at different rates.

Bayanihan Sa Paaralan Build 2021 officially kicks-off in Davao de Oro

In the craggy mountains of Anitapan, Mabini, Davao de Oro lies Sitio Singapore, a small community situated in higher grounds, far from buzzling crowds, commercial buildings, and busy streets.

Reaching the sitio would take a lot of courage and will only be possible on feet, muddy pavements won’t even allow vehicles to get there, and raging tropical weather; the heat of the sun and cold showers of rain adds the challenge.

Living in a simple way, the sitio has an estimated number of 42 households, and locals rely mainly on farming abaca and coffee to support the needs of their families. Children in the community will have to travel from the sitio down to Brgy. Anitapan to access proper education in the public school during pre-pandemic times, and it is not an easy feat.

“Amung mga estudyante, kaniadtong wala pay pandemic, muadto pa pababa padulong sentro sa Anitapan para mueskwela. Kung musakay ug motor, mamasahe pa mi ug 150 pesos para maabot sa sentro.” said Terisita Paican.

 The call for a learning institution echoes in the vast environment of the sitio. The geographical location of the community seems to deplete the chance of putting up a school for them, but this doesn’t stop the spirit of bayanihan.

Dreams will do come true in no time as the Provincial Government of Davao de Oro in partnership with the Department of Education, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, private partners, stakeholders, and volunteer employees of the provincial government officially started the ceremonial kick-off of the “Bayanihan sa Paraalan Build 2021” on September 4, 2021.

The “Bayanihan Sa Paaralan” has always been one of the major initiatives of the provincial government under the governance of Governor Jayvee Tyron L. Uy. Since 2019, the upcoming school building in Sitio Singapore will be the 7th established learning institution, a byproduct of dabawenyos’ volunteerism.

 “Ubay-ubay na nga kabukiran ang atuang natukuran ug eskwelahan. Karung tuiga aduna tay upat ka eskwelahan nga itukod tungod kay aduna pay mga communities sa kabukiran diin mubaba pa ang mga kabataan, mubyahe pa ug layo, para lang maka eskwela, why not atuang ibutang mismo sa komunidad ang eskwelahan. Mao na ang atuang purpose, dire sa Davao de Oro walay mabilin nga kabantan-onan ilabi na sa mga kabukiran.” said Governor Uy.

In more or less than a month, a One (1)-unit, two (2) classroom building will rise in the soils of the sitio, making quality education accessible for the children in the far-flung community.

It is never easy to get there, but nothing beats the bayanihan way. (Jasteen Abella, Information Division Davao de Oro, photo by Ronel Renz Alvarez)

WITH BEETHOVEN UNDER PALMS (XXX): The Last Chapter

Beginning with a decree of the German Foreign Office dated October 17, 2016 the Federal Republic of Germany called me as Honorary Consul for Mindanao. After the Philippine Government accepted my appointment through the Department of Foreign Affairs, then German Ambassador to the Philippines  Dr.Jan-Christian Gordon Kricke arrived in Davao City on June 20, 2017. I took my oath and served Filipino and German nationals until my retirement as consul in December 2020. My administrative district encompassed all of Mindanao except Sulu Archipelo, Tawi-Tawi, and Basilan. It was a challenging job especially acting as notary public: issuing Legal Capacities to Contract Marriage in the Philippines or Philippine Driver's Licenses, urn/cadaver  certificates, certified true copies of German and Philippine documents, consultations - the list would all be long. 

[Members of the Diplomatic Corps:

Hon. Consul Joji Ilagan-Bian (Bangladesh), Consul Yosiaki Miwa (Japan), Acting Consul General Mohd Jafri Bin Mohd Sharif (Malaysia), Asec. Romeo Montenegro (MINDA), Hon. Consul Maria Lourdes Garcia-Monteverde (Mexico), Madame Elisabeth Napitupulu, Atty. Zuleika Lopez (City Administrator), Hon. Consul Peter Faistauer (Austria), Consul General Berlian Napitupulu (Indonesia), Asec Robert Ferrer (DFA for Mindanao), Consul General Li Lin (China), Hon. Consul Edgar Ang (South Korea) and Hon. Consul Klaus Doring (Germany)]

It was one of the greatest honors that I, as a German national in the Philippines, especially in Mindanao, received. Being a member of the diplomatic family opened many new opportunities for me. Retirement means very often the end of everything. The last chapter in life. Not for me. 

After leaving the diplomatic stage and the University of Southeastern Philippines, suddenly other interesting tasks didn't make my "old age" seem boring.

Teaching (again!) German at Ateneo de Davao University, Language Center and a lot of translation works - my home office keeps on booming. One of my hobbies, exploring German-Philippine relations and the differences between both countries' culture and tradition and writing about, takes up most of my free time now. And another hobby that I have neglected very often recently is to be revived: Classical Music. Myself at the piano or some other audio carrier... .

The last chapter - here. But I pray to our good  and Almighty Lord, that He might allow me some more chapters on earth - together with my wife Rossana, to whom I dedicate this 30-part biography and together with our awesome Philippine family, to whom I owe a lot if not everything!

How would Filipinos react if I spoke to them in Filipino (Tagalog)?

 

By: Bisaya

Barok and Takya Blog | Bisaya Podcast

Most Filipinos would be happy to hear you speak Filipino (Tagalog) and might even switch to English for your convenience. Some might not understand the language and will respond with a smile on their face (I don't know); don't take it the wrong way. We're just reticent. It is a sign of great respect and cares that you choose to address us in our native tongue rather than force us into learning yours.

Filipinos are generally more flattered than insulted by an offer to try their native language, so it should be relatively easy as long as you pronounce the unfamiliar words accurately through adequate study beforehand. You can also say thank you or sorry after addressing someone in Tagalog, as words exist in the language.

If you want to speak Filipino (Tagalog), there is a pretty good chance your interlocutor will be highly receptive and generally pleased to hear it. However, some people might not understand what you're saying. So again, it's a sign of care and respect that you've chosen to address them in their native tongue rather than force them into learning yours.

4 dogs beheaded - P15,000 reward up for info on person responsible

 

September 06, 2021

POLICE personnel of the Island Garden City of Samal (Igacos) have launched a manhunt against the person responsible for beheading four puppies in Barangay San Miguel and a P15,000 reward was put up for those who could help identify the perpetrator.

The dogs were found beheaded in a lot in Barangay San Miguel on September 4. It was immediately reported to barangay officials, and it was found out that the beheading happened on September 3.

Initial investigation revealed that the owner of the dogs ordered the puppies to be thrown as they were infested with lice, but the owner denied doing the beheading.

San Miguel Barangay Captain Dionn Phillip Heramil has offered P5,000 and a certain Sir Jimmy offered P10,000 as reward for those who could identify the person responsible for the crime.

“Kung kinsay makatodlo sa pag patay sa 4 ka itoy ug pag potol sa mga ulo niini adunay madawat nga reward worth P5,000 gikan sa atong maabtikon nga kapitan Dionn Phillip Heramil ug P10,000 gikan kay Sir Jimmy, nag total sa kantidad nga P15,000,” said Barangay San Miguel Igacos in a Facebook post.

“Ayaw kamo kabalaka kay magpa bilin confidential ang inyong identity.

Kung aduna kamu impormasyon palihog e contact atong Kapitan Dionn Phillip Heramil – 09071515906,” it added.

Bantay Hayop Davao, meanwhile, condemned the incident and vowed to help in the investigation.

“The viral photos of 4 puppies around 2 to 3 months old that started yesterday was a shocking sight, painful, unacceptable and unforgivable. Karumal-dumal. Isang kawalang respeto at kawalang dangal. Masahol pa sa isang halimaw ang gumawa nito at sa tingin namin ay hindi ito normal. A person capable of doing such a psychopathic act and display it for others to see is a work of a criminal that cannot be simply allowed on the loose,” it said in a Facebook post. (LMY)

Why do most Filipinos believe in conspiracy theories?

 

By: Dayang C Marikit

I would say that a sizable amount of Filipinos do believe in conspiracy theories, but definitely not "most"… generally speaking "Philippine society" as a whole would consider you to be a "weirdo" for believing in such things, you would probably even get "bashed".

Filipinos don't have the same type of distrust, animosity and paranoia against "The Establishment", like that of what we see in the USA and other Western nations.

• In fact, in the USA a lot of people think that the pandemic is just a "hoax", which causes them to not exercise "proper caution", which then spreads the virus even more.
• Meanwhile, in the Philippines the vast majority of the population do believe in the news reports and generally follow government guidelines to slow the spread on the virus. No one here protests against the tight restrictions and no one here protests against the compulsory wearing of masks, etc etc etc.

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Now, to answer your question, generally speaking people may believe in conspiracy theories either to feel like they are still in "control" of the situation, (this is generally the case in the USA)… or if they aren't well educated, in other words "gullible", (this is generally the case in a lot of developing countries, including the Philippines).

• The main difference is that Americans who believe in conspiracy theories tend to make elaborate stories to justify why they believe in the conspiracy, but Filipinos who believe in conspiracy theories often don't have an elaborate reason as to why they believe in them… they probably just saw it on Facebook and automatically believe what they saw.

Don't get me wrong, when it comes down to it, I don't think that one is "better" than the other… but I find that those who create elaborate stories to justify their beliefs to be much more "annoying" than those who are just "gullible".

INNER STRUGGLES

 My column in Mindanao Daily News and BusinessWeek Mindanao

OPINION

By KLAUS DORING

 September 4, 2021

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Let's not fool ourselves: The pandemic has completely turned our entire lives upside down. Private, social and in  business. Inner struggles for many of us are the bitter result. An inner struggle reflects an unresolved emotional conflict, an inner knot that has been cystic and that must be clarified in order to have peace and well-being. What is the result of an internal struggle? Frustration, frequent changes in mood and psychological fatigue (it is tiring to load with a frequent question) and anger. But it is also a stimulus to deepen the knowledge of oneself.

 

In essence, an internal fight shows an internal opposition, an opposition of contrary forces that steal the inner tranquility, serenity and peace. Therefore, in a situation like this it is very important to hear those sentiments to put ideas in order.

 

A person may also experience an inner struggle when there is an internal debate between duty and the crave order. How many times, you want to give up? Ask yourself?  Similarly, it is also possible to experience this internal struggle into an existential crisis.

 

There are personal disagreements in the daily routine, as shown by the difficulties of coexistence: partner discussions, differences in criteria with friends, anger of family... . However, it is important to point out that the relationship that a person has with others, part of the bond that has with itself beyond individuality. Every human being establishes a constant relationship with their own identity. In this way, a process of self-knowledge is established. The inner world of a human being is very complex, marked by duality and constant struggles. In other words, a person can feel an inner struggle between reason and heart.

 

Inner conflicts typically begin with statements such as "I am sick of, I always or I am so tired of" and it is not unusual for them to be accompanied by some jaw clenching, an occasional rant or stomp of the foot.  Everyone has a unique problem of their own, an issue that follows them throughout life and never goes away. You discover it early and go on to struggle with it for the rest of your life, almost until it eventually becomes an old enemy that you lose the will to fight or hate anymore.

 

There are environments that are especially suitable to reflect calmly on oneself. For example, take a stroll through a green area and walk. Or, I talk with family members. They are experiencing the same struggles - young and old. Or, I  pray and talk to God. 

 

Fortunately analysis is not the only way to resolve inner conflicts. Life itself still remains a very effective therapist. Allow me to quote  F. Scott Fitzgerald:  "I hope you live a life you're proud of, and, if you find that you're not, I hope you have the strength to start over!"

Yes, hopefully the struggle we're in today is developing the strength we need for tomorrow. Stay safe and healthy everyone. 

What are some Filipino traits or practices that have faded over time?

 

By: Dayang C Marikit

I’m a Philippine history professor and my articles mainly focused on promoting and educating people about the pre-colonial period. 

I would like to inform people that “nothing is set in stone” because we are constantly gathering information and learning about our history, somethings may change in the future, but for now the things that I publish are the things that we currently perceive to “know about.”

Originally Answered: What are some Filipino traits that have faded over time?

Religiosity - It really depends from person to person but a lot of younger Filipinos are generally not as devout as their elders… I agree with Lex Avila… sometimes being overly (by the book) religious is seen as narrow minded, especially by the more educated ones… but at the same time, atheism among Filipinos is still generally unpopular.

• A lot of Filipino may identify with a religion, but don’t really practice it in a very strict conservative way… Ex: (You could see openly gay people going to church, Premarital sex… etc).
• There are also some Filipinos who don’t identify with religion but still hold some spiritual beliefs, (like me).

Basically, a lot of Filipinos are becoming less conservative when it comes to religious attitudes, but at the same times it’s still very rare to see a Filipino who completely doesn’t have any spiritual beliefs.

• (A lot of modern Filipinos are Christian by name, but in practice they are “spiritual but not religious”).

(C) www.quora.com

How "Hiya" Can Make or Break Your Business in the Philippines

The Philippines is geographically and culturally unique. Its placement between the Pacific and Indian Oceans make it perfect for shipping. This has led to major cultural blending. The Philippines has had its share of influences, including Spanish and American. As a result, the Philippine population is one of the most distinct in the Asia-Pacific region.

Some traits and attitudes of Filipinos share that same complexity. It’s important to understand the value system and communication style when visiting the archipelago nation. Doing so will verse you in the regional culture, and make travel and small business dealings much easier.

It’s important to understand the value system and communication style when visiting the archipelago nation.

The Philippine trait hiya can pose a particular challenge to visitors unaware of the local culture. We want to help broaden the scope of your small business, and international dealings are a sure-fire way to do that. With that in mind, we’re going to help you understand Philippine hiya and how it can make or break your business dealings. Whether you’re looking for a supplier or just taking in the sights, learning about Philippine culture is crucial.

What is Hiya?

In Philippine culture, hiya is generally defined and translated to mean “shyness” or “shame.” Hiya is also related to “pride” and is connected to self-esteem or self-image. It occurs in many instances, such as not being able to pay a bill, provide for one’s family, or being generally unreliable. The feeling is akin to embarrassment, and is avoided at all costs.

Yet, the fear of this form of hiya may be just as important as its actual occurrence. If a person feels slighted, it may be considered a feeling of hiya, even though it’s only perceived. For example, bringing a gift of food to a business lunch or dinner can be viewed as a slight against the host, as if they were unable to provide for their guests. This is also referred to as “losing face,” or losing respectability among peers. This form of hiya may be the most commonly known, and most feared form.

In Philippine culture, hiya is generally defined and translated to mean 'shyness' or 'shame.'

So, what does hiya have to do with small businesses and international trade?

Putting your potential partners into such a situation will greatly affect your success. This will all depend on the situation, but a good method is to avoid anything that may imply your Philippine partner is lesser, unreliable, or unable to perform a task. The above example of giving a gift of food is a great illustration of what we mean.

As well, especially in a business deal, hiya is directly related to pakikisama.

Pakikisama

Don’t worry, this one isn’t as complex as hiya. Pakikisama is the concept of a smooth relationship, and being non-confrontational. It’s important for Philippine business people to conduct a negotiation without conflict, and is related to saving face.

The best advice we can give to avoid conflict in Philippine business is to take things slow.

Generally, Philippine suppliers will do anything they can to avoid saying no. Refusal creates conflict in a negotiation, and causes one or both sides to lose face. This will generally put a halt to further negotiations, even if you get a “yes” out of them. Yes often means “perhaps,” and shouldn’t be taken seriously.

Avoiding conflict altogether is your best bet. Like with hiya, avoid any situation where your Philippine partner refuses an offer or displays excessive emotion. For example, “lowballing” or “highballing” aren’t useful tactics in Philippine business. These methods rely on an initial no and later compromise.

The best advice we can give to avoid conflict in Philippine business is to take things slow. Don’t be overly aggressive when negotiating. Don’t be frank, as you may come off as uncultured and will make people feel uncomfortable. Your best bet is to do what will irk most US small business people – beat around the bush.

Though it might be a culture shock, it’s even more important to avoid conflict with sensitive topics such as Philippine politics, and payment.

Play the game, engage in small talk, and build a relationship with your supplier. Allowing the practices to play out and respecting Philippine values will take you further in your negotiations than overly-forward tactics ever will. Though it might be a culture shock, it’s even more important to avoid conflict with sensitive topics such as Philippine politics, and payment.

(C) by VEEM. * This blog provides general information and discussion about global business payments and related subjects. The content provided in this blog ("Content”), should not be construed as and is not intended to constitute financial, legal or tax advice. You should seek the advice of professionals prior to acting upon any information contained in the Content. All Content is provided strictly “as is” and we make no warranty or representation of any kind regarding the Content.