This might not be the typical expat blog, written by a German expat, living in the Philippines since 1999. It's different. In English and in German. Check it out! Enjoy reading!
Dies mag' nun wirklich nicht der typische Auswandererblog eines Deutschen auf den Philippinen sein. Er soll etwas anders sein. In Englisch und in Deutsch! Viel Spass beim Lesen!
BY ROBERT REQUINTINA Sep 15, 2024 04:07 PM AT A GLANCE The purpose of Tomboy Philippines is not only to showcase talent but to affirm ...
You plan to move to the Philippines? Wollen Sie auf den Philippinen leben?
There are REALLY TONS of websites telling us how, why, maybe why not and when you'll be able to move to the Philippines. I only love to tell and explain some things "between the lines". Enjoy reading, be informed, have fun and be entertained too!
Ja, es gibt tonnenweise Webseiten, die Ihnen sagen wie, warum, vielleicht warum nicht und wann Sie am besten auf die Philippinen auswandern könnten. Ich möchte Ihnen in Zukunft "zwischen den Zeilen" einige zusätzlichen Dinge berichten und erzählen. Viel Spass beim Lesen und Gute Unterhaltung!
Visitors of germanexpatinthephilippines/Besucher dieser Webseite.Ich liebe meine Flaggensammlung!
MANILA, Philippines — Michele Gumabao proved that Creamline is not just about having its top players around.
“Creamline isn’t just one player, it’s really the whole team and we’re really one big family, same program, same training and our coaches treat us just the same,” said Gumabao, who is expected to step up anew as shorthanded Creamline tangles with Chery Tiggo in today’s PVL Reinforced Conference at the PhilSports Arena.
“Sa coaches namin hindi nila hinahanap kung sino wala. We just need to really step up para sa mga hinihintay naming bumalik,” she added.
Gumabao has been providing not just strength but also leadership in the absence of Alyssa Valdez, Tots Carlos and Jema Galanza, and has averaged 16.5 points in its first two outings.
MANILA, Philippines — Miss Universe 2022 and Filipino-American designer R'Bonney Gabriel appeared on reality competition show "Drag Race Philippines" in an outfit made from letters sent to her by fans and supporters.
The second episode of "Drag Race Philippines" Season 3 carried a sustainability theme where the competing queens had to make two outfits: one from sari-sari store products and one from recycled material provided by production.
R'Bonney, an advocate for sustainable fashion, was the special guest judge for the episode and joined in on the challenge's theme.
The beauty queen-designer stitched together fan letters to cover her shoulders, legs, and hair.
"Kept all my fan letters from last year and incorporated it into my guest judging look I designed for 'Drag Race Philippines' because I love y'all," R'Bonney said in one Instagram post, and in another said, "I had a feeling that hoarding all my fan letters would come in handy one day."
R'Bonney is the first Filipino-American to be crowned Miss Universe and since her coronation has made frequent visits to the Philippines.
Drag queen Myx Chanel won the episode's maxi challenge and badge with their superhero-villain concept while contestants Angel and Tita Baby were dramatically spared from elimination by host and main judge Mama Pao Ballesteros.
The month of August is a significant period where we celebrate the beauty and history of our language in a celebration called Buwan ng Wika. With the theme “Filipino: Wikang Magpalaya,” this year’s celebration is highlighting the role of our language in promoting peace and unity.
To mark this celebration, Style Weekend asked some book influencers what their favorite Filipino books are.
‘Cave and Shadows’ by Nick Joaquin
On the surface, it’s about a man who returns to Manila to solve the mysterious death of his stepdaughter. It’s a crime thriller and mystery, but Joaquin goes deeper and explores themes like identity, history, religion, and colonialism.
This is a meaningful recommendation as this year marks Joaquin’s 20th death anniversary. There is a renewed interest in the National Artist’s body of work, including the reprinting of his books, the launching of the Nick Joaquin Foundation, and the theatrical staging of Kisapmata, the Mike de Leon film adapted from the author’s “The House on Zapote Street.”—Koji Arsua, writer and book content creator.
‘Of Flowers That Bloomed in Fire & at Night’ by Jerico Silvers
In the midst of the pandemic, this book illuminated my darkest days and helped me find solace and understanding during challenging times. This book has been an unwavering friend, aiding me as I journey through the toughest stages of my life.
This book is truly special and I highly recommend it for anyone in need of comfort. It’s one of the most beautiful books I’ve come across, blending self-help and poetry in a way that feels like a warm embrace.—Jucelle Garcia, BookTok influencer.
‘Desaparesidos’ by Lualhati Bautista
This book delivered everything I hoped for and more—a heart-wrenching story set during a defining moment in Philippine history, written with boldness and courage, yet strikingly relevant to today’s society. It’s graphic, raw, honest, and deeply moving all at once. I’d go so far as to call it Bautista’s best book of all time.—Kat Leonorio, professional teacher and co-founder of#AkdangPinoy2024.
‘Si’ by Bob Ong
Sinimulan ni Bob Ong ang librong ito sa dulo at tinapos sa pinakasimula. Isasama ka ng librong ito sa buhay ng karakter na busog sa pag-ibig at mga pagsubok sa buhay. Manipis lang ang libro, pero pakikiligin, patatawanin, at paiiyakin ka. Ipapakita rin ng kwento ang kahalagahan ng pamilya, pagpapatawad, at pagkakaibigan. Ang ganda ng pagkakasulat– parang hinihele ka ng mga salita. Bubuuin ang puso mo para lang durugin ng huling pahina (Bob Ong started the story at the end and ended it at the beginning. This book will take you on a journey about the character’s life—full of love and challenges. It’s a short read but will make you feel the love, laugh, and cry. It shows the importance of family, forgiveness, and friendship. It was beautifully written. It’s like a lullaby; it will make your heart complete, only to shatter it in the end).—Gerald, The Bookworm, Book content creator.
‘Lalani of the Distant Sea’ by Erin Entrada Kelly
Released in 2019, this middle-grade fantasy novel follows the story of a young girl, Lalani Sarita, from Sanlagita. When an overlong drought came upon Sanlagita, Lalani decided to go beyond the island and find both the solution and the truth.
Powerful and imaginative, Lalani is a highly-recommended read for readers of all ages. What made it more accessible to Filipino audiences are the references scattered all throughout the book, coded and reimagined from different Filipino mythology and folklore. We have a nunso (nuno sa punso), fei (diwata), and mindorens to name a few. It also delivered a fresh perspective about childhood thinking while also highlighting classic Filipino traits such as generosity and bravery even in the most challenging times.
Lastly, one of the many takeaways from ‘Lalani’ that spoke to me is about taking risks even when no one believes in you and challenging the system.— Saimon or Sai, petroleum engineer and co-founder of#AkdangPinoy2024.
There are no rules for behavior, dress, etc. Today, in terms of clothing, almost anything goes, but they recall when the dress code was strictly formal.
If people say 'anything goes', they mean that anything people say or do is considered acceptable, and usually they mean that they do not approve of this. [disapproval] In the 90s, almost anything goes. See full dictionary entry for go.
Well, you see, in olden days, a glimpse of stocking was looked on as something shocking, but now, God knows, anything goes.
Good authors too who once knew better words now only use four-letter words writing prose, anything goes.
The world has gone mad today, and good's bad today, and black's white today, and day's night today, when most guys today, that women prize today, are just silly gigolos.
And though I'm not a great romancer, I know that you're bound to answer when I propose, because anything goes.
Originally used in the 19th Century as 'Everything goes', it simply means that one can do whatever one likes, without rules or consequences.
Anything goes? Yes, it seems so: illegal logging, natural disasters, improper disposal of garbage, climate change, melting icebergs, "my neighbor goes on burning rubber and plastic" (GRABE!), poisonous waste products ... !
Guys, when will you stop doing this? Or, are you waiting for the next tsunami and taifun taking away your family and all your belongings and properties?
Since years, I have on my desk a wonderful brochure entitled "Q&A Questions and Answers on YOUR ecosystem" - mentioning and explaining 365 (!) reasons to stand up for Mother Nature. And to be counted as "Barkada ng Kaliksan"! It's really a primer on environment care, produced by the Kinaiyahan Foundation, Inc. and BARog KA likupan DAbaw, Inc. (BARKADA) with a foreword by Elisea G. Guzon, former secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Even having the fumes of burned poison garbage in my nostrils (I usually enjoy writing my columns somewhere outside in my tropical green garden!) I still study this valuable brochure.
Yes, anything goes! It really seems true! Why should one think about the ecosystem and its structures? Or, solar-energy and life on earth and why should it be protected? The effects of global warming can be seen more and more, but deforestation and profits kill the thoughts and deeds about the value of forests and how to protect them!
Fertilizer and its problems are known, but who really cares? Pesticides and their problems are very well known too, but who really cares? Anything goes? How do we handle major consumers of water managing water resources? Are we overusing groundwater?
Climate change, greenhouse-effect, gases that pollute the atmosphere, acid rains, and biodiversity are foreign words to these people, who continue to destroy our globe and provoke the next natural disaster. The above-mentioned brochure, mentioning the Top 30 Environmental Issues in the 21st Century, is not the only written examination or rebuke. I wish and pray for many followers. For our next generations!
“Ang iyong sense of purpose ay magandang bagay sa iyong vision.”
This was the message of Senator Alan Peter Cayetano in his inspirational speech at the 42nd anniversary celebration of Mandaport Apostolic Pentecostals (MAP) on August 18, 2024 in the City of Taguig.
Drawing inspiration from the recent triumph of Paris 2024 Olympics gold medalist Carlos Yulo and other Filipino athletes, Cayetano emphasized that their clear vision propelled them to success and continues to drive them forward.
“Dahil klaro sa kanila na gusto nilang maging champion athlete, may vision sila. Ngayon, nagkakaroon sila ng purpose kapag may laban [tulad ng Olympics],” he said.
The senator stressed that a clear vision, purpose, and identity are crucial to achieving success as these elements cultivate the discipline needed to fulfill one's goals.
“Kapag klaro po ang iyong vision at mayroong plano, purpose, at identity, babantayan ka Niya. Kung nandiyan ang tatlong ‘yan, magkakaroon ng disiplina patungo sa iyong vision,” he said.
Cayetano noted that some people struggle to find their vision because they let the negative influences of the world cloud their judgment and obscure their path.
“Marami tayong mga kapatid na hindi umaabot sa vision kasi nauunahan ng kasinungalingan na ikaw ay hindi special. ‘Pag ikaw ay may identity sa Panginoon, alam mong mahalaga ka sa Panginoon,” he said.
He also emphasized that a strong foundation – rooted in the Word of God – significantly impacts not only an individual’s vision but also the country's vision toward true transformation.
“Marami tayong darating na magagaling na politiko at sistema galing sa ibang bansa, pero kung wala ang salita ng Diyos, walang transformation,” he said.
“Ang mas mahalaga po nating task ay ayusin ang pundasyon sa ating sariling pamilya, sa sariling community, sa sariling church,” he added.
In closing his remarks, Cayetano urged the members of MAP to continue inspiring the public, much like Filipino athletes do, saying that preaching becomes more effective when it also inspires.
“Success inspires; your church will inspire. Pero ano ang mag-i-inspire sa’yo? Is it the gold medal, or is it the Word of God? Mas maganda kung both,” he said.
“Sa lahat ng ating ginagawa, dapat ginagawa natin para sa Panginoon,” he concluded. ###
Mpox, formerly called "monkeypox," is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus that has been declared a public health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organization (WHO).
In the Philippines, the Department of Health (DOH) has reported that no new mpox cases have been detected since December 2023.
While there are currently no available treatments or vaccines for mpox, the DOH said infected patients may recover without medical intervention.
The DOH has assured the public that its surveillance systems remain on alert following the recent declaration of mpox as a global health emergency.
Monkeypox, now known as mpox, has been declared a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organization (WHO) for the second time.
Image from Unsplash
The viral disease, which has been spreading in African countries, was first declared a PHEIC in 2022.
Two years later, on Aug. 15, the WHO reissued its highest alert level due to a new mpox variant, which has increased the risk of the virus spreading to other continents.
The WHO’s declaration came a day after the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced mpox as a public health emergency.
Even before the WHO’s declaration, the Department of Health (DOH) in the Philippines said it was on “alert” as it continued to monitor global developments related to mpox.
On Aug. 14, DOH Spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Albert Domingo told reporters that the agency’s “surveillance systems remain on alert” following the recent declaration. “We will provide updates as they come,” he added.
What is mpox?
Mpox, originally named “monkeypox,” is a viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus.
Similar to smallpox but generally less severe, mpox was first identified in monkeys in 1958. The first reported human case was recorded in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1970.
In 2022, to minimize stigma and association with monkeys, as the disease can also infect rodents and humans, the WHO has changed the name from "monkeypox" to "mpox."
The viral disease spreads through direct contact, respiratory droplets, and contaminated objects.
Mpox can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, intense headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy, and swollen lymph nodes.
Those infected develop a characteristic rash that often starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body. This rash typically appears 1 to 3 days after the onset of fever and progresses through different stages before forming a scab, which eventually falls off.
Mpox in the Philippines
In the Philippines, the DOH reported that while there have been detected cases in the past, there have been no recorded deaths due to mpox.
“The mpox case count in the Philippines remains at nine,” Domingo said.
Four mpox cases were detected in 2022. Last year, five cases were detected: one in May, one in July, and three in December.
“No new mpox cases have been detected in the Philippines since December 2023,” Domingo said.
In 2022, the DOH issued interim technical guidelines for mpox surveillance, screening, management, and infection control.
A public health advisory issued by the DOH in 2022 explains how mpox differs from other viral diseases.
It also issued a public health advisory containing important information about the viral disease.
Should we be worried?
In a televised interview on Aug. 15, Domingo acknowledged the urgency of the WHO’s declaration of mpox as a health emergency but also emphasized the importance of remaining alert.
“Palagi namin sinasabi sa public health, maging alerto (We always say in public health, be alert),” Domingo said. “Tamang praning lang, wag masyado kasi para alam din natin kung ano ang gagawin natin para di tayo mahawaan o tayo ay makapag-ingat (It's okay to be cautious, but not overly so because this helps us know what actions to take to avoid infection or to be cautious),” Domingo said.
While mpox can be serious, especially for certain vulnerable groups, Domingo noted that there is no need to panic.
Mpox transmission
Domingo explained mpox spreads through close physical contact—especially skin-to-skin contact.
The virus spreads primarily through close contact with an infected person, including direct contact with their rash, bodily fluids, or respiratory droplets.
Mpox can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated objects like bedding. The incubation period, Domingo explained, varies from one to 21 days, with symptoms typically beginning as fever and rashes that may persist for up to four weeks.
The virus becomes contagious two days before the onset of symptoms, specifically rashes.
This 2022 public health advisory issued by the DOH explains how mpox is transmitted.
Unless individuals have direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids, or skin lesions of infected animals or humans, have prolonged face-to-face contact with an infected person, or have touched contaminated objects, such as bedding, clothing, or towels used by an infected person, the chances of transmission remain low.
Is there a treatment for mpox?
There is no specific treatment for mpox, Domingo said. However, the viral disease is generally self-limiting and can resolve without treatment.
“Walang gamot mismo sa monkeypox pero ang magandang balita, kusa itong gumagaling (There is no specific medication for monkeypox, but the good news is that it tends to resolve on its own),” he explained.
While the lack of available treatment for mpox causes concern for many, Domingo noted that infected patients may recover without medical treatment.
For infected individuals, supportive care --- such as managing symptoms and complications --- is crucial for recovery.
Similarly, Domingo said there is no vaccine available for mpox.
However, in some cases, antiviral drugs and vaccines used for smallpox may be effective against mpox.
In some countries like the United States, Domingo said the smallpox vaccine has been administered to high-risk populations.
“Dito sa Pilipinas, hindi natin siya ibinibigay kasi mababa o wala nga tayong nakikitang load lately at kaya naman ng ating surveillance systems (Here in the Philippines, we do not administer it because the risk is currently low or nonexistent, and our surveillance systems are adequate to manage it),” he said.
Be alert
While mpox is a disease that warrants attention and appropriate preventive measures, the DOH noted that there is no need for undue fear.
“Nakabantay ang DOH at ang buong gobyerno natin sa nangyayari ngayon sa international arena, wag po tayong mag-alala (The DOH and our entire government are monitoring the situation internationally, so please don’t worry),” Domingo said.
Recognizing that public health measures and education are key to controlling the spread of mpox, Domingo said that the DOH would continue to provide accurate information related to the disease.
“Tamang impormasyon ang kailangan para alam ng ating populasyon kung ano ang gagawin (Accurate information is needed so our population knows what actions to take),” he added.
Preventive measures
Since mpox is a viral disease, the DOH emphasized that it is prevented mainly through hygiene.
Avoiding contact or refraining from close physical contact with individuals who show symptoms of mpox, and practicing hand hygiene through regular washing with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers, are among the recommended preventive measures.
While masking remains voluntary, Domingo said wearing masks, especially while traveling, would reduce the possible transmission through respiratory droplets.
Domingo also mentioned that the Bureau of Quarantine (BOQ) is alert regarding the mpox situation.
“Ang ating BOQ, walang dagdag na proseso pero ang sinasabi naming alert sila (The BOQ has not added new processes, but they are on alert),” Domingo said.
Domingo mentioned that, as part of its measures against mpox, the BOQ might start asking additional questions or conducting interviews with travelers arriving from or heading to Africa.
Money sent home by Filipinos abroad reached its highest level so far this year in June, although a potential recession in the United States is threatening to clip the growth of remittances.
Cash remittances coursed through banks amounted to $2.88 billion in June, up by 2.5 percent year-on-year, data released by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) showed.
Figures showed this was the highest inflow so far this year.
Michael Ricafort, chief economist at Rizal Commercial Banking Corp., said remittances were typically high in June as Filipinos abroad hike their money transfers to pay for school-related fees ahead of the resumption of classes. Such a seasonal surge, he explained, may last until August.
Economic slowdown
But Ricafort said the possibility of a recession in the United States, major host country of Filipino expats, could pose a serious risk to remittances as data showed high interest rates stateside might be starting to weaken the American job market.
“Risk of economic slowdown or even recession in the United States, as well as in other countries that host large number of OFWs (overseas Filipino workers) … would still be a drag for remittances especially if there would be job losses,” he said.
The June spike in inflows brought the six-month remittances to $16.25 billion, 2.9 percent bigger than a year ago. According to the BSP, cash remittances from the United States, Saudi Arabia and Singapore contributed mainly to the increase in the first half of the year.
Data showed remittances have been growing at around 3 percent since late 2022, with the BSP projecting the average growth of these inflows to settle at that level again in 2024. That trend made some analysts believe that the growth of such transfers might be plateauing already even despite the weakness of the local currency in the past months.
Money sent home by Filipinos overseas is a major source of purchasing power in the Philippines, where consumption typically accounts for nearly 70 percent of gross domestic product. That said, a plateauing remittance growth may translate to sub-par support to consumer spending.
But Ricafort said remittances remain a “bright spot” for the economy, as they keep many Filipino families afloat amid stubbornly high inflation.
“Nevertheless, the continued and consistent growth in remittances could be attributed to higher inflation locally that required the sending of more remittances back to the country,” he said.
Russian ballet stars call Philippines ‘Paradise on Earth;’ decline to comment on ongoing war
Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo - Philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines — “Paradise on Earth” – this is how Russian couple Renata Shakirova and Aleksei Timofeyev described the Philippines, coming here for the first time as guest performers for local ballet company Ballet Manila’s 2024 staging of the classic “Giselle.”
At a press conference early this week for “Giselle,” the Russian guests raved over the Philippines.
According to the couple, they have always heard about the country from a Filipino ballet dancer friend, and now that they have come to the country for the first time, they agree with their friend that the country is just as their friend described, a “paradise on Earth.”
“Giselle,” "a tragedy... sad but beautiful story" of a peasant girl who fell in love with a nobleman, is the third offering for Ballet Manila's 26th Performance Season, said Lisa Macuja-Elizalde, Philippine prima ballerina, the first foreign soloist to join the Kirov Ballet and Ballet Manila’s Artistic Director.
The Mariinsky Ballet artists are in town to headline Ballet Manila’s “Giselle” in Aliw Theater on August 31 at 8 p.m. and on September 1 at 5 p.m.
“’Giselle’ has been a staple in Ballet Manila, but now, what makes this year different from previous seasons, aside from the fact that we have two guest artists, is the fact that it is onstage with the new Aliw Theater, with our LED (light-emitting diode) projections, with all those effects, may upgrading na kahit papaano…” Macuja-Elizalde explained.
Lisa said she learned about the couple through a recommendation from her ballet teacher in Russia. She invited the pair so that her company’s relatively new dancers (she lost many dancers during the pandemic) would be able to experience dancing with guest artists, who are also new to the country.
“Of course, it is so hard to say ‘no’ to Lisa because she is full of energy and life…” Alexei enthused.
“What is very special with Ballet Manila’s ‘Giselle’ is that I’m dancing it for the first time with my husband,” shared Renata, “and that kind of artistry and performance with somebody you are very close to will just make the performance very special. And I’m very excited to know the artists of Ballet Manila."
“It didn’t really need a lot of convincing or a lot of time to think about it. When the possibility came to perform in Manila, Philippines, there was really no question about it. We would accept because we were very excited to be able to perform in Manila. And we heard so much about the country. And so now, coming to the Philippines is just very exciting and we are looking forward to it.”
Their first performance as a couple was “Don Quixote,” and since then, they have performed in other shows together such as “Anyuta.”
The pair admitted that sometimes, it is also hard to work together as husband-and-wife, as they sometimes fight during rehearsals. But overall, it is now a “fun and pleasurable” experience for them, “especially in the acting and artistic exchange as a couple.”
“'Giselle’ is one of my favorite ballets,” said Aleksei. “And dancing ‘Giselle’ with my wife Renata, it is even more interesting for me to find out what’s going to happen… We are getting a good kind of jitters because we are performing in front of an audience we don’t know.”
“We don’t know the Philippine audience at all,” confessed Aleksei. “It is going to be the first time for the both of us. So we don’t really know what to expect from the Philippine audience, but what we want to do is to invite them to come and see our performance of ‘Giselle’.”
When Philstar.com asked how as artists were they affected by the war between Russia and Ukraine, Macuja-Elizalde said, “Sorry, I promised no politics!” — Video by Deni Rose M. Afinidad-Bernardo; video editing by Martin Ramos
MANILA, Philippines — Singer-actress Karylle Tatlonghari-Yuzon is joining the cast of unscripted reality show "Manila Matriarchs."
The eight-part series follows four Filipino women "navigating motherhood, sisterhood, careers, love, social standing, and the pursuit of true happiness," shooting in Manila and San Francisco.
Karylle will be accompanied by entrepreneurs Joanna Preysler-Francisco and Trisha Bantigue-Tsao and writer-speaker Myrza Sison.
Filipino-American Cece Asuncion of Girl, Bye Productions is the series producer while Miguel Santos, Eddie Tran, and Joy Tarce are executive producers as are JP Mallo and Justyn Reyes of J Creative Entertainment.
The show is yet to sign to a network or streaming service but it has the backing of the Film Development Council of the Philippines and Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos.
The Philippines, celebrated for its vibrant culture and warm hospitality, has a distinctive approach to national holidays, boasting over 20 official holidays each year. This places the country among the nations with the highest number of public holidays worldwide.
While these holidays offer valuable time off for employees and stimulate tourism, they also present notable challenges to the economy.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) have expressed concerns about the sheer number of holidays, suggesting that Congress consider reducing the list to promote economic growth.
Annually, there are about 22 regular holidays and around five special holidays, not counting local observances and work cancellations due to natural disasters.
Senate President Francis Escudero has joined the conversation, indicating openness to the idea of cutting back on national holidays.
Conversely, labor groups oppose any reduction, advocating for lawmakers to focus on understanding the challenges workers face.
Philippines vs. US and ASEAN countries
When comparing national holidays, the Philippines stands out in the ASEAN region or even with the United States.
In the US, there are 11 federal holidays recognized nationwide. While these holidays are celebrated across the country, individual states often observe additional holidays that reflect their unique histories and cultures.
In the ASEAN region, the Philippines boasts a greater number of holidays compared to its peers. Vietnam, for instance, celebrates six national holidays. Among these, Tet Nguyen Dan, or Lunar New Year, holds particular significance, symbolizing renewal and family reunions.
Meanwhile, Malaysia celebrates eight national holidays that reflect its vibrant multicultural society. Key observances include Hari Raya Aidilfitri, marking the end of Ramadan, and Hari Raya Haji, which aligns with the Islamic pilgrimage. Additionally, each state in Malaysia may have its own holidays.
Indonesia, the largest archipelago in the world, observes 16 national holidays. The calendar begins with New Year’s Day, followed by Chinese New Year, which varies each year. Galungan, a Hindu celebration, holds special importance in the Balinese calendar, while Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, and Independence Day on Aug. 17 are widely celebrated events.
Singapore, known for its multicultural society, has 11 national holidays that reflect its diverse ethnic groups. Celebrations commence with New Year’s Day on Jan. 1, followed by Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Puasa, and Deepavali. National Day on Aug. 9 celebrates Singapore’s independence.
Celebrating culture and community
National holidays in the Philippines are deeply intertwined with the nation’s history and culture, encompassing a range of celebrations from religious observances to national commemorations. For many Filipinos, these holidays are not merely days off; they represent opportunities to reconnect with family, honor traditions, and engage in local festivities. The prospect of holiday pay further enhances the anticipation surrounding these days, allowing employees to earn extra income.
The tourism sector also reaps the rewards of this holiday-rich environment. During peak holiday seasons, domestic travel surges as families flock to their hometowns or popular destinations. This influx of travelers significantly boosts local economies, supporting businesses from hospitality to retail. Festivals and events tied to specific holidays further attract tourists, creating vibrant local economies that thrive on the celebration of culture.
Economic Challenges
Despite the benefits, the extensive holiday calendar raises critical economic concerns. For businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises, the impact of numerous non-working days can be profound.
The additional costs associated with holiday pay, combined with reduced productivity, can strain financial resources. Employers often face challenges in maintaining workflow, and prolonged periods without regular operations can lead to decreased output and profitability.
Moreover, industries that rely on consistent performance, such as manufacturing and services, can find the disruption caused by holidays detrimental. Frequent breaks may hinder project timelines and complicate planning, leading to inefficiencies that can ripple through the economy.
Striking a Balance
To address these challenges, a balanced approach is essential. Policymakers could consider re-evaluating the holiday schedule, potentially consolidating certain holidays or introducing more flexible arrangements. Floating holidays, for example, would allow employees to choose their days off, ensuring that businesses can maintain operations while still respecting cultural traditions.
In addition, fostering a culture of productivity during holiday seasons is crucial. Businesses can implement strategies that encourage effective time management and planning, ensuring that work continues smoothly even amid celebrations. Training programs focused on operational efficiency during holidays could also empower employees to maximize productivity without sacrificing cultural observance.
Looking to the Future
As the Philippines navigates the complexities of its holiday calendar, it becomes increasingly important to engage in dialogue among stakeholders—employees, businesses, and government officials. By aligning the celebration of cultural heritage with economic sustainability, the nation can create a framework that honors its traditions while supporting growth.
The Philippines’ numerous national holidays are a testament to its rich cultural tapestry. However, the economic implications cannot be ignored.
By finding a harmonious balance between celebration and productivity, the Philippines can ensure that its holidays remain a source of joy and economic vitality for generations to come.
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