Why do most Filipinos call foreigners "Sir"?

Michelle Jones

Professional Matchmaking Consultant for CebuWomen.com

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International Dating Coach and Matchmaking Consultant for Cebu Women

It’s mainly because the use of honorifics is deeply ingrained in our culture. When using polite speech, we use “Ma’am” or “Sir”. Many even combine it and say “Mamsir.” It’s funny that we do that, to the point that it’s heavily parodied in showbiz.

This is most commonly observed in establishments by employees when greeting their clients or customers.

The usual “Kuya'' (older brother) and “Ate” (older sister) can only be used in casual settings. For example, you can call the jeepney driver “Kuya” or the lady selling rice “Ate”.

We don’t expect foreigners to understand the meaning behind our honorifics immediately, so we settle with “Sir” and “Miss”. These two are most often used in predominantly English-speaking work environments as well.

Foreigners are more than free to use our honorifics, provided that it is used correctly. Our honorifics are gender and age-specific.

To sum it up, here is a list Filipino honorifics:

• Kuya - elder brother or man
• Ate - elder sister or woman
• Tita - aunt or a woman of an older generation than oneself
• Tito - uncle or a man of an older generation than oneself
• Lola - grandmother or an elderly woman
• Lolo - grandfather or an elderly man

Hope this helps!

Kapuso star Klea Pineda comes out as gay

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Mar 19, 2023 11:21 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• "My 24th birthday is extra special since I finally mustered up the courage to come out to the world as my true authentic self. Masasabi ko na ito na ang pinakamatapang na desisyon na nagawa ko sa buong buhay ko. I want the world to know that I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community," said Klea in an Instagram post.

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Klea Pineda (Facebook)

StarStruck Season 6 Ultimate Female Survivor Klea Pineda has opened up about her sexuality.

Klea revealed on her 24th birthday today, March 19, that she's a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community.

"My 24th birthday is extra special since I finally mustered up the courage to come out to the world as my true authentic self. Masasabi ko na ito na ang pinakamatapang na desisyon na nagawa ko sa buong buhay ko. I want the world to know that I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community," said Klea in an Instagram post.

Klea added: "My sexuality is just one aspect of my life, and it won’t stop me from chasing after my dreams. I am still the same Klea that you loved and supported throughout the years. The only difference now is I can proudly say that I’m gay!"

(Facebook)

Her full post on social media:

"My 24th birthday is extra special since I finally mustered up the courage to come out to the world as my true authentic self. Masasabi ko na ito na ang pinakamatapang na desisyon na nagawa ko sa buong buhay ko. I want the world to know that I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community.

"I know not everyone will understand and appreciate this decision. But throughout the years, I’ve learned to prioritize the things that give joy and meaning to my life, and revealing my sexuality to the world is a huge part of it.

"By doing this, I hope to inspire and empower others who are still struggling to come into terms with their sexuality. Alam ko mahirap at nakakatakot, but please know na walang mali sa atin at walang kulang sa atin kahit pa magpakatotoo tayo. Marami man ang manghusga, mas marami pa rin ang tatanggap at magmamahal sa’yo nang buong-buo. Just be the person that your younger self would be proud of!

(Facebook)

"My sexuality is just one aspect of my life, and it won’t stop me from chasing after my dreams. I am still the same Klea that you loved and supported throughout the years. The only difference now is I can proudly say that I’m gay!

"From now on, I want to live my life fearlessly. Sana samahan nyo ako sa paggawa ng sarili kong kwento na alam kong tunay na magpapasaya sa akin.

"Let’s spread love and empowerment, everyone! And always remember, #LoveIsLove!"

NEDA okays new rules on foreign ownership

Foreigners can now fully-own key public services

BY CHINO S. LEYCO

Mar 20, 2023 10:25 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• The National Economic and Development Authority releases the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 11659 or the Amendments to the Public Service Act (PSA) on March 20, 2023.

• NEDA Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan says the IRR has undergone extensive review and consultations with the public, legislators, relevant administrative agencies, and other key stakeholders.

• Upon its effectivity on April 4, 2023, foreigners will be allowed fully-own select industries in the country such as airports, railways, expressways, and telecommunications. 
• Balisacan says the PSA amendments would attract more foreign investments to the country, boost market competitiveness, foster innovation, and create high-quality jobs.

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The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has released the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the amended Public Service Act (PSA) that allows full foreign ownership of some Philippine businesses.

In a statement Monday, March 20, NEDA Secretary Arsenio M. Balisacan assured that the IRR has undergone extensive review and consultations with the public, legislators, relevant administrative agencies, and other key stakeholders.

Belisacan also said all 21 government agencies, including NEDA, approved the IRR of the amended PSA, which will become effective on April 4, 2023.

“With the IRR already in place, we see this as a landmark reform that will further improve the country’s position as an ideal investment hub, which will help enhance employment opportunities and allow more Filipinos to benefit from more improved goods and services,” Balisacan said.

Upon its effectivity, the amendments to the PSA shall enable the liberalization of key public services by allowing full foreign ownership of businesses in select industries such as airports, railways, expressways, and telecommunications.

Prior to the approval of the amendments, foreign ownership in the aforementioned industries was limited to 40 percent.

Meanwhile, public service utilities such as electricity transmission and distribution, water and wastewater pipeline distribution system including sewerage, petroleum and petroleum products pipeline transmission systems, seaports, and public utility vehicles remain subject to the 60:40 foreign equity limitation.

Accordingly, the amendments also provide safeguard provisions to protect the country against national security concerns that may arise through any proposed merger or acquisition, or any investment in a public service.

“The PSA amendments form a critical part of our endeavor to attract foreign investments to the country to boost market competitiveness, foster innovation, and create high-quality jobs,” Balisacan said.

Further, relevant administrative agencies may issue guidelines and circulars for the effective implementation of RA No. 11659 and its IRR, provided that these remain consistent with Commonwealth Act No. 146 as amended, as well as with RA No. 11659 and its IRR.

“Together with complementary policies and measures… we are confident that the Philippines will be able to attract much-needed capital and technology, sustain its high-growth trajectory, and generate high-quality jobs enabling rapid poverty reduction in the next six years,” Belisacan said.

Malabon holds first 'Musikalabon' music fest

BY DIANN IVY C. CALUCIN

  

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The Malabon City government held its first music festival at the Malabon Sports Complex, on Saturday, March 18.

"Musikalabon" is a 9-hour non-stop music concert organized by the city government and Isang Bigkis Malabon City Eagle led by former Malabon City Representative Ricky Sandoval.

It was co-presented with FAB-EM Event Management.

Diann Calucin/MANILA BULLETIN

According to Sandoval, the event was the first music fest held in the city. It was also a fundraising event for Isang Bigkis Malabon City Eagle.

Isang Bigkis is the Malabon City chapter of the Fraternal Order of Eagles-Philippine Eagles, which is the first fraternal socio-civic organization in the country.

The group has been striving to help underprivileged communities since its establishment last year. It had conducted several outreach programs, environmental activities, and medical distribution of medical supplies like reading eyeglasses and wheelchairs.

The former city representative said all the funds collected from the event will be used for educational and medical missions.

"Lahat po ng kikitain ng concert na ito ay ibabalik po namin sa inyong lahat at sa mga taong nangangailangan (We will return all the proceeds from this concert to all of you and to the people in need)," said Miel Delos Reyes, Isang Bigkis president and founder.

Sandoval said they came up with the concept of a music festival as they believe that it would get the residents to come together and enjoy with a purpose.

Several artists performed songs of all ages and genres during the event including Wency Cornejo, Stealing Molly, Ian Sndrz, and Neil Raymundo.

Disc jockeys (DJs), including Ron Poe, Tina Ryan, and Deejay Philly also entertained the audience.

"Music has the power to unite people of all ages and backgrounds, and this festival is an excellent example of how it can be used to support charitable causes and bring positive change to society," the former congressman said.

Isang Bigkis members said they are committed to ensuring that the event was a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees, adhering to all health and safety protocols and guidelines issued by the government.

Dhea Magboo, Musikalabon event producer and founder of FAB-EM Events Management, said they had prepared the event for more than a month. She said the festival was also designed to give the city a "contemporary and vibrant image" that fosters economic growth.

"We believe that Musikalabon is not just about providing a day of entertainment but is also an opportunity to give back to the community. This festival is an excellent opportunity for individuals and organizations to come together to celebrate music and contribute to a worthy cause," the event producer said.

The ticket price ranged from P500 to P1000.

Diann Calucin/MANILA BULLETIN

Foods and alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages were also offered to attendees.

Around 600 people, including those who are non-residents of the city, attended the event.

Sandoval expressed his gratitude to their partners and sponsors that contributed to the success of the city's first music fest. He said they are hoping to have this kind of music festival annually.

Ateneo sweeps UP to end four-game slide

BY NIKOLE JAVIER

Mar 19, 2023 5:17 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• The Blue Eagles snapped their four-game slide at the expense of the Fighting Maroons’ determined rally in the third to improve 2-5 in the standings.

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Ateneo downed University of the Philippines with a 25-16, 25-20, 25-22 sweep to end its first round campaign in the UAAP Season 85 women’s volleyball tournament on Sunday, March 19, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.

The Blue Eagles snapped their four-game slide at the expense of the Fighting Maroons’ determined rally in the third to improve 2-5 in the standings.

Vanie Gandler led the charge for Ateneo with 17 points off 13 attacks, two blocks and two aces, while Faith Nisperos added 14.

Vanie Gandler delivers to help Ateneo end its four-game slide against UP. (UAAP Media)

After breaking out of a deadlock twice midway through the third set, all it took was Gandler and Nisperos’ three straight points to put away UP and seal the much-needed victory for Ateneo.

“We missed this feeling [of winning]. And we really hope that [it continues]. I thank the players for accepting the challenge to have a strong character in this game kung sino man ‘yong kalaban,” said Ateneo head coach Oliver Almadro.

Jewel Encarnacion was the lone bright spot for the Fighting Maroons with 11 built on 10 attacks and an ace as the rest of her teammates was limited to a single-digit showing.

Meanwhile, the Fighting Maroons fell 1-5 in the standings as they are set to meet the Adamson Lady Falcons on Wednesday, March 22 to wrap up the first part of the tournament. 

NAIA Airport Lifts This Requirement | Immigration Sparks Outrage

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WHY JEEPNEYS WILL REMAIN

 

By ReniMV Valenzuela

A jeepney without a jeepney-look is jeepney no longer.  Oddly, the "modern jeepney" the government is usually showing us in the news is far from being a jeepney. It is equal to expunging the Filipino from Filipinos, partly. 

Modernize our public utility transport, but please don't do it by dumping our cherished culture, custom, identity, selfhood, peculiarity and historical heritage. Jeepney is a part of the Filipino diary. 

My personal attachment to our jeepneys is beyond my school, innocent days despite driving a car for most of my life. The link goes joyously from sentimental to historical as jeepneys bring nostalgia and wonderful memories to me of the years gone by as a young person, even as I sometimes still ride jeepneys and MRT/LRT going to an appointment when I get stuck in heavy traffic. I remember one of the very first songs that I've composed was written and done when I was riding a jeepney, awestruck by the disarming beauty of a smiling, shy-looking girl in front of me. 

I wonder if the way the government wants to modernize and progress our country was how visionary Jose Rizal saw the Philippines in his dream would one day become, apropos to his aspirations for the motherland, to which he offered his life willingly, heroically. Were all these the sense of our national hero bravely turning backwards to face his executioners to be shot in the heart on 30 December 1896? 

Why copy others to dash ourselves for who we are? Retain the jeepney look and let our jeepneys, modernized as we want it to become, to be the jeepneys of tomorrow.  The Filipino jeepney is iconic and artistic, variant in colors to represent our multi-shaded complexion as a people/nation. It is a symbol of liberty for all of us, historically. Bring the jeepneys back to be among the tourist experiences that foreigners can look forward to and enjoy when they come/visit our beloved, beautiful, "colorful" country - with all the great stories down memory lane behind the chronicled, world famous "Filipino Smile." 

But solve widespread criminality first, including government corruption and misdemeanors even in our premiere airport, alas!. But why propose in Congress to privatize the airport or change its name, Ninoy Aquino International Airport, when there is no other name that can be better than it (NAIA or naiyak na bayan) in significance? It is one way to declare to the whole world our vastness (in spirit) as a people. And it is in being ourselves that only we can rise, shine and emerge best as a nation - as Filipinos. 

May I suggest that we restore our calesa or karitela in certain historical places/spots of our country like Intramuros, Rizal Park, Mactan Shrine, Sandugo Shrine, Corregidor Island, Baguio City, Biak na Bato, Banaue Rice Terraces and some others, not just in Calle Vigan - for better tourist endearment and exploit, and better appreciation of our hollowed, treasured, rich, forgotten past - by both foreign and local tourists. Let the universe have a glimpse of our roots, heroes and great Creator not just in places we promote, but in all of us, Filipinos of today, more importantly. Shape up. 

"Your testimonies are my heritage forever, for they are the joy of my heart." - Psalm 119:111

Sell the Philippines to boost tourism and economic development, but don't sell our soul.

renivalenzuelaletters@yahoo.com