Filipina

by: JC Bulan

Unwrapping the Filipina Gem

People all over the world, especially men, look for this one priceless gem: the Filipina.  There is a lot of clamor nowadays for the new Filipina who speaks out her own thoughts and does the same things as guys do.  But if asked, what makes a woman an authentic Filipina?  Most of the answers would go back to the age-old traditions that are very beautiful.

One of the most stunning things about Filipinas is their cheerfulness.  Filipinos in general are hospitable people but the women are the most cheerful bunch.  Smiling has become their trademark, which makes them look even more feminine and attractive.  They are gracious and would still smile and look away even when embarrassed.

On fashion, most Filipinas would choose classy but not too flash styles.  They avoid being talked about by those who find their get-ups strange.  Instead, they choose to be praised as, maganda.  Filipinas take care of their appearance by regularly taking a bath, applying make-up and fixing their hair.  Keeping the hair long and straight is an undying trend for Filipinas.  Most girls nowadays have this done in salons.

On love, authentic Filipinas do not openly say their feelings to a man, except when the opposite sex has initiated.  Pop culture says that women can pursue men but, tradition still dictates the Pinoys’ inclinations.  Many men dislike it when it’s the woman who hunts.  He knows and it has been taught to him since childhood that he has to serve the woman and her family.

True Pinays choose their men wisely.  Since family is always the primary concern, they want to choose someone who could work and make the situation of their families better.  The women are also expected to take the lead in rearing children, thus the term, ilaw ng tahanan.  Filipinas initiate religiosity in their families.  Mothers would hurry up their children to dress up quickly to be able to attend the Sunday Mass.  They teach their children how to say the rosary and prayer before meals.

Though many women work now instead of being full-time housewives, people expect them to know the affairs of their children, no exceptions, and would be the ones to be blamed first when a child makes a mistake or goes astray.

Filipinas take care of their houses.  They keep it clean.  When visitors come, she should make them feel comfortable, or “feel at home”, as they would usually express.  She’s the expert when it comes to managing the household budget.

Knowing how to cook is expected from an authentic Filipina.  She must be well-acquainted with the native dishes of her region.  For example, if she comes from the Tagalog region, then she must know how to cook nilaga (stewed beef or pork with vegetables), sinigang (meat or fish stewed in tamarind broth), tinola (soup-based chicken dish with papaya and ginger), adobo (marinated meat cooked with vinegar and spices), and so on.

So, how you seen an authentic Filipina yet?

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