“Anak”: My Child

The Philippines is said to be one of the most hospitable countries in the world. Our hospitality is innate and does not exclusively express to Filipinos only but rather to all raises as well. Perhaps one of the best examples I can give to you was the time when we accept Russians who came from China and escaped the communist rule of their country. These Russians settled in the Philippines and were warmly welcomed by the Filipinos living near their settlement.

Fact that Filipino culture ties with strong family bonds, it is normal to witness the so-called extended family. While other countries tend to send their children and look for work then live their own lives from the age of 15 to 18, Filipinos can live together with their parents despite having their own kids. I honestly don’t know if there was a connection between the saying “the more the merrier” and the Filipino culture of having extended family.

Anak

Remember the song Anak? The song was composed and sung by Freddie Aguilar. The song itself tells the story of a kid who was raised and loved by his parents but as soon as he grows up, the child deviates from his path and ended taking illegal drugs then when he finally realizes what he had done, it was all too late and the only thing he can feel is regret. The song generated hundreds of covers and was released in 56 countries and was translated into 27 different languages

“Anak” is “My child” in its English equivalent. This word is well used in the Philippines for it’s not just being used to call for your own kid but rather to anyone who’s younger than you. I still remember one TV commercial when a foreigner visited the Philippines and went to explore some of the country’s natural beauty, the lady tour guide was at least a mother figure to the foreigner and gently guided the tourist to the destination when finally she called him “Anak” then she explained the meaning of the word to him.

The word itself is special in any way since the lady treated the tourist as her own child despite knowing him just a few hours. Teachers also use this word when speaking to their students because they treat their students as their own. As you’ve noticed Filipinos spread the love and treat anyone nice even calling someone their child that is how hospitable and loveable Filipinos are, but of course, not all Filipinos have this kind of hospitality sometimes it depends on your behavior and your vibes towards them if you’re bossy or irritant you may not experience the warm welcome of the Filipinos.

If you want to come and visit the Philippines, make sure you bring not only money with you but you should also bring good vibes and plenty of smiles because even if you came to the Philippines without a single penny you might still get someplace to sleep and foods to eat. After all, there are a bunch of Filipino good Samaritans out there. Thank you for lending your time reading this journal, have a great day!