S O C . C U L T U R E . F I L I P I N O
F R E Q U E N T L Y A S K E D Q U E S T I O N S
FAQ version 2.0 alpha (IOW, *draft*)
[4 July 2007]
Parts 1-2 of 2 follow
PART1================================================================
Summary: soc.culture.filipino FAQ, part 1/2 (Outline)
Keywords: FAQ, soc.culture.filipino, outline, filipino-faq
S O C . C U L T U R E . F I L I P I N O
F R E Q U E N T L Y A S K E D Q U E S T I O N S
FAQ version 2.0 alpha (IOW, *draft*)
[4 July 2007]
Welcome to Soc.Culture.Filipino or SCF, the oldest extant Filipino
community in the Internet! This frequently asked questions list
(FAQ) is an introduction to our community and our discussions.
This FAQ version is a major update and was compiled and edited
in July of 2007. Changes made from previous FAQs include major
restructuring and reorganization, addition of new sections and
elimination of obsolete topics. Due to the emergence and success
of search engines, most of the frequently asked questions during
SCF's infancy are not asked that too frequently anymore because
their answers are readily obtainable using web search queries.
In keeping with the times, a browser-friendly "bookmark approach"
was taken where URLs are provided instead of direct answers
whenever applicable. This is to relegate information updates to
more appropriate technologies such as web enabled content
management systems instead of the FAQ itself. A number
of the "standard" questions were retained but there was a shift on
emphases in introducing and only retaining text on information that
are unique to SCF or that are not available in other websites.
This FAQ is to be posted every beginning of the month to
news://soc.culture.filipino, news://soc.answers and
news://news.answers.
Every effort was made to keep the information in this article as
relevant, correct and as up to date as possible. The plan is to keep it
that way by soliciting your help in maintaining and updating this
FAQ. Your comments, submissions, corrections and answers are
welcome.Please join the discussions on how to make this FAQ better in
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2367495549
The current FAQ and previous versions of the FAQ can be
browsed in http://soc-culture-filipino.blogspot.com/
Copies of the FAQ can also be browsed in
ftp://pub/usenet/news.answers/filipino-faq/
(when it becomes official).
To get a copy of the file via e-mail. Send an email to
mail-server@rtfm.mit.edu with the following in the body of
the message
send usenet/news.answers/filipino-faq/part1
send usenet/news.answers/filipino-faq/part2
----------------------------------------
CREDITS
Editors and Authors: (wrote text and edited)
Mihali Felipe - mihali.a.felipe sa gmail tuldok com
(hoping there would be some more when we get to beta)
Contributors: (supplied useful answers and suggestions)
Cheez - csmarasigan sa gmail tuldok com
Just JT - JohnnyThor sa Hotmail tuldok com
Chris Blunt - chris_blunt sa spamfence tuldok net
Joekerr - joekerr3 sa comcast tuldok net
DSP - DirtySickPig sa Gmail tuldok com
Sources: (wrote text that were rolled into this FAQ)
Significant portions of this FAQ are based on FAQL version 1.5 by
Francis Felizardo, Aimee Manosa et al. (1994), which borrowed
from the outline of a preliminary FAQL developed by John Jay
Tanlimco (1993). Some items are also taken from the work by Timothy
Harvey et al. (1998).
Please refer to the present document as "FAQ 2.0 alpha by Mihali Felipe
et al. (2007)"
----------------------------------------
LEGAL: Note that this FAQ is provided as is without any express or
implied warranties. While every effort has been taken to ensure the
accuracy of the information contained in this article, the maintainer
and contributors assume no responsibility for errors or omissions, or
for damages resulting from the use of the information contained
herein.
----------------------------------------
O U T L I N E
----------------------------------------
Section 1: soc.culture.filipino FAQ
----------------------------------------
1.1) What is the charter of soc.culture.filipino? Who started it and
why?
1.2) When did this newsgroup start?
1.3) Who reads soc.culture.filipino?
1.4) Are there suggested general rules of netiquette for posting
in this newsgroup?
1.5) I just read a post that I found offensive. What do I do?
1.6) This is soc.culture.FILIPINO. Why aren't we writing in
Tagalog/Filipino here?
1.7) I can read the articles here but I seem to have a problem
submitting articles. How do I post to SCF?
1.8) What shouldn't I post in SCF?
1.9) Where else do SCF people hang out together in the net?
1.10) Let A be a person, where is A?
1.11) Is there really a council of Elders?
1.12) What's with the pig names?
1.13) Isn't SCF and Usenet as a whole obsolete?
1.14) What are the notable accomplishments of SCF?
1.15) Do you have an archive of pinoy jokes?
----------------------------------------
Section 2: Philippine Government FAQ
----------------------------------------
2.1) How did the Philippines get its name?
2.2) What is the capital of the Philippines. Is it Manila or Quezon City?
2.3) What is the form of government?
2.4) What is the address and telephone number of the closest
Philippine embassy or consulate?
2.5) Where can I get a copy of the Philippine Constitution?
2.6) What are the lyrics to the Philippine national anthem?
2.7) What are the words to the Panatang Makabayan (Nationalist Oath)?
2.8) Where can I get information on the Philippines in general?
----------------------------------------
Section 3: Philippine Community FAQ
----------------------------------------
3.1) Where could we find filipino groups where I am?
3.2) I go/am going to school X. Is there a Filipino association here?
----------------------------------------
Section 4: Philippine Customs, Tradition and Heritage FAQ
----------------------------------------
4.1) What is a Filipino?
4.2) What are the letters of the Filipino alphabet?
4.3) I've seen words referring to the Philippines spelled with 'ph',
'f' and 'p'. Why are there differences and which words are
spelled with which letters?
4.4) Why do most Filipinos have Spanish surnames?
4.5) I need to prepare Filipino dishes but I don't know how. Do you have
any cookbook suggestions?
4.6) I want to learn how to speak Tagalog/Ilocano/Bicolano/(put your
favorite language here), are there any good books around?
4.7) What are the Philippine martial arts?
4.8) Filipino style weddings: What are all those sponsors for?
What's the coin for? What's the "money dance" and where did
it originate? Why is the groom expected to pay for all expenses
in a traditional Filipino wedding?
----------------------------------------
Section 5: Philippine Contemporary Culture FAQ
----------------------------------------
5.1) Why do some people here get ticked off when the Philippines is
referred to as 'PI'?
5.2) What is 'flip' and is it offensive? What is 'flap jack' and is it offensive? 5.3) I would like to subscribe to a good Filipino/FilAm newpaper/magazine.
Any recommendations?
5.4) I'm looking for some good Philippine movies. Which ones would you
recommend?
5.5) I live in city X and I would like to know if there are any good
Pinoy restaurants in the area. Any recommendations?
----------------------------------------
Section 6: Philippine Current Politics FAQ
----------------------------------------
6.1) Let X = Philippine President. Solve for X.
6.2) Can you give me some background on the current President and Vice
President of the Philippines?
6.3) Who are the top government officials?
6.4) What are the addresses and telephone numbers of the top government
officials of the Philippines?
6.5) How much are the salaries of the top officials of the Philippine
government?
6.6) What is the U.S. Visiting Forces Agreement with the Philippines?
----------------------------------------
Section 7: Philippine Religions and Philosophies FAQ
----------------------------------------
7.1) What religions did filipinos have before Spain arrived?
7.2) What are the different religious groups by population?
7.3) How many filipinos are atheist, agnostics, etc.?
----------------------------------------
Section 8: Philippine Laws FAQ
----------------------------------------
8.1) I was born in the Philippines but my parents aren't Filipino. Am I
a Filipino citizen?
8.2) Is there divorce in the Philippines?
8.3) I am a US citizen who used to be a Filipino citizen. I would like
to go back to the Philippines and settle there permanently. What do
I need to do?
8.4) What kind of taxes do I have to pay on a second-hand vehicle brought
into the Philippines?
8.5) I am a Filipino citizen and I am preparing a US Federal Tax Form
1040NR. Is there a treaty between the RP and US and what is it all
about?
----------------------------------------
Section 9: Philippine Science and Technology FAQ
----------------------------------------
9.1) Where can I get Philippine based news in the Internet?
9.2) What Philippine TV or cable programs are available where I am?
9.3) Is there broadband in W?
9.4) Is there cellphone coverage in Y?
9.5) Can I bring my cellphone from country Z when I visit the Philippines?
9.6) How "wired" is the Philippines?
9.7) What is the state of science and technology in the Philippines?
9.8) Could you name some notable filipino
scientists/inventors/mathematicians/engineers/doctors/etc.?
9.9) Do you have any google earth gadgets for the Philippines?
9.10) I'm a Filipino/ex-Filipino who wants to avail of the Balik-Scientist
program. Do you have any info on this?
----------------------------------------
Section 10: Philippine Travel FAQ
----------------------------------------
10.1) What's the Philippines like?
A. Basic Geography.
B. Weather.
C. Language.
D. Other Demographics.
10.2) What items are exempt from customs and duties when entering the
Philippines? Will customs tax my used computer when I get to the airport?
10.3) Can I use my cellphone?
10.4) What are the visa requirements for a non-Filipino citizen who wants
to visit the Philippines as a tourist?
10.5) Please suggest good methods for sending money to the Philippines.
10.6) Will my 110 VAC appliances in the US work in the Philippines?
10.7) Assume I am a Z, what payments should I make when departing
from NAIA? How many payment booths do I have to go through?
----------------------------------------
Section 11: Philippine Economy FAQ
----------------------------------------
11.1) Could you give us quick facts about the Philippine economy?
11.2) Let X = Income distribution in the Philippines. Describe X.
----------------------------------------
Section 12: References
----------------------------------------
URLs and books of relevance.
PART2===============================================================
Summary: soc.culture.filipino FAQ, part 2/2
Keywords: FAQ, soc.culture.filipino, filipino-faq
B O D Y
----------------------------------------
Section 1: soc.culture.filipino FAQ
----------------------------------------
1.1) What is the charter of soc.culture.filipino? Who started it and why?
This is the original posting to news://announce.newgroups sent on
October 1, 1990 by Aimee Manosa:
ORIGINAL CALL FOR DISCUSSION: soc.culture.filipino
PROPOSAL:The creation of a new newsgroup: soc.culture.filipino
CHARTER: To provide an open discussion on issues concerning the Philippines.
This includes the following topics:
- new technology in the Philippines
- "what's happening back home" information and passing this on to
others unable to read news.
- Government and other related political issues
- Earthquake relief information (still need lots of help)
- Cultural events
- Fil-Ams
- introducing the Filipino culture to news readers
- understanding the state the Philippines is in
PURPOSE: Would like to discuss relevant Filipino issues in a newsgroup
that would single out the Philippine culture. Currently, there are
several other nations that have started their newsgroups.
1.2) When did this newsgroup start?
The newsgroup was created a couple of days after November 26, 1990.
The voting period for this newsgroup started on October 29, 1990
and ended November 22, 1990. On November 26, the finally tally
was posted to news://news.announce.newgroups:
YES 241
NO 32
-------------
Total 272
1.3) Who reads soc.culture.filipino?
This newsgroup is read by users who have Internet access all over the world.
The answer is people.
1.4) Are there suggested general rules of netiquette for posting in
this newsgroup?
Yes, they are called "posting-rules" found here
http://www.faqs.org/faqs/usenet/posting-rules/part1/
Some points worth emphasizing are:
Please use the newsgroup for its intended purpose.
Before posting, think about what your article will say;
If it's posted to a "comp", "news", "misc", "soc", "sci",
"rec" or "talk" newsgroup, it will probably go to the sites
on every continent. Use the "Distribution" feature to
restrict distribution to your local area and appropriate news
groups.
If you are including private mail in your post to a newsgroup,
ask the author's permission. Posting this without permission
is generally considered rude.
If you are doing a "followup", please remove lines that you are
not replying to. That is, don't include the whole article to
reply to the first 2 lines (or the last 2 lines) or just to say,
"me, too". On the other hand, please don't say "me, too" or
"I agree" without making reference to the author of the included
file. Remember, keep it short and concise.
1.5) I just read a post that I found offensive. I am really offended.
What should I do?
First of all, calm down. Go to the nearest Coke machine. Get a Coke. Finish
it. Then reread the message. Are you still angry?
If people leave the message alone, it will most likely die a quiet death.
If you respond to it, you'll be promoting the discussion of the same
issue you found offensive in the first place. This may or may not be what
you intended. Weigh the alternatives carefully before you respond.
If you choose to respond to the offending article, try to use a level-
headed and dispassionate tone. Minimize flaming. Try to frame your message
in a manner that will convey subtantive information and promote a meaningful
discussion. Often, the author of the 'offensive' article is really a
reasonable and well-meaning person who has a valid point of view different
from yours. Her opinion (or yours) can also be based on incorrect
information or understanding of Philippine culture. The reason why we're
here is to discuss Philippine issues and promote understanding. That's
rather hard to do in the midst of a fire fight.
Try contacting the author by email and explain how you feel. If you have
concluded that the author cannot be reasoned with, consider using the
'kill' option in your newsreader to kill all messages sent by the author.
A poster who chooses to be purposely offensive enjoys seeing a newsgroup
full of angry posters responding to his message. The best way to shut him
up is by removing his audience. If he sees that he can't get his kicks here,
he'll hopefully move somewhere else.
1.6) This is soc.culture.FILIPINO. Why aren't we mainly writing in
Tagalog/Filipino here?
Postings in Filipino and other Philippine languages are welcome in this
forum. In fact, many readers have expressed the desire to learn or relearn
Tagalog by reading or writing Tagalog articles in SCF.
Note however that not all Filipinos can communicate in Tagalog/Filipino
well. In addition, many non-Filipinos, including many Fil-Americans, who
do not speak Tagalog or any other Philippine language but are interested
in Philippine culture also read and contribute to this newsgroup. So while
you are free to write in whatever language you wish, you should seriously
consider writing your articles in English if you want a larger audience
for your ideas.
1.7) I can read the articles here but I seem to have a problem
submitting articles. How do I post to SCF?
Once upon a time there was TIN and it was bearable. Then came Pine and
it was really nice. But then came Netscape and Outlook so Pine had
competition. Then came Gmail and there was bliss.
You could use any of the means mentioned above but if you want a simple
life just create a gmail account and go to
http://groups.google.com/group/soc.culture.filipino/. Then you'll be able to
post to your heart's content. Yes, it's that simple now!
Or, try clicking this in your browser
news://soc.culture.filipino
See what happens.
1.8) What shouldn't I post in SCF?
Personals. SCF isn't the place for personals. You will annoy many of
the readers here. You will most likely be flamed. While some readers have
noted that the quality of flaming in SCF is inferior to that in, say, the
*.politics.* newgroups, it is unlikely that you will make friends through
personal ads here. There are appropriate forums for personals on Usenet.
SCF is not one of them. If quality flaming is your cup of tea, you
can find the best ones elsewhere. So why bother?
1.9) Where else do SCF people hang out together in the net?
Psst. . . Hoy! Psst.. wanna buy a Hoy?
news://alt.psst.hoy
Are you into Filipino music?
news://rec.music.filipino
Cebuano Language Are you a Cebuano speaker or want to become one? Bask in
the language in the moderated group:
news://alt.language.cebuano
Get yourself in facebook!
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2367495549
1.10) Let A be a person, where is A?
http://www.google.com/ :)
People come and go. You can use a search engine to find people. Remember
though that there are laws against stalking in a number of countries.
1.11) Is there really a council of Elders?
Secret societies would not be secret anymore if their information is divulged.
The answer is no.
1.12) What's with the pig names?
It is an SCF fad, pig!
1.13) Isn't SCF and Usenet as a whole obsolete?
If and when it becomes obsolete, you will not be here to ask that question.
1.14) What are the notable accomplishments of SCF?
The "You can tell you're a filipino" list.
(More later)
1.15) Do you have an archive of pinoy jokes?
There are many places to find pinoy jokes on the internet. We keep ours in
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=2367495549
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Section 2: Philippine Government FAQ
----------------------------------------
2.1) How did the Philippines get its name?
The Philippines was named after Prince Philip of Asturias (who later
became King Philip II of Spain) by Spanish navigator Ruy Lopez de
Villalobos. Of course, it was in Spanish so it was after Felipe II, and
was called Las Islas Felipinas. "Philippines" is the anglicized name.
2.2) What is the capital of the Philippines. Is it Manila or Quezon City?
It is MANILA although many references list Quezon City incorrectly.
History: Because of its strategic location, Miguel Lopez de Legaspi
took Manila and made it the capital on 24 June 1571. The Philippine
government made Quezon City the capital on 17 July 1948 (Republic Act
333). The seat of government nonetheless remained in Manila even
though many national government offices have moved to Quezon City
(e.g., the Legislature, the Bureau of Internal Revenue, the University
of the Philippines). Manila was once again made the capital and the
permanent seat of government on 14 June 1976 (Presidential Decree 940).
2.3) What is the form of government?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Politics_of_the_Philippines
2.4) What is the address and telephone number of the closest Philippine
embassy or consulate?
http://www.dfa.gov.ph/posts/philcon.htm
2.5) Where can I get a copy of the Philippine Constitution?
http://www.gov.ph/aboutphil/constitution.asp
2.6) What are the lyrics to the Philippine national anthem?
Tagalog lyrics http://www.gov.ph/aboutphil/flagnanthem.asp
English lyrics http://www.whitehouse.gov/national-anthem/manila-full.html
Sound file http://www.whitehouse.gov/national-anthem/audio/manila.ram
[Info taken from RR's Philippine Almanac, 1988, p. 271]
The Philippine national anthem was composed by Julian Felipe, a music
teacher and composer on 11 June 1898 in Cavite. It was first played in
public during the independence proclamation on 12 June 1898.
Jose Palma, a poet and soldier wrote the lyrics in Bautista, Pangasinan
in August 1899. The poem entitled 'Filipinas', which was set to the
music of Felipe's hymn, was first published in the 3 Sept 1899 issue
of La Independencia.
The Philippine national anthem is in Tagalog Camilo Osias translated
Jose Palma's poem into Tagalog in the 1920s. He and M.A.L. Lane wrote
the most common English translation.
Below is Jose Palma's poem:
FILIPINAS
(Letra para la Marcha Nacional Filipina)
Tierra adorada,
Hija del Sol de Oriente,
Su fuego ardiente
En ti latiendo esta.
Patria de Amores,
Del heroismo cuna,
Los invasores
No te hollaran jamas.
En tus azul cielo, en tus auras,
En tus montes y en tu mar
Esplende y late el poema
De tu amada libertad.
Tu pabellon, que en las lides
La Victoria ilumino,
No vera nunca apagados
Sus estrellas y su sol.
Tierra de dichas, de sol y amores,
En tu regazo dulce es vivir,
Es una gloria para tus hijos,
Cuando te ofenden, por ti morir.
2.7) What are the words to the Panatang Makabayan (Nationalist Oath)?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panatang_Makabayan
2.8) Where can I get information on the Philippines in general?
Here is the official datasheet
http://www.gov.ph/aboutphil/general.asp
----------------------------------------
Section 3: Philippine Community FAQ
----------------------------------------
3.1) Where could we find filipino groups where I am?
A search engine such as Google is the best way. For example, do a google search
"filipino " where is your city's name.
3.2) I go/am going to school X. Is there a Filipino association here?
There are too many to list. Do a google search using the key words
"filipino student association " with your university name in place of
. The search URL would look like so
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=filipino+student+association+
where you replace with the name of the university.
----------------------------------------
Section 4: Philippine Customs, Tradition and Heritage FAQ
----------------------------------------
4.1) What is a Filipino?
Consult the Wikipedia for a complete description:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filipino_people
4.2) What are the letters of the Filipino alphabet?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filipino_language#Orthography
4.3) I've seen words referring to the Philippines spelled with 'ph',
'f' and 'p'. Why are there differences and which words are
spelled with which letters?
Misspelling 'Philippines' and its derivative words is a pet peeve to
some SCF readers.
The spelling differences arise from the influence of the Spanish, English
and Tagalog on our culture. In general, words derived from English are
spelled with 'ph', words derived from Spanish are spelled with 'f', and
those derived from Tagalog are spelled with 'p'.
Here is a spelling guide that will help you avoid the minefield:
Philippines the country
Philippine adjective (e.g., Philippine languages)
Filipino 1. The Philippine national language.
2. A Philippine citizen.
Pilipino 1. Previous name of the Philippine national language
(This is not 'strictly' true but the difference
is too minor and too artificial to quibble over.)
2. In Tagalog or Filipino, a Pilipino is a Philippine
citizen.
Philippino A not so common misspelling of 'Filipino' and is a pet
peeve to many.
Pilipinas 'Philippines' in Tagalog or Filipino.
pinoy Accepted slang for 'Filipino'. Use this instead of
'flip' to avoid arguments.
pinas Accepted slang for 'Philippines'. Use this instead of
'PI' to avoid arguments.
4.4) Why do many Filipinos have Spanish surnames?
From Norman Owen
http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/Ranch/9121/surnamesfaq.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surname#The_Philippines
4.5) I need to prepare Filipino dishes but I don't know how. Do you
have any cookbook suggestions?
Here are a few:
Galing-Galing: Food as Prepared in Philippine Homes (Daza & Daza, 1974).
Our copy at home is well-worn and dog-eared from years of use. Good
recipe book for everyday food.
Popular Recipes of the Philippines (del Fierro, 1986).
Has an extensive intro to food section. The recipes are less involved
and use less ingredients than Daza's.
Filipino Cooking Here and Abroad (Laquian & Sobrevinas, 1977)
I like this cookbook. It has an intro to Filipino food, cooking tips,
suggested substitutions for unavailable ingredients.
4.6) I want to learn how to speak Tagalog/Ilocano/Bicolano/(put your
favorite language here), are there any good books around?
[Info taken from John Jay Tanlimco's FAQ.]
1. Teresita V. Ramos. Modern Tagalog: Grammatical Explanations
and Excercises for Non-native Speakers. Honolulu, Hawaii:
University of Hawaii Press. 1990. ISBN# 0-8248-1332-4.
University of Hawaii Press
Honolulu, Hawaii 96822 USA
2. Teresita V. Ramos. Conversational Tagalog: A Functional-
Situational Approach. 1985. ISBN# 0-8248-0944-0.
University of Hawaii Press.
3. Teresita V. Ramos. Intermediate Tagalog: Developing
Cultural Awareness through Language. 1981. ISBN# 0-8248-0776-6.
University of Hawaii Press.
*Ramos comes from an anthropological background and so her texts not
only address grammatical structures, they also place Tagalog within
social and cultural contexts. This is important because you get to
learn culturally acceptable responses as well as language skills.
4. J. Donald Bowen. Intermediate Readings in Tagalog.
Berkeley, California: University of California Press, Ltd.
1968. ISBN# 0-520-00157-5.
5. Vito Santos. Vicassan's Pilipino-English Dictionary.
Intro by Teodoro Agoncillo. Metro Manila: National Bookstore, Inc.
Revised edition. 1990. ISBN# 971-08-3654-4.
(This one's pretty serious. 2677 pages. Hardcover. Pilipino
words only, translated into English. As of June 1993, it
cost 980 pesos at National Bookstore, MM which is close to
$50 US.)
4.7) What are the Philippine martial arts?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eskrima
http://www.martialartsresource.com/filipino/filipino.htm
http://www.martialartsresource.com/anonftp/pub/eskrima/digests/fmafaq.htm
4.8) Filipino style weddings: What are all those sponsors for?
What's the coin for? What's the "money dance" and where did
it originate? Why is the groom expected to pay for all expenses
in a traditional Filipino wedding?
This is the best I can find...
http://members.aol.com/ZVELASCO/wedding.html
----------------------------------------
Section 5: Philippine Contemporary Culture FAQ
----------------------------------------
5.1) Why do some people here get ticked off when the Philippines is
referred to as 'PI'?
PI or Philippine Islands was how the Philippines was referred to
during the Spanish and American colonial period. To some people, the
term invokes images of the Filipinos being the white man's 'little
brown brother', which is how the American colonizers viewed the
Filipinos at the time.
[Bill Mitchell recalls from previous discussions on SCF.]
Despite being scrupulously correct English and despite being found
in many or most English language dictionaries, this is considered
offensive by many or most s.c.f readers. My understanding is that
there are two reasons for this: (1) political sensitivity to the
term "PI" vs the preferred term "RP" (even though both terms are correct
English, and have different meanings) and (2) "PI" is a swear-word
contraction in Tagalog.
5.2) What is 'flip' and is it offensive? What is 'flap jack' and is it offensive?
In the US, 'flip' is slang for Filipino in much the same way as 'jap' is
used for Japanese, 'chink' for Chinese, etc. Many Filipinos and
Filipino-Americans consider it a racial slur and take offense. Some don't
care at all. Some even take pride and encourage its use. For example, I
used to know at least one Filipino student newletter called 'Flip
Quarterly'.
In SCF, using 'flip' is as inflammatory, perhaps even more so, as using
'PI'. In most cases, using it could get you some irate mail.
[Bill Mitchell recalls from previous discussions on SCF.]
Many Americans think 'flip' is a derogatory term, but many Filipinos
treat it as simply a convenient contraction of "Filipino". However,
many Filipinos and Fil-Ams do consider it derogatory, and those who do
are likely to have picked up that interpretation here in the U.S.
For flap jack, see
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=flap+jack
5.3) I would like to subscribe to a good Filipino/FilAm newpaper
/magazine. Any recommendations?
Philippine News (weekly)
(415) 872-3000(415) 872-3000
156 S. Spruce Ave., Suite 207, South San Francisco CA 94080
Largest circulation among FilAm newspapers (130,000). Good coverage
of Philippine and FilAm news. Editorial columns are usually interesting
and well written. Sports news and Showbiz news can be uneven. Community
news is usually cheesy [but I personally enjoy reading it - Francis.]
Filipinas (monthly)(800)654-7777(800)654-7777
5222 Diamond Height Blvd., San Francisco CA 94131
Good and well-written human interest magazine articles. Some of their
writers even have good pedigrees, e.g., Ninotchka Rosca, Arlene Babst,
Marra Pl. Lanot.
5.4) I'm looking for some good Philippine movies. Which ones would you
recommend?
The answer to this question is subjective. For what it's worth, here
is a list of 20 post-WW2 movies the Philippine Almanac 1990 called
'Film Classics':
Isumpa mo, Giliw 1947 Portrait of the Artist as Filipino 1965
Sisa 1951 Manila, Open City 1967
Anak-Dalita 1952 Tinimbang Ka Ngunit Kulang 1974
Buhay-Alamang 1952 Maynila sa Kuko ng Liwanag 1975
Badjao 1953 Ganito Kami Noon, Paano Kayo Ngayon 1976
Biyaya ng Lupa 1955 Insiang 1976
Diego Silang 1957 Minsa'y Isang Gamugamo 1976
Noli Me Tangere 1960 Nunal sa Tubig 1976
Daigdig ng mga Api 1962 Itim 1977
Sa Atin ang Daigdig 1963
Passionate Strangers 1965
IMDB has a list of all Philippine movies ever made:
http://www.imdb.com/List?countries=philippines&&substrings=on
5.5) I live in city X and I would like to know if there are any good
Pinoy restaurants in the area. Any recommendations?
Ken Ilio's website:
http://www.carinderia.net/restaurants/lafang.html
http://www.filipino-americans.com/usa_res.html
----------------------------------------
Section 6: Philippine Current Politics FAQ
----------------------------------------
6.1) Let X = Philippine President. Solve for X.
http://www.gov.ph/aboutphil/presidents.asp
6.2) Can you give me some background on the current President and Vice
President of the Philippines?
http://www.op.gov.ph/biography.asp
6.3) Who are the top government officials?
http://www.op.gov.ph/cabinet.asp
6.4) What are the addresses and telephone numbers of the top government
officials of the Philippines?
Follow the links here
http://www.op.gov.ph/cabinet.asp
6.5) How much are the salaries of the top officials of the Philippine
government?
PC87 Article XVIII (17) set the salaries in 1987. It also provides that
the salaries may be increased by statute. The figures below do not
include bonuses, allowances, etc.
ANNUAL SALARY (US$ Equivalent)
President P 300 000 $ 10700
V. President 240 000 8600
Senate President 240 000 8600
Speaker of the House 240 000 8600
Supreme Court Chief Justice 240 000 8600
Senators 204 000 7300
Congressmen 204 000 7300
Supreme Court Assoc. Justice 204 000 7300
Const. Commission Chair 204 000 7300
Const. Commission Members 180 000 6400
Note that a typical engineering/science RA in a major US university
has a higher salary than the Philippine president.
6.6) What is the U.S. Visiting Forces Agreement with the Philippines?
The Philippine view
http://www.dfa.gov.ph/vfa/frame/frmvfa.htm
The U.S. view
http://manila.usembassy.gov/wwwhr711.html
The World view
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RP-US_Visiting_Forces_Agreement
----------------------------------------
Section 7: Philippine Religions and Philosophies FAQ
----------------------------------------
7.1) What religions did filipinos have before Spain arrived?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion_in_the_Philippines#Ancient_Indigenous_Beliefs
7.2) What are the different religious groups by population?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion_in_the_Philippines
7.3) How many filipinos are atheist, agnostics, etc.?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion_in_the_Philippines#Atheism_and_Agnosticism
----------------------------------------
Section 8: Philippine Laws FAQ
----------------------------------------
8.1) I was born in the Philippines but my parents aren't Filipino. Am
I a Filipino citizen?
No. Philippine citizenship is based on the principle of jus sanguinis.
According to PC87 Article IV, to be a Filipino citizen, at least one of
your parents has to be a Filipino citizen. This also means that children
of Filipino parents who are born outside the Philippines are Filipino
citizens as well.
8.2) Is there divorce in the Philippines?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Law_and_divorce_around_the_world#Philippines
8.3) I am a US citizen who used to be a Filipino citizen. I would
like to go back to the Philippines and settle there permanently.
What do I need to do?
Get dual citizenship
http://www.gov.ph/faqs/dualcitizenship.asp
8.4) What kind of taxes do I have to pay on a second-hand vehicle
brought into the Philippines?
Note where this webpage got its information :)
http://www.mapsupport.com/thedatabase/impex/imprtgvehphi.htm
There is a similar long calculation in FAQ 1.5. The gist is that it is
ridiculously expensive to import cars and that local car manufacturers
are rather protected from external competition (opinion).
8.5) I am a Filipino citizen and I am preparing a US Federal Tax Form
1040NR. Is there a treaty between the RP and US and what is it all
about?
Yes, download the IRS document here
http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-trty/philip.pdf
----------------------------------------
Section 9: Philippine Science and Technology FAQ
----------------------------------------
9.1) Where can I get Philippine based news in the Internet?
http://www.philnews.com/
9.2) What Philippine TV or cable programs are available where I am?
Unless you're in a cave where you can't set up a dish, there's TFC:
http://www.filipinotvchannel.com/
If you're in the philippines and using your antenna:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Philippine_television_stations
How about Internet TV:
http://www.tvover.net/TVStation,search,30-0-0-0-0.aspx
9.3) Is there broadband in W?
(Answer will be available in beta)
9.4) Is there cellphone coverage in Y?
http://www.gsmworld.com/roaming/gsminfo/cou_ph.shtml
9.5) Can I bring my cellphone from country Z when I visit the Philippines?
US phones
http://www.washington.edu/computing/global/hp_phil.html#phones
Aussie phones
Mobile phones in Aus. work in PI. Roaming service is available but the price
is prohibitive. More cost effective is to buy a SIM card from Globe or Smart
and buy prepaid minutes or SMS text. A SIM card with prepaid minutes or SMS
text would cost about PhP300-500.
(More answers will be available in beta)
9.6) Which Philippine university is the most "wired"?
I couldn't get the article from PC World Philippines but according to this it
is UE
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/University_of_the_East
9.7) What is the state of science and technology in the Philippines?
This topic will not be settled by the FAQ. We wish we could since it is
recycled regularly without any new empirical information or new arguments.
If you plan to start a discussion on the subject, please do so by
introducing data from recent statistics or studies.
While it is generally recognized that the Philippine S&T could use a lot
more qualified scientists, engineers and technicians, science leadership,
innovative programs, resources, financial support, etc. there is also
evidence that S&T is doing better than many people are usually led to
believe. Before attempting to start a tirade on the subject (and
this happens all the time), please read the article 'How does Korean
science rate?' in Nature, v. 364, p. 379, 29 July 1993 which suggested
that we're doing well compared to our South East Asian neighbors. Below
is an excerpt from that article:
In terms of quality, South Korea compares poorly with seven other
rapidly industrializing countries in the region (Taiwan, Hong Kong,
Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines),
coming next to last in terms of citation impact (average citations
per paper relative to world average), according to the March 1993
issue of ISI's Science Watch. By field, South Korea was only strong
in engineering, ranking second.
Odd as it may seem, the Philippines, which has the weakest economy
and the weakest industries in the region, came out top overall and
top in engineering, biology and agriculture, and second in medicine.
9.8) Could you name some notable filipino
scientists/inventors/mathematicians/engineers/doctors/etc.?
http://inventors.about.com/od/filipinoscientists/Filipino_Inventors_and_Filipino_Scientists.htm
http://www.bookofpinoy.com/articles/inventors.html
9.9) Do you have any Google Earth gadgets for the Philippines?
Yes, KMZs can be downloaded here
http://googleearthphilippines.pbwiki.com/#KMZsforDownload
9.10) I'm a Filipino/ex-Filipino who wants to avail of the Balik-
Scientist program. Do you have any info on this?
The Balik-Scientist Program was instituted by the Philippine
government to provide incentives for expatriate Filipino S&T
professionals to return to the Philippines and share their
expertise.
For details on this program, please refer to
http://www.dost.gov.ph/bsp
or contact
The Program Office
BALIK SCIENTIST PROGRAM (BSP)
c/o Office of the Assistant Secretary for Technology Transfer
Department of Science and Technology
Room 206, 2/F DOST Central Office
DOST Compound, Gen. Santos Ave., Bicutan, Taguig City, Philippines
Telefax No. : (+632) 837-2940
Trunkline: (+632) 837-2071to 82 local 2030
E-mail: bsp@dost.gov.ph, balikscientist@yahoo.com
----------------------------------------
Section 10: Philippine Travel FAQ
----------------------------------------
10.1) What's the Philippines like?
A. Basic Geography.
Total land area is 300,000 sq.km. (slightly larger than Nevada). There
are 7100 islands (2773 have names). The largest 11 islands comprise 92.3%
of the total land area. These islands are (larger islands first): Luzon,
Mindanao, Samar, Negros, Palawan, Panay, Mindoro, Leyte, Cebu, Bohol,
Masbate, Sulu Group, Romblon, Marinduque.
B. Climate.
Philippine climate is determined primarily by the wind from three sources.
1. NE monsoon from October to January, 2. E to SE trade winds from
February to April, and 3. SE monsoon the rest of the year. Much
of the country experiences two pronounced seasons, dry from November
to April, and wet the rest of the year. About 20 typhoons enter the
Philippines every year. Typhoon season is between May and January
although most typhoons come in July-September. The northern and
eastern islands (e.g., Luzon and Samar) are the most vulnerable. The
western and southern islands (e.g., Palawan and Mindanao) rarely get them.
http://www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/cab/climate.htm
C. Language.
The official languages are English and Filipino. They are
also the mediums of instruction in grade school and high school.
English is generally the medium of instruction at the university level.
In addition, according to the 1990 Census, there are 87 languages and
dialects. The ten leading languages are spoken in 89.5% of all
households.
http://www.gov.ph/aboutphil/general.asp
D. Other demographics.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demographics_of_the_Philippines
10.2) What items are exempt from customs and duties for immigrants
and returning residents of the Philippines? Will customs tax my used
computer when I get to the airport?
http://www.customs.gov.ph/faqs.jsp
http://www.philembassy.se/consulr/info/tdfpvp.htm
http://www.philippine-embassy.org.sg/index.cfm?GPID=100
As for your computer or other consumer electronics, if it looks used probably not.
10.3) Can I use my cellphone?
See 9.3 and 9.4.
10.4) What are the visa requirements for a non-Filipino citizen who wants
to visit the Philippines as a tourist?
http://www.gov.ph/faqs/visa.asp
10.5) Please suggest good methods for sending money to the Philippines. What are
their terms?
- Mail Checks (risky but it works)
- Debit cards
- Door to door services available in most filipino shops. From Aus flat fee of Au$8.
Next day if major city. From US example, http://www.johnnyair.com/home.htm
- BPI Express Remittance Corporation
http://info.bpiexpressonline.com/bpiprod/Prodserv.nsf/Remittance/RemittanceCenterUS?OpenDocument
- RCBC Telemoney Direct
https://paymentgateway.rcbc.com.ph/paymentgateway/telemoneydirect/servlet/CRemitServletFront?trxcode=0507&funcid=0
- Lucky Money https://www.luckymoney.com/
- Philippine National Bank http://www.pnbrci.com/
- Western union http://www.westernunion.com
- see discussion in
http://answers.google.com/answers/threadview?id=33262
10.6) Will my 110 VAC appliances in the US work in the Philippines?
Short answer: Maybe. Buy or bring a 220V-110V AC step-down transformer
anyway since many/most homes only have 220 VAC outlets. Don't forget to
bring an adapter that will let you plug a three-prong plug into a two-
prong outlet.
Long answer: [From Rick Sanchez.]
Here in US, the utility company supplies a 240 VAC +-5%, 60 Hz and
because of drop of voltage due to resistive load, it could drop to
220-230 VAC. There are 3 wires coming from the utility company:
two hot wires (220Volts) and one neutral. The 220 volt wires are
for appliances that consume a lot of energy like the dryer
and the electric range. These 220V appliances have monster plugs. Small
appliances are connected to 110V convenience outlets which have 5-15R
receptacles. These outlets have one hot, one neutral and one ground
connector.
The Philippines adheres to the US National Electrical Code specs with a
small difference in implementation.
In the Philippines where most of the appliances are 220V 60Hz, utility
companies, e.g. Meralco, provide only 2 hot wires with 5-15R convenience
outlets. If you request 110 VAC lines, Meralco will supply a neutral wire
from the electric post. [Very few homes do this.] Make sure that the 220V
outlets are not 5-15Rs. I would suggest using a 6-15R.
10.7) Assume I am a Z, what payments should I make when departing
from NAIA? How many payment booths do I have to go through?
At least one payment booth. Everyone needs to pay a departure tax of
P750 or US dollar equivalent. No other foreign currency is accepted. Cash
only.
You might need to pay a
travel tax depending on what Z is.
http://www.philtourism.com/ttax.html
--------------------------------------
Section 11: Philippine Economy FAQ
--------------------------------------
11.1) Could you give us quick facts about the Philippine economy?
http://www.census.gov.ph/data/quickstat/index.html
http://www.nationmaster.com/country/rp-philippines/eco-economy
11.2) Let X = Income distribution in the Philippines. Describe X.
http://www.senate.gov.ph/publications/AG%202006-05%20-%20FIES.pdf
----------------------------------------
Section 12: References
----------------------------------------
Republic of the Philippines
http://www.gov.ph/default.asp
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippines
http://www.nationmaster.com/country/rp-philippines/
http://www.answers.com/topic/philippines?cat=travel
RP Office of the President
http://www.op.gov.ph/
Philippine Bureau of Customs
http://www.customs.gov.ph/boc_index.jsp
National Telecommunications Commission
http://www.ntc.gov.ph/
Books: (From FAQ 1.5 - needs an update and links to possibly Amazon)
There are many fine books; however, they are all not equally available. Here
are some references that are generally available to
most people. If you cannot find them in larger or specialty bookstores in
your area, you can get them by visiting some of the listed
online bookstores given below.
Culture Shock! Philippines: A Guide to Customs and Etiquette Alfredo and
Grace Roces Third Edition 1992, reprinted 1994 ISBN:
1-55868-089-6 Graphics Arts Publishing Company PO Box 10306, Portland,
Oregon, 97210 1 503.226.2400 Introduces the culture and
customs, and explains how things work to foreigners.
Philippines: A Travel Survival Kit Jens Peters Fourth Edition, May 1991
ISBN: 0-86442-096 X Lonely Planet Publications PO Box 2001
A, Berkeley, California, 94704 General background on the culture and
detailed travel information to points though out the country.
In Our Image: America's Empire in the Philippines Stanley Karnow Ballantine
Books 1989 ISBN 0-345-32816-7 General history of the
country with later focus on American involvement and current events through
the fall of the Marcos regime. Written by a well
respected, award winning journalist.
Visayan Vignettes: Ethonographic Traces of a Philippine Island Jean-Paul
Dumont 1992 University of Chicago Press 0-226-16955-3
(Paperback) The author, an accomplished anthropologist, gives an insightful
look into the culture by focusing on how the language
(Bisaya) is used to describe relationships, events and daily life on a small
island (Siquijor). Unlike other researchers, the author
does not discuss sorcery for which Siquijor is famous for.
Sarap: Essays on Philipine Food Doreen G. Fernandez and Edilberto N. Alegre
1988 Mr. & Ms. Publishing Company 971-91137-0-7 This
wonderful book is, unfortunately, hard to come by. It holds a a far ranging
collection of essays that amply demonstrate the meaning
of the expression "Others eat to live but Filipinos live to eat." Next to
language, nothing gives better insight into a culture than
food and food and eating has a central place in Filipino culture.
Filipinos: Forgotten Asian Americans Fred Cordova 1983 0-8403-2897-4 A
sweeping pictorial history of Filipinos in America by the
"dean" of the modern Filipino-American historical movement.
The Filipino Americans: Their History, Culture and Traditions Veltisezar
Bautista 1998 Bookhaus Publishers 0-931613-14-0 A new book that gives a sweeping
account of Filipinos in America and their history,
accomplishments and contribution to this country.
American is in the Heart: A Personal History, Carlos Bulosan The man who
thought he looked like Robert Taylor, Bienvenido N. Santos
Philippine Woman in America, Cecilia Manguerra Brainard Sometimes the best
way to appreciate the Filipino experience in America is
through the eyes of writers. These books by three great Filipino writers
help to personalize the experience of life in America as
well as provide a sample of the excellent writing (in English) that is
available by Filipino and Fil-Am writers.
