Spring Break
Discovering the Philippine Islands: 'Fusion cuisine,' folk dances and more
Allie Figures
Issue date: 11/19/08 Section: Student Culture
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Influenced by more than 100 ethnic groups including Hispanic, Asian and American cultures, it is understandable that the Philippines are rich in acceptance and diversity.
"I love the friendly character that many Filipinos possess and how welcoming they usually are," said Ingrid Mapanao, an undeclared freshmen who is a Filipino-American.
"When I walk into a Filipino family's house, I feel right at home," she said.
According to the country's official Web site, "a spirit of kinship and camaraderie is what Filipinos are famous for."
Steven Dominguez, a junior biological science major, said the Philippines has several different "micro-cultures" because of historical ties to other countries.
"The Philippines enjoys a rich variety of people, who have produced very different and unique styles of food, languages and arts," he said.
Dominguez said his favorite aspect about his culture is the food.
"I would be lying if I tried to come up with something more profound," he said. "The food always gets me back to thinking about my family and Filipino culture."
Gabby Agcaoili, the administrative officer from the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco, said Pilipino food is best described as "fusion cuisine," influenced by colonizing countries such as China, Spain and the United States.
Adobo is a traditional Filipino stew made with soy sauce, vinegar, garlic and either pork or chicken. Rice is served with this dish, as well as with every other Pilipino meal.
Lumpia, a fried eggroll, is one of the most popular Filipino dishes found in American restaurants such as the Cheesecake Factory.
"I think the biggest misconception about Filipinos is that we eat dog," said sophomore Jeremy Manuel.
According to Yelp.com, the closest place to get authentic Filipino food to campus is at Seafood City Market on McKee Road.
The two official languages of the Philippines are English and Pilipino, making it the third largest English-speaking nation, Agcaoili said.
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