New to the Philippines?

Anyone who is new to the Philippines or has never been here before will be surprised by a number of things. The first is that most people here speak english, albeit not all fluently. Filipinos use english in almost all conversation, even when speaking tagalog, which is the native tongue and freely intersperse sentences in one or other language. It has become a natural way for Filipinos to communicate and can be heard also on TV programmes. This makes learning to adapt to the Filipino culture much easier as the strain of being a total foreigner is removed and the feeling of intimidation caused by language barriers removed.

The second thing that stands out is the amazing ability of the Filipinos to live in circumstances that would be daunting to most western peoples. While there are some affluent people here and many who might be termed middle class with regard to personal wealth, the vast majority of the citizens of this land are poor, some desperately so and often living in circumstances that give the visitor a deep feeling of unease and even shame at ever complaining of their personal lack. This, topped with the wonderful expression of hospitality and friendliness of the people cannot help but create an affinity of heart and soul with any open minded and receptive visitor.

There is a real need for the Filipinos to be resourceful since their very survival depends on their ability to create income to support themselves as well as their close and often extended family members. This desire to be productive and support their nearest and dearest has led to the growth of a massive mobile employment overseas with some 10% of the entire population working abroad to send home money, without which their families would quite literally be on the street, homeless and without education for their children. It is not unusual for one or other parents to be separated from their families for two years or more at a time. Many work in the nursing sector, others as seamen and a large number as domestic cleaners or caring for the children of their host families. The sacrifices made by these people give real meaning to the phrase "love thy neighbour".

But if I have in a short period of time learned to have an admiration of and love for the people of the Philippines my intention of creating a blog is to attract those who would rather see some of the unique handicrafts which are made and which are available here. And I hope that some will be attracted to buy these locally made articles so that those who make them can obtain income from their labours and be able to contribute to the survival of their families. There will be no exploitation here - just genuine remmuneration for goods and services supplied.

I will be happy to discuss with any and all details of the goods shown on these pages and links and am available by Skype phone or chat whenever you see me online or by email. Regards, Richard