The Filipino and American Way

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address their teacher not by their honorific titles but by their first or last names.

Lastly, what I observed was the big difference between Philippines and United States when it comes to celebrating holidays especially Christmas. Filipinos have the tradition wherein people go to church to attend midnight mass for 9 consecutive nights before Christmas eve. This is what they call “Simbang Gabi”. Different kinds of foods such as “puto bumbong”, “bibingka”, “suman” and “arrozcaldo” are mostly seen outside of Filipino churches during Simbang Gabi. In addition, children usually sing Christmas carols in neighbor houses and the owner of every house gives them food or money that serves as their “pamasko” or Christmas gift. The little voices of Filipino children with their improvised drums and tambourine made out of soft drink taps and empty cans was like the most wonderful thing to hear every Christmas. In the Philippines, Christmas is also the time where most families have their reunion by having what they call “Noche Buena”. Noche Buena is another word for Christmas Eve to celebrate traditional family dinner. Unlike in United States, Christmas season is just like a normal day for most people. Living in California for almost three years, I have observed that Americans celebrate Christmas but not as fun as how they celebrate Christmas in the Philippines.

Two wonderful countries that has many differences is truly difficult to choose which one is the best place to live in. In my opinion, when it comes to fun, educational system and respect, I would definitely choose Philippines. I am not saying that United States does not have these, but as for me, I was born and raised in the Philippines so I am more used to my country. Yet, when it comes to earning money, Philippines has low minimum wage so, I would choose United States because I have a family in the Philippines depending on me. I could say that I am the “breadwinner” in my family so as much as I want to go back to my hometown, I could not because of lack of money. That was also the reason why I am doing my best to finish my studies so I would be able to bring my family here in the United States to let them experience a better life.