Spread the good word!
If you’ve ever travelled abroad and interacted with foreigners, then you’ve definitely had awkward encounters with them once they found out you come from the Philippines. Sometimes it’s funny, sometimes it’s confusing, and sometimes you just want to say, “Seryoso ka ba?!” But just to make fun of it, we’ve listed the reactions that stand out the most.
Also read: 18 Comments Every Filipino Traveller has Dealt with Abroad
Um, I am not Japanese, Korean, Chinese, or any other nationality that bows in greeting, sir!
Dude, it’s cool. We can understand you perfectly.
They teach us in English in school, from nursery to college, if you did not know.
Yeah, we get it. Filipino food is delicious. No need to mention all of them.
What is your point, good sir?!
We don’t know everybody just because we come from the same country.
Foreigner: Konichiwa!
You: Try again.
Have YOU?
Googling the Philippines wouldn’t hurt, you know.
Sorry to burst your bubble, but this is obviously a hasty generalization.
Respect to all Pinoy domestic helpers out there! Just one thing though, some of us are simply on a vacation.
Also read: 9 Struggles Filipinos Travelling Abroad can Totally Relate to
When you have these interactions with foreigners for the first time, their messages actually take a moment to sink in because one, you’re too dumbfounded that they’d react to you that way. Two, you never thought that YOU of all people would encounter such awkwardness, or three, you don’t know whether to correct them or to just ride with them. But the best course of action is to always be civil and be you, whether they think being you is very Filipino or not. Just don’t forget to be a good representation of your country when the time comes.
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