Eating the Filipino Way

In the USA, we are usually given 3 utensils: The fork, the spoon, and the knife. The spoon is generally used for soups, creamy foods, and food that is in small portions. The fork is usually used for large portions and meat. The knife is always used for cutting, though sometimes for spreading jelly or butter on bread.

When you're in the Philippines, you will probably see no knife on the table. Maybe your parents used to scold you, when you were younger, for never using a knife to cut your large food into smaller pieces. That ain't the case here. Almost all places provide no knife. So what do you use to cut your food with? A fork? Nope! The most least expected: The spoon!

While eating, the fork and spoon are held a certain way. The fork is held in the left hand, and the spoon is held in the right. The fork is used to scoop the food into the spoon. The spoon is used to bring the food into the mouth. So, when you eat at a table, you will see people always holding two utensils.

If you really wanna try something different, then, there is another way to go. It isn't a fully common in some places, but, it is an okay way to go. Say 'forget you' to your utensils and use your hands! That's right. Dig your hands into your rice and enjoy. Just make sure to wash them before and after.

What's So Great 'Bout Davao City?

So, if you are planning to go to the Philippines, why should you consider Davao City to be a place to live/explore? Well, check out this map:



As you can see, in the map, the inner part of Davao City is located between 2 major places; Mt. Apo, and Samal Island. Mt. Apo is the highest mountain in the Philippines. It is a great spot for a hiker in the Philippines. Samal Island is an island not too far away from the city. In fact, from the coast of the city Samal can be seen. Samal's coasts feature beautiful beaches of white sand and clear blue water. It is a great place for lounging at beaches, and has awesome spots for divers who wish to see the underwater life.

The inner-city itself has its own attractions such as; Crocodile Park, Jack's Ridge, Peoples Park, and many more! Oh yeah, not just the attractions make Davao City great. Many people call it "The Most Livable City in the Philippines". Why? 'Cause the city's police have got the foreigners and locals covered. With crime being kept away, it is a nice place to live feeling secured.

Street Kids

The sad reality of 3rd world countries is the poverty. You can see many adults on the street, and other people in a lower-class job. Some give themselves over to prostitution. Streets kids live among this, and usually are trapped in some type of situation that put them on the streets.

How do you handle street kids? Well, the question cannot be said clearly. One side of the answer to the question deals with your moral background. The other side deals with investigating the kid's situation. If there was a possibility to escape the situation, then that possibility would be the answer (example: shelter). It the situation dealt with something illegal, then surely the authorities should be involved.

The popular solution, though, is to simply walk away. Why? Well, many do not know the situation fully enough to be sure to help out. Others might think it isn't their buisness to do anything. As a foreigner, you would have it hard if you gave anything. Once something is given, they'll remember your face and you'll be continuously asked for needs. And if you were decided enough to give the kid (or even adult) something, it is best to give food instead of money. If you are decided to just walk away, simply say "wala" (Bisayan for "nothing") and they'll back off.

Steps to Updating Your Visa

The steps to updating your visa are very simple:

1. Go to the Bureau of Immigration. It is across the road from the Victoria Plaza Mall on JP Laurel Avenue. The building should be behind blue gates.
2. Go to the counter and request a visa extension. They will give you a form to fill out.
3. Fill out the form and make copies of the requested pages they ask of your passport.
4. Return the form and wait to be called to pay the fee.
5. After paying the fee, wait patiently again to receive your passport and receipt.

It is that simple. Always bring your ATM card, or the requested amount of money to pay the fees. Dress appropriately; pants (not shorts) and shoes (not flip-flops or sandals) are most appropriate. And most importantly, put on a good attitude and be patient when waiting. Be sure to probably come after lunch, since this process takes awhile.