Origins and Usage

AFAM initially referred to expatriates or tourists in Manila. Over time, it has evolved to include any foreigner in the Philippines, regardless of their location or the purpose of their visit. The term is commonly used in gay slang and women’s speech, highlighting its roots in specific social circles.

Cultural Context

The use of “AFAM” reflects broader cultural and social dynamics in the Philippines. Historically, the country has been influenced by various foreign powers, from Spanish colonization to American rule. These interactions have shaped societal norms and perceptions, particularly regarding relationships with foreigners.

Perceptions and Stereotypes

The term “AFAM” carries both positive and negative connotations. On one hand, foreigners are often perceived as financially stable and worldly, which can be attractive traits for some Filipinos. On the other hand, the label can also evoke stereotypes and assumptions about relationships, such as the idea that dating a foreigner is primarily for financial gain.

Interracial Relationships

In the context of interracial relationships, “AFAM” is frequently used to describe foreign men dating Filipino women. These relationships can be complex, influenced by cultural differences and societal perceptions. Some Filipinos embrace the term, while others find it offensive due to its implications.

Modern Implications

Today, the concept of “AFAM” is intertwined with the globalized dating scene, facilitated by technology and social media. Dating apps have made it easier for Filipinos to connect with foreigners, further popularizing the term. This trend reflects a broader acceptance and curiosity about different cultures and lifestyles.

Final Words

“AFAM” is more than just a slang term; it encapsulates a rich tapestry of cultural interactions and societal perceptions in the Philippines. While it may carry certain stereotypes, it also highlights the country’s openness to global influences and the evolving nature of relationships in a modern context.

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In just a few short years, TikTok has become a global phenomenon, captivating users across the world with its endless stream of creative, entertaining short-form videos.

But nowhere is the app more popular than in the Philippines, where users spend an astounding average of 40 hours and 46 minutes per month scrolling through TikTok’s addictive feed.

In this deep dive, we’ll explore the reasons behind TikTok’s explosive growth in the Philippines and examine how the app’s impact compares to other countries.

We’ll also look at some key TikTok statistics and demographics to understand who is using the app and how they are engaging with it.

The Rise of TikTok in the Philippines

Since its launch in 2016, TikTok has experienced meteoric growth, particularly in Southeast Asia. The app has found a especially devoted following in the Philippines, where it has become the most downloaded app and the second most used social media platform after Facebook.

As of early 2024, TikTok boasts an impressive 49.09 million active users in the Philippines, equivalent to about 41% of the country’s total population. The app’s user base in the Philippines grew by a staggering 23.2% between October 2023 and January 2024 alone.

So what is driving TikTok’s immense popularity in the Philippines?

Experts point to a few key factors:

• Mobile-first population: With over 70% of Filipinos accessing the internet primarily through mobile devices, TikTok’s mobile-optimized format is a natural fit.
• Love of music and dance: Filipinos have a deep affinity for music and dance, which are central to much of the content on TikTok. Local dance challenges frequently go viral on the app.
• Desire for community and connection: In a country where many families are separated by overseas work, TikTok provides a way for Filipinos to connect, share, and relate to each other through content.
• Pandemic boredom: When lockdowns hit the Philippines in 2020, many turned to TikTok as a much-needed source of entertainment and creative outlet while stuck at home.

Who’s Using TikTok in the Philippines?

TikTok’s user base in the Philippines skews young and female. As of early 2024:

• 49.1% of TikTok’s ad audience in the Philippines is female, while 50.9% is male
• 67.9% of Filipinos aged 16-64 consider TikTok their most-used social media platform
• 55% of TikTok users in the Philippines are female and aged 12-24

While TikTok is undoubtedly most popular among Gen Z, its reach extends to older generations as well. 15% of TikTok users in the Philippines are 55 years and older.

How Filipinos Are Engaging With TikTok

More than just a casual distraction, TikTok has become a central part of daily life and culture for many Filipinos. The app is shaping everything from content creation to commerce:

• 97% of TikTok users in the Philippines engaged with the app during major shopping events like 11.11 sales after seeing related content
• 93% said they were inspired to make a purchase after seeing a product on TikTok
• 56% report discovering new brands through TikTok ads

Filipino TikTok users are also highly active content creators, with many local influencers achieving massive followings:

• Filipina actress Niana Guerrero has over 30 million followers
• Comedian Sassa Gurl has over 14 million followers
• Yanyan de Jesus, known for parody and dance videos, has over 12 million followers

TikTok’s Global Footprint

While TikTok’s popularity in the Philippines is remarkable, the app has also made major inroads in other countries around the world. As of 2023, TikTok has over 1.5 billion monthly active users worldwide, with over 500 million in the Asia-Pacific region alone.Here’s a look at TikTok’s reach in some key markets as of early 2024:

Source: Oberlo

Notably, India, which was once TikTok’s largest market, banned the app in June 2020 citing national security concerns. The U.S. and other countries have also raised alarms about data privacy issues related to TikTok’s Chinese parent company ByteDance.

Despite these challenges, TikTok’s growth shows no signs of slowing. The app is expected to reach 1.8 billion monthly active users globally by the end of 2024.

The Bottom Line

TikTok’s ascent to social media superstardom has been nothing short of remarkable, and nowhere is its impact more evident than in the Philippines.

With its massive, highly engaged user base and deep cultural influence, TikTok has become an indispensable platform for Filipinos to connect, create, and consume.

As TikTok continues to evolve and expand, it will be fascinating to see how it shapes the social media landscape in the Philippines and beyond in the years to come.

One thing is clear: For now, TikTok is here to stay, and its hold on Filipinos’ attention spans is only getting stronger.

The post You Won’t Believe How Much Time Filipinos Spend on TikTok Each Month! appeared first on HyperLocal PH.

In the Philippines, the importance of friendship is recognized and celebrated through two special occasions each year: National Best Friends Day on June 8, and Friendship Day which is celebrated twice – Philippines-Australia Friendship Day on May 22 and Philippines-Spain Friendship Day on June 30.

Let’s take a closer look at how these heartwarming holidays came to be and the unique ways they are celebrated across the archipelago.

National Best Friends Day (June 8)

National Best Friends Day is celebrated worldwide on June 8 each year. This unofficial holiday originated in the United States in 1935, when the U.S. Congress decided to dedicate a day to honor the special bond between best friends.

They chose June 8, as the summer weather in most parts of the country is ideal for best friends to get together and celebrate.

In the Philippines, National Best Friends Day has gained popularity in recent years, especially among the younger generation. Social media plays a big role in spreading awareness about the occasion. On June 8, Filipino netizens flood Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter with photos, heartfelt messages, and funny memes celebrating their best friends.

The hashtag #NationalBestFriendsDay trends each year as Filipinos proudly showcase their unbreakable bonds.

Common ways to celebrate National Best Friends Day in the Philippines include:

• Posting throwback photos and heartfelt messages on social media
• Reminiscing about fun memories and inside jokes
• Exchanging meaningful gifts like friendship bracelets or necklaces
• Planning a fun day out together, like a road trip, beach day, or spa date
• Staying in for a cozy movie marathon or sleepover party
• Surprising your bestie at work or school with a special treat

The great thing about National Best Friends Day is that there are no set rules. It’s all about taking a moment to appreciate the special people who make our lives brighter and letting them know how much they mean to us.

Filipino-American Friendship Day (July 4)

Filipino-American Friendship Day, also known as Philippine Republic Day, is celebrated annually on July 4th to commemorate the strong relationship and historical ties between the Philippines and the United States. Some key facts about the holiday:

• It was formerly celebrated as Philippine Independence Day on July 4th, the date the U.S. granted independence to the Philippines in 1946 after World War II. The Independence Day celebration was later moved to June 12th.
• In 1955, Philippine President Ramon Magsaysay proclaimed July 4th as Philippine-American Day. This was moved by President Ferdinand Marcos in 1984 to July 4th and renamed Philippine-American Friendship Day.
• The holiday celebrates the shared history, friendship, and cooperation between the two countries that has evolved from the colonial period to the present-day partnership.

Some common ways the day is celebrated:

• Hosting cultural exchange potlucks with both Filipino and American dishes
• Engaging in discussions and storytelling about the history of Filipino-American relations
• Playing popular Filipino and American games together
• Watching films from Filipino and American filmmakers
• Creating arts and crafts inspired by symbols and elements from both cultures

The day also honors notable figures like Atty. Luis F. Samson, a World War II veteran who fought alongside American forces and later founded the University of Luzon in 1948. His life exemplified the dedication to Filipino-American friendship.

Philippines-Australia Friendship Day (May 22)

The Philippines and Australia have enjoyed a warm and enduring friendship for over 75 years. To celebrate this special bond, May 22 was officially declared Philippines-Australia Friendship Day in 2012.Each year, the Australian Embassy in the Philippines organizes a range of cultural events and activities to mark the occasion. In the past, Friendship Day celebrations have included:

• Festivals and fairs showcasing Australian food, music, art, and culture
• Sports tournaments and outdoor activities
• Film screenings featuring Australian movies
• Educational exchanges and alumni gatherings
• Social media contests and online campaigns

In 2020 and 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Australian Embassy took the Friendship Day celebrations online. Filipinos were invited to join the festivities virtually using the hashtag #FilAussieDay.

The online event featured video messages from Australian and Filipino government officials, celebrities, and everyday citizens sharing their appreciation for the friendship between the two nations.

The online celebration also highlighted the strong people-to-people links between Australia and the Philippines.

Did you know that the first Filipino migrants to Australia were pearl divers who settled in the country’s north in the late 1800s? Today, over 300,000 Filipinos call Australia home, making up one of its largest migrant communities.

Education is another area where ties run deep. Each year, close to 20,000 Filipinos study and train in Australia. The Australian government also sponsors prestigious scholarships for Filipinos to earn advanced degrees at top Australian universities.

Upon returning home, these scholars join a vibrant alumni network and serve as ambassadors for the enduring friendship between the two countries.

As the world recovers from the pandemic, the Australian Embassy looks forward to holding in-person Friendship Day celebrations once again. Past festivals have taken place in key cities like Manila, Cebu, and Davao, allowing Filipinos across the country to join in the fun.

No matter what form the celebration takes, Philippines-Australia Friendship Day is a heartfelt reminder of the deep ties and shared values that unite these two nations from opposite sides of the globe. It’s a chance to honor the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to a bright future of continued mateship and bayanihan spirit.

Philippines-Spain Friendship Day (June 30)

June 30 marks another important friendship celebration in the Philippines – Philippines-Spain Friendship Day. This annual commemoration honors the deep historical and cultural ties between the Philippines and its former colonizer, Spain.

The Philippines was a Spanish colony for over 300 years, from the 16th to the 19th century. This long period of Spanish rule left an indelible mark on Filipino culture, from language and religion to art, architecture, and cuisine.

Today, Spanish influence can still be seen and felt all throughout the archipelago.

Philippines-Spain Friendship Day was first officially celebrated in 2003, thanks to the efforts of then-Senator Edgardo Angara. June 30 was chosen as the date because it was when Philippine President Emilio Aguinaldo issued a decree in 1899 declaring that Spanish soldiers who had been besieged in Baler, Aurora for almost a year should be treated not as enemies, but as friends.

Aguinaldo also granted them safe passage back to Spain, a gesture of goodwill that is remembered to this day.

The first Philippines-Spain Friendship Day celebration was held in Baler, the site of this historic siege. President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and a special envoy from the King of Spain graced the occasion. Since then, the festivities have grown in scale and scope, taking place in different parts of the country and highlighting various aspects of Filipino-Spanish friendship.

Some of the events and activities that have been part of Philippines-Spain Friendship Day celebrations over the years include:

• Cultural performances showcasing Spanish and Filipino music and dance
• Exhibits featuring Spanish and Filipino art, literature, and historical artifacts
• Academic conferences and symposia on Filipino-Spanish relations
• Spanish film screenings
• Food festivals highlighting Spanish and Filipino cuisine
• Sports tournaments and games
• Special masses and religious processions
• Wreath-laying ceremonies at historical sites and monuments

One of the most iconic symbols of Philippines-Spain Friendship Day is the El Galeon, a replica of a Spanish galleon that was gifted by the Spanish government to the Philippines in 2003. The ship has become a floating museum and cultural center, traveling to different parts of the country to bring the story of Filipino-Spanish friendship to more Filipinos.

Philippines-Spain Friendship Day is also celebrated by Filipino and Spanish communities overseas. In Spain, the occasion is marked with cultural and academic events organized by the Philippine Embassy and Filipino community groups. These celebrations highlight the contributions of the Filipino diaspora to Spanish society and the enduring ties between the two peoples.

As the Philippines and Spain continue to build on their shared history and strengthen their modern-day partnership, Philippines-Spain Friendship Day serves as an annual reminder of the rich tapestry of cultural exchange and camaraderie that binds these two nations together. It’s a time to reflect on the past, appreciate the present, and nurture the friendship for future generations to cherish.

The Importance of Celebrating Friendship

In a world that can often feel divided and disconnected, taking time to celebrate friendship is more important than ever. Friendship Day and Best Friends Day remind us of the power of human connection and the joy that comes from nurturing meaningful relationships.

Studies have shown that having strong friendships can have a profound impact on our physical and mental well-being. Friends provide emotional support, reduce stress, boost our self-esteem, and even help us live longer. In the Philippines, where family and community ties are deeply valued, friendships are often just as cherished as blood relations.

Celebrating friendship is also a way to promote cultural understanding and build bridges between people from different backgrounds. The Philippines’ Friendship Day celebrations with Australia and Spain showcase how shared history, values, and interests can bring nations and peoples together in a spirit of amity and goodwill.

In a year marked by a global pandemic, political upheaval, and social unrest, the message of friendship and unity is perhaps more relevant than ever. As we navigate these challenging times, let us draw strength and inspiration from the bonds we share with our friends, both near and far.

Whether it’s a simple message of appreciation, a thoughtful gesture, or a grand celebration, taking time to honor the friends who enrich our lives is always worthwhile. So to all the best friends and lifelong pals out there, Happy Friendship Day!

May your connections continue to thrive and bring you joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories for years to come.

Celebrating Friendship Every Day

While it’s wonderful to have special days dedicated to honoring friendship, it’s important to remember that being a good friend is a daily practice. We shouldn’t wait for a holiday to show our friends how much they mean to us. Here are some simple ways we can celebrate and strengthen our friendships every day:

1. Check in regularly. A quick message or phone call to let your friend know you’re thinking of them can brighten their day and keep your bond strong, even when life gets busy.
2. Be a good listener. When your friend needs to vent or share something important, give them your full attention and lend a supportive ear.
3. Show up for the big moments. Whether it’s a birthday, graduation, wedding, or tough time, make an effort to be there for your friend during life’s milestones and challenges.
4. Make new memories together. Plan regular get-togethers or outings with your friends to create shared experiences and inside jokes that will strengthen your connection over time.
5. Express gratitude. Let your friends know how much you appreciate them and the role they play in your life. A heartfelt “thank you” can go a long way.
6. Forgive and forget. No friendship is perfect, and conflicts are bound to happen. When they do, be quick to forgive, let go of grudges, and focus on the positive aspects of your relationship.
7. Celebrate each other’s successes. Be your friend’s biggest cheerleader and celebrate their wins as if they were your own. A true friend is someone who wants to see you succeed and is genuinely happy for your achievements.

By weaving these practices into our daily lives, we can ensure that the spirit of Friendship Day lives on long after the festivities end. After all, friendship is not just a once-a-year celebration, but a lifelong commitment to love, support, and cherish the special people who make our world a brighter place.

Conclusion

In the Philippines, friendship is more than just a social nicety – it’s a deeply held value that shapes the fabric of society. From the tight-knit barangays to the global diaspora, Filipinos have always placed a premium on the bonds of friendship and the sense of community it fosters.

National Best Friends Day and Friendship Day celebrations in the Philippines offer a chance to reflect on the importance of these bonds and to honor the special people who enrich our lives in countless ways. Whether it’s celebrating the unbreakable ties between best friends, the enduring partnership between the Philippines and Australia, or the rich cultural heritage shared with Spain, these occasions remind us of the power of friendship to bridge divides and bring people together.

As we navigate an increasingly complex and challenging world, let us draw strength and inspiration from the friendships that sustain us. Let us cherish the laughter, the memories, and the unwavering support that true friends provide. And let us strive to be the kind of friends that we ourselves would want to have – loyal, compassionate, and always ready to lend a helping hand.

In the end, friendship is perhaps the greatest gift we can give and receive. It is a source of joy, strength, and resilience that helps us weather life’s storms and celebrate its triumphs. So let us hold our friends close, and never take for granted the precious bonds that make life worth living. Happy Friendship Day, Philippines! May your friendships continue to thrive and inspire, today and always.

The post Celebrating Friendship in the Philippines: Best Friends Day and Friendship Day appeared first on HyperLocal PH.

From our love of karaoke to our unparalleled hospitality, there are countless ways we express our Filipino-ness each and every day.

Let’s explore some of the most common and endearing traits that make it obvious you’re a true-blue Pinoy at heart.

Your Spaghetti is on the Sweet Side

While Italian spaghetti is savory with hints of acidity from the tomatoes, we Filipinos put a distinctly sweet spin on this classic dish.

A generous helping of sugar or banana ketchup gives Pinoy spaghetti a red-orange hue and saccharine flavor that pairs perfectly with hotdogs and grated cheese. This party staple is a dead giveaway of your Filipino roots.

“Psst” is Your Default Attention-Grabber

When you need to get someone’s attention, your go-to sound is a quick, sharp “psst!” No “Hey there!” or “Excuse me” needed.

This short but effective hiss, usually accompanied by a head nod or eyebrow raise, is an unspoken code among Filipinos. It’s the perfect way to discreetly catch someone’s eye in a crowded room.

You Have a Tabo in Your Bathroom

No Filipino bathroom is complete without a trusty tabo.

This humble plastic dipper is a multipurpose essential – for taking a bath, cleaning yourself after using the toilet, watering plants, and more. Using a tabo is second nature to you, and you might even feel a bit lost in bathrooms without one. It’s a small but mighty symbol of Filipino ingenuity and resourcefulness.

You Add “Po” and “Opo” When Speaking to Elders

Respect for elders is deeply ingrained in Filipino culture, and this is reflected in our language.

When conversing with someone older than you, it’s almost instinctive to pepper your sentences with “po” and “opo.” These respectful markers come naturally to you and using them is a sign of your good upbringing and Filipino values.

You Have a Bottle of Toyo and Suka on Your Dining Table

No Filipino dining table is complete without the dynamic duo of toyo (soy sauce) and suka (vinegar).

These trusty condiments are used to season everything from sinangag (garlic fried rice) to grilled meats and fish. If your hand automatically reaches for these bottles to sawsaw your meal, you’re definitely Filipino.

Mano Po is Your Way of Greeting Elders

Pagmamano, or touching an elder’s hand to your forehead as a sign of respect, is a cherished Filipino tradition.

You know you’re Filipino when this gesture comes automatically to you when greeting grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other respected figures. It’s a beautiful way of honoring their wisdom and showing your utmost regard for them.

You Wear Tsinelas Everywhere

Filipinos love their tsinelas (flip-flops).

These versatile sandals are worn everywhere – at home, to the sari-sari store, playing Filipino traditional games, even to semi-formal events. You know you’re Pinoy when your feet feel naked without your trusty rubber slippers. Bonus points if you have a designated tsinelas for the bathroom and for pang-porma.

Balikbayan Boxes are Your Pasalubong Kings

Your family abroad always sends their love in the form of balikbayan boxes filled to the brim with chocolates, toiletries, clothes, and other pasalubong.

Receiving these care packages feels like Christmas morning, and you can’t help but feel kilig at the thoughtfulness. These boxes are a heartwarming symbol of the Filipino diaspora’s enduring connection to their homeland.

You Have a Giant Spoon and Fork on Your Wall

Oversized utensils are a quirky but ubiquitous decor choice in Filipino households.

These wooden or plastic spoons and forks, often painted in bright colors, adorn many dining room walls. Some even come with a giant knife to complete the set. This kitschy decor is a playful nod to the Filipino love for food and eating together.

You Eat Rice for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Rice is life for Filipinos.

A meal isn’t complete without a heaping serving of this beloved grain, whether it’s sinangag for breakfast, plain steamed rice for lunch, or garlic fried rice for dinner. You know you’re Filipino when the thought of a rice-less meal makes you feel a little sad inside. Kanin is king, after all.

You Use Your Lips to Point at Things

Filipinos have a unique way of pointing at things – with their lips!

The infamous “nguso” involves puckering your lips in the direction of the object you’re referring to. This subtle gesture is a quirky Filipino habit that comes naturally to you, even if it sometimes confuses non-Pinoys. It’s a charming reminder of your Filipino heritage.

So, tell me you’re a Filipino without telling me you’re a Filipino. Leave them in the comment section.

These are just a handful of the many endearing quirks and habits that reveal your Filipino identity.

From our food preferences to our respect for elders, these traits are woven into the very fabric of our culture.

They connect us to our roots and to each other, no matter where in the world we may be.

So the next time someone asks you to prove you’re Filipino without saying it outright, just flash them a knowing smile and let your Pinoy pride shine through in all the little ways that make you who you are.

As they say in these islands, “Proud to be Pinoy!”

The post Tell Me You’re a Filipino Without Telling Me You’re a Filipino appeared first on HyperLocal PH.