Posts in Lifestyle
Philippine Airlines: 77 Years as the Only Direct Link Between the U.S. and the Philippines

For decades, Philippine Airlines (PAL) has been more than just a carrier—it has been a lifeline for millions of Filipinos bridging the gap between the U.S. and the Philippines. From its historic transpacific flight in 1946 to its unmatched 77-year run as the only airline offering direct flights between the two countries, PAL has played a central role in fostering connections between families, cultures, and economies.

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From Ube to Pandan: Plants Behind Iconic Filipino Desserts

Filipino cuisine is a treasure trove of unique flavors, often rooted in the lush and diverse plant life of the Philippines. From vibrant purple ube to the fragrant pandan, these plants have been transformed into some of the most beloved desserts that bring joy to Filipinos around the world. Let’s take a closer look at the plant origins of these iconic treats and how they’ve found a place in Filipino culture and cuisine.

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Why Calamansi Is the Filipino Citrus Taking Over American Grocery Stores

If you’ve been to an Asian market or even your local Trader Joe’s recently, you might have noticed a tiny, green citrus fruit making its way onto shelves and into the hearts of food enthusiasts: calamansi. This tangy, versatile fruit, a staple in Filipino cuisine, is now crossing cultural boundaries and capturing the attention of American consumers. But why is calamansi suddenly becoming so popular in the U.S., and can it rival the lemon as the citrus of choice?

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Filipino Folklore: The Mystical Stories Behind the Mango Tree

Mangoes are a beloved fruit in the Philippines, their sweet flavor and vibrant hue a staple of Filipino culture. However, these golden fruits carry more than just culinary significance—they are steeped in folklore, symbolizing love, protection, and the enduring connection between humans and nature. From tales of mysterious spirits to heartwarming bonds, mango trees are central to stories passed down through generations.

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Ube is the 2024 Flavor of the Year: A Celebration or Cultural Appropriation?

Move over pumpkin spice—2024 belongs to ube. This vibrant purple yam, a staple in Filipino cuisine, has officially been named the Flavor of the Year by leading food trend forecasters. Known for its nutty, sweet, and earthy flavor, ube has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of foodies worldwide. From Trader Joe’s ube ice cream to Starbucks’ Ube Latte, this Filipino ingredient is making waves in mainstream markets.

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Filipino Food in America: A Timeline of the Filipino Food Movement

For decades, Filipino food has been misunderstood, misrepresented, and often dismissed in mainstream media. From being labeled as "extreme" to being used as a spectacle for shock value, Filipino cuisine has faced an uphill battle for recognition. But thanks to the resilience of Filipino chefs, food entrepreneurs, and cultural advocates, the narrative is changing. Here's a look at how Filipino food has evolved in the eyes of America—and how Filipinos are reclaiming their culinary identity.

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Discover the Philippines: Local Destinations That Feel Like a Trip Abroad

When you think of traveling abroad, you might imagine the towering mountains of Laos, the serene blue lagoons of Indonesia, or the thrilling ultralight flights of Nepal. But what if you could experience all of these without leaving the Philippines? With its 7,641 islands, the Philippines offers a treasure trove of destinations that mirror the beauty of other countries, proving that you don’t need a passport to embark on a world-class adventure.

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SCAMS Our Filipino Parents Keep Falling For—and How to Protect Them

Scams are an unfortunate reality of the digital age, and they seem to target one of the most vulnerable groups: our Filipino parents. Their generosity, trust, and excitement over a “good deal” can sometimes make them easy targets for online swindlers. Combine this with a lack of formal digital literacy education, and it's no wonder that scammers often succeed. From fake giveaways on Facebook to pyramid schemes and bogus travel packages, these fraudulent tactics hit close to home.

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