
ARTICLES
One Down's Must-Shop Holiday List 2024
Browse our curated selection of Filipino-owned businesses offering everything from food & beverage to health & wellness and artisanal goods. Each business reflects a commitment to creativity, heritage, and community.
The Filipino-American Housing Crisis in California
We explore why Filipino families face such intense rent pressures in California’s major cities. By examining the unique circumstances in Daly City, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, SOMCAN sheds light on the challenges that have led to the current housing crisis—and what might be done to address it.
Discover bago: Filipino Textiles in American Streetwear
In today’s world, where identity, culture, and fashion intersect, few brands capture this fusion as effortlessly as bago. Rooted in the rich tradition of Filipino textiles and empowered by the spirit of modern streetwear, bago has emerged as a fashion brand that does more than just create garments—it tells stories. Every piece they produce is a love letter to Filipino heritage, a homage to the weavers who handcraft their textiles, and a testament to the importance of slow fashion in an era of overconsumption.
Why Filipinos Are Leaving Daly City—Rising Rents Explained
For decades, Daly City has been known as the “Pinoy Capital of the Bay Area,” home to one of the largest concentrations of Filipino families in the United States. Filipino immigrants have long flocked to this community, building businesses, raising families, and contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural fabric. However, as the cost of living skyrockets and rent prices soar, many of these families are finding it increasingly difficult to stay in the city they once called home.
Empowering Ube Farmers: How You Can Make a Difference in the Philippines
Ube has become a global sensation, with its vibrant purple color and unique flavor making it a favorite ingredient in many trendy food items. However, despite its popularity, ube farmers in the Philippines aren’t reaping the benefits. As the demand grows, Filipino farmers, especially indigenous communities, face challenges that require our support.
Can Filipinos Find the American Dream in the Philippines?
A growing trend known as reverse migration sees many Filipinos, including Filipino Americans and third-culture kids from places like Canada, Japan, and the Middle East, returning to their motherland. The idea of achieving the American Dream in the Philippines is becoming increasingly appealing. But what is driving this return, and are the opportunities in the Philippines truly accessible to all Filipinos? More importantly, can the American Dream really be found in the Philippines?
The Truth Behind OFW Sacrifice and Discrimination
The experience of an OFW is often filled with hardship, discrimination, and even racism in their host countries. While their sacrifices are acknowledged, the systemic issues that force them into these situations are rarely discussed. This blog will dive into the hidden challenges faced by OFWs—the discrimination they endure, the trauma of long-term separation, and the poor working conditions that are often ignored.
Why Filipino Weaving Traditions Still Matter Today
Filipino weaving traditions are a testament to the resilience, creativity, and spirituality of indigenous communities across the Philippines. Each woven textile tells a unique story, passed down from generation to generation, preserving the history and culture of its people. As modern trends like fast fashion continue to dominate, these weaving traditions face existential threats. Yet, they remain as vital as ever, not only for their beauty but for the deeper cultural and spiritual connections they represent.