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.

Read More
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.

Read More
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.

Read More
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.

Read More
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.

Read More
Filipino Parents' Airport Rules: 6 Quirky Traditions That Show Ultimate Love

In Filipino culture, airport rituals aren't just about catching flights – they're elaborate expressions of love, care, and family values. Through a collaboration between One Down and Mango Tours, we're unveiling these endearing traditions that make Filipino parents uniquely special in their approach to air travel. Let's explore these six quintessential airport rules that every Filipino child knows all too well.

Read More
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.

Read More