It's Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Hello, kamusta ka kaibigan? First to begin with a positive note, congratulations to Singapore and Philippines for making onto Lonely Planet’s “Top 10 countries to visit in 2015”! 🙂 There must be something special about Singapore and Philippines to win this honorary title! (The only two Asian countries) If you are in a dilemma whether to visit The Philippines, a beautiful gem in South East Asia, probably this article can help you clear your doubts and calm your anxiety. The country and its island are somehow misunderstood by many.

Best feeling ever heading to the Philippines

The Philippines is sitting at the very eastern edge of South East Asia. Many people seem to have very different opinions of this spectacular country. The harsh reality is, there is a certain stigma towards the country, probably a result from media reports or simply the lack of knowledge.

Captain Keith Sparrow Checking Philippines Out

As a traveler, many people like to seek my recommendation for vacation in South East Asia, the first country which always comes to my mind is the Philippines! Usually people will be skeptical as this travel destination is not something they expect (unlike to mainstream places i.e. Phuket or Bali) It’s undeniable that many people really do not know much about the Philippines and are missing out a lot from this amazing country. Well, I am not saying the country is perfect, but Philippines is indeed a GREAT destination for tourist to visit.

Truly an unforgettable scenic and beach destination

Till now, Philippines is the only beach destination country that had me visited twice. Both times, the Filipinos never failed to surprise me with their genuine hospitality and sincerity. I laughed hard when I heard about some horrendous and hilarious prejudices and stereotypes of the Philippines and this lead to this article for me to share the top 10 misconception about the Philippines. Hopefully this will turn the stereotypes and prejudices into love and you may become a fan of the “Islands of Paradise”. (A title I personally gave Philippines) Who knows, in future you might start wearing tee shirts with the prints “I Love PH”. haha

Introducing El Nido, Palawan!

#1 Wow, are you serious? Philippines is dangerous!

First of all, I am going to start with what I have always heard from people “OMG, I am afraid to visit the Philippines, my mom, my neighbours, my friends, my colleagues, and even my pet told me it’s dangerous!”. I am not exaggerating, well I admit the part on the pet. Other than that, this is a very common misconception from many people. The fact that I made it home safely twice, shows that this country is not as dangerous as you may think. The Philippines is as safe as any other country. Sure you will see reports of kidnappings and violent crimes but just like anywhere else in the world, these scary stories featured in the newspapers and media are the exceptional rare cases. The odds of such things happening to you are pretty low. Well, having said that, low crime doesn’t mean no crime. So all you need is just a good sense of situational awareness and you will be fine just like anywhere else in the world. 🙂

Avoid if you see someone like them! (Pic in Boracay)

I’m not going to deny that there are indeed some places which can be quite dangerous i.e. some areas in Mindanao, Sulu Archipelago or Zamboanga Peninsula. The spin-off terrorist groups i.e. Abu Sayaff and J.I. are responsible for many terrorist attacks in these areas. The country is also plagued with some of the worst natural disasters i.e. Tropical Storm Haiyan was the largest storm ever recorded in the world. That being said, there are pretty good pre-warning systems around the Pacific Ring of Fire. Just avoid the dangerous areas, keep yourself updated and be aware of what’s happening, and you will be fine as well. 🙂

Best Way To Stay Safe! 🙂

Or hide yourself in secret beach! 🙂

#2 What’s there in the Philippines? Isn’t it full of dangerous active volcanoes?

There are approximately 1,500 active volcanoes in the world. Most of them are found at the Pacific Ring of Fire cue in Pacific Rim theme song. There are over 130 volcanoes in Alaska, about 130 in Iceland, 118 in Japan. The Philippines comprises of 7,107 islands and hundreds of volcanoes. of which ONLY 23 are active volcanoes. All the other volcanoes are dormant or ‘dead’ volcanoes where you could probably boil eggs, but it will not burn and destroy your house! 🙂 The country is not just about volcanoes. In fact, Manila, Cebu, Angeles City and all other cities are located on the big islands, surrounded by the beautiful sea. The Philippines covers approximately 300,000 kilometers and are blessed with a HUGE numbers of stunning white sand beaches that attract large numbers of tourists every year. I was absolutely hooked by the beauty of this stunning country! 🙂

Top of Mount Luho! 🙂

Spectacular view of Palawan!

Hiding at Hidden Beach

#3 The unpatrotic Filipinos wish to migrate out and work elsewhere

Ask yourself this, who will wish to leave their family willingly, if not because they want to seek a better life and improve their future? Poverty and poor standard of living condition is still a harsh reality in the country. For many Filipinos I have met, they truly love their country and I should say, Filipinos are one of the most patriotic people I know. In fact, I personally know a Singaporean friend whose dad (a Singaporean) migrated to the Philippines to retire as he loved it there.

Casa Manila Museum in Intramuros

Filipinos are raised with strong nationalistic values and have pride in their own heritage. When I backpacked around the world, the Filipinos and the Canadian were the only two nationalities who proudly sewed their country flag badge onto their backpack. Well, have you ever sew your country badge onto your backpack before? I always wanted to, but just didn’t do it. haha

My collection of all country flag badges of the countries I visited

Often, many Filipinos love the fact though some can’t believe that I have been to their country and love it there, and it can really make their day when they hear foreigners complimenting their country. Rather than just a skeptical reply from the locals, many Filipinos actually provided me with some tips for my next visit, some even humbly invited me to stay with their family if I visit Philippines again. 🙂

Warmth welcome by the locals at Palawan

#4 Philippines is full of domestic helpers and call centre operators! No?

Oh god, one of the most ridiculous misconception I ever heard! Only ignorant people will make such a comment. I believe everyone is born with differences and diversity. Just because there are many who leave the country and work as domestic helper overseas doesn’t mean everyone is the same. ARGH! In fact, Filipinos are considered a major backbone for many industries. Their skills, talent, and passion is very strong or perhaps, even better than where we are from. The Philippines also has the largest diaspora network in the world, with approximately 11 million of Filipinos living and working overseas, but of course, not everyone work as domestic help or call centre operators! The country is the world’s largest supplier for expat nurses. I have a few Filipino friends who are working in the banking and finance industry, IT industry, entertainment industry as a singer and one great writer too! 🙂

Disclaimer: Domestic helpers and call centre operators are honest work and in fact a tough job! These workers often need to sacrifice and bear the pain of missing home, just to earn a living. For every penny they earn, it’s definitely a hard-earned money. The work they are doing is nothing inferior to other “prestigious” job people are pursuing for, therefore the same respect given to the expat, should be given to them as well.

With Filipino Service Staff at Louis Cristal, Greece

#5 I thought Philippines is boring, no?

I don’t really understand why would people think Philippines is a boring country. This is definitely an understatement! Try visiting Philippines during the Christmas season. I did it twice and I know how amazingly fun it is to visit Philippines during this period. Christmas decorations in the public and individual homes would have been set up and Christmas jingles could be heard as early as September to December. What a long celebration and festive mood by the fun loving locals! Imagine this, when we have yet to discuss next year’s work-plan or appraisal, Filipinos are already celebrating Christmas! How cool is that? 🙂

The Colourful Xmas Evening in Boracay

Impressive Fire Dance

One thing to take note, Filipinos are very fun people, and excellent singers too. For party animals, this is a bad place for your liver and kidneys because alcohol drinks are dirt cheap, in fact, cheaper than fruit juice. For non-alcohol drinkers, the islands offer the best fruit juices that will pleasantly excite your taste buds till no end! 🙂

Best tropical fruit juice ever!

Philippines is NEVER boring and has so much to offer. To learn about the the fun activities I did with my buddies, in the renowned island of Boracay, check out my article: 25 Must Do Activities In Boracay, Philippines

Activities in Boracay Island

#6 Filipinos are mostly rowdy, unfriendly and unhappy people

Filipinos are the friendliest bunch of people I have ever met. They always present themselves as friendly, joyful and happy. It is like party mood everyday. For first time visitors, do not be surprised with the genuinely warm and friendly nature of the Filipinos. They are just lovely and hospitable! 🙂

Lovely smile always from the locals

There is something I really admire about the Filipinos, can you imagine, even with poverty, natural disasters, people still lead their life normally with a positive outlook and remain happy and friendly to everyone they meet. They believe in living their life to the fullest. They have a strong positive outlook of their future and it doesn’t matter if they are sick, jobless, or whatsoever, they believe their luck will improve eventually.

Hanging out with the local Filipinas

Nice friendly Filipinos correctly guessed I’m Singaporean at Ninoy Aquino International Airport!

Despite living in harsh condition, they never failed to put up a smile and genuinely want to befriend you as their friend! They are curious about your background and will sincerely host you. With such warm hospitality, you will rarely be neglected. 🙂

At least, I have the Philippines Jollibee to love me

#7 Filipinos are not Malay?

If you say this, you probably sound really ignorant. In fact, Singapore immigration classified Filipinos as “others” race, not Malay. Filipinos have very different ethnic background, mainly Malay, Chinese, Spanish, and American etc. It’s the only country in the world where you see an amazing blend of Spanish, American, Malay and Chinese people. Filipinos have their ancestry origins attributed to these ranging from 1520 (Spanish rule) to as recent as 1946 when America ended its colonial rule. The Philippines became the first Southeast Asian nation who declared independence and ended the western colonization.

The Manila Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica

Philippines and China are super best friend or at least in the past! The Chinese influence is still pretty evident on a Filipino way of life even till today. You can read up more and refer to my Filipino friend – Ryan Buaron’s article: The World Oldest Chinatown – Binondo, Manila’s Chinatown Some interesting discovery and heritage history of the Chinese settlement in the archipelago. 🙂

With my new mates Ai & David who is half Japanese and Filipino mix

I want to clear the racial air now, to me, it does not matter what race you are. More importantly are your values and personality that determines who you are as a person! So, you shouldn’t be conscious about your skin but rather your personal values in life! 🙂

#8 Filipinos eat bizarre food and it’s expensive there

Yes, I know some Filipinos eat the “5th leg” of animals i.e. bull testes and penis, chicken feet, balut (young duck fetus), Kamaru (crickets), Tuslob Buwa (pork brain) and Tamilok (a type of worms). Yea, I know these sound really gruesome. Fortunately, I didn’t see any locals selling these bizarre food. On the other hand, I was really impressed that there are many choices for vegetarians and the things are consider cheap in Boracay, the most famous and commercialized island in the Philippines. You can order a sumptuous meal at less than $5 or stay in a reputable clean hotel in the Philippines for just $40 or less per night. Isn’t that awesome?

Sumptuous vegetarian meal in the Philippines

Besides, the cost in Manila and Cebu are even cheaper than Boracay! I personally tried a 1.5 hour of good quality massage for only SGD$5! Really good value for money! 🙂

My Masseur 1.5 hours for only SGD$5 in Cebu

#9 Philippines is the same as the rest of South East Asia countries! No?

It is absolutely right to say that the Philippines is part of the South East Asia, however, Filipinos and their culture is heavily influenced by the American culture. This is actually the result from a long history of colonization during American’s rule over the Philippines from 1898 to 1946. I felt the culture was like western society when I was in the Philippines. Put it this way, all countries are different and have their own unique charm. we gotta piece diversity together to achieve peace and harmony! Definitely, Philippines has its similarities with the rest i.e. nice people and beautiful country, but a very multiculturalism society concept, although religion still plays a role in further fractioning the society. 🙂

Guards In Tradition Uniforms

Furthermore, the natural beauty of the islands i.e. El Nido, Coron, Boracay is very different from Phuket, Bali or Redang Island. All are amazing, but uniquely have their own charm and beauty. Sometimes, I felt that I was in the Caribbean, and sometimes I felt I was in Maldives! Never the same. 🙂

Beautiful scenic photos of Philippines

Beautiful Palawan

The friendliness culture are also very different and unique to Asia. The Philippines is considered more open and liberal than most Asian nations. They are not as demure as Thai but they are also warm, genuine and open. They are generally more straight forward but with a calm and peaceful mannerism. I can’t generalize it but this was what I experienced. 🙂

#10 Filipinos can’t speak good English and with an accent

Funny as it sounds, regardless of the state of its economy and education system, base on my experience, Filipinos in general can speak VERY good English, as English and Filipino are the main official languages in the country. In my opinion, It’s very rare for travelers to have a problem of communicating with the locals in the cities, or even rural areas. I didn’t have any problem communicating in the Philippines at all. Don’t be surprised, if many Filipinos can speak better English than you! And let’s not dwell much into accent, who speaks without an accent? 🙂

When I was traveling in Greece, I met a Filipino friend, Terence Ibanez (from Pio Duran, Albay), and other crew members on board of Louis Cristal Cruise, they sang a beautiful song – We Are The World! Amazing performance and I think Terence should consider be a pop star, cause he really has a talent in singing! Don’t you agree? haha

Accordingly to my limited knowledge of the country, there are in total about 175 languages and dialects in the Philippines, and 171 of these are actively used in the country. So, do not underestimate their language ability and get yourself into trouble. Last thing you wish to happen is that they scold you using their dialects with a smile on their face! haha

Practicing flying martial arts with the locals

Why the stereotype?

Well, people don’t formulate such opinions over night. For this decade, news spread like burning fire via media. I’m not just talking about the traditional media i.e. newspaper or TV but social media as well. Unfortunately, the news we got about the Philippines via traditional media were usually about tropical storms, terrorism or fights in some areas or sometimes on social disputes. In addition, Philippine’s tourism promotion activities are over shadowed by the more popular mainstream countries such as:

South East Asian countries i.e. Thailand, Malaysia, or Vietnam,
European countries. i.e. France, England, Italy, Spain,
American countries i.e. USA, Canada
or the all time Asians’ favourites on East Asian countries i.e Japan, South Korea, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and etc…

On the contrary, social media seems to help promote and unveil the truth better than traditional media. Social media is a GREAT platform to let people know the real sight of Philippines via travelers’ blog, or vlog. In fact, that’s how I got to know about Boracay Island 4 years ago when I was following the news of Amazing Race Asia Season 2 racers, Marc Nelson (Aussie-Burmese) and Paula Taylor (Thai), who went to Boracay Island together after the race! LOL From then, I discovered more and found out many cool places and facts about the Philippines, and eventually got me hooked by the Philippines travel bug. 🙂

Classic Shot in Boracay Island

After visited the paradise islands of Philippines twice, I decided to help unveil the truth about the amazing country and share my experiences via my stories and the beauty of the country via my photos. I just don’t wanna people miss out the chance of visiting this gem of Asia! 🙂

In Conclusion

In my opinion, stereotyping is really bad and annoying, it shuts your mind and blinds your visual. The only way to live life to the fullest, meet many great people and have a trip of a lifetime, is to open your heart when you travel! Only when you open up your frame of mind and accept things wholeheartedly, you will see things differently.

Stargazing at Boracay Island

Many people said I am blessed with many great friends around the world. I should say the general formula of meeting great people is – Just open up and let people enter your world. People cannot understand and know you as a person, when your door is shut! You can read up more on my article: 27 Types of Travelers I Have Met When Traveling Around The World and find out more the different types of travelers I met, and great friends I made when I traveled.:-)

With International Friends

Last year November, I followed the news on tropical storm Yolanda aka Haiyan very closely and I was actually praying hard for the Philippines, just before my Christmas visit in December. This heart wrenching disaster made me realised the country has come a long way and had a hard time when such devastating disaster hit them! Despite the difficulties, the Filipinos never gave up and was persistent of surviving with a positive attitude! There are so much to learn from them. Coming from a country with no natural disasters and a low crime rate, sometimes I could take things for granted.

Indeed! It’s More Fun In The Philippines! 🙂

Last but not least, I hope you will like this article – the top 10 misconception about the Philippines, elaborating the most ridiculous and funny stereotypes I heard when I traveled around the world. These are some hard facts to my discovery, some personal experiences and funny things I have heard! haha The moral of this is: Do NOT stereotype, & Don’t be ridiculous! If Philippines is in your mind, just book an air ticket and FLY! You will definitely enjoy it, see their beautiful landscape, amazing people, and have a trip of a lifetime! Who knows, you may fall in love with this stunning Islands of Paradise, just like me! 🙂

My KJS Signature Jump in El Nido, Palawan

Travel safe and till next time when I visit this gem of South East Asia again! 🙂

“Open your mind before you open your mouth” – Subroto Bagchi

10 misconceptions about the philippines Boracay Island Cebu Manila Philippines Philippines Tourism prejudices of Philippines stereotyping of Philippines things to do in the Philippines Visit Philippines 2015

Keith Yuen

Keith Yuen is an avid solo traveller, a Singaporean who travelled more than 100 countries, a Singapore Travel Blogger, Travel Content Producer and YouTuber Vlogger & Travel Influencer for Travel Inspiration 360. Inspired by his father, Keith has worked with major airlines, tourism boards, luxurious hotel groups and big government organisations such as the European Union and other NGOs. He made media appearances on Singapore and International platforms, on TV and Radio stations for travel programmes and interviews. 袁志权，著名新加坡旅游达人兼旅游博主

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227 comments

CONSTANTINO VILLADORES MABAYLAN October 24 - 9:06 am

Thank you so much for such a wonderful article and your truly positive and honest feedback of our country, the Philippines. Good luck on all your forthcoming travels and take care always.

Keith Yuen October 24 - 10:58 am

Hi Constantino,

Thank you for reading Travel Inspiration 360 article. I’m simply overjoyed to know you like it. You have an amazing country and I know all Filipinos know that very well! 🙂

Thank you for your well wishes and take care as well.

Regards
Keith Yuen
From beautiful city of Singapore
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Michelangelo Siscar August 25 - 5:29 am

You are very friendly and humble, dear friend. Thank you so much to your beautiful praises of my friendly native land. God bless you. 🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️🌹🌹🌹

clarissa calaunan November 26 - 3:33 am

its a great article,thank u so much for visiting our country and good feed back as well glad to know u enjoy ur stay…

Lilymae Uy October 24 - 9:14 am

Thank you so much for helping and appreciating mt beloved country…hope i can interview you on my radio program…wish tou all the luck…and visit Puerto Princesa City,Palawan ,Philippines

Keith Yuen October 24 - 11:03 am

Hi Lilymae,

Thank you for reading my article! I hope I can do the radio interview, that will be so exciting! 🙂 You can email me and we can work things out?

I always want to visit Puerto Princesa, El Nido, Coron mostly Palawan places, Batanes like Scottish highland feel, Davao, for durians yum and for it’s similarity to Singapore. Also, recently a reader recommended me Batangas, 1.5 hours South of Manila.

My Brazilian friend is visiting me in Singapore for 3 weeks next month, I hope we can make a trip and show him the Philippines! 🙂

Hope all is well! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
From beautiful city of Singapore
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Roy November 13 - 10:47 am

Yeah, Batangas is such a wonderful place. So many beaches and lot of old churches. You can also visit Taal Basilica which is considered the largest church in asia and third largest worldwide. Also view Taal Volcano, smallest but active volcano. I hope you can visit this magnificent place.

Roy
Proud Batangueno.

Keith Yuen November 17 - 2:06 am

Hi Roy,

There is always a reason for my next visit! El Nido was sooooo awesome! Love PH even more now! Hope all is well. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen

Arianne Bawalan November 27 - 3:12 am

Do visit Batanes in your next trip here in our country! Batanes is a super laid back place and is really wonderful for relaxation..it’s always nice to know tourists who really love the Philippines and the filipinos as well!

Here’s a few other places here in the Philippines that you might want to visit:
Batanes
Sagada
Baguio
Tagaytay
Cebu
Bohol
Albay
Davao
El Nido, Palawan
Puerto Prinsesa, Palawan
Coron, Palawan
Siargao
Baler
and more more more places!!! Hahaha

Ling October 24 - 9:42 am

you have a good humour in writing.. haha.. nice write up and it is good that you are speaking up for the beautiful country! yea we enjoy reading and keep writing more!

Keith Yuen October 24 - 11:50 am

Hi Ling,

Thanks for your encouragement. Philippines is truly beautiful and amazing! Glad you like the article and hope you continue to support and like the facebook page. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
From beautiful city of Singapore
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

RT October 24 - 10:03 am

Hahaha I had a good laugh reading your article and I have heard some of these stereotypes myself! The Phillipines is such a beautiful country that everyone should visit!

Keith Yuen October 24 - 11:53 am

Hi RT,

Yea, many people are ignorant and they formulate unnecessary judgement. Glad you enjoyed the Philippines as much as I did. Singapore and Philippines is up for top destination to visit in 2015. We may have to make a trip down again. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
From beautiful city of Singapore
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Richard October 24 - 10:17 am

Very nicely written article! And some nice, wonderful pics to boot! The internet needs more sensible writers like you Mr. Keith Yuen…spreading love and beauty rather than rants, racism and hatred! May the great GOD who made the universe grant you more blessings and happiness in life!

Keith Yuen October 24 - 11:07 am

Hi Richard,

Thank you for appreciating my article and photos. They are lovely because PH is amazing and I don’t need to do much work! haha

I agree with you, the world is amazing and god created this world boundary-less for us to love and appreciate. We are born with differences in culture but same in our soul.

The internet also needs good readers like you Richard. Thank you for your encouragement and it means a lot to me.

Thank you and may god bless you with many happiness ahead. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
From beautiful city of Singapore
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

rebecca ferry October 24 - 10:17 am

thank you so much for this article, i really love the way you described our nation through your amazing and stunning photos w/c speak a thousand words about my country and our people. I loved Singapore as well and one of the best countries i ever been to.

Keith Yuen October 24 - 11:47 am

Hi Rebecca,

Thank you so much for enjoying this article. I am merely expressing from the bottom of my heart for a truly beautiful, gorgeous paradise Islands! I’m glad you enjoyed the photos too. 🙂

I am happy you love my country. It’s hot and humid, but other than that, Singapore is a small nation with nice people too. Just that, we dont have the stunning beaches like you have! haha *envious*

Hope you have a great weekend ahead. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
From beautiful city of Singapore
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Adrenaline Romance October 24 - 11:38 am

That is indeed a beautiful insight about our country. We hope that there are more people in the world that are as open-minded as you. Adventure on!

Keith Yuen October 24 - 11:59 am

Hi Gian and Sheila,

I just read your latest entry on surfing. You may have to teach me that if I can visit you! haha I absolutely have no talent for that. Both failed attempts in Bali, Indonesia and Australia. haha

Thank you for liking the article. Hope there will be more love and more peacefulness in the world! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
From beautiful city of Singapore
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Mikey October 24 - 12:18 pm

next time, take time visiting these beaches

-enchanted river abyss (hinatuan, surigao del sur)

-kalanggaman island

-sunken cemetery (camiguin)

-whale shark diving in OSLOB

enjoy!

Keith Yuen October 24 - 5:17 pm

Hi Mike,

Thanks for the suggestions! I did the Great White Shark Cage Diving in Cape Town, it was amazing and scary! haha

Kalanggaman Island looks amazing. I really want to visit El Nido, Coron, basically Palawan… Batanes and maybe Bantagas if I am in Manila again. Oh god, such a long list for just one country! haha

Thanks for sharing and you just prolonged my list! LOL

Regards
Keith Yuen
From beautiful city of Singapore
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Awesome Things To Do Before You Turn 35

cesar October 24 - 1:42 pm

Thanks a lot for this article. I had a great time reading this while having my nice lunch at Lau Pa Sat 🙂 Kudos and may you be blessed with your kind heart and good words for my county. I have shared this article to my foreign friends who are still thinking thrice to visit the Philippines 🙂 From: A Pinoy guy working in Singapore

Keith Yuen October 24 - 5:24 pm

Hi Cesar,

Thanks a lot for your encouragement and liking the article. How’s the food at Lau Pa Sat? haha Hope the article blends well with your lunch! haha We are not too far apart! 🙂

Yea, i was skeptical and was concerned. I don’t wanna to offend anyone but just to share my experiences. I finally convinced my buddies to visit Philippines with me 3 years ago and last year for Xmas. They had a great time and truly loved the amazing country.

Hope your friends will be convinced to visit the Philippines after reading it. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
From beautiful city of Singapore and where you located now 🙂
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Rona October 24 - 1:49 pm

Hi Keith,
What a great article you have here. It was very entertaining to read and I would like to thank you for appreciating our country. I hope there would be more travelers like yourself who have an open mind when visiting not just the Philippines but any other country for that matter. Hope to hear that you’ll continue to visit our country and enjoy! More travels for you!

Keith Yuen October 24 - 5:28 pm

Hi Rona,

Thank you for your support and encouragement. It’s great to have readers like you too! 🙂

I visited many countries and you can check out my other articles. I estimated I need 2 years to complete where I started to travel many years back! haha

I hope to convince my Brazilian friend to visit PH for a week or so next month as he is coming to visit me in Singapore for 3 weeks.

Hope all is well and god bless you! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
From beautiful city of Singapore
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Brenda October 24 - 1:56 pm

Thank you very much by posting this very interesting article about the Philippines

Keith Yuen October 24 - 5:29 pm

Hi Brenda,

Thank you for your encouragement Brenda! Have a good weekend ahead! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
From beautiful city of Singapore
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Kram Calalang October 24 - 1:57 pm

Thank you bro! you what? I saw ninjas cutting onions while reading your article. Real and honest blog! 🙂

Keith Yuen October 24 - 5:32 pm

Hi Kram,

haha Thanks for your humorous encouragement! Thanks for liking it. You have an amazing country bro! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
From beautiful country of Singapore
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Ryan October 24 - 2:49 pm

Well done! Hope more people get to discover the country despite the usual negative headlines. Mabuhay from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia!

Keith Yuen October 24 - 5:38 pm

Hi Bro Ryan,

Thanks for the encouragement. Can’t thank ya enough and may PH tourism takes off! To what they truly deserved! -)

Regards
Keith Yuen
From beautiful city of Singapore all the way to K.L. Malaysia
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Interesting Facts About Copenhagen, Denmark

Jobitoys October 24 - 4:28 pm

I feel like a foreigner in my own country after reading your article. I also suggested to my local Singaporean friend to visit Boracay after being broken hearted. He came back gone crazy with his 2 thumbs up and asking when i will be going back so he can get his plane ticket back as well. 🙂

Keith Yuen October 24 - 5:42 pm

Hi Jobitoys,

Thank you for your encouragement! I am glad Boracay Island managed to fix his broken heart. Hope he didnt went too crazy like I did in Boracay. haha

There is a mesmerizing beauty in your country! 🙂 Perhaps, you may need an additional plane ticket for me too! haha

Regards
Keith Yuen
From beautiful city of Singapore
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Sonya October 24 - 5:36 pm

God you are sooo handsome Keith Yuen! When I fly to Singapore next month, I’d really love to meet up with you! Thank you for appreciating my country and hopefully the next time you’re here I can show you around! tootles!

Keith Yuen October 25 - 4:11 am

Hi Sonya,

*Blush & thanks for the compliment and encouragement! Welcome in advance to the sunny and beautiful island city of Singapore! I know you will have a blast here. 🙂

I am actually traveling with my Brazilian buddy next month, and I would love to meet up with you if time permits. 🙂 In fact, I am trying to convince him to visit Palawan instead of Thailand. haha No concrete plans yet, but a toss between Thailand and Philippines. haha

Thank you for your warm hospitality and generosity. I will love to be hosted by a lady with a beautiful heart like ya. Maraming Salamat in advanced! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
From beautiful city of Singapore
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Awesome Things To Do Before You Turn 35

Ronald October 24 - 5:55 pm

Go to Amanpulo and never look back.

Keith Yuen October 25 - 4:15 am

Hi Ronald,

I just did a little research! The place looks like Maldives! Crystal clear turquoise water with beautiful resorts! Only way to get there is via Manila charted flight. Oh god… no direct? LOL

You just successfully prolong my bucket list for Philippines! damn! haha 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Ronald October 25 - 12:51 pm

Since you like the beach Amanpulo is just right for you. If you feel like to have ‘atas’ vacation.

How about santorini look-alike island?
Check Bellarocca.

Or one usually ppl never heard of. The untouched mystical island of Siquijor — known for shaman, sorcerers, or witchcrafts:)

The list keeps is getting longer now. LOL. I dont understand why people said Philippine island.

Ronald October 25 - 12:55 pm

I mean I dont under unstanderstand why peoople think Philippine is boring.

(presenting you a nice white beach island , rotating 360 degrees, in slow motion …. and then stop…. ‘If you dont you like this, you still 7000 more’)

Keith Yuen October 25 - 4:12 pm

haha thanks Ronald. I check out Bellarocca, it’s nice and unique! I love Santorini so much. 🙂

Still a bit skeptical about Siquijor but I read some traveler’s blog… seems like a very good cultural visit! 🙂
Keith Yuen recently posted…Explore One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, The Victoria Falls

Jun November 25 - 12:26 pm

Hi Keith,

Thank you for this article about our country, the Philippines!

I love your country, Singapore as well. It’s my second home already for the past 15 years. My kids grew up here and are very Singaporean in many ways.

I’m from Siquijor and all I can say is that whatever you’ve heard about the island that made you skeptical is also just stereotype. It’s among the safest place to be in the whole of the country. Since it’s very small, a day or two maybe should make your trip there worth another article already. Message me if you decided to spend some time there and I’ll hook you to a relative of mine who works for the dep’t of tourism in the island. 🙂

Before going there, you gotta roam around Dumaguete City as well. It’s been named by Forbes to be among the 7 best places to retire around the world just recently.

Good luck on your travels and keep blogging!

Pamela October 24 - 8:07 pm

Hi Keith Yuen, I love your photos and I think I am starting to fall in love with you as you are so hot!!! If you ever come to Manila give me a ring; D

Ronald October 24 - 8:41 pm

You’re asking for wedding ring? You are fast.

Andrea October 24 - 11:10 pm

No..He’s mine! Hehe good job. Besides looking cute, thank you for loving my country. You are a kind soul and may God bless you. Continue to inspire and write more.

Keith Yuen October 25 - 4:26 am

Hi Andrea,

Thanks for your compliment and may god bless you too. Your encouragement will drive me positively to work harder and do my best to deliver more traveling stories. 😉

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Keith Yuen October 25 - 4:24 am

***omg, i am embarrassed!
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Keith Yuen October 25 - 4:16 am

Hi Pamela,

*oh god, blush! Thanks for your compliment. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Len October 24 - 11:43 pm

Hi Keith,
Thanks to you for writing this article about my country. Its nice to know and i really felt good reading about your experienced and looking at all your photos and vids.
Hoping more travels for you and your friends 🙂 so that u can always have an article to write, hehe
God bless!

Keith Yuen October 25 - 4:30 am

Hi Len,

Thank you for reading and loving the article. Glad you love the photos and the videos! 🙂

I actually have quite a pile of things to share as I just started Travel Inspiration 360 recently after traveling for many years! Just that it is time consuming . Thanks for the well wishes, travel is never enough for me! May god bless you with more travels and happiness too! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Rosalie Lagrana October 25 - 12:49 am

Thank you so much for featured this great and truthful articles about my country (PHILIPPINES) and the people.
Yes, it’s true!
Before you judges, try to experiences first.
And you can give the exact description.
Thank you so much and God Bless!

Keith Yuen October 25 - 4:34 am

Ho Rosalie,

Thank you for your encouragement and appreciate the article. world is supposed to be boundary-less and I am glad Filipinos selflessly shared your beautiful country with us (travelers).

May god bless you too with happiness! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Den G October 25 - 4:55 am

nice write up Keith! thanks for the positive vibes. got lots of Singaporean friends too. I guess the lesson is to never allow yourself to be swayed by stereotyping but rather to always keep an open mind. We owe it to ourselves. And yeah, “Fiipino” is a nationality and not a race.

Ingat and enjoy!

Keith Yuen October 25 - 5:12 am

Hi Den,

Thanks for your compliment Den! 🙂 The simple way to be positive is to stay away from the negatives! 🙂 World is full of diversities and different cultures. It lies on our hands to create peace and harmony! Maraming Salamat and god bless you! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Akhi October 25 - 7:55 am

Such beautifully written piece. Thank you for thay awesome feedback.

I totally agree with stereotyping. Yes it sucks that there are still people who still stereotype just because someone said it or they’ve read about it. I really do hope they’ll keep an open mind and be positive moving forward.

Keith Yuen October 25 - 4:18 pm

Hi Akhi,

Thanks for your encouragement and liking the article. Yea, unfortunately we can’t stop people from judging or stereotyping. The general rule is to stay away from negatives and continue to be positive! 🙂

Let’s hope for the best and stay peace and harmony! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Efren October 25 - 9:22 am

Hello there. I saw you visited Intramurous, I think you’d like Corregidor Island as well. It is an island near Manila(I think 1hr ferry ride from manila) Bay famous for WWII ruins.

The island has a lot of stories to tell with all those hundreds of Americans and Japanese artillery batteries. you can see there.

Keith Yuen October 25 - 4:23 pm

Hi Efren,

Yea, I was planning to visit the Casa Manila Museum, unfortunately it didn’t open that day.

Tks for recommending Corregidor Island, I briefly read them through the internet and it looks interesting. The deserted bunk tunnels left over by the horrendous war, seems a little creepy! Think it’s almost impossible to “complete” Philippines. Such big country! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

joann pajalla October 25 - 9:27 am

thank you for doing this article, try to travel at sagada, bohol and ilocos esp pagudpud you’ll also love this places

Keith Yuen October 25 - 4:26 pm

Hi Joann,

Thanks for your encouragement! OMG, tks for recommending Sagada! I always wanted to visit and see the hanging coffin in China! When I did a brief look at Sagada, I saw there’s hanging coffin there! It’s looks creepy but I know is only a certain tribe do this kind of burial arrangement in China!

Thanks and will check out the rest too! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

J October 25 - 11:27 am

Maraming salamat for writing this article. A good read on a sunny Saturday morning here at East side of SG. May you continue to radiate good vibes with your writing and with your adventures as you continue to meet people around the world.

Keith Yuen October 25 - 4:27 pm

Hi J,

Thanks for your encouragement! Greetings from a sunny sleepy afternoon in the North side of SG! haha

Hope you enjoy your weekend as much as I do! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Kat October 25 - 12:09 pm

True enough about the danger in our country. Of course there is danger everywhere. A dutch couple told me there’s a lot of snatchers in Copenhagen.

Well said! I say, you have just explained what I exactly thought of these misconceptions. Kudos to your blog and hope to bump with you soon here in SG.

Keith Yuen October 25 - 4:31 pm

Hi Kat,

Thanks for your encouragement! 🙂 Misconceptions or stereotypes should be taken as a pinch of salt. 🙂

Enjoy your weekends and hope you will add sky diving into your bucket list too! 🙂 You can check out my sky diving article in overcoming the fear. 🙂

PS: You have a nice blog! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…Discover The Wild Atlantic Way of Ireland’s Wonderful West

Kat October 25 - 5:54 pm

I just realized I put in the wrong words. It should be: It’s true that there’s also danger in our country. Haha! Anyways, skydiving is in my bucket list. I saw you diving entry and it is amazing! My innards feels giddy now. Weeeee! Hope to dive just once in Cebu or Dubai when I get a chance. And thanks for checking out my blog. Cheers to travel!

Keith Yuen October 25 - 9:06 pm

Hi Kat,

Great, be sure you don’t pass out when you do your sky diving adventure! Too expensive to miss out the entire adventure! haha kidding…

Philippines has so many amazing dive grounds… I do hope to visit Galapagos next year! 🙂

Cheers 🙂
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Interesting Facts About Copenhagen, Denmark

JV October 25 - 12:46 pm

Hi Keith,

I immediately shared your article to my Facebook friends so as to spread the good news – a Singaporean has fallen in love with my country! Thank you so much for expressing your love to the Philippines. This is a huge step in changing the minds of our fellow neighbours. My country has definitely something to offer. Your photos spoke more than feelings as to what in store in PH. This is more than friendship, Keith. You are already an honorary Filipino! I want to meet you sometime my friend.

Mabuhay ka, kaibigan!

Keith Yuen October 25 - 4:37 pm

Hi Jv,

Thanks for your encouragement and your sharing with your friends! I am just merely speaking the truth of what I experience and saw in the Philippines! 🙂

Thanks for liking the photos and the honorary title. The truth is Philippines is amazing and equally deserving. I’m glad many of my Singaporean friends started to look at flights to Philippines now! haha

Yea, hope we could meet one day. Thanks and have a good weekend! 🙂

Mag ingat

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…Explore One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, The Victoria Falls

Zeudi October 25 - 2:02 pm

Thanks for this article. Enjoyed reading it. It’s fun to know a non-filipino loved our country as much as we do. Goodluck to your blog and more safe and fun travels to you. Visit Iloilo in January for Dinagyang festival and Batanes. More Power to yah!!!!

Keith Yuen October 25 - 4:40 pm

Hi Zeudi,

Thanks for your compliment and thanks for your well wishes. 🙂

I heard about Iloilo has a unique festival, but not sure is in Jan. Batanes is always in my bucket list for Philippines + Palawan! haha

Thanks for the power, I hope I can have a power to produce article in a fast speed! haha Getting busier to write but will continue to work hard. 🙂

Have a good weekend. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

floyd October 25 - 3:43 pm

you’re just writing philippine travel part 1 of 1000 right? 😀
all the best to Travel Inspiration 360!

Keith Yuen October 25 - 4:41 pm

Hi Floyd,

Thanks, and I need a lot of travels to the Philippines to write till page 1000! haha

Have a good weekend! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Carlo Pereras October 25 - 8:44 pm

Hi Keith,

A fun read and interesting thoughts. Thanks very much for the positive feedbacks and comments in our country. All the best to your future travels/trips. You’ve been to a lot of places in the Ph! And yes (though it is annoying at times) we Filipinos are patriotic regardless of the topic.

Btw, spicy adobo or adobo coconut cream is an interesting twist..

Keith Yuen October 25 - 9:09 pm

Hi Carlo,

Thanks for your encouragement and compliment. And thanks for your well wishes. I think there is still so much to do in PH… haha looking at all the comments and suggestions above.

haha tks for your suggestion… anything that goes well with spicy is heaven! 🙂

Have a good weekend ahead, cheers! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Vincent October 25 - 11:15 pm

Awesome article! Thank you for appreciating our Country.

There’s still a lot of things to see here. I won’t be surprised if I bump into you one day. 🙂

I recommend you visit the following:
1. Palawan (Crystal clear beach, amazing marine life.);
2. Sagada (Rice Terraces); and, my personal favorite,
3. Batanes (Honestly, I can’t find the perfect word to describe the place. It’s just so awesome.)

Take care and, again, thank you! Happy weekend! 🙂

Keith Yuen October 25 - 11:34 pm

Hi Vincent,

Thanks for your compliment! 🙂

Yea, my bucket list for PH is even longer now after posting this article and receiving so many suggestions and recommendations. It’s awesome! 🙂

Palawan – Is next immediate for PH
Sagada – wanting to see the hanging coffin
Batanes – Scottish Highlands? haha

Thanks and happy weekend too! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Julie October 26 - 2:47 pm

Awww so many things to love about this post.

Keith Yuen October 26 - 4:23 pm

Hi Julie,

Thanks so loving this article! 🙂 Have a great weekend. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

JP October 26 - 2:51 pm

Thank you Mr Keith for a very wonderful article about our beautiful country.. May God bless you.. =)

Keith Yuen October 26 - 4:24 pm

Hi JP,

You are welcome and thank you for your well wishes! 🙂

Have a good weekend! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Sheldon Blanc October 26 - 6:25 pm

Hi! Great article. Isn’t this too much of an ego booster for us Filipinos? Hahahaha. Well, I can’t contend on your misconceptions about us. We are just a misunderstood nation that is trying to make its mark on the world. Nonetheless, we try our best. 🙂

I hope you could write some constructive criticisms about the country, I know that you have some opinions about this. And I bet only few will appreciate those truth. Sad thing about Filipinos; very sensitive.
Salamat po!

Keith Yuen October 26 - 7:48 pm

Hi Sheldon,

Thanks for your encouragement! LOL When I was writing this, I didnt think it will be a ego booster, but seems like it’s heading that way. Amazingly… but in a good way. At least everyone is pretty positive after reading it. 🙂

Well, as I mentioned, I am not implying Philippines is perfect, but wish to correct the unnecessary stereotype, so that people won’t miss out this gem in Asia. I am a nobody (small fry) leading a simple yet fruitful life in Singapore, hence, it will be tricky for me to express any constructive criticism about a COUNTRY for things to turn better. haha That involves skills, bravery act, and high tolerance (for backfires), which I don’t have any right now! haha I love keeping things positive and perhaps, I can write the 10 Singaporean stereotypes and prejudices in Philippines. i.e. a “fine” city, everyone is rich, people are annoying, Sporean loves complaining, Sporean are nasty… opps… too much! lol

That being said, there are still good impression of us from the Philippines (I think and hope so) haha Read this from Yahoo Philippines:
https://ph.news.yahoo.com/impressions-singapore-lessons-learn-000503715.html

Anyway, was a nice inspiration from ya. Perhaps my next daring attempts, but I just started writing about my traveling experience less than 2 months ago. Still have a lot of things to learn, and still have a lot destination articles to cover, think will take me at least for a year or two! at my current speed might take even longer… LOL

Nice discussing this with you and Walang anuman, Sheldon! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

macmacmacoy October 27 - 11:04 am

Great read!
Thank you for bringing to light the beauty of the Philippines. Hope you could visit more places and write more about them.
Seems like you now have a lot on your plate and lot of places to visit based on the comments that I have read. However may I suggest another province. Try visiting Marinduque, the “heart of the Philippines”. There are plenty of beaches there, and also it is important to visit the island during the Holy Week so that you could witness the Moriones Festival.

Hope you take time to visit it as well!

God Bless!

Keith Yuen October 27 - 8:39 pm

Hi Macmacmacoy,

Thanks for your encouragement and your well wishes! 🙂

Yea, though getting more and more on my plate, but I think the enthusiastic Filipinos friends are helping me to expand my small plate to a bigger plate as well. Isn’t it? haha

Yea, think someone recommended me the Santorini of Philippines. The mOriones Festival looks pretty cool to me. God, I seriously have no idea how am i going to visit them all… LOL

Thanks for suggesting this to me. I love the locals recommending me the off beaten tracks… so I can be as cool as well! wink 🙂

Have a good week ahead. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Awesome Things To Do Before You Turn 35

davie October 27 - 5:27 pm

A good traveler is one who does not know where he is going, and a perfect traveler does not know where he came from.

I wish you many more safe travels, good health & tons more fond memories.

PS.

I like how you still make time to reply to comments, even though you don’t have to.

Keith Yuen October 27 - 8:47 pm

Hi Davie,

Thanks for your well wishes and love the quotes by the Chinese writer. I not sure whether I’m a good traveler, but I try my best to travel good! haha

Thanks Davie, every readers took their precious time to drop me a comment or encouragement, I will try my best to drop my thank you note as well. You guys are truly great readers and awesome people. This serves as an encouragement for me. 🙂

Though, I am really tired from managing Travel Inspiration 360, writing, uploading photos, videos, messing around with htmls, replying emails, managing social media and etc… It’s tiring, but with passion, these are meaningful to me! 🙂

Thanks for your support and have a good week ahead. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Jules October 27 - 7:17 pm

hi…it is an inspiring article about the Philippines from a foreigner like you. great blog article indeed.

hope that you continue loving the Philippines, its people and all the wonderful things it offers despite of its shortcomings (well all countries have the same) but in this post you truly enumerated that the Philippines and everything about it are not just the negativities.

Keep it up and more trips to the country.

Keith Yuen October 27 - 8:59 pm

Hi Jules,

Thanks for your encouragement and your support for my article. 🙂

Philippines is truly deserving and people are so awesome! 🙂 If you really ask me the imperfection of Philippines? I would say Natural Disasters, Poverty and Terrorism in some areas.

Philippines is such amazing beauty and should be share to more people. 🙂

Thank you for your well wishes and have a good week ahead. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…The Great Lake of Tonle Sap and Floating Village, Cambodia

Peter October 27 - 9:47 pm

Hi Keith! I love reading your article while having my dinner. I like the way on how you tell the readers how beautiful my beloved country is.

I would like to suggest to you to visit Calaguas Island in Camarines Norte. Truly a paradise.

Keith Yuen October 29 - 8:22 pm

Hi Peter,

Thanks for your encouragement and hope that my article can blend well with your dinner! haha

Wow, I am drawn into the stunning turquoise water blend beautifully with white sand beach! 🙂

Nice recommendations! Has anyone done entire Philippines before and how long does it take? haha

Thanks for your recommendation and have a good week. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Joey Montalvo October 28 - 10:12 am

Hi Kieth … thanks a million for a truly informative, entertaining and inspiring article on my country. when are you coming back? I bet Palawan is on top of your list. It made the rank of #1 island in the world this year. Happy travels!

Keith Yuen October 29 - 8:24 pm

Hi Joey,

Thanks a million for your encouragement too! 🙂 I wish I could just fly to Philippines now, but for now, it depends on my Brazilian friend who is coming next Monday to Singapore for 3 weeks. Am trying to convince him to go El Nido and Batanes first! hahaha

Can’t wait if that happens! Thanks for welcoming me to your beautiful country. Hope you have a beautiful evening! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

mario somera October 29 - 8:34 am

thanks for relating to the world your great travel experience you had in my country….i am currently putting up a bed and breakfast place in cabugao ilocos sur…a town equidistant to 2 cities vigan and laoag..our region has become a major tourist destination…you should come and visit us soon…..be glad to be your buddy guide there….am your friend already..if serious enough..here’s my fone…+639178176919

Keith Yuen October 29 - 8:36 pm

Hi Mario,

Thanks for your encouragement! 🙂 Wow, you have the nicest job in the world! Setting up a b&b at a superior beach destination… what else do you ask for? LOL

I really wish I could visit you. It seems like it’s pretty near to Batanes. Perhaps, when I visit Batanes, I can make a short detour?

Thanks for your awesome invitation. You may add me on my personal facebook so we can be “official” friends! haha Search for “Keith Yuen Travel Inspiration 360” I should be the only one in the world. LOL

Thanks for your friendship and warmth invitation. I cant wait for that day to happen. Nudge me when you added me. Thanks. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Bong October 29 - 8:20 pm

Xie xie/terima kasih/thank you!

How I wish me and my friends would meet you when you visit again the Philippines. You are such a nice Singaporean. Your positive outlook in life would bring you more happiness, countless times!

Again, maraming salamat (thank you).

Keith Yuen October 29 - 8:40 pm

Hi Bong,

Thanks for your nice words! I appreciate your kindness too. You see the goodness in people and I do believe you are a nice Filipino too! 🙂

I wish ya well and happiness too! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

DAVE October 30 - 11:06 am

thank you for this wonderful article 🙂

try to visit Hundred Islands, Pangasinan
Caramoan, Camarines sur,
Enchanted river in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur
Chocolate hills in Bohol
Taal volcano in Batangas or Tagaytay
Banaue rice terraces in Ifugao
Islas de Gigantes in IloIlo
and many more 🙂
i wanna ask if you have facebook account, if you dont mind .. i want you to add to be my friend 🙂 thanks in advance ..

Keith Yuen October 31 - 1:16 am

Hi Dave,

Thanks for your support and encouragement. Also thanks for prolonging my bucket list for Philippines! It’s amazing long now and you definitely make me guilty for not going to Philippines again. 🙂

Hi Dave, you may add me by searching for Keith Yuen Travel Inspiration 360. 🙂

If I’m not wrong, you should have already added me! 🙂 Apologise for replying you late. 🙂

Hope all is well. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Interesting Facts About Copenhagen, Denmark

don October 30 - 12:25 pm

thank you for this nice and inspirational article, i myself is an OFW and contrary to what others think that we are full of domestic helpers just makes me laugh. i think, those people who have misconceptions of our country simply rely on hearsays, and forgive me but its sound so stupid to think that way. i mean internet or the social media has it all. just like any other countries in the world, our country has its flaws, but our country is way safer than israel, pakistan, india, middle east in some aspect. we (OFW) contributed much on the economies of our country and even in europe , middle east, america and some parts of southeast asia . We are generally friendly and im proud of that…. sometimes i just dont care if people have misconceptions on us but it is their loss. have you ever traveled to the worlds best island? palawan?

Keith Yuen October 31 - 1:21 am

Hi Don,

Thanks for your encouragement and I am glad to hear from readers like you. Appreciate your sharing and I am glad you are standing proud and happy as a Filipino. You should cos you have a lovely country! 🙂

I have yet to visit Palawan, am trying to convince my Brazilian friend, who is coming next Monday to visit El Nido next month. Which is really soon. haha Will see what happens. 🙂

Hope all is well, and please always be positive. World is a beautiful place because there are beautiful people like you. Inspire others and have a good weekend ahead. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

don October 30 - 12:35 pm

gavin marneo October 30 - 10:11 pm

Hi keith..ah man!..thanks for this well written blog..I just love reading your post..the philippines has more than 7100 island..hope you gotta travel more of and got the change to check those islands..it is indeed a paradise despite all the shortcomings.

Keith Yuen October 31 - 1:24 am

Hi Gavin,

Thanks for your support and encouragement. haha I hope I can have more money and free time to explore many other places in PH. You know you have an extremely beautiful country, you gotta share that with me and other travelers! haha

Hope all is well and you have a good weekend ahead. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Interesting Facts About Copenhagen, Denmark

don November 6 - 7:23 pm

thanks keith! i hope the best for your travel. maybe sooner, im gonna quit my job and decide to travel coz thats i wanted to do, its like a best thing to do in the world by then, maybe that time we will bump each other elsewhere. lol

Peter October 31 - 12:09 pm

Hi Keith! Wow, I was blown away by this article. I grew up in Mindanao and I temporarily live overseas now for work, and I did encounter a lot of these stereotypes about my country. I surrendered to the fact that I could no longer change most of the negative views of other nationalities towards PH, but your article somehow gave me hope. You seemed to give words to the thoughts and feelings I have every time I encounter people who knew only bad things about my beloved homeland. I now have a strong material to enlighten people about what PH and its people are, thanks to you. And likewise, SG was my first trip overseas back when I was at the university for an externship at the SG Turf Club, and I was amazed at how amazing the law and order and the cleanliness there was, and I have nothing but love for SG and its people 🙂

Keith Yuen November 1 - 5:59 pm

Hi Peter,

Thanks for your encouragement and support. I am sorry about your experience and happy that you remain positive. 🙂

Thank you for loving Singapore and glad you like the “fine” city we have! haha I am proud to be a Singaporean too. 🙂

Hope you have a great weekend. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…Mesmerise By Venice Of The East, The Ancient Water Town Of Zhu Jia Jiao, China

raul November 1 - 8:46 pm

Hey keith, this is really a good read, nicely written…thanks for appreciating our country…it makes us proud as Filipinos to know that you guys enjoyed it here..thanks again for promoting.

Keith Yuen November 1 - 11:20 pm

Hi Raul,

Thanks for your compliment and your welcome! 🙂

Have a good weekend ahead. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…It’s Adobo Lah! The 10 Ridiculous Filipino Stereotypes And Other Prejudices

Michael Marasigan November 5 - 10:52 pm

Very good article! Thanks for promoting and telling the truth about my country. Like you, I’m a traveler but I also fell in love with my country. Please visit my vlog, ourphilippines.tv, if you have the time.

Keith Yuen November 5 - 11:58 pm

Hi Michael,

Thanks for your compliment. I just saw your vlog it looks professional! 🙂 I will need to have more time to read through especially I just confirm my travel to El Nido next week! Yay… 🙂

Have a good day ahead. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen

mac November 6 - 2:16 pm

You should come visit the mountains of the north Luzon. 🙂

Keith Yuen November 7 - 1:17 am

Hi Mac,

I wish I have more time. I would love to go to Batanes! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Gay Aida Dumaguing November 6 - 3:41 pm

Hi Keith,

Mabuhay!

Awesome input about the country. I’m really happy that you’re able to write about what you think of our country. It’s really nice to hear all about it and have someone tell it right straight, and clarify everything. This is a huge help in promoting our tourism.

Thank you so much!

Keith Yuen November 7 - 1:20 am

Hi,

Thanks for your compliment and glad you like the article. Your country is amazing and deserves a break from these stereotypes. 🙂

I saw you promoting tourism in PH. Well done! 🙂

I am flying to El Nido next week, any tips? haha

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Dennis Bernal November 6 - 4:37 pm

Kudos for a well written blog and spending some time to dispel or clarify few misconceptions and stereotypes about our country and us Pinoys, I wish you will meet more new friends and travel to more places here and abroad. Maraming salamat.

Keith Yuen November 7 - 1:27 am

Hi Dennis,

Thanks for your well wishes Dennis. You are so sweet! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Budget Travel Tips And Save Money On Traveling

adam November 6 - 9:27 pm

Hi Keith, thanks to you and to your friends for appreciating the Philippines.

Keith Yuen November 7 - 1:28 am

Hi Adam,

Thanks for dropping me and appreciating my article! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Budget Travel Tips And Save Money On Traveling

henry November 6 - 9:53 pm

hey I really like this article, so appreciative. Im inquiring have you visited Davao City as well, you will luv it.

Keith Yuen November 7 - 1:29 am

Hi Henry,

Thanks for your support. Hmm, I have not visited Davao and heard is good there. I am traveling to El Nido next week though. Can’t wait! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Budget Travel Tips And Save Money On Traveling

lany rittenhouse November 7 - 8:02 am

Hi…

I AM IMPRESSED on how you discuss about your experience in the philippines and the people. You know a lot about that country. It was really well versed and well organised. Thank you.

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:28 pm

Hi Lany,

Sorry for the late reply as I just came back from another epic trip to Palawan, Philippines, Phuket, Thailand and Yangon, Myanmar! 🙂

I would like to thank you for your compliment and support. Hope all is well for ya! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Jeph Li November 7 - 10:42 am

Thank you for loving Philippines. I’m a Filipino and loves travelling a lot. Before i used to travel outside my country. But then i realised that i dont want to be a foreigner to my own country so i explored my own place before travelling again outside. 7,101+ islands is reason enough for me to pack my bag and explore. I’m glad there are a few visitors like you who appreciate not just our scenery but our culture as well.

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:30 pm

Hi Jeph,

Sorry for the late reply as I just came back from another epic trip to Palawan, Philippines, Phuket, Thailand and Yangon, Myanmar! 🙂

Your country is amazing and I hope you get to travel out too! The world is big enough for everyone to enjoy… travel well and safe buddy! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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judy November 7 - 2:35 pm

hi keith. thank you for you awesome blog about my beautiful philippines. it puts to shame some pinoys who prefer seeing other countries than exploring their own native land. i am currently on the quest of visiting the 81 provinces of the philippines. i still have yet to write my own blog though. hope to see you on the road someday.
God bless!

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:34 pm

Hi Judy,

Sorry for the late reply as I just came back from another epic trip to Palawan, Philippines, Phuket, Thailand and Yangon, Myanmar! 🙂

Wow thanks for sharing James’s travel blog. His blog looks professional! haha Yea, because I am just back again from Philippines. Looks like another trip will be much later. Perhaps you should start writing too… 🙂 I just started this, and still learning. Hope all is well! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Lakwatserong Unggoy November 13 - 4:37 pm

I had fun reading this post. Not because I’m from the Philippines, but simply because how you managed your wordings and explaining your insights about us, Filipinos and The Philippines. Hope you will have experience twice more fun on your next visit.

Keith Yuen November 17 - 2:08 am

Hi Lakwatserong Unggoy,

Thanks for your well wishes and indeed I love PH even more now after my visit to El Nido! Really amazing and took heaps of GREAT photos! Your country is truly amazing! 🙂

Wish you a great week ahead. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen

Christopher Cantiveroa November 25 - 9:44 am

Hi keith,
Walau weh, we apprecited your good feedback for my loving country, you trully found the paradise.Continue to unlock the wonders of our country and I assure you, you will be amaze on every places you will visit. These hidden paradise were not been found and recognize by the foreigners. It seems you know a lot about our culture, heritage, history and people traits. Good luck to your next exploration and God bless your journey my friend.

Christopher

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:36 pm

Hi Christopher,

haha nice to hear from you “lah” haha

I would like to thank you for your compliment and support. Hope all is well for ya! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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daniel sam November 25 - 10:04 am

stereotyping is a sign of plain stupidity!

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:37 pm

Hi Daniel,

word! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Jest November 25 - 10:24 am

hi keith,
seeing the words that you used to compliment our beloved country makes me see that you are really a good person. Perhaps, that’s the reason why you attracted nice filipinos, because rudeness usually makes locals backfight.
Your article is a great read and we really appreciated it, thank you for you good feedback. There are many more things that the Philippines can offer that you haven’t experienced yet and i know you knew it.
Thank you again.
Have a nice day

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:38 pm

Hi jest,

Am just another normal person! I hope I am as good as you described! haha

I am truly blessed with many things, I am fortunate and would like to share with everyone to travel with an open mind rather than opening mouth! 🙂

Thank you for your compliment and hope all is well for ya! 🙂
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Phebe November 25 - 10:56 am

Thank you for this wonderful article. It is really great to know that you enjoyed your visit to our country. Thank you for helping clear out some misconceptions about our country. We hope you visit again soon and discover more about the Philippines. We have so many stunning places to be explored. God bless you!

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:39 pm

Hi Phebe,

Thanks for your compliment and hope to explore more places in PH as you described! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Budget Travel Tips And Save Money On Traveling

Iz Binag November 25 - 12:45 pm

Hi Keith!
I enjoyed reading your article about my beloved country.
Thank you very very much!
Enjoy the rest of the week. 🙂

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:42 pm

Hi Iz Binag,

Thanks for your compliment and hope all is well for ya too! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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ien November 25 - 1:01 pm

well, i have nothing to say but thank you…a wonderful article…enjoy!

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:43 pm

Hi Ien,

Thanks and hope all is well! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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meggy01meg November 25 - 1:06 pm

Thanks for this article. I’ve been living in thailand for 3 years now but still nothing beats the philippines. I agree about how you contradict filipinos not having sense of patriotism. We have our own reasons why we go to different countries and not everytime to earn good money.

I really missed christmas season in the philippines.

Thanks again

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:44 pm

Hi Meg,

Thanks for your compliment! Hope you get to go home soon! Xmas is coming, maybe a chance? 🙂

Hope all is well for ya! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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En November 25 - 1:53 pm

I couldn’t stop reading and smiling at your article. You understand filipino culture really really well. Slow.. Clap..! Immediately shared this to my Singaporean friends.. We are planning a vacation next year and hope to be as great as yours.
P.s. Do you have a review about Palawan as well? It is my first time to bring Sporean friends to my home country and I really want to make it wonderful for them. Thanks!

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:46 pm

Hi En,

I just arrived home from another epic trip from El Nido! haha Give me some time and I will get the write up ups as soon as possible! haha

Have so many to write and share, but I am packed with my full time work and other responsibilities! haha Guess reality is checking me again! LOL

Hope all is well for ya! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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ronnel November 25 - 1:55 pm

well appreciated ! thanks bro 🙂 superb article .. hehe 😉 🙂 🙂 :3

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:46 pm

Hi Ronnel,

Thanks for your compliment! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Budget Travel Tips And Save Money On Traveling

Emily NG November 25 - 2:53 pm

Yeah i agree with you
Filipino people are very kind and friendly, and they’re all speak English well which is easy to communicate. Also, there are lot of beaches and islands, and each of them are amazing.
super like ur article;)

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:47 pm

Hi Emily,

Thanks for your compliment! Hope all is well and travel safe! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Budget Travel Tips And Save Money On Traveling

Curious Onion November 25 - 3:11 pm

You do know a lot of things about the Philippines. I am a Filipino and I am happy to know you understood our culture. I have never been outside the country and rarely travels outside the island I grew up in but going to new places in the Philippines reminds me just how much more there is to see! Come back again soon and visit my home island Bohol. ^_^

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:50 pm

Hi Curious Onion,

Like your name! haha Thanks for your compliment! I hope I can visit PH soon, but am just back from another epic trip at El Nido Palawan! 🙂

Hope you can travel more and safe! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Celine Reyes November 25 - 3:12 pm

Hi, Keith!

Thank you so much for this very nicely written article about my beloved Philippines. I hope we can meet the next time you visit. Take care.

Cheers to the next adventure!

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:52 pm

Hi Celine,

You have a nice blog there! 🙂

Thanks for your compliment and yea, hope can meet fellow travelers like you too! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Angel November 25 - 3:22 pm

Glad you LOVE the Philippines! This is a heartwarming article :-)…I can testify, as a Filipina, of the genuine hospitality of Filipinos and our resilience to calamities. And yes, you can talk to anyone on the street and they’ll answer you back in very good English. Happy travels!

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:53 pm

Hi Angel,

Thanks for your compliment! It is also heart warming to receive comments from great readers like you! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Jayjay November 25 - 4:18 pm

Wow! encouraging, will be in SG Dec 19 to 22 for a business meeting and a Social Entrepreneur Event.

Thanks Keith for that encouraging blog abt PH, was also inspired by this article: Thank you SG friends 🙂

– “And before she left, more than 10 classmates gave her a spontaneous group hug to say good bye. “Nobody’s hugged me like that before,” she said.

My wife and I had imagined that a few days in a school in Cauayan would leave Deborah appreciating Singapore and her school more. But physical discomforts left less of an impression on her than the acts of kindness and friendship from children she had known for such a short time.”

Jayjay November 25 - 4:20 pm

Let me know when you’re going back here, I want to invite you in our small group Social Entrepreneur gathering 🙂 Inspire and be Inspired, sounds familiar lah?! (hope i g0t that expression lah right)

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:55 pm

Hi Jayjay,

haha thanks for your compliment! Your funny! LOL

Yea, I read about this article before and glad more Sporeans are opening up to the idea of traveling to PH.

I just returned yesterday from another epic trip to El Nido Palawan! It was amazing and I had a great time!

I wish I could see you guys though. Hope all is well. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Joanne Miranda November 25 - 4:20 pm

Hi Keith,

Xie xie for this article.

Glad that there are few Singaporean like you who genuinely express appreciation while visiting our country more so, have blogged positively about your experience.

Here’s a silent wish (from a person who has lived in singapore for about 6 years) that your blog may spread light and love (you know what I mean) to many of thousands of Filipinos based in Singapore. 😉

Cheers!

Joanne

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:56 pm

Hi Joanne,

Your welcome! haha

I’m hope your silent wish will come true one day! 🙂 Your country is truly amazing! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Mae Ervie Datahan November 25 - 4:39 pm

This is a very great article! As a Filipino, I just wanna say ‘Thank You’!, very worth reading and sharing 🙂

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:57 pm

Hi Mae,

Your welcome and hope all is well for ya! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Geo Sans November 25 - 5:36 pm

Well said!
I have been in different countries but I have not seen any country that can surpass the Philippines. Well, I make sure to add that testament that you said and about the stereotyping, you are right, it is irritating and it just blind your perception for the bias they have and pollutes you mind too. Word of advice, don’t believe it until you really experienced it!

Again, good reading man!

Keith Yuen November 25 - 6:59 pm

Hi Geo,

Thanks for your compliment! Many are still skeptical or worried, but I think slowly people will gain confidence… I saw many tourist in Boracay though! So I guess many people do love PH! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Cristal November 25 - 6:04 pm

Glad that you love the Philippines! It’s great that people like you appreciate the beauty of our country, hope you could visit us again!

Btw, better check on other places here in the Philippines like in Vigan, Batanes, Siquijor, Bohol and in Pampanga. These places also has so much to offer for everyone! 🙂

Keith Yuen November 25 - 7:01 pm

Hi Cristal,

I would like to visit Batanes and Batangas badly, but I just returned from a trip from El Nido, Phuket and Myanmar yesterday. So it’s going to take me some time again! haha

Hope all is well! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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David Pryce November 25 - 6:12 pm

Hi, I’d like to consider myself an international traveler as well as a permanent expat as I’ve lived outside my country (Great Britain) for 40 years. I have to say of all the stereotypes you list I have only ever heard of one and that is that it is dangerous . . . . it almost sounds to me like the others are made up. I’ve been to the Philippines 15 times and will continue to visit and I don’t find it to be any more dangerous than many other countries and safer than some. I like the Filipino people and what they bring to the world.

Keith Yuen November 25 - 7:03 pm

Hi David,

Yea, unfortunately, many of these stereotypes are from my PH friends living abroad. So, after my visit to PH, I was encouraged to write this and to help “straighten” up some stereotypes.

Good news is, I have few friends asking me about PH now! 🙂 Hope all is well! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Charica November 25 - 6:41 pm

Hi Keith, thanks so much for this article. Finally, someone like you has the courage to write this to finally quash all those ridiculous stereotypes about my beloved country.

Madz Balane November 25 - 6:56 pm

Hi Keith

Keith Yuen November 25 - 7:04 pm

Hi Madz,

Hope all is well! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Wendell November 25 - 7:09 pm

Thanks, i envy you as you have been to places in my country i never been as i am working here in Singapore. i totally agree with you about stereotyping, great article. Hope youll have another great experience when you visit Philippines again. Again thank you.

Keith Yuen November 25 - 8:38 pm

Hi Wendell,

Hope all is well for ya and I hope to visit PH soon! Take care and have a great week ahead. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen

Gielo Lade November 25 - 7:39 pm

thank you for this wonderful article of yours!!, try to visit Bohol, its just a 45 minutes boat ride from Cebu

Keith Yuen November 25 - 8:41 pm

Hi Gielo,

haha, thanks and I wish to visit Bohol soon one day! 🙂 The choco mountain! LOL reminds me of ice cream! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen

Keith Samson November 25 - 8:29 pm

Decent read. Question, do you really need to be in all of the photos used in this blog post?

Just curious.

Keith Yuen November 25 - 8:37 pm

Hi Keith (same name!) haha

Nice to meet you! 🙂

Actually, in the past I used to take scenic photos. My dad told me if I only take scenic photos might as well get a postcards! LOL

So probably from there I got influenced by his words and gotta be in the photos! LOL

Regards
Keith Yuen

Eman November 25 - 8:40 pm

Thank you very much, Keith! It is very heartwarming to see your warm comments about our country. I hope more of your fellow Singaporeans read your article so they will have a more nuanced view of Filipinos– we are not just maids or foreign talents.

I also hope your article gets posted on The Real Singapore website– there are always very hateful comments on Filipinos and the Philippines by your countrymen over there.

Keith Yuen November 26 - 9:03 pm

Hi Eman,

Thanks for your compliment! 🙂

The article I wrote about is about how awesome Philippines is as a country and of course the friendly Filipinos I have met around the world and in Philippines. I don’t really wanna focus on the negative comments by any other nationalities made, or even to attempt to correct them. 🙂

On a brighter side, many of my friends are asking me about my itinerary for Philippines now! 🙂

Hope your well and take care my friend! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Jean Monsalud November 25 - 8:51 pm

This is a good read! I really enjoyed reading it and i love the pictures especially haha! I was surprised you also know Tuslob Buwa which can only be found here in Cebu (if i’m not mistaken).
I have been to your country once for a short visit and i had an amazing experience. So i am so glad that you also liked my country 🙂
More power to you sir and be well 🙂

Keith Yuen November 26 - 9:05 pm

Hi Jean,

haha, glad you like the article and photos! Thanks for your compliment! 🙂

I’m glad you love Singapore too! More power and cheers! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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RG November 25 - 9:13 pm

It’s great that you have seen the beaches, But how about the activities on land?

You may try a whole day activity near the volcano Mt. Pinatubo I think it would cost you around 45 usd..

You might also try to check Mt. Pulag (just google it and be amazed) – You don’t have to be a PRO-mountain climber/trekker to enjoy the sight. There is a travel guide for a non-climber like me.

Another one is Sagada. This one is much more laid back (cold place, good place to write a blog?) but what I can really recommend here is to do spelunking! just don’t forget to bring anti-muscle pain 😉

Keith Yuen November 26 - 9:06 pm

Hi RG,

thanks for all your suggestions… I gotta check them out too! 🙂

I still gotta do Indonesia mountains lol… so much to do in our region! haha

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Joppet Tan November 25 - 10:19 pm

This is amazing! Thanks for this write up bro. Hope to see you in one of your visits or when I visit SG. Stay awesome! God bless you.

Keith Yuen November 26 - 9:06 pm

Hi Joppet,

Thanks and your welcome! 🙂 May god bless you too! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Regie Yacat November 25 - 10:43 pm

thank you lah! more or less you have 7,000 islands you have to discover! hope to see you around as i travel all over my country as well

Keith Yuen November 26 - 9:07 pm

Hi Regie,

haha I hope so too… 7000 islands oh god.. LOL how long does it take? LOL

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Marilyn November 25 - 11:38 pm

Thanks for the nice write up about the Philippines. I appreciate foreign nationals giving rave reviews about my country. It gives me pride and joy. I have always wanted to visit Singapore and I did in 2008. SG is an amazing, disciplined and clean city..I hope to be back soon!

Keith Yuen November 26 - 9:09 pm

Hi Marilyn,

Glad you love Singapore too and thanks for your compliments! 🙂

Yea, I also think Singapore is amazing too! Love my country, a place where I call home! 🙂 Hope all is well.

Regards
Keith Yuen
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KaeBoo November 25 - 11:46 pm

Pretty obvious you fell in love with the islands. Thank you for having seen her beauty for what she is.

In the off chance that you may visit again, include Guimaras and Panay in your itinerary for more nature basking. Isla de Gigantes in the northernmost tip of Iloilo boasts of its untouched shores perfect for sleeping under the stars.

Until your next destinatioan, have fun and stay safe! 😉

Keith Yuen November 26 - 9:10 pm

Hi KaeBoo,

haha thanks for adding more to my bucket haha So many suggestions and I am now lost… how am I going to complete all these places… so much to do! 🙂

Hope all is well! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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richard November 26 - 12:33 am

hi keith. thanks for the wonderful stories about the Phils.. By the way you’re cute haha

Keith Yuen November 26 - 9:11 pm

Hi Richard,

Your welcome and haha thanks for your compliment! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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epol apple November 26 - 1:53 am

Thank you for the insightful article about the Philippines. I think I’m inlove with you. hahaha!
And to make your list longer:
Baler (Aurora) and Siargao (Mindanao) – surfing havens
Camotes and Bantayan Islands in Cebu
Camiguin Island in Mindanao
Palaui Island (Cagayan Valley) and Caramoan Islands (Camarines Sur)
Iligan City – City of Waterfalls
And oh, you can drag me along. haha!

Keith Yuen November 26 - 9:14 pm

Hi Epol Apple,

Your welcome! 🙂 haha thanks for your compliment! LOL

You are really adding more weights into my bucket list! haha Will check out these places, some I really haven’t heard of. I’m sure these are pretty cool places too. I bet! 🙂

Hope all is well and yea, maybe you can drag me along! Easier… LOL

Regards
Keith Yuen
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epol apple November 27 - 3:37 am

I actually missed to mention a lot of other cool places to visit. Those I mentioned and Batanes are my personal favorites. 🙂 Palawan is also on my bucket list. I’ve only been to Palawan beach in Sentosa. haha! Keep on posting more articles like this. See you around! 😀

Mark Joseph Bajaro November 26 - 4:28 am

Wow!!! Amazing article, I strongly feel the genuine love you found in our country..

Keith Yuen November 26 - 9:21 pm

Hi Mark,

I love traveling and I think PH deserves more tourist attention! But, once there are more tourist, the place and people might change.

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Ken RoxS November 26 - 9:39 am

Very cool article. Yes Pinas is amazing with all the beutiful places and loving people you will meet. I lived in Singapore for about five years and I know that there are cultural differences that adds to the excitement of traveling. Enjoy your visits!

Keith Yuen November 26 - 9:24 pm

Hi Ken,

haha… I hope you love Singapore too despite the differences! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Maui Stellar November 26 - 9:55 am

Maraming Salamat! Not much to say because Im still smiling from what I just read in your blog 🙂 keep visiting Philippines Keith!

Keith Yuen November 26 - 9:44 pm

Hi Maui,

Don’t worry be happy! 🙂 haha continue to smile! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Jade November 26 - 12:51 pm

such a great read ! God bless u more

Keith Yuen November 26 - 9:45 pm

Hi Jade,

Thanks! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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rhoda saldajeno November 26 - 2:49 pm

Sir Keith Yuen: You got a realistic, unbiased and balanced write-up about our stereotyped country, popularly called the “Pearl of the Orient”. We are truly blest with a beautiful and relaxing nature composed of white beaches, waterfalls, verdant forests and other landscapes. The people, culture and language are a rich blend of the Oriental and Occidental worlds, but our uniqueness remains obvious if one intends to mingle with us Filipinos within a reasonable period of time. Our heartfelt gratitude for your very positive and open-minded comments of our country!

Keith Yuen November 26 - 9:47 pm

Hi Rhoda,

Your welcome and thanks for your compliment! 🙂

Yea, guess it takes both hands to clap! The more open and receptive we are, the more we can receive. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
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Mark Ocampo November 26 - 3:53 pm

Hi Keith,

Nice article on the Philippines. Thank you for the unbiased insights. I think you hit the nail on the head when you discussed how stereotypes about the Philippines came about. Traditional media practitioners here in the Philippines do tend to focus on the negative aspects of everyday life. Social media sites are generally more informative and positive.

Having said that, I’d like to add my two cents worth to your insights.

We Filipinos are a mixed race. Yes, we are predominantly Malay. But intermarriage with Chinese (southern China trade with northern Philippines), Spanish (and the Mexicans who came over via the Galleon trade), British (occupied for about 2 years and the Indians who were part of their forces), Japanese, then Americans made us look different from the typical South East Asian. I’ve been mistaken for being Mexican, Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Singaporean, but never did it occur to people that I am Filipino.

We’re not a suspicious people. Our culture, religion and upbringing taught us that everyone, unless proven otherwise, is good and trustworthy. So, yes. If you are here in the Philippines, you will be surprised by how accommodating we are. We won’t make the first move though as we are generally reserved and shy when dealing with people we don’t know.

We are not your typical Asian Country. 300+ years of Spanish rule, 2 years of British occupation, 4 years of Japanese occupation and 40+ years of American rule will do that to you. In fact, our previous Constitution listed Spanish, English and Filipino as our three (yes, three) primary languages. Instead of temples, we have churches. At home, we have an image of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary on our wall and a laughing Buddha for prosperity located where feng shui says it should be located. Our architecture is more European than Asian to the point where when we took an expat from Scotland to dine in a local 24 hour haunt, he commented that he felt like he was in a cafe in Paris.

In my opinion, one doesn’t visit the Philippines to see the sights. You come here to experience and live it. The way we are as a people and how we live is what draws you in. It’s the laid-back, such is life, tropical-asian-western vibe that makes whatever we have special.

Keith Yuen November 26 - 10:17 pm

Hi Mark,

Wow, thanks for your 2 cents worth and reiterating some of the pointers. Everywhere is unique so as PH. I’m glad I visited PH and met many genuine people and experience the cool side of the culture. 🙂

Hope all is well and thanks for sharing. One thing I’m curious, how do you look like? For being call Mexican, Chinese, Thai and Singaporean? Quite different mix! LOL

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Budget Travel Tips And Save Money On Traveling

Rosanna Trampe November 26 - 4:08 pm

Thank you for writing about the Philippines, in particular Palawan, my home province. May I suggest you visit my beautiful island hometown of Cuyo? It’s a down to earth little island with wonderful people and a rich cultural and historical background. Adventure wise, November to February is the time of the year for great kite-surfing. Give it a try and hope to see another good article about the Philippines.

Keith Yuen November 26 - 10:21 pm

Hi Rosanna,

Thanks for your suggestions! Palawan is amazing and of course I hope I can visit there again. World is so big and I just not sure when I am going back again. Hope to include Cuyo in the next visit for sure. 🙂

Hope all is well! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Budget Travel Tips And Save Money On Traveling

becky November 26 - 5:41 pm

Well done and well said, Keith! I’m thrilled for you as there are so many other places yo haven’t checked out yet….. Go to the Rice terraces/ mountain province, Vigan, Pagudpod Ilocos, Bohol, Bicol, even just in Tagaytay… you’ll be mora than amazed! Those are just the few “supposedly” commercialized within Filipinos but seriously there are MORE undiscovered and virgin places in my country! Mabuhay ka!

Keith Yuen November 26 - 10:23 pm

Hi Becky,

haha I am excited about rice terraces. Been one in Bali, and I knew PH’s rice terraces are massive! 🙂

Hope to check out those “virgin” places one day. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Budget Travel Tips And Save Money On Traveling

cleo November 26 - 8:35 pm

Thank you Keith for this write-up on my country the Philippines! Hope you come back to see more places! Enjoy your future travels! Stay safe always!
I have been to your country several times already!
Planning to go back to SG with my daughter next year!

Keith Yuen November 26 - 10:27 pm

Hi Cleo,

Your welcome and thanks for your well wishes! 🙂

Glad you love Singapore too and I believe you will have a blast! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Budget Travel Tips And Save Money On Traveling

Johnny November 27 - 6:26 am

Kudos, your article says it all! Thank you so much for promoting and redefining my home-country, the Philippines. You have contributed greater opportunity to awaken the minds of those who think that Philippines is nothing and doesn’t deserved to be experienced. Well, no matter how some people criticize and put our country down, there would always be a bunch of honest and kind-hearted people like you who are willing to defend the Philippines. Thanks to you Keith, may you’ll have the best in life ahead.

Keith Yuen November 28 - 1:27 am

Hi Johnny,

Thanks for the compliment and your well wishes! 🙂

I am also thankful to kind hearted readers like you who appreciate my article and take some time to comment on my article! 🙂

Hope all is well for you too! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Budget Travel Tips And Save Money On Traveling

yva November 27 - 12:02 pm

Wow.. You definitely touched my heart with your article. Thank you for sharing your good thoughts about Philippines. You can also check Batangas in your next visit in our country. Thanks Keith and God bless you 🙂

Keith Yuen November 28 - 1:31 am

Hi Yva,

Thanks for your compliment and well wishes! 🙂

I will try to cover Batangas given is just few hours drive from Manila! 🙂

Hope all is well and may god bless you too! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Budget Travel Tips And Save Money On Traveling

John Reyna JR November 28 - 9:15 pm

Hi Keith! Tnx for writing this beautiful article about my country! Feeling enlightened right now! HAHAHA! Anyways, God Bless! 🙂

Keith Yuen November 28 - 10:24 pm

Hi John,

Your welcome and thanks for your compliment! 🙂

Have a good weekend! 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Budget Travel Tips And Save Money On Traveling

Adamor December 4 - 8:09 am

Great article Mr. Yuen! I see you have a clearer perspective of things than most people- even better than some Filipinos!
May I invite you also to my beautiful province LA UNION?! We’re located in Northern Philippines. Well, I will not mention the thrills you are about to experince but I’ll put it this way to tickle your imagination: we call my province ” WHERE THE MOUNTAINS MEET THE SEA!”
🙂

Keith Yuen December 4 - 12:12 pm

Hi Adamor,

Thanks for your compliments. 🙂

Philippines is amazingly beautiful… it’s like a stone throw will be another paradise! haha

I honestly can’t wait to explore more in PH… but I just returned from El Nido. gotta take me a while to visit PH again. 🙂

Mountains meet sea is somewhere I really love! I hope to visit your place one day. 🙂

Hope all is well.

Regards
Keith Yuen
Keith Yuen recently posted…20 Budget Travel Tips And Save Money On Traveling

Cherry December 8 - 12:02 am

Hi Keith!

Maraming salamat! I’m so grateful for your nice comments about the Philippines. You are always welcome to visit here. By the way, I’d like to add on your comments re: #4 PHILIPPINES IS FULL OF DOMESTIC HELPERS. It’s true that there are a lot of Filipino domestic helpers. But we have millions of different professionals here (nurses,doctors,engineers,lawyers,architects,bankers,etc. many to mention) since we are over populated (100 million, huh!) the supply is much higher than the demand. So,other option is to work abroad. In fact,many domestic helpers are professionals!
By the way, you can add to your list:
1. Paradise Island resort (Davao)
2. Eden nature park and resort (Davao)
3. Pearl farm resort (Davao)
4. Underground river (Puerto Princesa, Palawan)
5. Sagada

mei li December 14 - 2:01 am

Thank you so much for this blog post! Why don’t you add to your already long list of places to visit the island of Potipot in Zambales? It’s AMAZING! 🙂

Keith Yuen December 16 - 11:34 am

Hi Meili,

Thank your for your compliment. I just check it out… Potipot is like another Maldives quality place! haha Philippines is amazing. You guys are already living in a perfect beach paradise. 🙂

Regards
Keith Yuen

Ronald February 26 - 2:11 pm

The best and worst travel blog commenters are filipinos. Is this true?

Rain May 6 - 12:49 pm

It’s people like you who gives hope that this world can be better… thanks for your positive insights!

po po August 15 - 7:25 am

Nice story. I was born in finland, and i now live in the philippines. It’s quite a nice place. Its funny how not only do i break the finnish stereotypes (learned english here not back home) but also the pinoy ones!

Allied Fusion BPO February 15 - 5:27 pm

Kamusta! Thank you for sharing the exciting news about Singapore and the Philippines making it onto Lonely Planet’s “Top 10 countries to visit in 2015” list! It’s truly a testament to the unique charm and allure of both countries. Singapore’s vibrant cityscape and rich cultural heritage, combined with the Philippines’ stunning natural landscapes and warm hospitality, undoubtedly make them standout destinations in Asia. If you’re contemplating a visit to the Philippines, this article serves as a perfect guide to dispel any doubts or uncertainties. Often misunderstood, the Philippines is a true gem of Southeast Asia, offering an array of experiences ranging from pristine beaches and lush rainforests to vibrant cities and diverse cultural traditions. So, pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to discover the beauty and wonders of the Philippines!