The Culture of Alabat Island
While on Alabat Island, we have participated in many cultural festivities during our free time. Typically, we spend mornings and afternoons at the Rural Health Unit (RHU), which is open from Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. My day typically ends in the early afternoon and the weekends are mostly free. While we have been learning a lot about the rural health system, there is still plenty of time to explore the culture of the province.
Eating with others is a significant aspect of the Filipino culture; it serves as a symbol of community and friendship. Our preceptors and participants use meal times as opportunities to talk about our experiences from the day. Since arriving, we have been eating well and often. In between our main meals, Filipinos also have two marienda, or smaller meals. During marienda time, vendors arrive outside the RHU with an array of Filipino goods, such as lumpia and pineapple juice. Although I have eaten many of the dishes before, I continue to learn about more and try new ones each day.
Tricycles are our main method of transportation around the island. The vehicle is composed of a motorcycle and a side car. While it may look small, you can fit about nine people! There is a driver, three people in the front of the sidecar, two in the back, two behind the motorcycle, and one on the roof (haha). I usually enjoy sitting sideways at the back of the motorcycle because I am able to take in the beauty of the island. While there are a number of tricycles in Manila, rides in the province are more enjoyable because of the endless view of coconut trees, large fields, and other greenery. We even pass by cows, goats, horses, dogs, and chickens roaming around. Riding a tricycle elicits an appreciation for the province’s beauty that cannot be obtained by driving a car.
At the end of our first week, we had a karaoke night – which is a very common activity here in the province. We rented a karaoke machine, which included a box TV, a mic, and a massive book filled with songs. We were also joined by energetic, fun students from UERM, who participated in the rural immersion program during that week. We basically yelled songs at the top of our lungs for hours. It was one of my favorite nights here on the island so far.
It wouldn’t be a trip to the Philippines without visiting a few beaches. During our first weekend here, we rode a tricycle for about ten minutes to Nanay Santa’s Garden and Beach Resort. We also visited another beach in the barangay of Gumubat. Swimming in the calm water, snacking, and playing card games made the trips very enjoyable.
For the past two weekends, we visited Alabat, which is the municipality next to Quezon. During our first visit, we went to the municipality’s festival, which included small rides, cotton candy, games, and dancing/singing competitions.
Yesterday, we visited the municipality’s coco sugar factory and coconut farm. We witnessed the entire production process of coco sugar – from the collection of the raw materials in the farm to the final, delicious product.
Afterwards, we visited "Tres Princessitas" Bee Farm, where the owners educated us about the dynamics of the bee community. The owners mentioned that they only collect products from the hives during certain months. This ensures that the bees have enough resources for themselves during the year. Their practices are a reflection of their respect and gratitude towards nature. We also had the chance to eat honey extracted straight from the hive!
Although the island is slow-paced, its culture and beauty are rich and vibrant. I look forward to continue exploring the area for the next week and a half.
Love,
Jen
