“Puhon, puhon;” Language and Resilience of the Filipino | Von Ryan Abrantes | TEDxAvenuesWorldSchool

Summary

The speaker, Von Ryan de Brances, discusses the resilience of Filipinos in the face of natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic. Highlighting the importance of spirituality, purpose, and community support, he uses the Bisayan language to explore the cultural aspects of resilience, as exemplified by the words 'pujon' (faith and hope), 'padayon' (perseverance), and 'magtinabangan' (helping others). The talk emphasizes the need for an environment that fosters resilience, rather than expecting it as a given, and calls for collective support in overcoming challenges.

Takeaways

• 😋 Lumpia and ube are iconic Filipino foods, representing the rich culinary culture of the Philippines.
• 🏖 The Philippines is known for its beautiful beaches like Boracay, Cebu, and Palawan, making it a popular tourist destination.
• 🌍 The Philippines is located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, which results in frequent typhoons and volcanic activity.
• 😷 The country has been significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, with many lives lost and people hospitalized.
• 🔥 In January 2020, Batangas province faced the eruption of Ta'al Volcano and the destruction of Typhoon Ulysses, amidst the pandemic.
• 😊 Despite adversities, Filipinos are often depicted as happy and smiling, showcasing their resilience.
• 📊 The Philippines ranks 61st in the World Happiness Report, being happier than many of its neighbors.
• 🙏 The Filipino concept of 'pujon' or 'pohon' reflects a hopeful and prayerful attitude, contributing to resilience.
• 🚀 The term 'padayon' embodies the idea of perseverance and moving forward, even in the face of setbacks.
• 👫 'Magtinabangan' highlights the importance of community support in building resilience, akin to the Filipino tradition of 'bayanihan'.
• ⚠️ The narrative of Filipino resilience should not be used as an excuse to neglect creating supportive environments for overcoming challenges.

Q & A

What is Lumpia and why is it significant in Filipino culture?

Lumpia is a crunchy, moorish Filipino spring roll filled with pork and vegetables. It is significant in Filipino culture as it is considered the life of every Filipino party, symbolizing the country's love for food and community gatherings.

What is Ube and how is it used in Filipino cuisine?

Ube is a cartoonishly purple yam that is used in various Filipino desserts such as sugar biscuits, cakes, pastries, and ice cream. It has gained popularity and is taking the upper division of avenues by storm.

What are the geographical features of the Philippines that make it prone to natural disasters?

The Philippines is an archipelago located west of the Pacific Ocean in the region known as the Pacific Ring of Fire. This location means it experiences an average of 20 tropical cyclones annually, with 8 to 9 making landfall, and has hundreds of volcanoes, 24 of which are classified as active.

How has the Philippines been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic?

The Philippines has been significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, with thousands of lives lost and many more hospitalized. The country has also faced additional challenges such as the eruption of Ta'al volcano and the destruction of Typhoon Ulysses during the pandemic.

What is the estimated population of Filipinos and Filipino Americans in the United States as of 2018?

As of 2018, there are an estimated 4 million Filipinos and Filipino Americans in the United States.

What does the speaker mean by 'resilience' in the context of the Filipino people?

In the context of the Filipino people, 'resilience' refers to their ability to cope and thrive in difficult situations and sufferings, to bounce back after a setback, and to maintain social order in the middle of a crisis.

What is the significance of the word 'pujon' or 'pohon' in the speaker's personal experience?

The word 'pujon' or 'pohon', which means 'god willing' or 'let's pray', is used by the speaker's mother as a form of hopeful encouragement and a way to build resilience. It represents a sense of spirituality and destiny that helps in coping with stress and maintaining hope for the future.

How does the speaker relate the concept of 'resilience' to the Filipino people's religiosity?

The speaker relates the concept of 'resilience' to the Filipino people's religiosity by highlighting how they turn to their faith during crises, praying and waiting for God's help, which is a factor that builds resilience.

What is the meaning of 'padayon' and how does it contribute to resilience?

'Padayon' roughly translates to 'onward', 'keep going', or 'carry on'. It is a sense of mission and purpose that encourages individuals to keep moving forward, whether they have succeeded or faced setbacks, thus contributing to resilience.

What is the concept of 'magtinabangan' and how does it relate to community resilience?

'Magtinabangan' means 'to help others' and relates to the concept of 'bayanihan', which signifies community support and cooperation. It highlights the importance of neighbors and community in building personal and national resilience during difficult times.

How does the speaker address the potential misuse of the narrative of Filipino resilience?

The speaker addresses the potential misuse of the narrative of Filipino resilience by cautioning that it should not be used as an excuse to expect Filipinos to endure oppression, calamities, or racism without support. Resilience should be a byproduct of overcoming challenges, not a requirement.

What is the speaker's hope for the Filipino people and the concept of resilience?

The speaker hopes that the Filipino people, with their resilient spirit, continue to thrive and live safe and prosperous lives. They also hope that everyone can develop resilience in ways that are supported and that people support those around them to develop it themselves.