Balikbayans: How well do we know them?
What can heighten more the excitement of Filipinos other than hearing the news that their ‘balikbayan’ relatives are visiting the Philippines again? Well, it may probably be the best good news for them as it also meant being together and reunited with their dear loved ones in special bonding moments spent during their vacation!
According to research, the term ‘Balikbayan’ refers to Philippine nationals who are permanently residing abroad including their spouses and children, regardless of nationality or country of birth. Likewise, it refers to those of Filipino descent who acquired foreign citizenship and permanent status abroad (Philippine National Statistical Coordination Board).
But, how well do we really know our balikbayans? Things might have changed over the years and we might not be able to know exactly what they want and what they look for when they arrive back in the country.
Worry no more as the list below will provide you with some of the things that balikbayans crave for during their stay in the archipelago.
- Balikbayans love to fill their balikbayan boxes with a lot of Philippine-made items for souvenirs when they go back abroad. These are small items such as body accessories including pearl earrings, beaded bracelets or necklaces with shell ornaments and other handicrafts are a few of their favorites. Shirts with ‘Manila’ or ‘Philippines’ text on it as well as jeepney graphics and carabao figures are part of the choices. Similarly, the Philippine Map and the Ninoy and Cory Aquino-designed clothes top the list as its relevance in today’s time make it very famous and in-demand amongst Filipinos living in other countries.
- Balikabayans look for the ‘hard-to-find stuff’. Whatever it is that is hard to find such as old coins, bills, pictures of then Filipino actors, pots, old frames/antique house decorations, or even LPs and soundtracks of famous Filipino bands such as Eraserheads and the like---they try to find and would like to bring to their homes outside the country as they serve as good memorabilias that would make their homes look and feel very Filipino.
- Balikbayans love to attend concerts, family affairs/reunions, school alumni homecoming whenever their free time permits them so. These social gatherings keep up their energy especially as it provides them the time to bond with their loved ones. Likewise, it makes their connection active again as it fosters a rebuilding of old community of friends.
- Balikbayans crave for adventure---and where else can we find the best adventure in the Northern part of the country? The answer is Subic. Subic offers perfect tropical forest adventure parks such as the Tree top Adventure and Zoobic Safari, surfing and diving sites, shopping places, and an exciting and fun night life. A perfect place to treat them to unwind from their stressful work in abroad as Subic marries fun and relaxation ideally!
