From the outset, let me say that I am not an expert on this topic and am still learning more.
Being an Australian, who likes the occasional beer, I was most impressed that beer in the Philippines is actually quite cheap. I happened to mention this interesting fact to some of people I work with and what followed was an interesting insight into more of the Filipino culture.
Bisyo. It's a Tagalog word that is commonly associated with alcohol. It's roots are in Spanish and it can be translated as 'vice'. That's how the people here see alcohol - as a vice.
However, from what little I have seen so far, the place where it is drunk plays an important part in determining whether it is 'bisyo' or not. For example, we went out last Saturday night to a fairly nice area where people were drinking beer with their meal.
Is this an example of 'bisyo'? Or is it socially appropriate?
Having one beer with a group of people down the road. Is it 'bisyo'? Or a way to mingle and converse with the local Filipinos?
Drinking a beer in the heat of the afternoon because I like the taste. 'Bisyo'? Or acceptable? Or maybe our house-helper (another topic to write about, actually) will see the empty bottles and her impression of me will become tainted?
There are many questions and not many answers.....yet. However, I am leaning towards not drinking alcohol so that I may be 'above reproach'.
4 comments:
Hey Stefan,
Interesting situation with the beer! Should I pause on the case I was about to send over? :) Does this mean there may be no 'Noodle' beer? I think it's good that you have thought through this and not just dismissed the cultural difference. I am in favour of being above reproach for sure. There are definitely other things to drink. Perhaps it is best to think about each situation as it arises as opposed to a blanket idea? Anyway, I'll have a TED for you!
Mike
Hi Stefan and Lara!!
I found your blog!
I've added it to my favourites so be assured I'll be lurking about to see how you are going and update how we can be praying for you.
We got all the climbing gear back from Jimmy and Kat by the way - thanks for organising that in our absence.
Hope you are going well this week.
Anna Gellatly
xxx
Hide the bottles?
Oh, is that not the point?
Always good to ire on the side of caution, and be above reproach. What do others who work at the school think?
Jim
Stefan,
I'd better not leave my real answer here at risk of looking like a bad influence! Would it make a better impression on the house-keeper if I also shipped your beer making kit over? hehe
Good thinking on the bottles mate. It's those smaller subtle things that can often affect someone's opinion of you.
-GUS-
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