Language and Culture

Spanish Influence on Lexicon

Due to the Spanish invasion and rule for 333 years, Tagalog has many borrowings from the Spanish language. There are also borrowings from Min Nan Chinese, Malay, Sanskrit, Arabic, Tamil and others.

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Culture

As seen in the language, through use of formal versus informal word forms, as well as in their practices, the Tagalog people have a strict adhearance to conduct and respect.

They are also a culinary people, placing much emphasis on cooking abilities. Women, as well as men, are trained at an early age to be culinary experts.

Both of the cultural aspects I have seen prevelently among the Filipinos that I work with. Not only are they extremely curteous and respectful, but the food they make is absolutely delicious. In addition, they are also extremely generous, which is similar to the Latin culture.