Are you a foreigner visiting or living in the Philippines? Or are you a Filipino wanting to learn more about what it means to be Pinoy? Here are some simple ways for you to gain more insights into the interesting creature that is called the Filipino:

1. Travel around the Philippines: Go out and see the country. Visit the churches, museums, other places of interest, and the markets. This way, you will learn about Philippine history, will meet the people, and learn about the food and how a typical day in a certain place goes.

2. Observe during holidays and special times: Christmas, Holy Week, elections, weddings, and wakes – these times will allow you a better peek into the Filipino’s practices, values, and interests.

3. Take public transportation: Ride a jeepney, take the bus or the LRT and the MRT. Talk to the taxi driver. You are sure to hear his views about life, traffic, and politics. Observe the other drivers, as well as the pedestrians and traffic enforcers, on the road.

4. Watch Philippine movies: Indie films will probably give you better quality films these days. It is okay though to also watch Enteng Kabisote during the Metro Manila FilmFest to see what most of the Pinoys are watching.

5. Read Philippine writers or authors in English and Filipino: Visit the Filipiniana section in major bookstores.

6. Learn the language: This will allow you to communicate and keep in touch with more people.

7. Listen to Filipino music and artists: You will notice that the songs that become very popular are either very sad or dramatic; tell a good story; or provide some novelty. If you wish to hear music that speaks of what is good in Philippine culture, you may with to invite the indigenous Filipino rock band BAILAN to perform for you.