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Valentine's Day in the Philippines

© Mars Mosqueda Jr.

Valentine's Day in the Philippines is synonymous with red roses (usually at a higher price than the usual), red shirts (for those who are looking for partners), fully-booked motels (yes!), crowded movie houses and restuarants, and of course, public plazas turned into lovers lane.

Filipinos have always been known as romantic people. And it is mirrored during this special day of the Hearts. Lovers are seen holding hands in malls, public plazas, and other places they choose to have a date. Flower stores will be raided by men who will buy roses, tulips, and other types of floras even at a price that is higher than the normal (of course, businessmen are jumping into the opportunity of high demand during this day).

Schools usually don't have regular classes on Valentine's day. When I was a high school student, I remember excitingly anticipating Valentine's Day so I can say I love you to my crush on a public address system, which comes free during this day. English teachers will be organizing a Valentine's Day program where students can publicly announced their affection to their long time crushes or even to their wonderful teachers.

The most wonderful part of Valentine's Day in the Philippines is the fact that whether or not there is economic crisis in the country or impending increase in basic commodities or ongoing war in Mindanao, Filipinos always take time to hand out red roses or sweet stuff to the people they care so much, it could be their loved ones, office mates, friends, or even those who have hurt their feelings.

That's uniquely Filipino style.

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