Valentine's Day is celebrated around the world in various ways, but Japan and the Philippines have unique approaches to the holiday. Valentine's Day in Japan focuses on women, while in the Philippines (with the rest of the world), the holiday is a more inclusive celebration of love and friendship.
In Japan, the tradition centers on women giving chocolate to men, with the quality of the chocolate given indicating the giver's feelings. First, we have the "obligatory" chocolate, known as giri-choco, to male friends and colleagues. Second, they give honmei-choco, or "true feeling" chocolate, to their romantic interests. In recent years, young ladies give tomo-choco to their friends. Men, in return, reciprocate by giving gifts on March 14, known as White Day.
On the other hand, in the Philippines, Valentine's Day is celebrated by everyone, and the focus is on expressing love and appreciation for all types of relationships. It is common for friends and family members to exchange gifts and greetings, and it is also an opportunity for singles to celebrate their friendships and express their desire for love.
Being an #OFW, I usually depend on #IslandRose to ensure that my mother gets her V-day dose of flowers.
But as an ex-pat in Japan, I do find it awkward to buy chocolates for men. So, when JCB got the roses and the chocolates for me today, he complained that he was the only man lined up in the sweets shop. The ladies must have been gossiping about him. Ha!
What a wonderful world we live in! Understanding and appreciating these cultural differences can help us better appreciate the diversity of global traditions and celebrations.
So, what did you get for Valentine's Day?
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