1) Several times I have been approached by "kababayans" while entering grocery stores. They have this board showing pictures of Filipino children and they start with "kabayan, tulong naman para sa mga bata sa atin". I am tempted to smile at them, but I did that once and she got closer pressing me for "tulong sa mga bata" with all her narration of how these needy kids need our monetary help.
2) It was on TV and on the news a few days ago. A couple, together with 70 others were arrested in a town north of Toronto. Reason: Cockfighting. They were allegedly keeping a cockpit and a betting house in a rented farm. (These are illegal in Canada). Reportedly, while the cockfight was going on there was even a catered buffet table set up nearby. Sad to say, they were a Filipino couple.
3) This final one took place two days ago. As I got off from the crowded subway train, a Filipina approached me saying "Ate, bili ka na ng homemade sweets". I was taken aback. It was morning rush hour. First thing that came to me was - "Who are you and why are you doing this?". She immediately replied "Citizen kami dito, Ate. Para ito sa Foundation ng mga bata sa Pilipinas".
My heart goes to those kabayans in the grocery entrance and subway who I'm sure are mere victims of a bigger scheme. I cannot say the same however for the cockfighting couple.
Proud ka ba, kabayan?
I've been approached a couple of times by these 'Bantay Bata' people at STC. When I told them I didn't have any change they got all rude on me. I know they're scammers. I know somebody who was in it.
ReplyDeleteOne time, at the STC food court as well, somebody approached me asking if I wanted puto, kutsinta, etc. So I was like, Oh-kay? She then told me to hold on cuz she had to go to her friend who was hiding from security (since they weren't allowed to sell there). I changed my mind and told her I didn't have enough money. I saw them approach another couple and when they did buy, she had to give them the food 'patago' and told the couple to make sure not to tell where they got it from if security asks.
OH MY MY!
One thing I find hard to understand is how a kabayan oppress and/or fool another.
ReplyDeleteD!
Ting,
ReplyDeleteFirst reaction is really shock and indifference. Later you pity them. I also had the same experience sa Town Centre - are they still doing that?
Dang,
There is certain percentage of kabayans that thrive on the "kalisod" of other Pinoys. I'd like to say there is not a lot of them - but then, it is that small percentage that hurts most.
Mora man ug naa sa Pilipinas. Can't believe they're doing it there. Tell them that you have a lot of poor relatives.
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