We use the word culture because using the appropriate term of habit would indicate an ability to change (which the populus here does not want). Culture, as previously defined, is more tangible and able to be enjoyed by all, not forced upon a person at 2am. Bad habits are the CHOICES made which continue to go uncorrected. Even to use the word tradition, in my opinion, would be incorrect. 50 or 100 years ago I am doubtful that the fiesta (honoring the patron saint in this predominantly Catholic country) consisted of drunkenness, gambling, fornication, and other similar behaviors. My guess is it was a celebration yes, with singing and ancestral dancing yes, but all to be a reminder and of what the saint provides. But then again, what do I know, I'm just a tourist.
My wife an family and friends all went to the Bacong fiesta dancing until 2am, my boy had half the soccer team sleepover making noise until 2am. Me, had X glasses of wine, went to bed at 10, and didn't hear thing. Works every fiesta.
Being curious as to who the Patron Saint of Philippines was, I checked out Wikipedia, is this the person in question and would he of approved of the noise? Lorenzo Ruiz. View attachment upload_2023-8-29_9-46-25.png
I find several glasses of red wine, each with an emperador and lime chaser works wonders. It seems to encourage deafness whilst still enabling muscle control (dry bed and happy wife).
