Manong at Work

              Manong is at work! Yes, Filipinos particulary Ilocanos are known for being hardworking.  That is just one of the many qualities Manong has.  He wakes up early in the morning, usually takes a cup of coffee while eating pandesal or eat the leftovers (mostly rice and viand) last night as his breakfast then go on his way out to do all the tasks of the day.  Manong ordinarily ignores everything like the heat of the sun, muscle ache, tedious work for the sake of his family.   The utmost reason why Manong never give up and keep on working because of his loved ones. Manong remains simple and humble.  His smile manifests contentment and happiness in his journey.  I salute you Manong for being one of a kind.  I hope your children will appreciate all your sacrifices and do their best also in everything to pay back all your efforts. 
   
              Manong, agbiag ka! :)

MANONG (Mah-noh-ng) is an Ilocano term principally given to the first-born male in a Filipino family. However, it can also be used to title an older brother, older male cousin, or older male relative in an extended family. The feminine "MANANG" is a term given to an older sister.

Have you seen Manong around? :)

              

Silet

        If there is one food in Ilocos I really can't desist because it's obviously a contra to our health...it's SILET. Yes, looking at the picture makes me salivate while pressing every letter in my keyboard.  "SILET" is an Ilocano term for ISAW. It is a street food in the Philippines made from barbecued pig or chicken intestines.  The intestines are cleaned, turned inside out, and cleaned again, repeating the process several times. They are then either boiled, then grilled, or immediately grilled on sticks. They are usually dipped in  vinegar with onions, peppers, and other spices in Manila and other parts of the country.  In Ilocos, we have our sui generis way of making it more tastier and sapid by dipping it in a mixed ketchup and Ilocos vinegar with chili.  They are usually sold by vendors on the street corners in afternoons. Well, in Ilocos if you want to challenge your judgment, try the must-taste silet at Riverside, Batac Ilocos Norte usually sold in the afternoon.  The best time to go there is not later than 5pm or else you have to go back again the next day because of too many people who visit and enjoy the bang of the famous SILET. :)

SMILE and ENJOY while you still can. :)