Connect

Chapter 45: Philippines

Contents

Ifugao

Words: Jennifer Kongpreecha

Imagine living in a world governed by rice. You might think that throwing a few cups into a cooker and pressing start is all there is to the grain, but for Filipinos, rice is a life source, and it begins with the Ifugao.

 

Personal Fowl

Words: Brandon Castillo
Photos: Steve Tirona

Growing up the child of immigrants, how do you define your identity? How American are you allowed to be without turning your back on your heritage? How much rice and adobo can you take before you just want a burger and fries? Life as a first-generation American is a delicate balance between the forces of family and tradition and the pressures of social acceptance. What happens, then, when one side of your identity is disgusted by the customs of the other?

 

Jesus Built My Hotrod

Words and photos: Grace Villamil

I began exploring the land of my roots in 2002. Through 16-hour bus rides north and south I came to love jeepneys, the most popular mode of public transportation in the Philippines. They are a commonality across the country’s many regions, and the name is one of few words with no variation on the 7,107 islands.

 

Big Willy Style

Interview: Ben Boas
Photos: Andy Grande

Long before he was touring the world and setting standards in skateboarding, Willy Santos was a key part of the movement that helped launch the sport into a multi-million dollar industry. Born in the Philippines, Santos honed his skills in San Diego, CA, landing himself a spot on Tony Hawk’s original Birdhouse team. His contributions to the industry have helped pave the way for the next generation of skaters, while he has also proved to be a successful entrepreneur.