"Metamorphosis of Words"
A response by former Amb. Rudy Arizala to Malaya column by Ms. Dahli Aspillera
Dear Ms.Aspillera:
Your column "Metamorphosis of Words," which appeared in the Malaya newspaper of 14 September 2005, is not only funny but also contain interesting information on how language affects the culture of Filipinos even in mundane things such as foods and restaurants..
Even my small hometown of Infanta, Quezon engages in the "metamorphosis of words." If you have in Metro Manila "Caintacky Fried Chicken" and a burger place called "Mang Donald´s," in Infanta, province of Quezon, recentlly affected by flash-floods, we have eating places called: "Infanciteria". It is short name for "Infanta Panciteria". Aside from "pancit" it also serves dishes such as "Gising-gising," a spicy hot soup guaranteed to wake you up and "Gokong soup", a tribute to the Filipino-Chinese billionaire?. This soup is made of chicken feet simmered in dark broth. Another eating place near the municipal building is called: "SM Go to Plaza" which is open 24 hours. Its announced specialty are "Goto" and "Arroz caldo."
The closest Infanta has to a formal restaurant is called "Queen Cakes" Its catchword is "dining with a difference." It treats its customers "like queen and king. " A school supplies and bookstore near the public market is called: "Gibsons" ostensibly a short for "give to your sons" school supplies and books. There is also a flower shop called "Kulasa Flower Shop", Despite its name which suggests a shoddy woman, the place smells sweet due to fragrant fresh flowers sold in that shop.
All these information and colored photographs are immortalized in a coffee table book ttiled: "INFANTA Passage to the Pacific" published by the BPI Foundation, Inc., Makati City, 2004.
With best wishes and regards.
Sincerely yours,
RODOLFO A. ARIZALA