Eating Dis-Order

A classmate in Intellectual Property Law class wondered if one can register “Kahit Saan” as a name for a restaurant. The idea obviously came to mind because Filipinos would typically answer this phrase when asked where they want to eat.

Literally, “kahit saan” means any place will do. The intended meaning, however, could vary. Most of the time, though, this could be interpreted as: “Go ahead make the decision, but not the same old diner please.”

One brave soul usually suggests a particular place and it is either met with excited ayes or awkward silence. Often, the first suggestion would prevail amid the silent reluctance of some and the clueless obedience of others.

But we all know the predicament does not end there. After finally deciding where to eat, the next important question is what to eat? Again, the generic Pinoy retort is “Kahit ano.” What “kahit ano” specifically means will be known after the order is made and none of the food served is what one really likes to eat.

Hay, Pinoy nga naman.

So unless and until someone actually names a restaurant as “Kahit Saan” that serves “Kahit Ano,” mealtime will always be this baffling for Filipinos.

Personality Complex Case #1

Kris airs side on encounter with James's rumored girlfriend

She is dubbed “Queen of All Media” for nothing really exceptional but because she is a hot topic for news and entertainment. The title is not even apt as she has not been that prolific in radio and the internet (the old and emerging media). To her credit, though, she really can grab anyone’s attention easily and has a lot of words to say to the delight of many.

Kris Aquino, whether we like or not, will always dominate mainstream media – specifically television. Her biggest draw is her personality, which pulls viewers like pollens attract bees. Her elite background stirs interest. Her brazen and smart talk captures attention. Her dramatics glue people on their seats.

For all that she is, she could be one of the finest media celebrities out there. Trouble is, she tends to overdo things and overhug the spotlight. Misbehavior can be cute and laughed at if it happens for the first time. The second time, it will make us pause and seriously think about whether it makes sense. The third and nth time, it becomes annoying and disturbing even if it makes sense at all.

We all know, of course, about the “colorful” life Kris is living. Her miseries, self-inflicted or not, affect many Filipinos as much as they affect her. Some can see themselves in her. Some learn from her experiences. We can even thank her for that.

There are some things, however, that are much better left in private or not talked about in the open. Being a public figure or a celebrity is no excuse to be reckless about our actions just because the public will know about it anyway. Things can be kept out of radar if we really want to. And even if we stand on a good principle, propriety should tell us not to create a scene that can be blown out of proportion and cause undue stress to anyone.

Kris cannot complain, therefore, that the other members of her family are being unnecessarily dragged into her mess because she practically invites it by giving the public almost full access to her life.

We have been told not to wash our dirty clothes in public. Kris has the penchant for doing so. The reason maybe why she likes doing it is because she washes hers in style – fully made up and dressed with a luxury brand of soap and washing machine to use – like how a real queen would.

Figure the metaphor.