FilTrip

Carmina and Patch catch up on all the goings on with the Filipino diaspora and its seeming upward trajectory in pop culture from the world of sports, music, and film. They recall how the “second golden age” of Filipino pop culture in the ‘70s and ‘80s paved the way for what might be its “third golden age” today. Listen in as they chat about the most consequential pop influences of the past who laid the foundation for those blazing the trail today. Their call to action: support our kababayans ...

Carmina and Patch discuss the oft forgotten 20-month British occupation of Manila. They trace how a global conflict reached Philippine shores, the reasons for Britain’s invasion, and the unexpected husband-and-wife Ilocano heroes who emerged from this brief episode. Join them in the exploration of this short-lived conquest and how things could have been had the British succeeded. Learn more: Battlefield Diplomacy and Empire-building in the Indo-Pacific World during the Seven Years’ War,...

During the Philippines’ National Food Month, Carmina and Patch decide to do a deep dive on Ilocano cuisine. They discover the origins of Ilocano frugality, how its history influenced the way they cook, and the terrain that contributed to its food culture. Join in as they discuss how Ilocano food serves as tribute to their history and way of life. Learn more: Tikim: Essays on Philippine Food and Culture, The Basi Revolt by Esteban Villanueva, Culture Ingested: Notes on the Indigenizati...

The Philippines’ history with Japan is well-documented in the context of World War II. But how about before then, and even further back, before Spanish colonization? In this episode, Carmina and Patch unearth the lesser-known presence of Japanese in the Philippines throughout its history. Listen in as they discover how deep the connection goes and how the two nations’ paths converged then ruptured in history’s unraveling. Learn more: In Our Image: America’s Empire in the Philippines, ...

Carmina and Patch's digestive juices overflowed during their exploration of the Michelin Guide's inaugural visit to the Philippines. They chat about the Guide's surprising origin story, why its stars are considered by some as the culinary world's most coveted honor (although they will talk about why some chefs are resisting this notion!) and explore how a single distinction can transform a restaurant’s journey—both positively and negatively. Just as importantly, they talk about the controvers...