Mabuhay Wildings! What in the world does "mabuhay" mean, and how did the Philippines give us both Olympic champions AND the modern yo-yo?

This week on Wild Interest, our Philippines Independence Day special is one great big celebration of Filipino life and culture around the world. First up: Nichole says "hi" to Hidilyn Diaz, champion weightlifter and the first Filipino ever to win an Olympic gold medal. Next, Evan riffs with Ramón de Ocampo, acclaimed actor and voice of the hit Diary of a Wimpy Kid audio books.

But wait, there's more! Ever wonder about the history of yo-yos? Evan spins a yarn about yo-yos with his pal Jaxx, and learns some tricks from world champion freestyle yo-yo pro Bryan Jardin. Plus, our hosts take listeners on a lush audio journey through the beautiful island nation.

This episode features all your favorite segments: Grandparent Stories from Manila, Animal Calls, jokes, a pesky riddle, and an extra-creepy Cryptid Corner that takes us into the forest realm of the shape-shifting Tikbalang. Happy Independence Day — let's get wild!

Listen now and celebrate the wild culture of the Philippines!

Parents: visit our website to help your kids contribute jokes or favorite sounds, or to send us a message.

Timestamps for this episode are available below.

00:00 - Episode 13 Intro
 02:15 - Philippines Travelogue
 05:31 - Riddle Question
 05:51 - Ramón de Ocampo
 15:22 - Animal Call Clue
 16:12 - The Yo-Yo: Pedro Flores, Jaxx, and Bryan Jardin
 23:45 - Animal Call Reprise
 25:03 - Hidilyn Diaz
 32:07 - Joke Time
 33:05 - Call For Submissions
 33:31 - Grandparent Stories: Carmen
 37:50 - Favorite Sound
39:09 - Animal Call Reveal
 40:28 - Cryptid Corner: Tikbalang
 44:26 - Riddle Answer
 44:46 - Preview of Episode 14
 45:26 - Credits
 46:06 - Bloopers
 

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