Pinoy kasi!

No matter how often I have hear this phrase I will never accept this as an excuse.

Today, the Botanical Garden here in Belfast had more people than usual because of the Garden Gourmet event. There was an exhibit of agricultural produce and floral displays. There was a children's show that my son lived.

There were also many stalls showcasing different cuisine. Among them is the traditional Irish pork roast or Irish lechon and like before, I did not waste the chance of getting a taste of it. I was really excited until these two Filipina came along.

I was on queue waiting for my turn to purchase when somebody just cut me off and said in Filipino "Balita ko may lechon dito, kukuha lang ako ng balat". As if it was not embarassing enough, a second Filipina came along and did the same to the lady in front of me without saying anything. The lady in a sarcastic tone just said "Go ahead. Help yourself."

I was so embarrassed imagining what people might think. They not only cut the queue but also got most of the cracklings (lechon skin) and did not even bother to purchase anything. To see two Filipinos doing it, I cannot blame them to think that all of us are like that.

I was also angry. In all my life abroad, I tried to behave my best - maybe more than what I would usually do in the Philippines. I understand that how I project myself does not only impact me but will influence how other Filipinos are seen and treated. All behaviour, including those that seem trivial has a greater influence than we could imagine.

I don't want us Filipinos to be seen as beggars and just out here in their country getting on the free ride. If this perception persists, there is a danger that this could fuel discrimination against us. It may seem far-fetched now to think about it but this had already happened to other ethnic groups.

But I still have great respect to and high hopes for Filipino OFWs. In my more than eight years abroad, this is the first time I witnessed such action.

Hopefully this is the only time.