Tell me you’re Filipino without telling me you’re Filipino!
Prague – This trend is swooping all across social media platforms and it kind of makes you think how Filipinos are so creative and funny.
This subtle yet unmistakable gesture—pointing with the lips—is second nature to many Filipinos. But have you ever stopped to wonder why we do this? After all, the universal way of indicating something is by using fingers, not lips.
Interestingly, Filipinos aren’t the only ones with this quirky habit! Did you know that Colombians also point using their mouths? In fact, this small yet culturally significant detail was even portrayed in Disney’s 2021 animated film Encanto, where Mirabel used her lips to point at something. Coincidence? Probably not.
One possible explanation ties back to our shared history of Spanish colonization, which lasted for over three centuries. But there’s more to the story, Filipinos have deeply ingrained cultural beliefs, folklore stories, and practical reasons that contribute to this unique gesture. Let’s dive into the reasons behind our lip-pointing tradition.
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It Is Actually Considered Rude to Point with Hands
Remember the viral Spider-Man meme where multiple Spider-Men are pointing at each other? Well, if Spider-Man were Filipino, he’d probably get a scolding, or worse, a tsinelas (slipper) or hanger flying his way. At least, that’s how it was in the old days when elders emphasized respect and proper etiquette.
In Filipino culture, pointing directly at someone using fingers is often seen as disrespectful, especially when addressing elders or strangers. Growing up, many of us were warned that using our fingers to point at people could be interpreted as confrontational or impolite. Instead, using the lips became a more subtle and socially acceptable alternative.
Superstition Plays a Role
Filipinos are known for the rich folklore and countless superstitions. From avoiding sweeping the floor at night (to prevent sweeping away good luck) to wearing clothes inside out to find your way back when lost in the forest, our cultural beliefs run deep.
One superstition that may explain lip-pointing is the fear of offending supernatural beings, particularly the nuno sa punso—a mythical dwarf-like entity believed to reside in anthills. According to old tales, pointing at an anthill with your finger could bring misfortune, illness, or even a curse. To avoid this, many resorted to using their lips instead, a practice that likely extended to everyday interactions over time.
It’s a Practical Multi-Tasking Tool
If you grew up in a Filipino household, you’ve probably had this classic experience: You’re searching for something—an eraser, a shoe, or a missing piece of homework—and you ask your mom where it is. Without skipping a beat, while simultaneously cooking, washing dishes, and talking on the phone, she effortlessly pouts her lips in the exact direction of the missing item.
Efficiency at its finest, right? Filipino moms (and parents in general) have mastered the art of multitasking, and using the lips to point is a quick, hands-free way to direct attention without disrupting what they’re doing. It’s practical, efficient, and deeply ingrained in our daily interactions.
When Lip-pointing is More Than Just a Quirk
Lip-pointing may seem like a small, everyday action, but it carries layers of cultural significance. It’s a testament to our values—respect for elders, adherence to tradition, and sheer practicality. Whether rooted in historical influences, superstition, or just the need to multitask, this unique gesture remains a charming and recognizable trait among Filipinos worldwide.
So, the next time someone asks you to point something out, skip the fingers, use your lips instead.
After all, it’s the Filipino way!
