Mother’s Day is just around the corner and we all know what that means: It’s time to shower our moms with extra love and appreciation. It’s time to point the spotlight to the women who raised, guided, supported us and (let’s admit it) affectionately embarrassed us in public. 

There’s nothing quite like a mother’s love. They are our biggest cheerleaders and our most loyal companions. So, whether you call her nanay, mommy, inay, or mama, you probably recognize some (if not all) of these Filipino mom traits:

Food containers > you

Let’s face it. Moms treat their food containers like their precious babies. And just like any good parent, she’ll go to great lengths to protect them at all costs. If you dare to lose any of them, either buy a new one before you get home or prepare to face their wrath! Nothing’s scarier than a mom who just discovered you lost her Tupperware. So make sure to keep them always safe and sound.

Her phone screen is brighter than the sun

Have you opened a phone and momentarily got blinded by its brightness? It’s not cosmically possessed. That’s just the default setting for every Pinoy mom, and yes, they can still use it fine. Rumor has it that the brightness of their phone is brighter than what the future holds. Let’s also not forget the super loud volume, glaring font size, and all the apps running in the background because they forgot to close them again for the nth time.

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She’s an expert haggler

If you can’t get something at the market for a marginally smaller price, you don’t just walk away — you can call mom for backup. She has tried and tested haggling tricks under her sleeves, and before you know it, you scored a bargain better than what you’re aiming for. Although it’s a little embarrassing sometimes, it’s a testament to how moms will go out of their way to give what their kids want (and get a good deal). 

V is for Vicks

The history between moms and Vicks goes back to before you and I were born. They have an unbreakable bond, enough to see a tub of Vicks in almost every Filipino household. Whether you got a cough or cold, your mom’s ready to use her good old Vicks to soothe you. And if that doesn’t do the trick, she still has herbs, spices, and a plethora of other home remedies on standby like a personal doctor.

The ultimate family photographer

It’s almost impossible to have a trip without your mom asking you to stand near a famous landmark to pose for a photo or two. And she’ll stop at nothing to capture the perfect shot! As cheesy as it may sound, you really can’t blame her for it because she only wants to document every moment for as long as she can before you become a busy grown-up overwhelmed by adulthood.

Baon everywhere

From long car rides to leisurely mall strolls, when that stomach rumbles, you know who to turn to: mom! With infinite snacks stashed away in her purse like a magician, she’s always got your back — and your stomach. Filipino moms think they’re committing a crime if they ever so much as let their kids think about being hungry. Call her the ultimate snack queen, ready to satisfy your cravings and keep you fueled for the day ahead!

The motherly sixth sense

There’s a reason why they always say that a mother knows best. Her maternal instinct is unbeatable, to the point where she knows when something’s off, judging by the slightest change in your mood. Isn’t it comforting that nothing gets past her radar? That means you can always come to her if you need anything.

Calling everyone “anak”

You know your mom approves of your friends once she starts calling them “anak”  and cooks their favorite meals. She is also eager to let them spend time at your house, like they’re officially part of the family, (but at the expense of sharing your embarrassing stories from childhood). Moms may have the reputation of tough disciplinarians most of the time, but they’re the most selfless and loving people on Earth once you take the time to know them. 

Do you know any other Filipino mom quirks? Let us know in the comments!

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