Tagalog Word of the Day “Kapwa”
No culture or person has a monopoly on virtue. We all have our flaws — those sharp edges and quiet cracks that make us human. To what extent these overshadow our more angelic instincts is as individual as a fingerprint. What I do know, though, is that Filipino culture carries an undeniable, deep-rooted sense of care and loyalty that shines brightest in moments of vulnerability. This profound calling to care for others is known as Kapwa in Tagalog — a word that doesn’t quite translate neatly into English, but roughly means “shared identity” or “togetherness.”
Kapwa isn’t just empathy; it’s the belief that your well-being is tied to mine — that my joy, my struggle, my healing is bound to yours. It’s why, in times of crisis, you’ll find Filipinos rallying for one another with an unshakable sense of duty. I’ve written before about the remarkable number of Filipinos in the nursing profession and how that devotion to caretaking isn’t just a job — it’s a cultural cornerstone.
In times of need, Kapwa becomes more than just an idea — it becomes action. It becomes the nurse who stays beyond their shift, the neighbor who brings food when no one asks, the community that shows up with arms wide open. And right now, as fires rage and displace lives in Los Angeles, I’m reminded of how much we all need to embody Kapwa — not just in proximity to disaster, but as a daily practice.
Because at the end of the day, Kapwa isn’t exclusive to Filipino culture — it’s a reminder of our shared humanity. And maybe if we all embraced it a little more, the world would feel a bit more like home.
Key Elements of Kapwa:
Interconnectedness:
Kapwa acknowledges that no person exists in isolation. It recognizes the intrinsic connection between individuals and their communities. The joys, struggles, and well-being of one person affect the whole.Mutual Respect:
In the spirit of kapwa, relationships are built on mutual care and respect. Everyone is viewed as part of the same human family, deserving of dignity and compassion.Collective Responsibility:
With kapwa comes a sense of accountability — not just for oneself but for others. When someone is in need, the community steps in, reinforcing that our fates are intertwined.Empathy and Compassion:
Understanding and sharing another person’s emotions and experiences is at the heart of kapwa. It encourages listening, connection, and standing alongside others in both celebration and hardship.Harmony and Unity:
Kapwa fosters unity by dissolving the idea of "self versus others." It replaces individualism with a collective mindset that values harmony and collaboration over competition.
In New York, we've faced our share of calamities, but the spirit of Kapwa — our deep sense of shared humanity — shone brightly. Whether during hurricanes, blackouts, or the unimaginable tragedy of 9/11, the community always showed up for one another. Today, my thoughts are with the Filipino restaurants in Los Angeles. Here’s an update on some of my favorites and a heartfelt reminder of the challenges they face as they work toward recovery and rebuilding.
Stay Strong LA. Godspeed.
-Nicole
@GOBIGBOI
BigBoi: BigBoi is a fast-casual Filipino eatery known for hearty, comforting rice plates and modern takes on classics like adobo and longsilog. Its contemporary vibe and flavorful dishes make it a hotspot for locals craving Filipino breakfast staples any time of the day.
Spoon & Pork: Spoon & Pork reimagines Filipino comfort food with innovative flair, featuring dishes like crispy lechon kawali bowls and ube French toast. This LA hotspot balances nostalgia and creativity, making Filipino flavors more accessible to a wider audience.
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@KUYALORD_LA
Kuya Lord: A culinary gem in LA and winner of James Beard Best Chef, Kuya Lord serves elevated Filipino cuisine with bold flavors, combining tradition with modern techniques. Chef Lord Maynard Llera's menu highlights Filipino classics like lechon and kare-kare, attracting foodies eager for a taste of home with a gourmet twist.
The Park’s Finest: A beloved LA spot for Filipino-American barbecue, The Park’s Finest combines Filipino flavors with Southern-style smoked meats. Their signature coconut beef and cornbread bibingka make it a standout destination for fusion comfort food.
“Safe & open!!! Navigating how best to help without stretching ourselves too thin. Open to collaborate with others to support.”
