Danny Goes Shopping: Pistang Tomasino 2018!

As I was passing by the Quadricentennial Square, I caught a glimpse of what seemed like a mini fiesta- colorful stalls were in place, adorned with the iconic triangle banderitas that reminded you so much of a provincial barrio. I was intrigued; and so, I decided to check it out. 

Pistang Tomasino is an annual trade fair event held by the UST Simbahayan in partnership with the different colleges of the University of Santo Tomas. This year, it celebrated the theme “Kultura’t Kabuhayan ng Pamayanan, Pagyamanin at Pangalagaan”.

Held from the 12 to the 15 of February 2018, partner communities from all over the country featured the many products that highlighted their people’s culture and identity. 

Of course, I wouldn’t just leave without getting something- so here’s my Pistang Tomasino haul!

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1.) Pearl Rosary

I am a sucker for all things iridescent and pastel colored. I wouldn’t call myself a very devout Christian, but this rosary was just beautiful. And it was the only one of its kind and color left, so I grabbed the chance. 

It was made in Bulacan, and most likely by marginalized people who are currently being taught basic enterprising and livelihood skills. The organization behind this movement is called Caritas Margins, a nonstock, non-profit organization.

2.) Beaded Cross

Yes, another religious artifact has caught my eye. This time, however, I got it for my grandmother. She loves the color green. 

This one has an interesting history- it was made by the women inmates of the Parañaque City Jail, all of which are still undergoing trial. According to the shopkeeper, by creating these things and by pricing them, they are able to help and fend for their families even while they are still in jail. 

So to whoever made this, I hope you and your family's alright, and I hope I got to help. Bless you, Parañaque City Jail inmates. 

3.) Gold Fish Keychain

This stall, in my opinion, had the most eye-catching and intricate products. I love all things shiny and gold- so by instinct, I was drawn to whatever they had on the table. They had rings, which were so simple yet so elegant looking, bells, bangles, bracelets, necklaces, and even embroidered bags and clothes. Mind you, I wanted one of each, but sadly I was on a budget.

Hailed from South Cotabato, these handmade (yes, handmade!) products are made out of either brass or bronze. I ended up buying a gold fish keychain, which I gave to Mama and totally forgot to take a picture of. She's a keychain collector.

4.) Champorado

I got hungry while hopping from stall to stall, so I got myself organic champorado. Made out of white and brown rice, according to the ale. It was delicious.

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A pattern that I have noticed when buying all of these is that they were all made by charities and organizations whose aims are to help the poor. Not just provide them with financial support, but to actually equip them with the skills they may use in starting a livelihood. And that, I believe, is what real help is- as they say, "Give a man a fish, he'll eat today. Teach him how to fish, he'll eat forever." That would be a nice trend- if more businesses were more humanistic, and valued the real meaning of helping, then the world would be a better place, wouldn't it?

Well that's pretty much it for my Pistang Tomasino haul, and I am glad to say that all that I am pleased with everything that I got. They are all so beautifully and passionately made, and it fills me with pride to think that our fellow Filipinos made these. 

It is quite amazing, the fact how we live in a country that possesses such diverse cultures. Appreciation and gratitude should be given to the UST Simbahayan for organizing an event such as the Pistang Tomasino, which allows us to get to know the varying cultures of our fellowmen. Cheers to your 16th year of providing avenues and opportunities, Pistang Tomasino!