How to spot a Pinoy abroad: the telltale signs of a kababayan in a foreign place

Whether you’re wandering through the bustling streets of Japan, hoarding at the markets of Taiwan, or enjoying a brunch spot in Los Angeles, there’s a unique joy in encountering a fellow Filipino. But how can you tell for sure if you are in the presence of another Pinoy? Here are some telltale signs:

The signature Pinoy friendliness

Filipinos are known for their friendly demeanor. Even a simple smile or nod can lead to the familiar question, “Pinoy ka?” followed by an enthusiastic “Kabayan!” This immediate connection conjures a distinct spirit of camaraderie between Filipinos abroad that makes both parties feel like they are closer to home.

The never-ending quest for a bowl of rice

Getting to try different cuisines is one of the greatest joys of being abroad. However, even if they’ve only been in a different country for a few days, Pinoys will likely start asking, “May kanin ba dito?” (Is there rice here?). At the end of the day, no matter how delectable foreign dishes can be, sometimes all Pinoys need is deliciously savory ulam and a nice, piping hot bowl of white rice.

The impressive travel OOTDs

When you live in a country with only two seasons, there isn’t a lot of room to try out clothes made for different climates. This is why when traveling abroad, Filipinos make the most out of the cooler temperature to dress to the nines, especially when they want to capture that perfect travel photo. Same goes for warmer destinations – you’ll never catch Pinoys slipping with their OOTDs that are perfect to take photos in.

The quest for the “CR”

When nature calls, Filipinos immediately look for the “comfort room” or “CR.” This term that refers to the restroom or lavatory is a dead giveaway that someone is Pinoy, as the Philippines is one of the few countries that refers to the toilet as such. If the person also looks for a tabo, you’re truly sure that you have a kababayan in your midst.

The pasalubong shopping for the entire barangay

Whether it’s a Pinoy tourist or an overseas Filipino worker, the thoughtfulness behind getting pasalubong for everyone they love is a common trait. From chocolates, knick-knacks, or favorite canned goods, the people at home are always in the heart and mind of Pinoys abroad.

CIMB Bank Philippines understands that Filipinos all over the world deserve a banking experience that is tailored for our unique needs—one that is safe, convenient, and has their best interests at heart. This is why the Bank offers CIMB Kababayan, which allows overseas Filipinos to open a CIMB bank account abroad using an international SIM card. With CIMB Kababayan, Pinoys abroad can open an UpSave or GSave savings account with no initial deposit or maintaining balance required. 

CIMB Kababayan is available in 25 countries: Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Canada, Egypt, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Laos, Malaysia, New Zealand, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Taiwan, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, and Vietnam.  This gives overseas Filipinos access to interest rates that are higher than most banks, seamless and free fund transfers, as well as a free virtual debit card that they can link to their account and use for online purchases. 

Wherever you may be in the world, CIMB is ready to provide you with accessible and convenient digital-only banking services. To know more about CIMB Kababayan visit cimbbank.com.ph/kababayan