‘To sharon,’ from a cultural perspective
It is not uncommon in Filipino gatherings for guests to take home leftovers, a practice that has given rise to online memes, notably the term “sharon” that references a famous line from one of Sharon Cuneta’s songs: “Balutin mo ako…”
But aside from being a source of memes, “sharoning” has become a phenomenon worthy of another look from different perspectives. “To sharon,” more than anything, embodies profound cultural, anthropological, and sociological significance. It is rooted in Filipino values of community, generosity, and thrift, reflecting a deep-seated cultural ethos that transcends the seemingly mundane act of packing and taking home food.
The “abundance” mindset. Filipino hosts often exhibit an abundance mindset, ensuring there is more food than necessary during celebrations. This stems from a cultural expectation to overprepare, as a lack of food signifies failure to meet societal standards of hospitality. Leftovers, then, are not viewed as waste but as an extension of the host’s generosity. Offering guests food to take home serves as a symbolic gesture that their presence is valued and appreciated.
“Pakikisama” and reciprocity. Filipinos attach great value to social harmony (pakikisama), which extends to sharing resources, especially food. Taking leftovers home ensures that everyone gets something from the gathering, thereby fostering goodwill and reducing social inequality among guests. For the host, it is a way of keeping close relationships since offering food demonstrates care and a willingness to share one’s blessings.
Family orientation. Central in identity and social structure, Filipinos sometimes ask to take home leftovers for family members unable to attend the celebration. This is how Filipinos are collectivists; they care for others before themselves. Thus, taking food home for loved ones reflects the cultural expectation to fulfill familial obligations.
Utang na loob. “To sharon” can also reflect the concept of “utang na loob.” Guests often feel indebted to the host for their hospitality and, in turn, accept leftovers as a token of gratitude. This reciprocal exchange strengthens social ties and perpetuates the cycle of mutual care and obligation.
Food as cultural artifact. “To sharon” is also anthropologically charged with symbolic and cultural meaning. It is imbued with deep stories about survival and community values.
Food security and resourcefulness. The Philippines’ history of colonization, poverty, and disaster has cultivated the culture of resourcefulness among Filipinos. Food has often proven scarce, so much respect is given to it. Bringing food home reflects this resourceful mindset and making sure that no food is wasted. “To sharon” is an act of prudence that allows families to celebrate beyond the event itself.
Rituals of sharing. In Filipino celebrations, offering and accepting leftovers is a ritual that signifies the continuation of communal bonds. It reinforces the host’s role as a provider and the guest’s role as a grateful participant in the social exchange. This ritualized sharing extends the event’s symbolic meaning, transforming food into a medium for expressing unity and belonging.
Practical necessity. As the cost of living soars, taking home leftovers has become a practical necessity for many Filipinos. With inflation and economic challenges, packed food serves as an additional meal, easing the family’s financial burden. For some, it may even be an opportunity to bring home something they otherwise cannot afford.
Critics and misconceptions. “To sharon” is not an entirely flawless practice and may be seen as rude, especially when initiated by guests without waiting for the host to extend an invitation. Others claim it symbolizes dependency or difficulty in letting go of the scarcity mindset. In a more individualistic society, taking leftovers might be labeled as opportunistic. Such judgment fails to account for the collectivist values that underpin Filipino social dynamics.
As Filipino society evolves, “sharoning” could also evolve, retaining its core values but adapting to changing norms. Innovations such as eco-friendly packaging and digital coordination for a more equitable food sharing could modernize the practice, aligning it with contemporary concerns on sustainability and convenience.
With increasing awareness about food insecurity, it could be seen as a way to reduce waste. By repackaging it as a sustainable and ethical choice, Filipinos can demonstrate how cultural traditions provide solutions to global problems.
In a world increasingly fractured by individualism, “sharoning” reminds us of the power of community, reciprocity, and the bond between food and culture. It’s a testament to the Filipinos’ resilience and creativity to transform a simple act into a profound expression of love and connection.
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Dr. Ron Jabal, APR is chair and CEO of PAGEONE Group.
