Hi, I’m Cy!

(pronounced as “sigh” 🥰)

A Little Bit About me

I grew up in Laguna, Philippines, where Filipino food was just part of everyday life. It was the food we ate at home, the dishes we shared with family, merienda (snack) in the afternoon, and all those familiar flavors I honestly didn’t think much about back then because they were simply… home.

I was actually born in Naga City, Camarines Sur, but Laguna is where I grew up and where so many of my memories are.

Then in 2017, I moved to the U.S., and I think being away from the Philippines made me appreciate our food—and our culture—even more.

It’s funny how food can do that.

You can be thousands of miles away, but the smell of garlic cooking, a pot of adobo simmering on the stove, or something familiar served with hot rice can suddenly make home feel a little closer.

But for me, it’s also about everything around the food.

It’s the family gatherings where there’s somehow always enough food for everyone. It’s telling someone “Kain tayo!”(let’s eat) even when there’s barely enough on your plate. It’s merienda, Christmas celebrations, bringing food when you visit someone, and making sure nobody leaves your house hungry.

Food is such a big part of how we celebrate, welcome people, take care of each other, and stay connected to family.

And that’s the part of Filipino culture I want to share too.

Why I Created The Filipina Cy

I created The Filipina Cy as a place to share the Filipino food I grew up with and still love, the recipes I make for my family now, and the stories and culture that keep me connected to home.

You’ll find plenty of Filipino recipes here, but you’ll also find other things I actually make in my kitchen—homemade bread, family favorites, and recipes I try along the way. Because as much as I love Filipino food, we don’t eat adobo and pancit every single day. 😂

I also want to share the stories behind our food, Filipino traditions, celebrations, places and experiences from the Philippines, and those little things that might only make sense if you grew up Filipino.

And if you’ve never tried Filipino food before? You’re welcome here too.

I hope The Filipina Cy can be a place where you discover something new, find something good to cook, learn a little more about the Philippines, or maybe stumble across something that brings back a memory of home.

From the Philippines to My Kitchen in the U.S.

Living in the U.S. since 2017 has given me a different appreciation for the things I grew up with.

Cooking is one of the ways I keep that connection alive. Filipino food will always have a special place in my kitchen, but over the years, plenty of other recipes have found their way in too.

Some remind me of home. Some are new family favorites. And some are simply too good not to make again.

Whether you grew up in the Philippines, are part of the Filipino community abroad, have Filipino family and friends, or you’re simply curious about our food and culture, I’m so glad you’re here.

Kain tayo! (Let’s eat!) 🇵🇭