Tuba - a drink from the Philippines

This tradition originated in the Philippines and was handed down through the generations. It then arrived in Mexico by means of the Manila Galleon.

When the Manila galleon arrived on the Colima coast in the 16th century in search of lime that was so necessary to prevent scurvy among its passengers, it disembarked groups of Philippine workers, who came to grow sugar cane and rice in the fields of the region.

The exchange of customs between both countries that had both been taken over by Spain soon bore fruit. Chocolate, tamales, tortillas pozole (a thick, pork based broth) were sent from Mexico and from the Philippines came, among other things, shawls and the tuba. This term comes from the Philippine and means a nutritious, refreshing drink which is an extract of the coconut palm flower.

By: Guadalupe Silva

See the rest of the article at Mexicodesconocido.com

Highway 54 Construction

Even though this section of highway 54 is actually in Jalisco it's the gateway to Colima. They have been working on widening the section over the canyons for about a year but now it looks like they may be adding another lane or two. With so much hillside to move they have had to close one lane in a few places for the last month.

Stopping traffic for extended periods for months requires vendors and sure enough the Tuba vendors from Colima are stationed at each stopping point. Tuba is a palm drink made from the sap of the tree. It originated in the Philippines and was imported during the Spanish Gallon trade

Tuba Vendor