When are we going to take in constructive criticisms?

In an open letter, a Singaporean, veiled under the name "H" voiced out his/her sentiment on the rowdiness of Filipino maids. And of course, we took it as offensive and racist. (news from Manila Bulletin)

In context, the herds of Filipino maids were taking the Sunday Bus to Lucky Plaza mall, where many Pinoy restaurants and stores are located. Apparently, the "Philipinos" (as H would spell it) were laughing and talking loudly as if they rented the bus.

While we may have been internationally known as one of the happiest people in the world, we sometimes, or many times, forget to consider the feelings of our neighbors. In our local MRT/LRT stations, it is a usual and annoying sight and experience whenever a group of female passengers would also talk boisterously, regardless if the cabin is crowded or not. Naive that the noise adds to more alinsangan (humidity).

It all boils down to sensitivity and respect.

We have to know that Singaporeans like privacy. They are quiet in nature and impose strict rules. When I was in the Lion City taking a bus to Vivo city where a handful of Singaporeans were already seated, I motion a male Singaporean to move closer to the left, I saw that I could still sit in the space. But he gave in his seat to let me rest. It was nice. The train was serene, quiet... no pushing or shoving unlike in our own train stations. Apparently, H is also taking offense on the way Filipino maids push one another to board the bus.

In H's defense he or she was not pinning down on the Filipinos as a people or race, but on some of their insensitive ways. Just as it is impolite to take or make calls in Japan cabins, Singaporeans also take offense when their privacy is invaded. I think anyone, of any age, gender, or nation, will also have the same sentiment.