EACH INDIVIDUAL POSSESSES a unique language—a distinct melody expressed and received from a partner, family member, or friend in the form of love. The framework for understanding these diverse expressions of love lies in the five love languages: words of affirmation, acts of service, giving gifts, quality time, and physical touch.
This article will guide you in recognizing the five love languages of a Bedan, introducing you to fellow Bedistas who most prominently possess and express them. Each story tells a tale of connection, affection, and intimacy.
1. Tell Me Somethin’ I Don’t Know: Words of Affirmation
Paving the way for a semester filled with positivity and encouragement amid challenges and stresses, Jesus Leonard Tierra, a fourth-year Sports Management student, declared that the love language of Words of Affirmation highlights the foundational role of words in building and enhancing relationships.
In the spirit of new beginnings, Tierra emphasizes the importance of affirmations as a bridge to strengthen connections, setting the tone for a semester where words become catalysts for growth and understanding.
2. To Help a Friend and Save the Day: Acts of Service
A love language manifested through actions rather than promises enhances the spirit of volunteerism more effectively than verbal communication. Francine Reyna, a second-year student from the Department of Psychology, excitedly shares that “it doesn’t matter if it’s platonic or romantic. As soon as I care about a person, I will do anything that can be ‘of service’ to them.”
Reyna also adds how growing up in a non-vocal household, where love was expressed through helping with chores or cooking for one another, has contributed to her development of this love language.
“I find myself enjoying doing things that can be convenient for the people I care about,” Reyna added.
3. It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas: Gift of Giving
With the Christmas season having just passed, we, Bedans, have certainly received gifts from either friends or family; after all, it was the season of giving. Within the Bedan community, a special breed exists—individuals who find immense satisfaction in giving alone. These thoughtful souls invest their time and effort, ranging from elaborate DIY projects that consume hours to simpler gestures that are imbued with thought and meaning.
Wilart Marvee Dayaday, a first-year Sports Management student, shared, “If I want to show my appreciation for someone, I express gift-giving to people who have a special place in my heart and love unconditionally.”
So here’s to the hope that everyone has a Wilart in their lives, especially with Valentine’s now in our midst, a true gift giver will surely have a more thoughtful gift than flowers and chocolates.
4. Drop Everything Now: Quality time
Entering the second semester in college brings a barrage of challenges–including hundreds of deadlines and meetings. But we, Bedans, stand resilient and we still choose to spend time with our loved ones despite this. This fourth love language opts to have us just drop everything and adjust our lives just to have meaningful quality time with our favorite people.
Timothy Gregorio, a first-year student from the Department of Psychology, explained that his most fulfilling part is having others enjoy his presence.
“I value people’s time because time is something a lot of people take for granted. Spending a moment with someone who values your presence is someone who values you. I chose this love language because I want when people [choose] to spend their time with me. I want to make sure they have the best time of their life,” he pointed out.
5. Touch by Touch: Physical Touch
In the vast realm of love languages, physical touch is a powerful communicator of both emotion and affection. A simple hug or touch from a loved one can be all it takes to reinvigorate our spirits.
Zoe Tungul, a second-year student from the Department of Marketing Management, reveals that, as a personal experience, physical touch is not confined to specific moments but is a “constant thread woven into various aspects of her life.” Tungul utilizes physical touch to express her deepest emotions when words aren’t enough.
“Considering physical touch as a love language means recognizing someone is most loved and connected through physical gestures, such as hugs, kisses, or hand-holding. I like those things; that’s why physical touch is my love language,” she shared.
However, the second-year student also reminds us that we must recognize boundaries when it comes to this love language and ensure that the person we give it to is consenting and comfortable.
An act, service, or deep, meaningful word can foster a harmonious and healthier environment for each Bedan. By applying the principles of the five love languages, we can build stronger relationships, improve our communication skills, and help create a positive atmosphere that is conducive to personal and academic growth. Moving forward, we should all understand that the five love languages provide great insights into how we, as individuals, express and receive love. Recognizing and embracing these languages can lead to more fulfilling and harmonious interactions, enriching both our personal and interpersonal lives.
(with Elijah Danao and Jake Evangelista)
Artwork by: Rizian Balleta