Ganito na ba talaga ang generation ngayon?

User questions whether Filipinos have become more comfortable with PDAs.

Public displays of affection between couples have long been a subject of debate, with some viewing them as normal expressions of love while others see certain displays as inappropriate in shared spaces.

A Threads post sparked discussion among Filipinos after a user questioned whether today’s generation has become more comfortable with showing affection in public.

“Curious lang, no hate. Ganito na ba talaga ka-comfortable ang generation ngayon sa public displays of affection?” the post read.

Some users argued that people should be allowed to express affection as long as they are not harming others, saying that public spaces are shared by people with different views and backgrounds.

“As long as there’s no threat to your safety and mental health, everything is relative. I say move on and let them be,” one user replied.

Others pointed out that PDA is more openly accepted in some countries, where gestures of affection are often considered normal parts of relationships.

However, some Filipinos argued that the same standards may not always apply in the Philippines, where conservative values continue to influence views on public behavior.

They argued that acceptance of PDAs in other countries should not automatically apply to the Philippines, saying that the country’s more conservative culture calls for different social norms.

While many said simple gestures such as holding hands, hugging, or brief kisses are acceptable, others said more intimate acts should remain private.

“Pwede naman yung pa-kiss-kiss lang or hugs ganyan, pero yung kakandong ka pa talaga, hell nah. Please kahit delikadesa na lang,” they added.

The discussion also reflects how local communities continue to set boundaries on public behavior.

In Baguio City, for example, an ordinance prohibits acts such as “petting, kissing, necking and lying down together” within Burnham Park Children’s Playground—citing the need to protect children and minors from witnessing lewd or inappropriate acts.

Under the ordinance, violators may face fines of ₱500 for the first offense, ₱1,000 for the second offense, and ₱2,000 for the third offense.

Beyond local regulations, certain public displays of affection may also fall under Article 200 of the Revised Penal Code if they are considered Grave Scandal. The provision covers those who “offend against decency or good customs by any highly scandalous conduct,” but does not define specific acts that automatically qualify.

Those found guilty may face imprisonment of one to six months and a public reprimand, an official rebuke permanently recorded against a wrongdoer.

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