In this economy that forces us to cope with the rising fares and high cost of living, is there still room for love?

But what if I tell you there are different ways of expressing love? Should we take the risk or lose the chance?

A marriage counselor named Dr. Gary Chapman developed the five love languages from his book titled "The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts." He created it in support of spouses who felt unloved during their marriage.

However, it is not universally accepted, as psychologists debunked his idea due to a lack of empirical evidence and because it is too rigid to understand that love is not one-size-fits-all. People are entitled to a variety of emotions rather than an exclusive language.

Yet, Filipinos are accustomed to this concept. It was identified that the act of service accumulated sixty-seven percent, indicating that Filipinos crave warmth, cooked meals, and help with household chores in the last 2024 survey of Social Weather Stations (SWS).

Followed by 51% who voted for words of affirmation and quality time. Gift-giving was 31%, and the last spot was none other than physical touch, which garnered 29%.

To gauge you, let’s dissect each of these love concepts.

1. Words of Affirmation

Girls who love this like to be appreciated with a sprinkle of sweet messages to make their day giddy. When someone says they look wonderful tonight, expect butterflies to take over their stomach.  

2. Acts of Service

A girlie who loves hearing “clothes are already folded” instead of “I brought you chocolates.” As the saying goes, actions speak louder than words. If you feel your heart alive, then this love language calls you, queen.

3. Receiving Gifts

Contrary to other categories, giving or receiving gifts may sound a bit expensive. While others might view you as materialistic, to be honest, you just want something thoughtful—a gift that reminds them of you because to be loved is to be remembered.

4. Quality Time

Simply refers to the quote "no thoughts, head empty, only you." No matter how trivial your topic or activity is, nothing beats being together and spending time with you.

5. Physical Touch

Coming from the word "physical touch," if you feel secure and loved by their soft embrace or any sexual intimacy—this goes for you.

At the end of the day, this idea was an initiative in aid of the older generation's conflict in relationships. Changes are inevitable, and so is today's dating landscape too.

Remember that what applies to you might not work for others. So, everyone is free to express and receive love in the best way they can—including you.