Hapunan

Hapunan is the Filipino term for the evening meal, commonly regarded as the main meal of the day in the Philippines. In everyday usage, hapunan is typically eaten in the early evening, generally between 6:00 and 8:00 PM, though exact times vary by family, region, and work schedules. The word is rooted in Tagalog and is distinct from almusal (breakfast) and tanghalian (lunch).

A typical hapunan centers on rice (kanin) accompanied by one or more ulam, or main dishes such as meat, fish, or vegetables. A soup (sabaw) and condiments or side dishes are common, and meals are often shared among family members and guests, reflecting the communal character of Filipino dining. It can be a simple daily meal or, on special occasions, a larger spread with multiple dishes.

Cultural context: Hapunan serves not only to nourish but also to reinforce family ties and social bonds, with conversations and storytelling commonly accompanying the meal. Dining practices vary by region, with some households emphasizing larger portions or more formal arrangements.

Contemporary usage: In urban settings and among younger speakers, the term hapunan may be used alongside or replaced by the English “dinner” or “supper.” Among Filipino communities abroad, the concept persists as a family evening meal even as language choices shift.