The Other Meaning of Kubkob

Today, 28 October 2013, I will exercise my right to suffrage. Like many Filipinos, I still believe that any electoral process can do wonders for this country.  I have always claimed that right -- to choose the leaders who I think are capable, qualified, and committed to serve their constituents -- since I turned 18. However, this is not the only reason why I always look forward to the Election Day. There is one aspect of elections that has piqued my interest since the day I was able to vote: the Waray vocabulary associated with elections. Number one on my list is the word kubkob.

Kubkob or magkubkob means to cover oneself with a blanket. Under normal circumstances, a person hides under a blanket in order to keep his/her body warm. 

During elections in Northern Samar, regardless of the weather, some people cover themselves with blankets (not literally, of course). The word surfaces right after the election results are out:

"Kubkob na ak." (I'm covering myself with a blanket.)

"Hain si Leo?" "Adto na nagkukubkob."  ("Where's Leo?" "He's right there, hiding under his blanket.") 

Who does the kubkob? The losers do it. The staunch supporters of the losing candidates do it as well. I myself  have had my few shares of kubkob. What I remember is that, there is always that unpleasant feeling within me whenever I go through that phase.

Aside from hiding under the blanket, kubkob may also include not going out of the house (or being inactive on social media) for several days. One who fails to win a specific contest experiences cold days and nights; hence, the need to wrap himself/herself with a blanket. 

What amuses me is that, we, the Waray people, use it in a matter-of-fact or in a joking manner and we are okay with the idea. We tease each other after elections and we laugh about it after a while. 

Tara, kubkob na!