Pakwan

Slices of Pakwan (Watermelon). Photo by Angie Pastor.

Pakwan is the Tagalog word for watermelon.

The most widely seen variety of watermelon in the Philippines is round and has a rind whose outer surface is a very dark green. In recent decades, the striped variety that is familiar to Westerners has become more common, particularly in urban areas like Metro Manila.

Scientific name: Citrullus lanatus

Salted buto ng pakwan (watermelon seeds) are an addictive snack that’s a favorite of Filipinos everywhere. 😛