A colloquial Tagalog term meaning to take home leftover food from a gathering, often used humorously. The term derives from Sharon Cuneta, a prominent Filipina actress and singer. Its vernacular usage is closely linked to her performance of the song “Balutin Mo Ako (ng Liwanag ng Iyong Pagmamahal)”, featured in the film Bukas Luluhod ang mga Tala (1984).
The verb balutin (“to wrap”)—repeated in the song’s refrain—became culturally resonant and was playfully reinterpreted in everyday speech. Over time, balutin, associated with wrapping something to take along, was humorously mapped onto the social act of packing food to take home after parties, celebrations, or handaan. Through popular culture, anecdotes, and repeated social use, Sharon Cuneta’s name underwent eponymization, shifting from a proper noun to a common vernacular term:
Mag-sharon (verb): to wrap and take home leftovers
“Nag-sharon siya ng pansit pagkatapos ng handaan.”
Sharon (noun): the act itself or the container used
“May sharon ka bang dala?”
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Imbitado ako sa isang kasal. At ito ang na-Sharon ko.
Yes, I take flowers from the wedding venue and bring them home. With permission from the newly wed couple, of course. That way, their money goes miles beyond their wedding.
Ilokano blood is strong.
