Move over Pikachu, it looks like Pinoys have a new favorite Pokémon. After the release of Pokémon Legends: Arceus comes Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, and it introduces a new set of Pokémon. Included in this new generation is a hog Pokémon named Lechonk.
Does the name ring a bell? Of course, it does. Lechonk’s name is somewhat inspired by “lechon,” which comes from the Spanish word leche (or milk), as the dish popular in the Philippines originally used suckling pigs or younglings still drinking milk from their mommy pigs. Lechon is known for being a prime dish served during fiestas and other celebrations in the country.
“You shouldn’t let Lechonk facade fool you as “it may appear fat at first glance, but in reality, the Pokémon’s body is mostly muscle built by constantly walking around in search of food,” Pokémon posted on Instagram.
According to the website, Lechonk has a great sense of smell and when “attacked by an opponent and startled, it will charge forward in a panic.”
Apart from Lechonk, Pokémon Scarlet and Violet also features new Pokémons that are likely inspired by the Iberian Peninsula cultural references, like the electricity discharging Pawmi (Mouse Pokémon) and the oil shooting Smoliv (Olive Pokémon).
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