Inferences from the story:
* Humorous and satirical: The story is a humorous commentary on Filipino drinking culture. It highlights the contradictions between the "mild drinker" image and the reality of heavy drinking. This suggests the author might have observed these contradictions firsthand, possibly even experienced them personally.
* Social commentary: Roces uses the story to critique social norms and expectations. This suggests he was someone who observed and analyzed society, possibly possessing a critical and insightful mind.
Alejandro R. Roces's known background:
* National Artist: Roces was a renowned Filipino writer, journalist, and playwright. He received the National Artist award for Literature in 1982. This indicates he was highly respected and knowledgeable about Filipino culture and society.
* Prolific writer: He wrote extensively on various themes, including historical fiction, social commentary, and humor. This shows his versatility and willingness to address diverse aspects of Filipino life.
Overall:
While we don't know the specific details of Roces's drinking habits, the story suggests a nuanced understanding of Filipino culture and a critical perspective on societal expectations. His background as a National Artist further indicates his deep engagement with and understanding of Filipino society.
It's worth noting that the story is a fictionalized portrayal, not necessarily an autobiographical account of Roces's own experiences. However, it likely reflects his observations and reflections on Filipino drinking culture.