This personal essay explores the author's experience returning to the Philippines after building her life abroad. It delves into the complex emotions of homecoming, the enduring warmth of Filipino culture, and the inspiring spirit of bayanihan.
As I write this, I am waiting for the airplane counter to open at terminal 1. Just like that, my first trip to the Philippines is ending and I am on my way back home. Spending three weeks and the holidays in my home country brought in a mix of emotions. On one hand, I was happy to hug family members especially my parents but on the other hand, the goodbyes are so difficult that you almost always wonder if it makes the hellos worth it.
Coming back home as an adult who has built her life outside of the Philippines is always complex. It feels like home but at the same time it also feels like you no longer quite fit in.Seeing my parents interact with my son was the highlight of our trip. To see my son hug grandparents he talks to virtually daily is a blessing I am grateful for and another facet of my relationship with my parents that I'm lucky to witness.Seeing fellow kababayans especially in the hospitality industry also reminded me why we're the best in the world. To be taken care of by people who share the same warmth, humor, and resilience is a privilege I didn't fully appreciate until I left the Philippines. The little acts of kindness from strangers made me realize how deeply ingrained the spirit of bayanihan is in our culture. It's not just about grand gestures but also the everyday ways Filipinos show care and community.I'm especially thankful for the opportunity to witness bayanihan up close through my involvement with Pure Bayanihan, a non-profit organization that amplifies heroes in our community. Collaborating with Pure Bayanihan has been a humbling experience, and I'm incredibly fortunate to have played a part in raising ₱1 million pesos for the cause, thanks in large part to the generosity and support of Uma Nota Philippines.The ₱1 million pesos raised will go toward supporting impactful initiatives that create long-lasting change, and being a part of this effort reminded me of what Filipinos can accomplish when we come togethe
PHILIPPINES CULTURE FAMILY BAYANIHAN HOMECOMING
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