26th Nov 2023
Mateyah was a cheerful and curious grade 2 girl from Canada. She loved learning about different cultures and exploring new places. One day, her parents surprised her with a trip to the Philippines, her mother's home country. Mateyah couldn't contain her excitement as she boarded the plane, eager to embrace her dual heritage.
As the plane touched down in Manila, Mateyah was greeted by the warm embrace of her Filipino relatives. She was amazed by the vibrant colors of the traditional clothing they wore, and the delicious aroma of Filipino cuisine filled the air. Mateyah quickly realized that her journey was going to be filled with unforgettable experiences.
Mateyah's first stop was the beautiful island of Palawan. She was in awe of the crystal-clear turquoise waters and the breathtaking coral reefs that stretched as far as the eye could see. Mateyah put on her snorkeling gear and dived into the ocean, swimming alongside colorful fish and marveling at the diversity of marine life. She couldn't help but feel a deep connection to the sea, just like her Filipino ancestors.
Next, Mateyah traveled to the bustling city of Manila. The city was a vibrant mix of old and new, with towering skyscrapers standing alongside historic Spanish colonial buildings. Mateyah explored the streets, taking in the sights and sounds of the busy markets and street vendors. She even tried her hand at bartering, just like the locals, and discovered the joy of bargaining for unique souvenirs.
The highlight of Mateyah's journey was visiting her mother's hometown in the province of Pampanga. Here, she experienced traditional Filipino fiestas and celebrations. Mateyah danced to the rhythmic beat of the tinikling, a traditional Filipino dance, and tried her hand at playing the kulintang, a traditional musical instrument. She also indulged in delicious traditional Filipino food, like adobo and halo-halo, and bonded with her relatives over stories of their shared heritage.
As Mateyah bid farewell to the Philippines and returned to Canada, she carried with her a newfound appreciation for her dual heritage. She realized that her Filipino-Canadian identity was a beautiful tapestry of cultures and traditions. Mateyah understood that diversity was something to be cherished and celebrated. She pledged to share her experiences with her classmates and friends, spreading the message of embracing different cultures and the power of connection.
