The Filipino diaspora spans vast distances across the globe. But despite the expanse of continents and borders, a profound connection unites us 〰️

In the beautiful words of @camillepilar, we find a resonance that conveys both a sense of separation and longing as well as the kindred spirit and inherent kinship that lives within us.

As published on www.maaari.co

It was a pleasure to write this poem— first, in Filipino finding its footing in English. In a minute, it was reversed: my Western vocabulary taking hold and my Filipino almost flippant in my forgetfulness of certain translations. Which comes first in your mind? Do you think in English or another? This poem for @maaari_co was not only an exercise in language but also in defining how one feels most at home.

The final version is a condensed piece made solid through collective revision. Here, I also share the extended version (Camille’s version).

I write this post on the same morning my mother became a US citizen. Between motherhood and the motherland is a continental consciousness, a connection that love, like language, ceaselessly defines.

What does it mean to be a Filipino away from the Philippines? In @maaari_co’s latest collection, they reply with what is “made possible” despite distance.

This wouldn’t be possible without @camillerdp, whose invitations to make art always leave me in awe. Salamat, Camille! My words find delightful company in this amazing team:

Director, DOP & Video Editor: @camillerdp
Creative Director: @eyevfaye
Producers: @tungawunga @jeanettesawyer
Models: @gigi_forcadilla @just.a.catfish
Sound Designer: @freetherobots
Writer: @camillepilar
Voiceover Artist: @juliapacleb
Stylist: @pizzaking888
Hair & Makeup: @queencyliciousx