For the entire duration of my trip to Cebu, I was without internet access for the entire time. I apologize for that.
Cebu is located in Bisayas which is the central region of the Philippines. Here, the languages are known as the umbrella term of Bisayan/Visayan which is the major language group and have several language variations within it. On Cebu, the major language spoken is known as Cebuano.
During the trip I spent a large chunk of my time with one of my foster sisters, Heszeil. During the Global Consultation on Child Welfare Conference that was held at the Manila Hotel, I met a few nuns who work at Asilo which is an orphanage located in Cebu City. It was just coincidence that my foster sister Heszeil also works at Asilo. What a small world!
A lot has happened while on this journey. My definition for family has been redefined. I found a lot of things about my history and our history, everyone who I’ve crossed paths with or have been in care of. I’ve found belonging in many facets that I didn’t think there will be or imagined.
Foster Family care: A short term solution until a permanent placement can be made.
Biological family: family and it’s members who are related by blood
As for my biological relatives, I continue to unravel the ball of yarn and find out more about us. Yes it’s confirmed, we, the DSWD staff, foster relatives, and me were able to find them. This redefinition of family has opened boundaries. I have quite a large biological family from my municipality. My mother is a sister of 8 total. I also have a sister. As to who the father is, there are two possible allegations. Although my biological mother has passed away not knowing that I’ve been looking for her and I forgive her, she is still very much alive in my heart and mind and knowing that she did not forget about me and made sure other family members knew of me.
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I invite you to join me on the rest of this journey to reach back as I move forward.
–> Visit my Kickstarter campaign at http://kck.st/filipinoadoptee
–> Join our Facebook community at http://www.facebook.com/binitaydocumentary
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So happy for you James, you made me cry knowing your journey is very much successful with you finding your biological family. It may be too late to hug and touch your biological Mom, but your gesture of forgiveness is the best outcome of this journey. Most of your life’s puzzle is almost put together… Mabuhay ka James!