Have anything planned for 2023 yet?

The month of January always rings in a fresh start and a greater sense of anticipation. For some of us, it’s a time to set new goals and milestones. After all, it’s the new year and there are so many possibilities for the year ahead! 

Last year, representation in the Filipino community had been more amplified across different industries. But while we all share the same Pinoy pride over this, for most immigrant kids, ethnic identities can be challenging to build on especially if you’ve grown detached from it while growing up. Fortunately, it isn’t too late to start over. You may want to consider learning more about your Filipino heritage this year. Who knows what you can discover along the way? 

Here are some ways you can get in touch with your Filipino roots in 2023:

Wear a barong or terno out for a day.
The terno and barong started out as a symbol of wealth and social status, and it has now evolved into an embodiment of Philippine artistry and sophistication. Put style and culture together when you build an outfit with Vinta Gallery, your main source for modern Filipiniana everyday pieces!

Learn a recipe for a regional dish.
There’s more to Filipino cuisine than adobo and sinigang—different regions actually have varied takes on just one dish! Some places in the Philippines, for example, cook adobo with coconut or shrimp. If you’re looking for more dish ideas, check out FEATR on YouTube for delicious recipes. Check out the video below for traditional Bicolano laing (taro leaves in coconut milk)

Read more Filipino authors.
Filipino authors are behind some of the many heart wrenching stories about immigrant life, to nostalgic coming of age adventures. Here’s a one year challenge you can take up:

Watch a classic Filipino romcom.
Since decades ago, Filipinos have been die-hard fans of romance! As a result, love stories and love teams became the bedrock for Philippine cinema. Interested in watching some but don’t know where? The iWantTFC app offers a variety of original Filipino blockbusters and shows, including The Hows of Us, Starting Over Again. and Kita Kita!

Learn a lullaby or serenade in your mother tongue.
Language is a prominent part of one’s ethnic identity but it can be a challenge to pick up. Make it more fun by watching Sing With Nanay on YouTube for lullaby sing-alongs or try learning a phrase or word per day!

Sign up for a cultural club.
Filipinos believe that there is strength in numbers–that’s why it’s so natural for us to build friendships, and we identify with being part of communities. Join a college org related to Filipino culture or your state’s Filipino American National History Society (FAHNS), which has more than 20 chapters all throughout the country!

Teach the kids in your family about their Filipino heritage.
Gotta start them young, right? Piko (Hopscotch), patintero (Block the Runner) or sipa (Hackeysack) are classic childhood Filipino games that could also be good bonding activities for the whole family. And if you’re looking to stay in, fortunately there are more children’s shows now that are utilizing Filipino characters and narratives–check out Jelly, Ben & Pogo, Firebuds, and Blues Clues & You!

The start of the new year can either be exciting or daunting for some. But at the same time, the blank slate is something to always be hopeful for, especially when new things await you. From food to language to art and literature, there are numerous opportunities out there to build on and strengthen your bond with the rest of the Filipino community. You can get more empowering discussions like this when you read our editorials or head on over to the official One Down YouTube channel!