With Daniel Smart and Almira Walde
Producer: Ethnographic Film Unit, Dept. of Anthropology, University of British Columbia
Statement: Since the 1970s, about ten million Filipinos have spread to over 200 countries and territories as overseas workers. This film is about the Filipino migrants’ custom of sending Balikbayan (homecoming) Boxes – parcels filled with gifts – to their families in the Philippines. The documentary offers a glimpse into life in migration, particularly into the stories of three Filipinos who have found themselves settled in Metro Vancouver – home to over 90,000 Filipinos – and who remain closely connected to home as evident in their gift-giving practices.
Selected Screenings:
YACTAC Gallery, installation work for the “Mahal”, art exhibit. Vancouver, Canada. November 2011.
Museum of Anthropology, University of British Columbia,
during the 5th International Festival of Anthropology Film, April 30, 2011