TITLE: Balikbayan Box (2016)
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Note: |
This work was presented as a completion requirement for an art workshop in Metafora, a centre of contemporary art based in Barcelona, Spain on June, 2016.
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Further Statement |
An estimated 10 million Filipinos are living abroad today. The Philippine diasporic narrative centers on the quest to improve economic conditions of the family they left behind. Many of these transient Filipinos long for the day they are back with their families and friends under better conditions. But for now they contend themselves with numerous ‘facetimes’ to ease the pain of separation. Yes, money will be remitted to unburden the lot they left behind. And most if not all will send a box full of commodities from their adopted land to their family and friends.
The “Balikbayan box” seem to have been widely accepted name for this ubiquitous object. The word’s progeny can be traced to a 70’s Philipine government tourism program to entice migrant Filipinos to return (‘balik’) to the country (‘bayan’). Veiled as a government propaganda being propagated by the then dictatorial regime, it was embraced by many homesick Filipino migrants. As an inducement, returnees (nay visitors) are given tax-free privileges on their luggage or gifts they bring back home. This capitalised on several Philippine social norms, particularly on gift-giving, filial affiliation, fellowship, debt of gratitude. In present day context, a balikbayan box has morphed into a unique object of social importance and personal meaning – even with its insignificant countenance. You send a box and all the things inside in lieu of your presence or to reaffirm the social norm expected from you. |