'Daluyan' in Filipino means 'passages'. It encapsulates the intertwining immigrant journeys of navigating life in a new setting. Moving in and out of unfamiliar territories is a profoundly unsettling experience and is an often overlooked narrative within our community, despite the constant influx of newcomers. Assimilating into a new environment whilst preserving your cultural identity is a challenge that deeply impacts one's life and sense of self; yet it is seldom discussed.

 

Through documenting my own journey and that of another, Daluyan aims to translate our stories into images to provide a deeper understanding of both my subjects' and my own world, resonating with my experiences within these walls I once called “home”. Delving into this project, I found not only a chance to revisit my experiences within these spaces but also a poignant window into another's life journey. This project aims to foster empathy, connection, and a deeper appreciation for the diverse immigrant experiences that shape our collective story.

 

Moreover, this project unearthed a shared grief present in the process of assimilation, shedding light on the emotional complexities entwined with cultural integration and the simultaneous loss and discovery inherent in adapting to new environments. Through these narratives, I endeavor to bring attention to the emotional landscapes immigrants go through while navigating the intricacies of identity and belonging in new settings.