Mabuhay: a documentary poetry

Abstract

This thesis, a collection of documentary poetry, examines the historical, cultural, and colonial implications of overseas migration in the Philippines, looking specifically at the plight of the overseas Filipino worker (OFW) as well as my own experiences as a balikbayan. The project employs a variety of forms and texts, including poetry, prose, letters, interviews, and photographs to address relevant issues in Filipino American studies, such as immigration, colonialism, national identity, and language. More importantly, this collection aims to present the stories and voices of Filipina women, who are often silenced, marginalized, and pushed into the realms of invisibility.