CULTURAL EXPERIENCE – Halina Umaykan: Learning Cultures

One of the most memorable and meaningful experiences during my stay in the Philippines was participating in a cultural program called Halina Umaykan.

This program was not just an ordinary class it was a space where we learned, experienced, and truly felt the richness of Filipino culture, especially in Ilocos Norte.

Through this program, we were introduced to different aspects of local life using a structured learning module. There were several modules that guided us step by step, such as People, Places, and Activities in School, People and Their Roles, and basic language lessons that helped us understand how people communicate in their daily lives.

What made this experience even more special was learning that in the Philippines, people don’t only use English. They also use Filipino (Tagalog) and Ilocano, which is the local language spoken in Ilocos Norte, especially in Laoag.

We learned simple daily expressions in different languages. For example, saying “Good morning” is not only expressed in English, but also:

• In Filipino: Magandang umaga

• In Ilocano: Naimbag a bigat

At first, it felt a bit challenging to remember the differences between the languages, but at the same time, it was very exciting. It made me realize how rich and diverse communication can be in one place.

We also learned about how people interact in school, their roles, their daily routines, and how culture influences the way they communicate and behave. It was not only about memorizing words, but about understanding people.

What I loved the most about Halina Umaykan was how interactive and engaging it was. It didn’t feel like a formal class it felt like an experience where we could laugh, try new things, and learn together.

Through this program, I didn’t just learn new words or phrases.

I learned how language reflects culture, identity, and connection.

And it made me appreciate even more how beautiful it is to understand others through their language 

Module 1 of HALINA UMAYKAN

Module 2 of HALINA UMAYKAN

Module 3 of HALINA UMAYKAN