Happy Anniverary Joy & Lola! August 19: Our Migration Journey to the USA π΅π➡️πΊπΈ
On this day, August 19, we mark a life-changing journey: the day my Lola, my sister Joy, and I left the Philippines to start a new life in the United States. It’s a memory etched in my heart forever, a mixture of excitement, anticipation, and a touch of sadness of leaving my beloved extended family.
We boarded a Northwest Orient flight that would take us across the globe: first to Seoul (Tokyo?), then Anchorage, and finally to Chicago, Illinois. It was a long journey, but one filled with hope for new beginnings and opportunities.
Yes, Northwest Orient did fly from Manila to Seoul to Tokyo, and then to Alaska. In 1947, Northwest Airlines, later known as Northwest Orient, became the first airline to offer regular service between the US and Japan, flying a route that included stops in Manila, Seoul, Tokyo, and then continuing to Alaska (Anchorage and Shemya Island). This route was initially operated with a Douglas DC-4 named "The Manila."
The photo featured here shows the three of us walking across the tarmac toward our plane, a moment frozen in time. Special thanks to Tito Sonny, who managed to capture this shot thanks to his work at PAGASA (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration), formerly the Philippine Weather Bureau.
Leaving the Philippines was bittersweet. We were leaving behind family, friends, and a homeland we loved deeply. But the promise of a new life in America gave us courage. Most importantly for Joy and me, it was reuniting with our parents. This day reminds me of resilience, family bonds, and the journey that shaped who we are today.
Reflection
Every year, I look back on August 19 with gratitude. Gratitude for my Lola and sister, who made the journey together with me, and for the opportunities that awaited us. Gratitude for Tita Gigi, Lolo, and all our titas and titos who took care of us growing up. Gratitude for my parents who made the sacrifice in leaving without their kids to make sure the transition would be easier when Joy and I arrived. Migration is never easy, but it becomes a story of perseverance, hope, and family unity. Today, we celebrate that leap of faith and honor the legacy of courage it took to take that first step onto the tarmac.
Photo Credit
Photo by Marciano Perseveranda Jr. Tito Sonny was able to get through and around the airport because he worked for PAGASA (Philippine Weather Bureau) at the time.
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| Manila International Airport (MIA) |
The handwriting is Lolo Marciano's. He was sharp until the end, but he was off by three days on the date. He did foretell my future wife's birthday!
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For more reading
- History of Immigration to the United States
- Philippine Immigration History
- Northwest Airlines History
Tags and Labels
august 19, migration, usa, philippines, chicago, seoul, anchorage, lola, family, joy, nostalgia, travel, journey, history, flight, northwest, pagasa, immigration, anniversary, legacy, courage
#Hashtag
#PinoyMigration #FilipinoAmericanJourney #FamilyCourage #PhilippinesToUSA
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