To promote understanding of Filipino culture among new immigrant families, the Taoyuan City Service Station of the Northern Affairs Brigade of the Immigration Agency recently held a family education and legal advocacy course for new immigrant families. The event invited Lin Ruisha, a new immigrant from the Philippines, to share her journey of adapting to life in Taiwan and to teach participants how to prepare the traditional Filipino sour soup, Sinigang. Through this culinary experience, attendees were able to appreciate the cultural charm of the Philippines.
At the start of the event, Lin Ruisha recounted her experiences, from the initial unfamiliarity upon arriving in Taiwan to gradually integrating into her new family life. She described the challenges she faced due to language barriers and cultural differences but emphasized how patience and open communication with her family helped her gain support and acceptance. She shared, “At first, my in-laws found me unfamiliar, but by watching TV dramas together, learning to cook, and going shopping, I gradually built a closer relationship with them. Cultural differences are common, but with confidence, they can be overcome.”
During the cooking session, Lin Ruisha led participants in preparing Sinigang, a traditional Filipino dish. She explained that Sinigang is a staple in Filipino households and is especially popular during celebrations such as birthdays and weddings. As participants worked together to make the dish, they shared stories and learned about the cultural significance behind the cuisine. The lively and warm atmosphere fostered a sense of connection. After the dish was completed, everyone shared the flavorful meal, enhancing cultural exchange and bringing people closer together.
Filipino New Resident Lin Ruisha Leads Participants in Making Filipino Sour Soup (Photo/Source: National Immigration Agency Website)
Huang Yingkui, the director of the Taoyuan City Service Station, stated that the culture brought by new immigrants is an important asset to Taiwanese society. He emphasized that events like this allow more people to experience the beauty of cultural integration. Huang also mentioned plans to invite more new immigrants from different countries to share their stories, continuing efforts to foster a diverse and inclusive society.
Additionally, he reminded attendees that the African swine fever outbreak remains a serious international concern. He urged new immigrants and foreign workers not to bring or mail meat products from affected areas to Taiwan, as doing so could result in hefty fines.
