A New Beginning: From Italy to the Philippines
When Penelope Marmol left Italy in November 2024, she never imagined how profoundly this experience would transform her life. Six months ago, she arrived in the Philippines, welcomed by a stifling heat and chaotic traffic—typical elements that can leave anyone feeling disoriented in a foreign land. Yet, from her very first moments in Bukas Palad, a place dedicated to hospitality and caring for others, Penelope quickly discovered what truly matters: kindness.
Her first impression was of a warm staff, impressed by her youth and the courage it took to venture so far from home alone. In those initial hours, Penelope recalls feeling instantly part of a new family.
Discovering New Passions and Ways to Communicate
Upon arriving at Bukas Palad, Penelope took on various roles: from office tasks to helping in the cafeteria, and finally teaching in the school. It was this last experience that left the deepest mark on her. What surprised her was a unique teaching method that diverged from the frameworks she was accustomed to in Italy. What initially appeared to be a barrier—the language—turned out to be a new opportunity: many children do not speak English, and Penelope admitted that she wasn’t fluent upon her arrival.
In this context, the body became the true universal language. Play, smiles, and hugs became the primary tools for building connections and establishing authentic dialogue, capable of bridging any gap.
Encountering Diversity: A Personal Growth
Facing a different culture, Penelope discovered both the challenges and delightful surprises of being “elsewhere.” She noticed that in the Philippines, there is a less direct approach to dialogue and confrontation compared to Italy, and initially, she found herself struggling. In Italy, Penelope was used to openly discussing issues and confronting disagreements face-to-face. Here, however, people exhibited incredible patience, which transformed into a valuable lesson: sometimes, listening and observing in silence is the best way to learn and adapt.
Preserving Memories, Giving Back Love
Penelope recounts the many memories she cherishes and her deep desire to one day reunite with all the people she met at Bukas Palad. The experience has left an indelible mark on her: “Wherever I go, whatever I do, I am ready to give back all the love I received here in these six months,” she asserts with conviction.
The phrase that accompanied her during the Christmas season of Simbang Gabi in the Philippines—“Give what you have not, so that you may be repaid”—perfectly encapsulates the spirit with which Penelope approached this adventure. It is a profound personal growth, a human enrichment that transcends skills and memories. It’s the awareness that giving often yields far more than one could ever imagine.
A Life-Changing Experience
Penelope’s experience at Bukas Palad is a testament to how travel, meeting others, and opening up to unknown worlds can be the key to profound transformation. From the courage to embark on a journey to the willingness to return love and kindness, her story reminds us that the true wealth of a journey lies in the people we meet and our ability to learn from every culture.
