Added Title

Brick by brick: A conceptual photoessay

Date of Publication

2025

Document Type

Bachelor's Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts Major in Communication Arts

Subject Categories

Photography

College

College of Liberal Arts

Department/Unit

Communication

Thesis Advisor

Marie Luz D. Mamawal

Defense Panel Chair

Jan Michael Alexandre C. Bernadas

Defense Panel Member

Danzen Santos Katanyag
Gio Posadas II
Abigail Ehlie Quirong-Pole

Abstract (English)

This project, titled 一砖一瓦 (Brick by Brick), seeks to showcase the lived experiences of Chinese-Filipinos (Chinoys) and aims to dismantle –even if partially– the societal "Great Wall" dividing Chinoy and Filipino communities. The project utilizes a photo booklet format, presenting four curated and anonymous stories from Chinoys of various ages through conceptual, faceless photography. This artistic decision stems from the proponent’s belief that conventional formats such as documentaries or traditional photo essays often fail to capture the emotional complexity tied to identity and exclusion. By opting for a more creative visual approach, the project hopes to shift the narrative toward unity and belonging that transcends race.

Through interviews, the study uncovered four central themes of exclusion. The first participant highlighted instances where they felt compelled to diminish or deny his Chinese identity in order to avoid discrimination. The second participant noted her experiences of trying to overcome discrimination based on physical traits, such as having fairer skin, hooded eyes, and looking “different” from the “morena/moreno” majority. The third participant expressed frustration at the perception that Chinoys lack nationalism or loyalty to the Philippines because of their ancestry. The fourth and final participant critiqued the use of “cultural differences” as an excuse for societal division, stating her belief that cultural differences, like individual differences, should be celebrated rather than weaponized.

By presenting these diverse yet interconnected stories through a faceless, conceptual visual approach, this project advocates for a more inclusive understanding of Filipino identity—one that is not bound by physical appearance, ancestry, or cultural stereotypes, but rooted in shared values and humanity.

Abstract Format

html

Abstract (Filipino)

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Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Tsinoy; Documentary photography

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Embargo Period

8-5-2026

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Available for download on Wednesday, August 05, 2026

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