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Motherland: A Poem by Azucena Libiran Gonzales

It goes without saying, everybody has an idea of motherland.  For most people, it’s one of the best places on earth, no matter where we go.  The country where you were born, for which you sense loyalty and love; a person’s native land.
Welcome to my “Inang Bayan”, my motherland.  Dubbed as the Pearl of the Orient Seas – the Republic of the Philippines.  An archipelago of more than 7,000 islands divided into three geographical divisions – Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, located in Southeastern Asia between the South China and the Pacific Ocean.  Perhaps you wonder why the Philippines is called the Pearl of the Orient Seas.  Our country is known as the producer of pearls which is an important source of golden south sea pearls.  Historically, in this island, the biggest pearl in the world was recovered; the giant clam pearl weighing 34 kg. or 5.2 stone with one ft. wide and 2.2 ft. long.
The Philippines is indeed a country blessed with natural wonders, diverse cultures, traditions and historical treasures. Won a place in the seven wonders of nature in the world because of the longest underground river in Palawan.
There are more than 175 languages in our country. More than 52 million people speak English making the Philippines the fifth largest English-speaking nation in the world.
Land of unique mixed cultures, Filipino culture and tradition are mostly influenced by the Spanish conquest, like the celebration of fiesta, a religious festival.  Most provinces have their own identifying folk dances where they showcase the elegance and beauty of the way they do things as influenced by events that happened in the past.  Our colorful and lively culture makes us distinct Filipino.  Our country has a lot to offer, so many to mention, you’ll love the warm hospitality and happy faces of the people.
Motherland, home of my rich history.  Proud enough to say it gloriously that I am a Filipino.