In the Philippines, local school classes were historically divided into sections; sometimes randomly, sometimes based on performance, with the number of sections dependent on the number of students. Generally, there were 2-3 sections, with ‘section one’ being the class for students who excel academically, while the rest of the students were ranked based on their previous year’s performance (in terms of grades and behaviour). Such practices can often instil a negative mindset of classism at an early age; fortunately, with today’s better understanding of children’s educational needs, this practice is now rare. 

The name Juan or Juan Dela Cruz is the national personification of the Philippines, representing the common Filipino. Section Juan is not only a clever combination of these words, but also a combination of the spirit they represent: the Filipino youth and the sense of national identity.

Section Juan here in Hong Kong doesn’t try to divide; instead, their goal is to unite youths with Filipino heritage living in the city and nurture the Pinoy culture. Children face a lot of challenges growing up, and when you are an ethnic minority, these challenges are often multiplied. Pinoy children in Hong Kong are increasingly brought up in English-speaking households and are seldom taught about Filipino history and culture. 

These children adapt to the local culture; they speak, read, and write Chinese, but can sometimes feel alienated when faced with their Filipino identity. This is where Section Juan comes in; it acts as a safe space for them to share thoughts, learn about Filipino traditions, and speak with other youths who are also looking for their place as both a Hong Konger and a Pinoy, without the need for the two identities to be separate.

Ray Yumul, president of Section Juan (pictured, top-left), shares, “We want to normalise the conversation about growing up Filipino in Hong Kong. Being immersed in both cultures is an advantage.”

The Kuya-Ate (elder brother-elder sister) Mentorship Programme was started by Section Juan, aiming to reach out to Filipino youths in primary and secondary school in Hong Kong. The programme offers individuals the chance to engage in dialogue about growing up as an ethnic minority, as well as providing academic support and career advice for mentees.

The group also organised a musical charity event called Raise the Roof, to raise funds for typhoon aid back in the Philippines. They are also planning on launching Sayawan – which translates to ‘dance event’ – in the near future, with the aim of teaching traditional Filipino folk dances to those who are interested.

The documentary ‘I am…” has also been making waves not only in the Filipino community, but also more widely in Hong Kong. Featuring several young Filipino professionals in various fields, including education, law, journalism, psychology, business, architecture, performing arts, and design – talking about their experiences growing up in a multicultural household. 

“Most of us grow up trying to find our identity,” says Ray. “[Having gone through it ourselves] we understand the challenges, and that is what Section Juan wants to do for Filipino youths; we want them to feel empowered to learn about our culture and nurture that for the generations to come.”