Choosing a life far removed from the luxuries of Poland, a Polish woman, Joanna Buniel, has wholeheartedly embraced a modest lifestyle in the serene province of Surigao del Sur, alongside her Filipino husband, Glen. This heartfelt transition was featured in a report by “Dapat Alam Mo,” highlighting Joanna’s seamless adaptation to the local way of life.
Engaging in everyday tasks such as marketing, cooking, farming, and laundry, Joanna has fully immersed herself in the Filipino culture, much to the joy and gratitude of Glen, who appreciates her genuine acceptance and lack of pretension.
Their story began in 2017, blossoming from an online friendship into love, prompting Joanna’s first visit to the Philippines in 2018. The couple’s bond deepened over time, leading to their marriage in the country a year later.
Despite the allure of life in Poland, Joanna expressed her preference for the simplicity and familial closeness found in the Philippines, stating, “Life is more simple here. I have more time to spend with my family, with my friends.”
Glen, acknowledging the cultural and upbringing differences, initially pondered how their life together would unfold. He now expresses immense gratitude for Joanna’s open-hearted approach to embracing a humble provincial life.
The couple, now parents to two children, are keen on nurturing their children with an appreciation of both their cultural heritages. Glen hopes their children will also learn about Joanna’s native culture and traditions.
Joanna believes that one’s country of origin is less significant than their character and principles. Together, they aspire to reshape perceptions, demonstrating that foreigners too can wholeheartedly adopt and thrive in a simple, provincial lifestyle in the Philippines.