A Case Study of Connection between Different Cultures and Continuity of the Family Ties of Filipino and Japanese through a Student Exchange Program

Abstract

This qualitative case study traces the ongoing transnational familial ties between a Filipino host family and a Japanese exchange student. The data sources including surveys, photo, elicitation, and emails reveal that the relationship evolved from a formal hosting agreement to a "chosen family" type of bond. We helped as parents in every aspect, deliberately creating cultural scaffolding, and always preparing things through social media. The pandemic\u27s upheaval and a mutual trip to Japan in 2024 were very important for assessing and deepening this friendship. The study propagates the idea that short encounters have the power to hugely mediate the development of real and enduring kinship relationships which in return they challenge the existing concepts of family and cultural diplomacy