About Jhuvilyn

Jhuvilyn, 12, from London, had her 12th birthday party in Manila, the capital city of the Philippines. The Philippines is a group of islands in South-east Asia. Her parents were both born there, so on her trip she was able to catch up with some relatives, as well as make some new friends...

Jhuvilyn's diary

Saturday 16 February
When we arrived at the airport we were given some sampagitas. These are the Philippines' national garland flower. They smell lovely!t.

After leaving our bags at the hotel we went to my grandparents' house. I was really happy to see my family. I had a birthday party with nice Filipino food and drinks and a beautiful cake. By the end it was very late and we were all exhausted.

Tuesday 19 February
Today we travelled to one of the islands called the Island of Negros. I met a girl called Len Len there. We went to meet a famous artist who told us how to put on a sarong, which is traditional to wear in the Philippines. Then he showed us some of his sculptures and drawings. That evening we watched a dance competition. It was fantastic!

I was shown how to put on a sarong.

That night I slept in Len Len's house, which was an adventure because there wasn't any electricity. They just had a candle and an oil lamp.

Click here to find out what Jhuvilyn did next

Party food – yum!!

The dance told the story of how life began