In a world where many Filipinos aspire for citizenship in countries like Canada, the remarkable journey of Canadian vlogger Kyle Jennermann, known as Kulas, stands out as he walks a path less traveled: becoming a Filipino.
Born in Canada, Kyle’s transformative journey began when he started the YouTube channel “BecomingFilipino” on December 30, 2006. The channel, which now has over a million viewers, documents his experiences living in the Philippines and his aspiration of “Becoming Filipino”. In his official channel description, Jennermann writes, “I love the Philippines and it is my home.”
The Triumph of a Dream
On Monday, May 29, 2023, the Philippine Senate unanimously approved a bill on third and final reading granting Filipino citizenship to the 35-year-old Jennerman. This bill was approved by 244 lawmakers in the lower chamber last February 27. With this development, the bill is now up for signing by the Philippine President.
Pinoy at Heart Canadian vlogger Kyle "Kulas" Jennermann who has lived and visited all parts of the Philippines will soon be an official Filipino citizen following the Philippine Senate's unanimous approval of the bill granting him citizenship. Mabuhay, kabayan @KyleJennermann https://t.co/L02p6BrM9h
— GoodNewsPilipinas.com (@GoodNewsPinas_) May 30, 2023
Reflecting on this milestone, Jennermann expressed his excitement and gratitude on his Instagram account, “SENATE HAS APPROVED A BILL GRANTING ME FILIPINO CITIZENSHIP… I am filled with so much inspiration and motivation. So much love! Being immersed and connected with the Filipino community both here in the country and around the world… it just fills me with so much optimism… the positive things we can do together.”
Embracing the Culture and the People
Kulas’ journey is not just about becoming a Filipino citizen. It’s about embracing the culture, the people, and the spirit of the Philippines. In a media interview, he recalls an encounter with a family after Typhoon Yolanda hit in 2013. “They were hanging out, and I made chika with them. We were having laughs. It was just a lot of happiness and beauty…”. Such experiences cemented his desire to become a Filipino. Even the simple act of passengers passing money to each other on a jeepney deeply resonated with him.
Kulas has made the Philippines his home for the past 10 years, with three years spent in Cagayan de Oro. Despite initial hesitation from his parents, they eventually sent a note stating they are proud of their son and “his Filipino life,” a sentiment that left him teary-eyed.
Making a Difference
His love for the Philippines isn’t confined to words. In 2013, Kyle quit his job in Hong Kong to provide relief work in the aftermath of Super Typhoon Yolanda. His initiative, OneTacloban, raised PhP500,000 in donations and helped reopen a school for children. His commitment to the Philippines extends to advocating for tourism, becoming an appointed tourism ambassador in 2019. But even before officially becoming a Philippine tourism ambassador, Kulas has been showing off the country and its charms to his foreign vlogger friends.
An Unconventional Immigration Story
Kyle’s journey, his dedication, and love for the country have deeply inspired many, both locally and internationally. His upcoming official Filipino citizenship is a testament to his genuine connection with the country. As he wrote on Instagram, “If I become Filipino…I will do everything in my heart, mind, and soul to be the best Filipino I can be.”
In a world where stories of immigration often involve seeking greener pastures, Kyle Jennermann’s story is a refreshing twist. It is a love letter to the Philippines and its people. It’s about embracing a new identity, not because of what one can gain, but because of a genuine love for the culture and the people.
Are you a proud Pinoy? Or a “Pinoy at heart” like Kyle? Either way, his story serves as a reminder of the beauty that lies in the heart of the Philippines and its people.
SEND MABUHAY CHEERS in the comments below to Kyle “Kulas” Jennermann for making his Becoming Filipino dream come true with his upcoming official Filipino citizenship!
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