Chongqing - Elvira Maglalang, a Filipino English teacher, has become a pillar of support for the Filipino community in Chongqing, China, where she has lived since 2004. With a heart full of compassion and a strong sense of dedication, Elvira has spent the last 20 years nurturing her career and her family in this bustling city.

Known affectionately as "Elvie," she has embraced Chongqing as her second home. "I've witnessed China's remarkable transformations, and I'm very honored to be somehow a part of it," she shares. Working at Yew Wah International Education Kindergarten, Elvie finds joy and fulfillment as a preschool English teacher, where her love for children and education shines brightly.

Elvie is also an active United Filipinos in Chongqing (UFC) member, serving as the organization's secretary. UFC aims to foster cooperation among Filipino expatriates in Chongqing, providing essential support and community-building activities for newcomers. Elvie's passion for helping her fellow countrymen led her to propose a series of workshops designed to ease the transition for newly arrived Filipinos. These workshops cover essential information about local customs, transportation, legal requirements, and language and cultural integration sessions.

Elvie's commitment to community building is evident in the numerous social events she organizes, including sports meetings, potlucks, and cultural programs like Christmas and Halloween celebrations. These activities help Filipinos integrate into the Chongqing community and build strong bonds between locals and expatriates.

Elvie's personal life is equally fulfilling. She lives with her husband and two children in Chongqing. The family enjoys exploring the city's many attractions, from the Chongqing Zoo to its beautiful parks and malls. "Chongqing is a very good city to raise children," Elvie remarks, citing the city's safe environment and rich cultural diversity.

Elvie's story is a testament to the power of community and the importance of cultural integration. Her dedication to helping others and her love for Chongqing have made her an invaluable asset to Filipino and Chongqing communities. As she continues to inspire and support others, Elvie's journey in Chongqing is a shining example of what it means to find a home away from home.