Katlynne De Guzman, Danielle (“achi”) and Alexa, I

By January 29, 2026

Katlynne De Guzman, Danielle (“achi”) and Alexa, I

Archival Inkjet Print

13 x 13 inches

‘Ate’ (ah-teh) in Tagalog translates to “older sister.” In Filipino culture, there is an inevitable and significant burden delegated to the eldest-born as their identity is held at a higher stake. The pressure to morph into the ideal role model for their younger siblings, caring after them and also being the first to pave their own lives. Growing up as the “bunso” (youngest-born) in my family, I have admiration for those in my circle who are the eldest-born and the dynamics they share with their younger siblings as they parallel my own family. I made this series to honor the Ate’s in my life as well to anyone who took on the role of the older sibling.

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