Language and culture programme at Phil Embassy

THE Philippine Embassy yesterday said registration is going on from Monday for Filipino children taking up a language, history and culture programme at its Chancery next week.

The Embassy said it is offering for the fourth time the free Filipino language programme for Filipino children six to 14 years old. Volunteer teachers are conducting the intensive course during the school holidays from March 19-27.

This partnership between the Embassy and the Filipino community also has a cultural enrichment component, said Minister and Consul at the Philippine Embassy Ethel Vinzon-Balatbat.

According to the Philippine embassy, among the feedbacks received after last year’s course were:
“Students enjoyed the cultural enrichment activities the most. They looked forward to the Filipino snacks served during the programme. Students and even volunteer teachers appreciated the knowledge gained from the resource speakers from Asean embassies, Brunei government and the different faiths.

Parents welcomed the improvement in their children’s exposure to Philippine cuisine. They requested the possibility of
the Philippine Department of Education’s accreditation for the Filipino language programme.”
Last year’s drama presentation for the graduation, scripted and choreographed by volunteer teacher Rowena Eugenio-Hautea, highlighted Filipino values and traditions in a globalised world and was inspired by Maala-ala Mo Kaya television show.

This year’s topics include Philippine literature and mythology, riddles, the first 100 years of Philippine comics, and story telling; Philippine history and tourist attractions; Philippine cuisine introduction and “bibingka” (rice cake) cooking demonstration; a flag hoisting ceremony; an Asean day to promote awareness of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and appreciation of the different cultures, with invited speakers from the embassies of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore and Thailand; an interfaith dialogue; traditional games, kite flying, tree planting; and customs, etiquette, manners and values education including financial literacy and learning the value of money.

For details, call up Cultural and Information Officer Ruby G Banzon (8894317) or Administrative Officer Eleanor B Belgica (8714881) ort the Philippine Embassy, 2241465, 2241466, 864-7134, or email bruneipe@brunei.bn.

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