The University of the Philippines-Diliman (UP-Diliman) recently expressed its interest in establishing ties with higher education institutions (HEIs) in Chile, Peru, and Ecuador. The focus of these collaborations would be on research, faculty and student exchanges, particularly in the fields of music and the arts, astronomy/astrophysics, and natural and engineering sciences.
During a virtual meeting with officials from the Philippine Embassy in Santiago, Chile, and the Department of Foreign Affairs-Office of American Affairs (DFA-OAA), UP-Diliman highlighted its existing agreement with the Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja in Ecuador through the College of Architecture. This partnership serves as a foundation for further collaborations with HEIs in the region.
The embassy expressed its intention to promote English as a second language (ESL) courses, especially in the countries under its jurisdiction. To enhance the value of the ESL program, both parties agreed to explore the incorporation of Spanish colonial history, Philippine culture, and Asian studies. By building on common areas of interest between the Philippines and Chile, such as religion, indigenous studies, and folk music, the collaboration aims to create a more comprehensive and culturally enriching learning experience.
Additionally, the Philippine Embassy, UP-Diliman, and DFA-OAA discussed ways to revive interest in learning the Spanish language among Filipino students. They also explored the possibility of offering Latin American studies to Filipino students in universities across South America. These initiatives aim to strengthen cultural understanding and academic excellence between the Philippines and Latin American countries.
Looking ahead, the Philippine Embassy, UP-Diliman, and DFA-OAA exchanged ideas on potential activities to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Peru in 2024. UP-Diliman suggested using music as a starting point for the celebration. In line with this, it was proposed that the UP Rondalla, a traditional Filipino string ensemble, perform the compositions of José Libornio. Libornio, a Filipino musician, composed Peru’s second national anthem, the Marcha de Banderas (March of Flags), in the late 19th century.
The virtual meeting was attended by representatives from the Philippine Embassy, including Ambassador Celeste Vinzon-Balatbat, Minister and Consul General Jim Tito San Agustin, Communication and Records Officer Brian Peter Bustamante, and his successor, Kimiko Gata. Rochelle Chen represented the DFA-OAA. From UP-Diliman, Dr. Carlene PC Pilar-Arceo, Dr. Marie Jocelyn Marfil, Professor Monica Fides Amada Santos, Justin Alcantara, and Noelle Rivera were present.
Ambassador Vinzon-Balatbat expressed gratitude for the commitment to ongoing collaboration and continued communication. She emphasized the positive impact these initiatives would have on cultural understanding, academic excellence, and diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Chile. Moreover, she highlighted the Philippines’ unique perspective as a bridge between Latin America and Asia, straddling the two worlds through its Asian character and Hispanic heritage. Vinzon-Balatbat urged the deepening of relations with Latin America by building on the common historical past as a starting point.
In conclusion, the University of the Philippines-Diliman’s interest in establishing collaborations with higher education institutions in Latin America demonstrates its commitment to fostering academic and cultural exchanges. Through these partnerships, both the Philippines and Latin American countries can strengthen their ties and promote mutual understanding, benefiting students, faculty, and the broader society.
Source: The Manila Times
