Filipino-Kiwi Students Learn Baybayin in Celebration of Buwan ng Wika
Ambassador to New Zealand Jesus S. Domingo (left) and Michael Hinds (right) speak before the participants of the lecture on Baybayin. (Wellington PE photo)
WELLINGTON 07 September 2018 – The Philippine Embassy in Wellington conducted a workshop on Baybayin, the Philippines’ native writing system, for Filipino-Kiwi students at St. Benedict’s School in Khandallah, Wellington on 22 August 2018, in celebration of Buwan ng Wika (National Language Month).
St. Benedict’s School Principal Michael Hinds stressed the importance for the children to understand and learn more about their Filipino heritage and thanked Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand Jesus S. Domingo and the Embassy for conducting the event at St. Benedict’s School.
Ambassador Domingo highlighted the many qualities and traits that make the Filipinos and the Philippines a unique and versatile people and nation. He also shared the rich Filipino culture, from its languages to its unique icons.
To introduce the ancient writing system, Consul Querobine Deapera Laccay gave a short presentation on the history and development of Baybayin. The presentation was followed by a short introductory video on writing basic Baybayin.
The participants, ranging from age five to 13, completed Baybayin writing exercises. They expressed their interest and delight in learning the Filipino ancient form of writing while enjoying classic Filipino foods including halo-halo. The children were also treated to a special dance number from the Filifest New Zealand Dance Group.
The children expressed their appreciation in being given the opportunity to learn more about the Filipino culture, and thanked Ambassador Domingo and the Embassy for the fun-filled and enlightening session.
The Embassy likewise thanked St. Benedict’s School for the opportunity to showcase Baybayin and celebrate Buwan ng Wika with its students. END
Ambassador to New Zealand Jesus S. Domingo gives an interactive presentation on the Philippines. (Wellington PE photo)
Consul Querobine Deapera Laccay introduces the Baybayin writing system to the participants. (Wellington PE photo)
Participants doing their Baybayin writing exercise. (Wellington PE photo)
For more information, visit www.wellingtonpe.dfa.gov.ph / www.philembassy.org.nz or https://www.facebook.com/PHLinNZ/.