PH Embassy Launches Free Basic Khmer Language Classes for Filipinos in Cambodia

Third Secretary and Vice Consul Frances Cleofas welcomes the participants to the first Khmer language session. (Phnom Penh PE photo)

PHNOM PENH 28 March 2019 – The Philippine Embassy in Phnom Penh launched its free Basic Khmer Language Classes for Filipinos in Cambodia on 24 March 2019. The first session was attended by 33 Filipinos.

The language training program aims to help newly-arrived overseas Filipino workers adjust to life in Cambodia by equipping them with basic communication skills to interact with the locals in a meaningful way, as well as the confidence to uphold their rights and welfare in the workplace.

The classes cover situational conversations relating to introductions, food, counting, transportation, shopping, days/months, among others. They also indirectly touch on Cambodian culture and traditions, thereby facilitating the process of familiarization and getting accustomed to the local setting.       

“The language training is in line with the Embassy's stakeholders engagement activities for the Filipino diaspora in Cambodia. We hope that more Filipinos will avail of this free course in order to help them adapt to their new environment,” Ambassador to Cambodia Christopher B. Montero said.   

The course will be conducted by Mr. Hok Dara, a Khmer language teacher for foreigners and author of the book “Cambodian Vocabulary for Foreigners.”

Offered to Filipinos residing and working in Phnom Penh, the language classes will be held for two hours every Sunday at the Embassy until the middle of June 2019. Participants will be given certificates after completing the course. END

Khmer language teacher Hok Dara teaches participants basic phrases in Khmer language. (Phnom Penh PE photo)

Participants learn how to introduce themselves in the Khmer language. (Phnom Penh PE photo)

For more information, visit www.phnompenhpe.dfa.gov.ph, https://www.facebook.com/PHLinCambodia/ or @PhilippineIn on Twitter.