Philippine Embassy in London Hosts Lecture on Filipino Identity and Baybayin Workshop in Celebration of National Heritage Month

Ambassador Teodoro L. Locsin, Jr. said that Filipino identity is a rich tapestry woven from a blend of cultures, traditions and experiences in his welcome remarks. (London PE photo)

LONDON, 06 June 2023 - In celebration of National Heritage Month, the Philippine Embassy in London hosted a lecture on Filipino Identity and a Baybayin workshop entitled “Mga Talá ng Alaala,” at Sentro Rizal London on 25 May 2023.

The event featured a talk and discussion on Filipino identity by former NCCA Chairperson Dr. Felipe De Leon, Jr. who joined virtually. It was followed by a workshop on Baybayin conducted by Mr. John Leyson, Baybayin Buhayin Inc. President and Director of London Filipino Centre (LFC)-CIC.

In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Teodoro L. Locsin, Jr. highlighted that a significant aspect of understanding Filipino Identity is the ancient script Baybayin, for the most intimate part of a culture is its writing. He stressed that Baybayin continues to serve as a powerful symbol of Filipino cultural heritage and a key to unlocking the past. The Ambassador said that participation in the Baybayin workshop is not only reviving an ancient script, but also reclaiming a part of our Filipino identity.

The program was conducted in partnership with LFC-CIC, a Filipino community group which conducts classes and training sessions on Filipino language and culture, such as Baybayin workshops, for Filipinos, Filipino-British and other foreign nationals.

Members of the Filipino community and Embassy personnel participated in the lecture and workshop. END

Dr. Felipe De Leon answers questions from the participants after his virtual lecture and discussion on Filipino Identity. (London PE photo)

                                      Baybayin advocate Mr. John Leyson delivers a lecture on Baybayin and facilitates the workshop. (London PE photo)                                            

For more information, visit https://www.londonpe.dfa.gov.ph or https://www.facebook.com/pg/PHLinUK,https://twitter.com/philippinesinuk or https://www.instagram.com/philippinesinuk/ .