PH Embassy in Brunei Concludes Filipino Language and Culture Enrichment Program 2024 through Culmination Ceremony
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN 30 August 2024 – The Philippine Embassy in Brunei Darussalam held its five-day Filipino Language and Culture Enrichment Program (FLCEP) on 12-17 August 2024 with the theme “Kinabukasan”, following last year’s commemoration of the three-year theme of the Anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood. It is organized by the Philippine Embassy with the Sentro Rizal-Brunei in collaboration with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Association of Filipino Educators (AFE). The program is designed to provide Filipino language and cultural immersion for children of Filipino migrant workers in Brunei.
This year, FLCEP accommodated 157 Filipino children from Bandar, Kuala Belait, Seria and for the first time, Temburong Districts of Brunei. 42 volunteer teachers who have registered to participate. There were four levels- Early years (5-7 yrs. Old), Beginners (8-9 yrs. Old), Juniors (10-11 yrs. Old) and Seniors (12-18 yrs. Old)- with 20-45 students per level. For the first time the program included children with special needs, which helped them in discovering and developing their talents and skills.
As part of the celebration, Ms. Anyati Abdullah Orcullo, a Filipino-Bruneian, presented a cooking demonstration of the “champorado”, a traditional Filipino chocolate rice porridge, and was shared to the students, teachers and parents, giving them a taste of this beloved dish. As a nod to healthy living, she also innovated the recipe to include a garnish of fruits, seeds and nuts aside from the accompanying traditional dried fish, tuyo.
The program includes activities such as language and arts and crafts classes, cultural workshops, and field trips, all aimed at preserving and promoting Filipino heritage among the youth.
The FLCEP has continued to inspire and engage young Filipino minds in Brunei with a series of enriching activities and it proudly celebrated its culmination on 17 August 2024. The culmination ceremony was marked by vibrant cultural performances, showcasing the rich heritage and traditions of the Filipino people. The performances beautifully reflected the theme “Kinabukasan,” blending traditional and modern Filipino culture to highlight the continuity of our heritage into the future. The event also included the awarding of certificates to the students, recognizing their dedication and achievements throughout the program.
The event was a resounding success, with the unwavering support and dedication of the Association of Filipino Educators, the Filipino Volunteer Teachers, OWWA, UAP, Pinoy Shutters, Kabayan Ko Association and the entire Filipino community. The bayanihan spirit was truly alive, making this year’s FLCEP a shining example of what can be achieved when the community comes together with a shared purpose and vision. END
The event began with a flag-raising and Wreath-Laying Ceremony in honor of National Heroes Day, ASEAN Month, and Filipino Language Month. (Beijing PE photos)
Presentation of the cooking demonstration of Ms. Anyati Abdullah Orcullo to the FLCEP participants. (Beijing PE photo)
A special storytelling session was also held, featuring a collection of books by Adarna House, a pioneer in Filipino children's literature. These stories brought the richness of Filipino culture to life, fostering a deeper connection to our heritage among the young learners. (Beijing PE photo)
Ambassador Marian Jocelyn R. Tirol-Ignacio, in her remarks, emphasized, “The seeds we plant today in the hearts and minds of our youth will grow into a strong and vibrant Filipino identity, no matter where in the world they may be.” (Beijing PE photo)
