Philippine Embassy Launches "The Philippine Corner" at Universiti Teknologi Brunei, Celebrating Four Decades of Diplomatic Friendship with Brunei
Ambassador Tirol-Ignacio hands over the book collection to UTB Vice-Chancellor Datin Paduka Professor Dr. Dayang Hajah Zohrah. (Photo courtesy of Universiti Teknologi Brunei)
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN 10 December 2024 – The Philippine Embassy in Brunei Darussalam, in collaboration with Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB), inaugurated "The Philippine Corner" at the UTB Library Complex on 20 November 2024. This event commemorates the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Republic of the Philippines and Brunei Darussalam.
Ambassador Marian Jocelyn R. Tirol-Ignacio graced the event alongside Yang Mulia Datin Paduka Professor Dr. Dayang Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman, Vice-Chancellor of UTB.
The Philippine Corner showcases a curated collection of over 70 donated books, spanning Philippine history, literature, culture, and environmental studies. This initiative aims to foster academic exchange and cultural understanding between Brunei and the Philippines, strengthening the educational and cultural ties that unite the two ASEAN neighbors.
In her remarks, Ambassador Tirol-Ignacio emphasized, "The Philippine Corner stands as a bridge, inviting Bruneians to explore the rich heritage of the Philippines while promoting ASEAN unity and awareness. Through knowledge and cultural exchange, we can nurture a deeper understanding of each other's narratives and aspirations."
Vice-Chancellor Yang Mulia Datin Paduka Professor Dr. Dayang Hajah Zohrah binti Haji Sulaiman expressed UTB's gratitude, highlighting the books as a valuable addition to the university's academic resources. "This thoughtful contribution enhances our library and reflects the Embassy’s commitment to advancing mutual understanding and friendship between our nations," she remarked.
The ceremony included a handover of the donated books by Ambassador Tirol-Ignacio to the Vice-Chancellor and was attended by officials from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Education, and Culture, Youth, and Sports, alongside UTB faculty, staff, and students.
The Philippine Embassy expressed its appreciation for the collaborative efforts with UTB and the Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila, which made this endeavor possible. The collection was enriched through the generosity of Far Eastern University, further symbolizing the shared dedication to knowledge and cultural exchange.
This event highlights the Philippines' commitment to fostering ASEAN solidarity through education, cultural appreciation, and shared learning. As both nations celebrate four decades of partnership, "The Philippine Corner" serves as a testament to enduring friendship and a foundation for future collaborations. END
UTB officials, Embassy representatives, and UTB Filipino exchange students from Batangas State University celebrate the launch of “The Philippine Corner.” (Photo courtesy of Universiti Teknologi Brunei).
“The Philippine Corner” display at UTB Library, featuring over 70 books on Philippine culture and history. (Photo courtesy of Brunei PE)
For more information, visit https://www.bruneipe.dfa.gov.ph, https://www.philippine-embassybrunei.org or https://www.facebook.com/PHinBrunei/, https://twitter.com/PHinBrunei or https://www.instagram.com/phinbrunei/.