DC middle schoolers learn more about Philippines

Filipino Reporter

Image from article, with caption: Third Secretary and Vice Consul Darell Artates, the Embassy’s Public Diplomacy Officer, delivers a presentation on the Philippines before fifth and sixth grade students of LaSalle-Backus Education Campus.

WASHINGTON — Fifth and sixth grade students of LaSalle-Backus Education Campus received a crash course on the Philippines in the first of three activities under the 2018 Embassy Adoption Program (EAP) on Feb. 1, 2018.

Third Secretary and Vice Consul Darell Artates, the Embassy’s Public Diplomacy Officer, presented interesting information on the country, such as location and geography, history, languages, endemic species, festivals, cuisine, and music.

The students actively participated in the discussion by posing questions and sharing observations and comments.

When asked about their initial impression about the Philippines, students and teachers mentioned the words “cool,” “active,” “vacation,” “tropical,” “Manny Pacquiao,” “exotic” and “paradise,” among others.

The students expressed excitement about the next activities, which will revolve around Philippine food, games and fiestas.

“We’re pleased to have this chance to share our culture with kids in their formative stage and have them also exchange views with us. Knowledge facilitates understanding and appreciation of each other’s differences, as well as similarities,” said Artates.

Established in 1974, the EAP is a partnership program of the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) and Washington Performing Arts.

The EAP is a unique education initiative that exposes DCPS students to international perspectives and cross-cultural lessons.

Through direct interactions with diplomats and global representatives from around the world, fifth and sixth grade students attending DC Public Schools can learn about the language, customs, history and culture of their partner’s home country or region.

This is the fourth year that the Embassy is participating in the EAP.

Group photo of some fifth and sixth grade students of LaSalle-Backus Education Campus with the Embassy’s Public Diplomacy Officer Darell Artates, Cultural Attaché Lalie Gavino and their teacher Ms. Aja Witherspoon.  (Photo credit: Ms. Aja Witherspoon)