Philippine Embassy in Jordan and the University of the Philippines-Diliman Explore Academic Collaboration 

The Philippine Embassy in Jordan led by His Excellency Ambassador Wilfredo C. Santos met virtually with the University of the Philippines Diliman Asian Center headed by Dean Henelito Sevilla Jr. on 12 March 2024 to explore avenues of collaboration in pursuit of increased understanding between the Philippines and Jordan in the field of education and culture.

 During the meeting, Ambassador Santos underscored the commitment of the Philippine Embassy to promote higher education and cultural understanding between the Philippines and the host country. He expressed that partnering with the University of the Philippines aligns with these goals. 

In response, Dean Sevilla warmly welcomed the Embassy's initiatives of forging a partnership with UP. He expressed his interest to work hand-in-hand with the Embassy to design and implement programs that would further enhance the cultural and educational exchanges between the Philippines and Jordan. Dean Sevilla also added that this undertaking will be beneficial for UP’s academic programs, in support of its efforts to encourage more students to take an interest in Middle East studies. 

Ambassador Santos expressed his gratitude to Dean Sevilla and the Asian Center for this ongoing collaboration, and hopes to have a positive impact on the diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Jordan. “Once we develop these ties, the host country will have a better understanding and appreciation of the Philippines and Filipinos not only as workers, but as partners in different areas of cooperation such as trade, business, education, culture and defense”, Ambassador Santos remarked.

Both parties agreed that cultural diplomacy is an important mechanism to advance the interest of the Philippines in this region. Together, the Embassy of the Philippines and the University of the Philippines Diliman Asian Center will continue to explore and pursue opportunities for collaboration that will strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two nations. 

Joining Ambassador Santos at the virtual meeting were Consul Angeli Payumo, Vice Consul Sheila Marie Andales, Cultural Officer Elijah Ang-Encarnacion, and Secretary to the Ambassador Rachel Pamorada. END