Phnom Penh, 29 May 2025 - In celebration of National Heritage Month and National Flag Days, the Philippine Embassy gathered today Filipino children aged 5 to 12 years old for an experiential learning of their native culture and identity.

Titled "Araw ng Pambansang Pamana at Kultura", the fun-filled educational event took place on 28 May 2025 at the Embassy as a Sentro Rizal activity.

In her remarks, Ambassador Flerida Ann Camille P. Mayo encouraged the young participants presently attending various schools in Phnom Penh to maintain a strong connection to their Filipino roots and to be proud of their Filipino identity wherever they go. "Whether you were born here in the Philippines or Cambodia, your being Filipino is a huge part of who you are. Always remember your roots and where you come from", she said. Ambassador Mayo thanked the participants' parents for nurturing their children's Filipino identity by actively participating in the Embassy's initiative to instill pride in Philippine history, customs, food, music, literature, and the arts.

Ms. Amera Gardose, a Filipino educator with over thirty years of teaching experience, prepared for the Filipino children an enjoyable interactive program that included Filipino food "taste-and-tell", Filipino values role playing, picture puzzles of national symbols and heroes, and learning the folk song "Bahay Kubo".

The children were also introduced to the rich tradition of Philippine weaving as embodied in the artistry of Magdalena Gamayo, a National Living Treasure known for her intricate inabel textiles. They learned about the significance of weaving in Filipino culture and the importance of preserving Filipino craftsmanship.

In observance of Philippine Flag Day, the children also took an interest in the significance of the national observance of the national emblem and the importance of showing reverence to the flag.

The twin celebration culminated in a salo-salo over a delectable spread of Filipino food and snacks that highlight the richness of Pinoy flavors.

The Philippines celebrates National Flag Day every May 28 in the lead up to the country's Independence Day anniversary on June 12. National Heritage Month (NHM) is observed during the month of May to foster consciousness, respect, and love for the nation's culture and history among Filipinos. For 2025, NHM is held under the banner "Preserving Legacies, Building Futures: Empowering Communities Through Heritage!" END