Filipino children in Phnom Penh were treated to exciting stories written and illustrated by Filipinos on 30 August 2015, as Sentro Rizal of Phnom Penh (SRPP) held its first Story-telling Session for Kids.

SRPP invited three prominent members of the Filipino community to sit and read to over 20 eager children.

Ms. Amera Gardose, a teacher and a pastor, read Jose Rizal's fable about the monkey and the turtle. This was followed by an animated discussion on the craftiness of the monkey and the turtle’s virtues. Ms. Gardose gave a quick Philippine history lesson as she informed the children of the symbolism contained in the story.

Ms. Elma Robles Lim or "Tita Teng" as she is called by most of the Filipino community, read the book entitled “Xilef” about a boy with a learning disability.  

EDUCO Country Director Jojo Pastores wowed the kids with "Naku...Nakuu...Nakuuuu.."  as he read about the thoughts and feelings of a boy about to become a “kuya” or big brother.

The featured stories not only offered valuable lessons but also demonstrated traditional Filipino traits of close family ties, respect for elders, and compassion for others.

SRPP plans to hold such story-telling sessions regularly, which also showcase the world-class talent of Filipino illustrators and writers.

“The Sentro Rizal of Phnom Penh pays special attention to Pinoy kids in Cambodia. We want them to know more, and be proud, of their Filipino heritage, especially in this age of globalization,” Philippine Ambassador to Cambodia Christopher B. Montero said.

After listening to the three stories, the kids were treated to some Pinoy-style spaghetti and calamansi juice. END.