Twenty-four (24) young Filipinos, aged 5 to 12, successfully completed the first module of the Filipino language class “Masayang Matuto ng Wikang Filipino” of the Sentro Rizal of Phnom Penh (SRPP).  

The “Moving Up” Ceremony, which was held on 5 December 2015 at the SRPP, was officially opened with the singing of the Philippine national anthem, led by nine-year old Kurt Ezekiel M. Ta-a.  

In his welcome remarks, Philippine Ambassador to Cambodia Christopher B. Montero congratulated the 24 young students who participated in the 4-month program. He thanked the parents for the trust they had bestowed on the Embassy in molding their children into becoming global Filipinos. Dr. Rosario Alonzo, Dean of the UP College of Education, who developed the module for the class, graced the occasion to personally witness the progress in the Filipino language skills of the participants and delivered inspiring remarks.

Eight-year old Jodie Davidson delivered a message on behalf of all the students and thanked the Embassy for the opportunity to learn Filipino language, culture, and cuisine in an enjoyable way.  Speaking on behalf of all the parents, Mr. Francisco “Kiko” Perez, father of two participating students – Galeno and Xinaro – highlighted the value of the use of Filipino language in the molding of a Filipino identity. Mr. Perez expressed the hope that SRPP will continue to offer the Filipino language classes in Cambodia.

To demonstrate a little of what they have learned in the past 15 Sundays, the students sang several Filipino songs and performed a skit in Filipino.

SRPP conferred special awards to select students, namely:

Most Improved

1. Sophia Beatrice A. Guittap

2. Rhone Tyler H. Cox

Most Diligent

1. Jodie Riyhan Annika C. Chua

2. Dane Joseph M. Fajarito

Most Likely To Become Philippine Ambassador

1. Deon Alexa V. Sese

2. Euan Dominique V. Sese

3. Nathaniel P. Montesa

Special Citation

1. Gabriel Serif T. Perida

2. Eric Joseph M. Castañeda

SRPP did not waste the opportunity to introduce the students to the typical way Filipinos celebrate their Christmas.  This was done through a Christmas party  that included the singing of Christmas carols, gift exchange, games (Pinoy Henyo and Pera o Bayong), musical performances by David Jeremiah Garcia,  Jodie Riyhan Annika Chua, and Galeno and Xinaro Perez.  They also enjoyed Filipino Christmas delicacies like jamon and bibingka, along with other kids’ favorites like Filipino-style spaghetti, fried chicken, and barbecue. An added treat was a gift pack for all the students from Liwayway Corporation, makers of Oishi/Rinbee snack food.

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