Bicol students learn Japanese culture, traditions
(PNA photo by Connie Calipay)
LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines — The Japanese government, through the Japan Information and Culture Center (JICC), showcased its country’s culture and traditions to young Bicolanos in three learning institutions in the region on Friday.
Yurie Mukaigawa, JICC cultural officer, said the initiative is part of their “Hello, Japan” program in order to introduce the rich heritage of Japan.
“The Hello, Japan Program is part of the Embassy efforts. We visit various schools in Metro Manila to introduce cultural activities such as Yukata demonstrations, origami making and tea ceremonies,” she said in an interview.
“This is the first time we have come to a province to present the program,” she noted.
Mukaigawa added the importance of sharing Japan’s culture as a way to encourage people in the Philippines to visit Japan.
“The Japanese government offers numerous opportunities for Filipinos, including full scholarship programs for undergraduate and master’s degrees,” she said.
Mukaigawa’s team has visited Sorsogon State University in Sorsogon province, and Bicol University and Cabangan High School, both in Legazpi City, Albay.
“We visited schools that offer Nihongo classes. Certificates from these classes can be useful for students who plan to visit or study in Japan,” she noted.
In a separate interview, Director Herbie Aguas of the Department of Tourism in Bicol said the program is an excellent start to promote both Japan and the Bicol Region on a global scale.
“The public awareness generated by this program will also positively impact tourism. As they introduce Japan to our region, Japanese tourists may become more interested in visiting Bicol,” Aguas said.
Japanese artist FuMi performed during the school activities.
