Chinese Young Cultural Ambassadors learn "banig" making at the Philippine Embassy in Beijing

25 August 2016 - The Philippine Embassy in Beijing welcomed a group of "Chinese Young Cultural Ambassadors" under its "Ni Hao, Philippines" program.

During the visit, the Embassy's Cultural Attaché, Ms. Joan T. Pichay made a brief presentation on the Philippine hand-woven mat "banig" and the common materials used for its production. She introduced them to various woven products and the varied designs that may be created through weaving. The children were then given an opportunity to experience the process of weaving using colored paper board strips. They showed great interest in the activity, even coming up with their own designs.

After the Embassy's Cultural Officer and Attaché, Ms. Joan T. Pichay showed

the step-by-step procedure of the paper weaving, the children became busy

making their own banig and those who finished their work early received some

tokens of simple toys as a reward.

Selected members of the group rendered performances, such as a poem recital and individual and group song numbers.

At the exchange of gifts, the students presented their drawings and Chinese handicrafts as gifts to the Embassy. In return, the Embassy gave each student a book, dried mangoes, tourism brochures, and post cards as souvenirs.

Left photo: a student sharing the message of his drawing to CDA Elizabeth T. Te.

Right photo: Handcrafts and drawing of flags made by the children sending messages of

peace and friendship between the Philippines and China.

The Embassy served arroz caldo, chicken lollipop, and maja blanca as snacks.

“Ni Hao, Philippines” is an activity organized by the Embassy on a regular basis aimed at creating awareness of Philippine culture among children aged 7 to 12 years old.

The Chinese Young Cultural Ambassadors is composed of students from different primary schools in Beijing who visit embassies and cultural education institutions to learn the cultures of other countries. END.