As education continues to evolve in a
rapidly changing world, meaningful partnerships have become increasingly
important in expanding learning opportunities for students beyond the
classroom. Through collaborations with local organizations, schools, and community
groups, the Consulate General of the Republic of San Marino in the Philippines
continues to strengthen programs that help young Filipinos grow academically,
culturally, and socially.
By working closely with educational
institutions and community stakeholders, the Consulate has expanded initiatives
that promote lifelong learning and expose students to broader cultural and
global perspectives. These efforts reflect the growing understanding that
education today extends beyond textbooks and traditional instruction—it also
involves nurturing creativity, cultural awareness, and a deeper appreciation of
the world.
According to Consul General Jean Henri
Lhuillier, education must equip young people with the skills and mindset needed
to navigate an increasingly interconnected future.
“Education today must prepare students
not only to read and write, but also to understand the world around them,
appreciate culture, and adapt to the future. Young learners need opportunities
that encourage curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong desire to learn,” said
Lhuillier.
This vision has guided several
educational and cultural initiatives supported by the Consulate over the years.
Beyond promoting literacy, these programs seek to create enriching learning
experiences that help students become globally aware while remaining grounded
in their communities and cultural identity.
Among the Consulate’s longstanding
collaborators is Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation Inc. (CLFI), whose partnership
has further strengthened efforts to make educational and community-based
programs more accessible to Filipino youth. Together, they continue to support
initiatives that encourage literacy, creativity, and inclusive learning
opportunities beyond the classroom.
One such initiative is the Consulate’s
partnership with Bookmark, Inc. to publish Pamilyang Papel, a children’s
activity and storytelling material designed to make cultural education more
engaging and accessible. The publication promotes reading, creativity, and the
formation of values through interactive learning experiences that introduce
young readers to culture and heritage.
Building on these efforts, the Consulate,
in collaboration with Cebuana Lhuillier and LINKS Philippines, has continued to
strengthen the Hooked on Books Program, an initiative aimed at enhancing
learning environments and fostering a stronger culture of reading among
Filipino students. The latest project under the program is the development of
the JHL-RSM Library, the 30th milestone Hooked on Books (HOB) library
established through the initiative.
As part of the project, Leonor Petra G.
Elepaño met with representatives of the local government and the city
administration of Manila, including city administrator Atty. Eduardo Quintos,
who expressed support for the initiative and its potential impact on the
community.
Currently under construction at Graciano
Lopez Jaena Elementary School, the JHL-RSM Library forms part of the
Consulate’s broader commitment to creating more inclusive and supportive spaces
for learning. In preparation for its opening, volunteers and partners
participated in a three-day community effort that included mural painting
activities, library setup, and storytelling sessions for students. These
activities reflect the program’s holistic approach to literacy, combining
access to books with creative learning experiences that encourage children to
develop a lifelong love for reading.
The project has also received support
from several private-sector partners. Boysen donated mural paints that helped
transform the facility into a vibrant and engaging space for students, while
TOSOT served as the project’s air-conditioning sponsor.
Meanwhile, Archispace Design Inc.
contributed to the construction and design of the learning space alongside JAS
Design and Build Development Corp., led by Sandy Ocampo and Alvin Lu, further
highlighting the collaborative effort behind the initiative.
As the project continues to take shape,
it reflects San Marino’s enduring commitment to supporting educational programs
that expand access to knowledge, encourage cultural appreciation, and help
prepare young Filipinos for the opportunities and challenges of the future.
Through initiatives such as the JHL-RSM Library, the Consulate continues to
demonstrate how partnerships can help create meaningful learning experiences
that empower the next generation of Filipino learners.
