Philippine Ambassador Argentina Ma. Amelita C. Aquino, together with Third Secretary Ria E. Gorospe and Cultural Officer Eva M. Lazaro, visited Escuela Numero 13 D.E. 30 otherwise known as “Escuela de la Republica de Filipinas” in Mataderos, Buenos Aires on 21 August 2014. It was the first visit of Ambassador Aquino to said school which was named after the Philippines in August 1956. This is the second primary school named after the country, the first one is located in Chivilcoy, Province of Buenos Aires.

The Embassy delegation was warmly received by School Directress Ms. Maria Alejandra Mochera, Mataderos School District Authorities, teachers, parents, and a large group of enthusiastic primary school students.

The program commenced with the entrance of the Argentine and Philippine flags followed by the national anthems of both countries. Some of the highlights of the program were Argentine tango dance performed by local tanguaeros from Mataderos, a duet song number by the teachers, the singing and dancing of the first graders of “Paa, tuhod, balikat, ulo” and the game show on Philippine and Argentine trivia with participation of all grade levels.

In her remarks, Ambassador Aquino thanked the school for their warm welcome and encouraged the students to study well so they can achieve their dreams. The Ambassador said that just like in Argentina, education is given a lot of importance in the Philippines. Echoing the country’s national hero Dr. Jóse Rizal’s, she said that the youth is the hope of the future and good education will be a key to a brighter tomorrow. The Ambassador also congratulated the teachers and students for a very good program. Aftewards, the guests were invited to a merienda in the school’s library. END