Japan promotes culture and heritage before young Bicolanos

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Young Bicolanos recently experienced all things Japan through a program supported by the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines.

Organized by the Japan Information and Culture Center, the Hello! Japan program went to Bicol last week to introduce Japanese culture and traditions and offer academic exchange opportunities.

Among JICC’s partners were the Sorsogon State University (SSU), Bicol University (BU), Cabangan High School (CHS), SM City Legazpi, and the SM Supermalls.

During the Hello! Japan sessions, JICC cultural officer Yurie Mukaigawa emphasized the importance of cultural exchange in strengthening connections and reinforcing mutual understanding between peoples.

“Japanese and Filipino cultures, as distinct from each other as they are, share many commonalities. These connections must be nurtured and showcased to the next generation of Filipinos—they are the future of our two nations and of this part of the world,” she said.

Bicol students had the chance to introduce themselves in Japanese and don traditional Japanese clothing, such as kimono, Happi coats, and yukata.

There were discussions on Japan’s traditions, seasons, technology, pop culture, food, and sports.

The Bicol stop also featured the participation of Japanese singer FuMi, while the students performed Pantomina, a traditional Bicol dance.

Japanese government scholarship programs were also introduced as an integral aspect of the program, where interested students were given information on how to apply.

Hello! Japan provides educational discourse for elementary, high school, and college students and private organizations to have a deeper understanding about Japan through interactive presentations and sessions that highlight the country’s diverse culture, traditions, festivals, food, language, and art, among others.  — Jamil Santos/VBL, GMA Integrated News