The Grand Family Association of the Philippines (GFAP) donated P5.8 million to the Philippine Chinese Education Research Center on Nov. 25, 2024 in support of the construction of the Philippine Chinese Language and Culture Palace.
Huang Duan Ming, chairman of the Philippine Chinese Education Research Center (PCERC), expressed his gratitude to the association for its support and called on other Filipino-Chinese organizations to contribute to the initiative.
The palace will serve as a platform to introduce China’s national development, foster people-to-people exchanges, support the creation of Chinese textbooks, provide training for Chinese language teachers and offer opportunities for studying Chinese.
It will also host cultural competitions and serve as a valuable source of information on Chinese education.
The palace also aims to strengthen the bond between the Filipino and Chinese communities, acting as a bridge that unites both cultures.
Huang shared an update on the progress of the construction and revealed that significant groundwork has already been completed, including the selection and purchase of the project site, a geological survey, and the architectural design.
The groundbreaking ceremony is expected to take place by the end of this year or early next year.
He said PCERC began researching local Chinese education four years ago, and has since established a clear direction centered on “transforming Chinese education through intelligent approaches: integrating language and culture education with professional training.”
The Philippine Chinese Language and Culture Palace, once completed, is expected to become a vital institution in promoting the study and appreciation of Chinese language and culture, strengthening the ties between the two nations and enhancing the educational opportunities for Filipino-Chinese students.