SHANGHAI –  The promotion of Philippine culture, arts and languages gained a foothold in China’s financial capital with the inauguration of the Philippine Consulate General’s new Cultural Wing and Filipiniana Library on 04 November 2023.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony presided over by Consul General Josel F. Ignacio with guests of honor DTI Undersecretary Ceferino S. Rodolfo and Philippine Ambassador to China Jaime A. FlorCruz marked the venue’s opening.

The Cultural Wing and Library fills renovated space formerly occupied by the main Consular Area and transaction counters, which were transferred to a more spacious location within the Consulate General in November 2022.

It serves as repository of the Consulate General’s rich and ever expanding collection of publications, media and materials on the Philippines, its peoples and rich heritage.

Also on proud display are examples of the Filipino people’s rich heritage, such as folk and indigenous instruments, ethnic accessories and fabrics, and artworks.

All are to be made accessible to the public at appointed hours and with prior coordination with the Consulate General’s Cultural Section.

“This Wing and Library represent a home, a pied-à-terre as it were, for Philippine culture here in Eastern China”, said Consul General Ignacio. “We look forward to receiving Filipinos and foreign visitors to enrich their understanding of the Philippines via our collection and periodic events at this venue.”

The PCG Cultural Wing and Library’s design prominently features and honors Dr. José P. Rizal, whose life and work had been dedicated to the similar ends.

“It is our aspiration to have this venue join the expanding ranks of overseas Sentro Rizal branches housed in other Philippine diplomatic and consular missions”, stressed the Consul General.

The establishment of the Sentro Rizal and its branches was sanctioned under Article XII of Republic Act No. 10066, otherwise known as the “National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009”, signed into law on 25 March 2009. END