In celebration of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, Biliran Province State University and the Spain-based foundation, Fundacion Hakuna, conducted a joint community service initiative at Palayan Elementary School in Sitio Palayan, Brgy. Caucab, Almeria on August 9.

Twenty-one students from the Mamanwa tribe, a local Indigenous group in Sitio Palayan, together with the non-IP students and faculty members of the elementary school, welcomed the BiPSU employees and Spanish visitors.

The 11-member delegation from Fundacion Hakuna engaged with the students by participating in various activities, teaching them basic Spanish words and songs, dancing together, and distributing snacks and school supplies.

Fundacion Hakuna is a Spanish nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering cultural exchange and providing humanitarian aid, especially in underserved communities. The organization works closely with local partners around the world to empower marginalized groups through education, community building, and cultural immersion.

The visit was part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between BiPSU and Fundacion Hakuna, which focuses on developing and promoting international understanding and goodwill between the two institutions.

According to the MOU, the two institutions will collaborate on promoting various programs, including the exchange of students, faculty, and researchers; the exchange of academic information and publications; research activities; and joint cultural and community immersion projects.

Dr. Maribelle N. Zipagan, dean of the School of Teacher Education and focal person of the visit, stated that the celebration of IP Day with the Mamanwa tribe aims to reaffirm their value and significance in the community.

“The presence of our guests from Spain, whose culture has played a pivotal role in shaping our heritage, further enriched the understanding of our shared history,” Dr. Zipagan said. “BIPSU’s role is to reinforce the idea that, despite our cultural differences and diversity, we are united in our common goal of having a harmonious and inclusive society.”

This initiative is one of many collaborative efforts between BiPSU and other international organizations, aimed at fostering a greater sense of global community.

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