DC Sixth-Graders Introduced to Philippine Cuisine

By: Christian L ChaCha M Xavier D

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Sixth-graders from LaSalle-Backus Education Campus were introduced to Philippine cuisine and food traditions during the second of three activities under the 2018 Embassy Adoption Program (EAP) on 15 March 2018.

In their visit to the Philippine Embassy, the students learned about the diverse cultural influences on Filipino cooking and dining. They were also taught the Filipino folk song “Bahay Kubo”.

After the presentation, the students and their teachers sampled chicken adobo, longganisa (pork sausage), sinangag (garlic fried rice) and cassava cake.

“When we do gastrodiplomacy, we share not only our food, but also a great deal about who we are as a nation. The Embassy wants these kids to have a taste not only of the dishes, but also the hospitality and sense of community inherent in the Philippine dining experience,” said the Embassy’s Public Diplomacy Officer Darell Artates.

Established in 1974, the EAP is a partnership program of the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) and Washington Performing Arts. The EAP is a unique education initiative that exposes DCPS students to international perspectives and cross-cultural lessons. Through direct interactions with diplomats and global representatives from around the world, fifth and sixth grade students attending DC Public Schools can learn about the language, customs, history, and culture of their partner’s home country or region.

This is the fourth year that the Embassy is participating in the EAP. ###

Students enjoy a sampling of chicken adobo, longganisa (pork sausage), sinangag (garlic fried rice) and cassava cake.

A student volunteers to sing “Bahay Kubo” .

Birthday brunch for Bobby Leighton, from left, Christian, Christy, Bobby & Maya Leighton. Happy birthday, Bobby!

Maya Leighton, a sophomore at Maine South Township High School, proudly displaying her PHILIPPINES cross country shirt.

Children having fun at the Divinagracia houseblessing luau party in Skokie, from left to rightL Annaliese, Christian, Valerie & Amelie. Bottom: Jordan & Amari.

Smart kid and future entomologist (insects scientist), 9-year-old Christian Dayrit, an honor student at East Prairie Elementary School in Skokie.