CONSULATE NEWS
Philippine Consulate General in Chongqing and Bashu Middle School Strengthen Educational Cooperation
Chongqing, China 15 April 2025 - The Philippine Consulate General in Chongqing met with officials from Bashu Middle School this week to discuss exciting new areas of cooperation aimed at strengthening educational and cultural ties between the Philippines and China.
The discussions focused on the launch of an English Corner program at Bashu Middle School, where representatives from the Consulate will assist students in developing their English communication skills through conversation-based activities. This initiative aims to create an immersive language environment and foster greater confidence among students in using English for everyday communication.
Beyond language learning, both sides also expressed interest in organizing seminars on modern teaching methodologies, as well as establishing online classes to further enrich Bashu’s educational programs. The Philippine side emphasized its willingness to support the program’s early stages and looks forward to collaborating closely with Bashu’s faculty in this endeavor.
The meeting also highlighted the growing ties between Xavier School in the Philippines and Bashu Middle School. Building on the success of a friendship basketball game held last November, both institutions are exploring the possibility of formalizing their partnership through a signed agreement. Future activities under this partnership may include academic exchanges focusing on teaching methodologies, as well as expanded sports programs featuring basketball, volleyball, and other athletic events.
The Philippine Consulate reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing education and cultural exchanges in Chongqing and expressed optimism that these initiatives will contribute to greater mutual understanding and friendship between the youth of both countries. END
Philippine Consulate General Showcases Kape Barako at Chongqing Kaweh Festival 2025
Chongqing, China 18 April 2025 - The Philippine Consulate General in Chongqing, China proudly participated in the 2025 Chongqing Kaweh Festival, offering visitors a taste of the Philippines through its showcase of Kape Barako from Batangas.
Known for its bold and rich flavor, Kape Barako is a symbol of Filipino heritage and the enduring spirit of Filipino farmers. At the Consulate’s booth, guests were treated to a live pour-over coffee brewing experience, providing a more personal and artisanal introduction to the Philippines’ coffee tradition. The Kape Barako was also featured in the festival’s cupping area alongside coffee beans from around the globe.
During the festival, Consul General Ivan Frank Olea was also interviewed by Chongqing TV , where he explained that the Philippines produces four types of coffee beans - Robusta, Liberica, Excelsa, and Arabica. He introduced Kape Barako, a variety of Liberica coffee beans, as one of the Philippines’ most distinctive coffee varieties — a strong, full-bodied brew often preferred by coffee connoisseurs for its unique flavor profile.
The Consulate’s participation highlights its continuing efforts to promote the Philippines’ agricultural products, foster cultural exchanges, and build stronger people-to-people ties in Chongqing and beyond. It extends its appreciation to the Chongqing Kaweh Festival organizers for creating a platform to celebrate global coffee cultures and sustainable practices. - END