The 26th Paaralan sa Konsulado (PSK), a flagship program organized by the Philippine Consulate General in New York and the Association of Fil-Am Teachers of America (AFTA), concluded on July 27 with a celebration of Filipino culture and heritage showcased by this year’s graduates.
The program began with a morning session featuring Filipino entrepreneur Chef Diana Manalang, owner of Little Chef Little Cafe in Long Island City, who gave a live baking demonstration of her original Pandan cookie recipe. Participants enjoyed a tasting session, sparking interest in exploring the culinary traditions of their Filipino heritage.
In the afternoon, the program’s culmination took place at Kalayaan Hall, where parents were invited to watch a series of performances by the students. The graduates, grouped by age, demonstrated their skills in Filipino song, dance, and poetry, displaying the knowledge they gained throughout the program.
Photo by Ms. Sherlyn Roxas
Deputy Consul General Adrian Elmer S. Cruz highlighted the importance of PSK beyond its educational curriculum, emphasizing the program’s role in fostering confidence and camaraderie among the children. “The Paaralan sa Konsulado is a safe space where children gain confidence and establish rapport with peers their own age,” said Deputy Consul General Cruz. “It is my wish that the PSK provides a learning space for parents and their children to continue interacting together so that the Filipino identity is preserved within the family.”
PSK President Rena Pedaria reiterated AFTA’s commitment to ensuring that the lessons taught in the summer program remain relevant to contemporary societal and cultural contexts. PSK Principal Dara Valconcha also reaffirmed AFTA’s dedication to sustaining and continually updating the program’s curriculum to maximize the benefits for participants.
Paaralan sa Konsulado is an annual summer program held at the Philippine Center New York, offering Filipino-American children aged 5 to 15 the chance to learn about Filipino values, language, history, and culture through songs, dances, and games.