SLSU-TO Concludes FILTALK 2.0 Culmination Program Celebrating Filipino Language and Culture

Southern Leyte State University – Tomas Oppus, through the Global Engagement and Strategic Partnerships Office (GESPO), successfully conducts the culmination program of FILTALK 2.0: Filipino as a Foreign Language on May 13, 2026, via Zoom.

Carrying the theme, “Suroy ta! Exploring the Language and Culture of the Philippines,” the virtual event highlights the importance of promoting the Filipino language and strengthening cultural understanding among international learners and participants.

The program formally opens with the preliminaries, including the interfaith prayer, the singing of the Philippine National Anthem, and the ASEAN Hymn. Participants are then welcomed by Dr. Analiza M. Nares, Program Head of Filipino Education, who expresses gratitude to the organizers, faculty members, and learners for their active participation throughout the program.

A cultural presentation featuring the Filipino Kundiman is rendered by KANFIL, showcasing the richness of Filipino music and heritage. The event also features an inspirational message from Dr. Jude A. Duarte, University President, who emphasizes the significance of language in fostering global connections and cultural appreciation. Messages of appreciation are likewise delivered by Dr. Constantino G. Medilo Jr., Vice President for Academic Affairs, and Dr. Norlyn L. Borong, Faculty Dean of Teacher Education. Both administrators commend the efforts of the organizers and participants in making the program a meaningful platform for promoting Filipino language education beyond borders.

The latter part of the program includes a Message of Support from Dr. Ingrid M. Uy, Director of Global Engagement and Strategic Partnerships, who underscores the importance of international collaboration in advancing language education initiatives. This is followed by “FILTALK 2.0 Outputs in Focus,” where international participants present their learning outputs and reflections from the program. An awarding of certificates is then conducted in recognition of the international participants, student-lecturers, and technical team for their invaluable contributions to the success of FILTALK 2.0. To further celebrate Filipino culture, a Philippine Folk Dance Presentation is performed by the BPED students, highlighting the country’s vibrant artistic traditions.

The program concludes with a Message of Gratitude from Dr. Clemente H. Cobilla, Campus Director of SLSU Tomas Oppus, followed by the Closing Message of Dr. Mark B. Galdo, Project Leader of FILTALK 2.0, who thanks all stakeholders for their support and dedication in making the initiative a success.

The FILTALK 2.0 culmination program serves as a celebration of learning, collaboration, and cultural exchange, reinforcing SLSU’s commitment to global engagement and the promotion of Filipino identity and heritage in the international community. This initiative supports Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Sustainable Development Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering inclusive international learning opportunities and strengthening global academic collaboration.