Consul General Julius Caesar A. Flores lectured on 01 December 2015 to a group of 30 Ateneo de Cebu high school students and four faculty members who comprised the Ateneo Hearters Adventures (AHA) program in China on the role of the Philippine Consulate General in Xiamen in relation to the overall relations of the Philippines with China, particularly to Fujian and Jiangxi provinces where it has consular jurisdiction. The group was led by Team Leader Mr. Vicente R. Tan and Student Ambassador Lourdes S. Gerona.

This is the second year that the Ateneo de Cebu embarked on its AHA program which is a 35-day immersion course for the students with the aim of enhancing their appreciation of China as well as understanding their ancestral roots in Fujian.

In his lecture, Consul General Flores discussed the many facets of the work of the Consulate General covering political, economic and public diplomacy functions.

Consul General Flores underscored the deep historical and cultural link between the Philippines and Fujian Province stating that majority of the overseas Chinese in the Philippines come from Fujian province, including the families of most of the students present.

The young students were encouraged to enhance their knowledge of the Chinese language and culture which are valuable in appreciating their kinship and ties to Fujian province as well as provide a strong foundation for eventual studies specializing on China.

Consul General Flores commended Xavier school in undertaking this activity which is an excellent vehicle for people-to-people contacts that could enhance understanding and friendship between the Philippines and China. END