On the 26th of September 2024, St. George's School had the privilege of welcoming a group of guest speakers from the Embassy of the Republic of Philippines who came to raise awareness and consciousness on maritime and archipelagic issues. This event was in commemoration with the Maritime and Archipelagic Nation Awareness Month (MANA Mo) aimed to organize activities that promote the protection and conservation of marine life.
The event was graced by Her Excellency Marian Jocelyn R. Tirol-Ignacio, Ambassador of the Republic of Philippines to Brunei Darussalam, Principal Janidi Jingan, Deputy Principal NM Mubarak, Head of Primary Madam Alice Ting, teachers and the Year 4 and 5 students of St. George's School. The event was separated into two sessions, one session for the Year 4 students and one session for the Year 5 students.
Emcee Jude Desales kicked off the event by inviting the Principal Janidi Jingan to give his welcoming remarks. The Principal touched on the effects of plastic wastage and the importance of conserving marine life for the future generations. The Ambassador, Her Excellency Marian Jocelyn, further elaborated on the above-mentioned points when she gave her remarks after the Principal. She then drew attention to sea turtles and their impending extinction as a result of sea pollution, emphasizing on the need for conservation.
The main activity then ensued, which was the introduction and explanation of the ‘Pawikan Patrol’ tabletop game by the game creator himself, Mr. Marc Reuben Cuento. He explained his role as part of the ‘Pawikan Patrol’ in the Philippines and demonstrated how the students would be able to learn about the protection of turtles while having fun at the same time. He then proceeded to explain the game play to the students, who were then divided into groups of four to play Pawikan Patrol. The students were notably engaged in the session and thoroughly enjoyed themselves whilst playing the game.
The session concluded with closing remarks by Consul Bernadette A. Mendoza and a gifting of a Token of Appreciation from the Ambassador to the Principal. Students were also able to leave with a turtle keychain in hand. The event proved to be a success, with the students taking home with them valuable lessons on the protection and conservation of turtles as well as all marine life.