The Embassy of Israel in the Philippines on Wednesday turned over the Jerusalem Resource Learning Center to Bagong Tanyag Elementary School, or BTES, Annex A, in Taguig City, as part of the embassy’s support for the Brigada Eskwela 2023 of the Department of Education.
“Named after the heart of Israel, which is Jerusalem, our capital, this library is a humble donation and an unwavering commitment we share towards nurturing the minds of the future generation,” said Israel’s Ambassador to the Philippines Ilan Fluss.
Fluss added: “This center is our contribution to Brigada Eskwela 2023, and we look forward to participating and contributing to future initiatives and opportunities in the education center.”
A vacant space at BTES-A was transformed into a library to signify the strong bond of friendship between Israel and the Philippines. The library is filled with educational materials, a TV set, a water dispenser, fans, bean bags, tables, and other amenities to make learning comfortable and exciting for the pupils of BTES. Around 2,000 students are enrolled at BTES and will have free access to the Jerusalem Learning Resource Center.
Councilor Jomil Bryan Serna, speaking for the city mayor, said, “This remarkable initiative, made possible through the sponsorship of the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines, is truly a blessing for our community and sets a positive tone for the year ahead. It will serve as a hub for knowledge, lifelong learning, and community engagement.”
Ambassador Fluss and Serna then read the story of David and Goliath to the kids.
Israel, despite the challenges it is facing against Hamas, is committed to strengthening its relations with the Philippines. He thanked the Philippines for standing in solidarity with Israel since the horrific events of 7 October. He also asked Filipinos to support the call to bring back home the 132 hostages still held in Gaza by Hamas.
The unveiling of the Jerusalem Learning Resource Center was held on 9 January and was attended by city government representatives, LGU officials, and BTES faculty members, parents and students.