In celebration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Jordan, the Philippine Embassy in Amman and the Children's Museum Jordan launched the first-ever Filipino-Jordanian Children's Friendship Day, bringing children together through play and cultural exchange.
More than 150 Filipino and Jordanian children gathered for a full day of games, storytelling, dance and shared experiences.
They learned traditional games from both countries, including the Philippines' Sungka and Patintero, and Jordan's Mancala. A storytelling session of "Bakit Matagal ang Sundo Ko?" ("Why Is My Pickup Late?") reminded children of the values of patience, family and understanding.
The children also learned the basics of the traditional Tinikling dance under the guidance of Artistic Director Ronnie del Barrio of the Kalinangan Amman Dance Troupe.
The celebration concluded with a tasting of Filipino delicacies, including champorado made with sticky rice and tablea (traditional Filipino chocolate), prepared by Glea Boba and Bites, alongside other Filipino snacks.
The Philippines-Jordan Children’s'a Friendship Day underscored that diplomacy can begin with the youngest members of society. Toys, games, stories and food may seem simple, yet they carry culture, values and identity.
When children share these with one another, they build genuine connections that foster mutual understanding.
As the Philippines and Jordan mark five decades of diplomatic ties, the event affirmed that the future of bilateral relations rests with young people who grow up understanding, respecting, and appreciating one another’s cultures. Diplomacy is shaped not only by leaders, but also by the next generation.
The initiative was made possible through the support of Ms. Wilma S. Huang, president of Museo Pambata, and Ms. Sawsan Dalaq, director of the Children’s Museum Jordan, in collaboration with the Philippine Embassy in Amman headed by H.E. Wilfredo C. Santos.