Legacy in Learning: The Story of Chinese-Filipino Educational Institutions
Aired on October 20, the seventh episode of CHiNOY TV’s Chinese by Blood, Filipino by Heart Season 5, titled “#DugongTsinoPusongPinoy,” delves into the significance of Chinese-Filipino educational institutions. This episode features interviews with three prominent Chinese educators. They discuss the critical role of Chinese education in preserving cultural heritage and shaping the identities of Chinese-Filipino students.
Through these discussions, viewers gain insight into how these institutions not only educate but also foster a sense of belonging and cultural pride among their students, highlighting the importance of maintaining their unique identity within the broader Filipino community.
Preserving Cultural Heritage through Education
For generations, Chinese-Filipino schools have played a vital role in maintaining cultural heritage while fostering academic excellence. Dr. Judelio “Jude” Yap (叶启明), president of Chiang Kai Shek College, believes that education is the cornerstone of this preservation. He highlights the importance of language in connecting with one’s roots, stating that “Chinese education is very important to us because it preserves our cultural heritage. It serves as a link to our roots.” Dr. Yap emphasizes that mastering the Chinese language is essential to passing on cultural values to future generations. “Without knowing our language, we cannot truly ask our next generation to learn our culture,” he explains, reinforcing the idea that cultural identity starts with language.
Ms. Angeline Tan (陈惠玲), principal of Hope Christian High School, shares a similar view, noting that Chinese-Filipino schools are expected not only to preserve but also to promote Chinese culture. She believes that while these institutions protect tradition, they also play a proactive role in ensuring that Chinese heritage remains relevant to the younger generation. “Aside from preserving Chinese culture, we move on to promoting it to the generation of Chinese-Filipino students,” Tan says, reflecting the schools’ evolving role in cultural education.
On the other hand, Principal of Saint Jude Catholic School, Br. Yosep Undung, SVD, PhD. points to the balance these schools maintain between tradition and integration into the broader educational system. He emphasizes the schools’ “dedication to preserving Chinese heritage while integrating seamlessly into the Philippine educational system,” underscoring how these institutions help students navigate both their Chinese roots and their Filipino identity. Through this dual mission, Chinese-Filipino schools provide students with a strong sense of heritage while equipping them with the tools to succeed in modern society.
Bridging Cultures and Inspiring Future Generations
Chinese-Filipino schools play a vital role in fostering cultural identity and shaping future leaders. According to Dr. Yap, these institutions serve as the foundation where students are first exposed to their heritage. “This is where we get exposed to the language first,” he explains, noting that Chinese-Filipino schools provide an environment where students not only learn the language but also embrace the values and traditions that are central to their identity. Through this early exposure, students develop a deeper appreciation for their unique cultural background.
For Ms. Tan, Principal of Hope Christian High School, the responsibility of these schools goes beyond cultural education. “We are grooming future leaders,” she explains, emphasizing that the schools prepare students to become bridges between the Chinese and Filipino communities. By understanding both cultures, these future leaders are well-positioned to foster greater cooperation and unity between the two. Tan envisions these students as key figures in shaping a future where the Chinese and Filipino communities work closely together.
Brother Undung, another prominent educator, stresses that Chinese education is more than an academic pursuit. “It serves as a vital bridge,” he points out, connecting students to both their cultural roots and global opportunities. Through bilingual and bicultural competence, students are equipped to thrive not just locally, but internationally. This comprehensive education ensures that while they remain connected to their heritage, they are also prepared to meet the demands of an increasingly interconnected world.
Fostering Dual Identities and Academic Excellence
Chinese-Filipino education is key to helping students shape their identities, combining learning with cultural roots. Dr. Yap, highlights the importance of Chinese schools, noting that “in the 1920s and 1930s more schools sprouted, and even after World War II.” He also points out that a lack of teachers in provinces can “hamper the continuous development and progress of Chinese-Filipino education,” making it crucial to address these issues for a better future.
Ms. Tan stresses how important language is for keeping cultural identity alive. “The language has to be taught because the students have to learn to speak,” she says, showing how language helps students connect with their heritage. She encourages students to embrace their mixed identities rather than feel torn: “Instead of wondering which side to take, we should actually embrace our role right now.”
Brother Undung agrees and emphasizes the pride that comes from having a dual identity. He explains that understanding their heritage helps students thrive as “Chinese by blood and Filipino by heart,” which he sees as “a source of personal strength” in a diverse society.
Together, these educators highlight the importance of balancing academic success with cultural pride in Chinese-Filipino schools, helping students prepare for a connected world.
Conclusion
Episode 7 of Chinese by Blood, Filipino by Heart Season 5 showcases the profound impact of Chinese-Filipino schools in shaping the cultural landscape of the Philippines. Through the insights of Dr. Jude Yap, Ms. Angeline Tan, and Brother Yosep Undung, viewers gain a deeper appreciation for the role of education in preserving heritage and fostering a sense of belonging among Chinese-Filipino students.
You can also stay tuned this coming Sunday, October 27, for the last episode this season at 8:00 PM on One News via Cignal TV, channels 8 SD and 250 HD, or stream it on Cignal Play or watch the live stream on CHiNOY TV’s Facebook and YouTube @ChinoyTVOnline! For episode 7, you can catch the replay this Saturday on the said platforms.